2017 Diwali Festival in India: Essential Guide

2017 Diwali Festival in India: Essential Guide

How, When and Where to Celebrate Diwali in India

Diwali (or Deepavali in Sanskrit) literally means "a row of lights". This five day festival, which is the biggest in India, honors the victory of good over evil and brightness over darkness. It celebrates Lord Rama and his wife Sita returning to their kingdom of Ayodhya, following Rama and monkey god Hanuman's defeat the demon King Ravana and rescue of Sita from his evil clutches (on Dussehra).

When is Diwali?

In October or November, depending on the cycle of the moon.

In 2017, Diwali starts with Dhanteras on October 17. It concludes on October 21. The main festivities take place on the third day (this year, on October 19). Diwali is celebrated a day early in south India, on October 18.

Find out when is Diwali in future years.

Where is the Festival Celebrated?

Throughout the whole of India. However, the festival isn't widely celebrated in the state of Kerala. The question is often asked as to why this is. The answer seems to simply be that the festival has never really evolved there, as it's not part of the state's social fabric and distinctive culture. An alternative explanation that's offered is that Diwali is a festival of wealth for merchants, and the Hindus of Kerala have never freely engaged in trade as the state is a Communist ruled one. However, Diwali dates back to long before this. The main festival that's celebrated in Kerala, and which is specific to the state, is Onam.

How is the Festival Celebrated?

Each day of the festival has a different meaning.

The first day, Dhanteras, marks the start of Diwali. It's dedicated to celebrating wealth. People traditionally buy gold and new kitchen utensils on this day. Homes are also cleaned and readied to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, inside.

The second day is known as Naraka Chaturdasi in south India or Choti Diwali (Little Diwali) in north India. Rangoli (Hindu folk art) is created in doorways and courtyards of homes, and people start bursting crackers. Lord Krishna and Goddess Kali are believed to have destroyed the demon Narakasura and freed 16,000 captive princesses on this day. Demon effigies are widely burned in Goa in celebration. Kali Puja is also celebrated on this day in West Bengal, Odisha, and Assam.

On the third and main day, lots of small clay lamps (called diyas) and candles are lit and placed in houses, and fireworks are let off everywhere, giving Diwali its name of “Festival of Lights”. Families gather together and perform the Lakshmi Puja, and give each other gifts and sweets.

On the fourth day, merchants open fresh accounts for the new year, and offer prayers.

The fifth and last day, known as Bhai Duj, is dedicated to celebrating sisters. Brothers and sisters get together and share food, to honor the bond between them.

If you're wondering about where to best experience Diwali and what to do for the occasion, these 8 Ways and Places to Celebrate Diwali in India will give you some inspiration.

Tripadvisor (in conjunction with Viator) offers Diwali experiences with local Indian families in Delhi and in Jaipur.

What Rituals are Performed During Diwali?

The rituals vary according to region. However, special blessings are given to Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity, and Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. The Goddess Lakshmi is believed to have been created from the churning of the ocean on the main Diwali day, and that she'll visit every home during the Diwali period, bringing with her prosperity and good fortune. It’s said that she visits the cleanest houses first, therefore people make sure their houses are spotless before lighting lamps to invite her in. Small statues of the Goddess are also worshiped in people’s homes.

What to Expect During the Festival

The candlelight makes Diwali a very warm and atmospheric festival, and it's observed with much joy and happiness. However, be prepared for lots of loud noise from the fireworks and firecrackers going off.

The air also becomes filled with smoke from the firecrackers, which can add to breathing difficulties.

Safety Information

It's a good idea to protect your hearing with ear plugs during Diwali, especially if your ears are sensitive. Some crackers are extremely loud, and sound more like explosions. The noise is very damaging to hearing.