Diwali

Dipavali. Deepavali. Divali. No matter which you choose to call it, Diwali, or “the festival of lights,” is one of, if not, the most popular Hindi celebrations.

Celebrated around the world, in early autumn, by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Newar Buddhists, Diwali has many interpretations, or versions of the origin, depending on the individual’s region. For instance,

those with roots in Northern India tend to celebrate the story of King Rama returning to Ayodhya upon

defeating the Ravana. Southern India recognizes Diwali as the day Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura. In western India, Diwali is the day Lord Vishnu sent the demon King Bali to rule over the netherworld. Though each region may have its own interpretation, the foundation of each marks the victory of good over evil, or light being triumphant over darkness.

In total, there are five days of Diwali. The first is observed as a sort of revival of the home. In other words, a time for spring cleaning and updating of items around the house.

On the second day of Diwali (Choti Diwali), those who celebrate, begin to decorate around their homes. Placing clay lamps and creating colorful designs in creative patterns from sand or rice known as rangoli are common as it is believed to be welcoming to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.

The third day of Diwali is considered to be the primary day of festivities. This is the day, which families come together in prayer and pray to Goddess Lakshmi. The third day of Diwali is also referred to as Lakshmi puja. Prayer is followed by a grand celebration complete with fireworks and king worthy feasts.

The fourth day marks the first day of the new year for this faith community. This fourth day is the spent with friends and family exchanging gifts along with best wishes for the upcoming year. This day is also marked as the day to celebrate the bond between husband and wife.

On the fifth and final day of Diwali, known as Bhai Dooj,  it is a tradition for brothers to visit with their married sisters. The brothers are always warmly met by their sister, her husband, and family, as well as a lavish meal.

Though Diwali is a five-day festival, it is the equivalent to the Christian Christmas. This holiday is celebrated on the darkest night of the lunar month, during which time, participants homes and temples are brightly illuminated with diyas, candles, and lamps. It is a time for cleansing oneself of any negativity while allowing in wealth, positivity and prosperity for the upcoming year. Many Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs participate in the celebration as a community with parades, fairs or other like-minded events.

With an ever-growing Indian American population, it is essential to be open, inclusive and welcoming of all religions and cultures, as well as their respective holidays. The Greater Seattle Area is doing a remarkable job with members of this faith community to celebrate alongside one another while spreading knowledge and acceptance.

This year, Diwali falls on Sunday, October 27th, though festivities in the Greater Seattle Area kicked off on October 19th.

On October 19th, from 11am-6pm, the Bellevue Collection will be hosting a variety of Diwali performances, cultural displays, henna, and Diwali crafts.

Other local festivities include:

Bhartiyam Diwali

Bellevue Rare Coins will also be participating in celebrating alongside the community by offering a free gift with 1oz gold bullion purchases. For more details, please inquire with one of our four Greater Seattle Area locations or visit this site.

We look forward to celebrating this glorious occasion with you!

Happy Diwali!