Happy Deepavali Day
Deepavali is one of the most important Hindus festivals.
The word Diwali comes from the Sanskrit word deepavali, meaning “rows of lighted lamps”.
Each religion marks a different Diwali story and historical event.
In one of the main stories in Hindu mythology, Diwali is the day Lord Rama, his wife Sita Devi and brother Lakshmana return to their homeland after 14 years in exile. The villagers lit a path for Rama, who had defeated the demon king Ravana. Reenactments of this story are part of celebrations in some regions.
How is Deepavali celebrated?
How is Deepavali celebrated?
Deepavali is a day for people of all races and religions getting together with lively open houses, fireworks displays, and a wide range of Indian delicacies. About a week prior to the celebration, Hindus conduct a massive spring-cleaning of their homes while lit oil lamps are placed around different areas of the house, especially on the porch and balcony.
Hindu temples all over Malaysia are lavishly decorated with flowers while offerings of fruit and coconut milk are placed at altars by devotees. Some also prepare for this festival by going on a fast or vegetarian diet.
On the morning of Deepavali, many Hindus take an oil bath before heading to the temples for prayers and ceremonial rites. For the rest of the day, they usually open their houses to guests, friends, and neighbours to feast on delicious Indian food such as sweetmeats, rice puddings, and murukku, a type of fried flour cookie.
Wishing all the Hindus out there an advance Happy Deepavali Day.