The Hindus in India celebrate many festivals. The Diwali or Dipabali is one such festival. This festival is celebrated on the new moon day after the Dasahara. The Goddess Kali is also worshipped on this day. This is a festival of lights. The Hindus decorate their houses with lights. The rich and the poor, both celebrate it. They use oil-lamps and candles at night. In the evening a holy offering of Shradha is made by the people for their fore-fathers. Goddess Kali is worshipped late at this night.
Diwali is a popular festival in Gujarat and Maharastra. It is also celebrated by the Oriyas with much enthusiasm. People follow the tradition of wearing new dress and preparing cakes and sweets at home. They celebrate the festival in the company of their friends and relatives. Display of fireworks is the most interesting part of this festival. Many temporary stalls are made to sell fireworks of various kinds. People purchase the fireworks and use them at night. They enjoy the night.
The festival has a legendary background. Lord Rama in the era of Tretaya won a glorious victory over the demon king Ravana of Lanka. After the victory, He came to Ayodhya with his dear brother Laxman and wife Sita. The people of Ayodhya celebrated the victory by lighting candles and lamps. Thus Lord Ramachandra was congratulated.
The Diwali has a great significance for the Hindus. The businessmen consider it as the beginning date of their business. Their business is renewed from this day. This day marks the end of autumn and the beginning of winter.
On the Diwali night fire accidents also occur at some places due to carelessness.
