Deepavali, the Festival of Lights

27 OCT 2008

Deepavali - the Festival of Lights

Ah… Today is Deepavali, the festival of lights… So a happy Deepavali to all my Hindus friends.

There is an interesting legend behind this festival. The story goes that Narakasura ruled the kingdom of Pradyoshapuram. The villagers were tortured and suffered much hardship under his rule. The women were imprisoned in his palace… Seeing this wickedness, Lord Khrishna set out to destroy this evil, and the day Narakasura died was celebrated as Deepavali, signifying the triumph of good over evil!

One key practice the Hindus follow during Deepavali is to light oil lamps in their homes on Deepavali morning. By this act, they are thanking the gods for the happiness, knowledge, peace and wealth that they have received. The Hindus consider Deepavali as one of the most important festivals to celebrate. More about this festival can be read here.