Deepavali, also known as Diwali and Divali, is a festival celebrated by all Hindus around the world and is a holiday in Malaysia. The word Deepavali is a combination of the Sanskrit word 'dīpa' meaning light and the word ‘āvali’ meaning row. On this meaningful day, homes are decorated with lamps and lights. In anticipation for this wonderful festival, here are 5 things to know about Deepavali.
IT IS THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
It is strange to see Deepavali without lights because the festival itself is called the Festival of Lights. One of the reasons why the festival is celebrated with lights is because the celebration of Deepavali (or Diwali) marks the triumph of good over evil, the victory of light over dark. Homes are cleaned and decorated by day and illuminated by night with earthen oil lamps, candles or even decorative light bulbs.
THE ART OF KOLAM
Kolam, meaning beauty, is an ancient folk artform with a history spanning thousands of years. The motifs and designs of rangoli vary, ranging from floral patterns to light lamps and more. It is a floor decoration made of colourful rice in front of the house as a sign of safety and grace so that every household will be well. This Kolam skill is usually passed down through the generations. And although it may seem difficult, it is beautiful, unique and attractive. People of all races and religions can appreciate the beauty of Kolam.
IT SIGNIFIES A TIME OF INNER ILLUMINATION
Beyond the lights and fun, Deepavali is also a time to reflect on life and make changes for the upcoming year. It is common practice that people forgive and forget the wrongdoings of others. It is a unifying occasion, and it can soften even the hardest of hearts. Deepavali signifies a time of inner illumination by sitting quietly and fixing the mind as Hindus believe that the light of lights is the one that steadily shines in the chamber of the heart. It is an opportunity to cultivate and enjoy eternal bliss.
RISE AND SHINE
On the morning of the festival, the whole family will wake up early before sunrise. Waking up early is a great blessing from the standpoint of health, ethical discipline, efficiency in work, and spiritual advancement. In addition, the family will hold a sesame oil bath ritual in the early morning before sunrise. Hindus perform sesame oil bath rituals to purify the body and spirit. It is a symbolic sign of self-purification. This sesame oil will be applied on the heads of each family member. After bathing it is necessary to put on new clothes and jewelry on the morning of Deepavali aimed at eliminating all the bad and evil in one's body. Then it's straight to the temples where prayers are held in accordance with the ceremonial rites.
CELEBRATE TOGETHER
The practice of visiting the nearest relatives' home was continued throughout the day to further strengthen relationships. Some will hold a massive celebration by organizing an open house to entertain relatives and friends. The open house is lively with a variety of delicious traditional foods such as rice noodles, chicken curry, dates, stews, murukku, and sweets available to guests.
If you are celebrating this festival, do head over to MR.DIY to get your Deepavali essentials now.