The modern celebration of Diwali includes lighting lights, bursting firecrackers, ordering Diwali gifts, and enjoying festive foods, its authentic advancement uncovers a wealthy tapestry of social, religious, and social impacts. This blog aims to dive into the seven chronicled times that have moulded Diwali celebrations, shedding light on how this celebration has advanced over thousands for a long time.
Era 1: The Vedic Origins (1500 BCE – 500 BCE)
The origins of Diwali can be traced back to the Vedic period, which lasted from around 1500 BCE to 500 BCE. During this era, the festival was known as ‘Deeppratipadutsava’ or ‘Dipotsava.’ It was primarily a harvest festival celebrated to give thanks to the deities for a bountiful harvest season. People lit oil lamps and performed rituals to honor various deities, particularly Lord Indra, the god of rain, and Lord Varuna, the god of the oceans.
Era 2: The Emergence of Rama’s Return (500 BCE – 500 CE)
The second period in the advancement of Diwali celebrations is stamped by the epic Ramayana, attributed to the sage Valmiki. Concurring to the Ramayana, Lord Rama, beside his spouse Sita and faithful brother Lakshmana, returned to the city of Ayodhya after vanquishing the devil king Ravana. The citizens of Ayodhya invited their beloved ruler by lighting lights and enhancing the complete city with lights, a tradition that has proceeded through the ages. This event is celebrated as ‘Rama’s Return’ or ‘Rama’s Coronation,’ and it signifies the victory of righteousness over evil.
Era 3: Jain Influence and Mahavira Jayanti (500 CE – 700 CE)
Amid the third period of Diwali’s evolution, the Jain community played a critical part in forming the festival’s character. For Jains, Diwali marks the commemoration of Lord Mahavira’s fulfillment of nirvana (enlightenment) on this day. Diwali, therefore, became a dual celebration for Jains, symbolizing the victory of Lord Mahavira over the cycle of birth and death. The lighting of lamps and spiritual reflection are central to Jain Diwali celebrations.
Era 4: The Advent of Sikhism and Bandi Chhor Divas (1469 CE – 1708 CE)
The fourth era saw the rise of Sikhism under Guru Nanak Dev Ji and the subsequent gurus. For Sikhs, Diwali is celebrated as ‘Bandi Chhor Divas,’ which means ‘Prisoner Release Day.’ This day marks the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, and 52 other kings who had been imprisoned by Emperor Jahangir. Sikhs light lamps at the Golden Temple in Amritsar and offer prayers to express their gratitude for the Guru’s release and to celebrate the triumph of good over oppression.
Era 5: Mughal Influence and the Festival of Lights (1700 CE – 1857 CE)
During the fifth era, the Mughal influence on Diwali celebrations became apparent. Mughal emperors like Akbar embraced and patronized the arts and culture, which influenced the grandeur of Diwali celebrations. The festival became synonymous with lavish displays of fireworks, opulent feasts, and the illumination of entire cities. This era marked the fusion of Hindu traditions with Mughal aesthetics, leading to the extravagant celebrations we see today.
Era 6: The Nationalist Movement and a Unifying Force (1858 CE – 1947 CE)
The 6th period of Diwali’s evolution coincided with India’s battle for autonomy from British colonial rule. Amid this period, Diwali took on a modern centrality as a symbol of solidarity and resistance against outside rule. Patriot leaders, counting Mahatma Gandhi, empowered the use of indigenous items such as earthen lights (diyas) and khadi clothing amid Diwali celebrations to advance self-sufficiency and the swadeshi development. Diwali became a platform for fostering a sense of national pride and identity.
Era 7: Modernization and Globalization (1947 CE – Present)
In the seventh and current era, Diwali has evolved into a global festival celebrated by millions of people across the world. While the core traditions of lighting lamps, performing puja (worship), and exchanging sweets remain intact, Diwali has adapted to modern lifestyles. The festival now includes social media campaigns, eco-friendly celebrations, and a commercial aspect with online Diwali gifs for family and discounts offered by businesses. Diwali has become a time for family gatherings, reflection, and reconnecting with cultural roots for the Indian diaspora.
Key Elements of Diwali Celebrations:
Throughout its historical evolution, certain key elements have remained central to Diwali celebrations:
- Lighting of Lamps (Diya): Lighting lamps and candles is a universal symbol of Diwali, signifying the victory of light over darkness and the triumph of knowledge over ignorance.
- Rangoli: The creation of colorful patterns and designs on the ground, known as rangoli, is a traditional Diwali practice that adds to the festive ambiance.
- Puja and Prayers: Diwali is a time for spiritual reflection, with families gathering to perform puja (worship) to deities such as Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Ganesh, the god of wisdom.
- Sweets and Savories: Exchanging and enjoying sweets and savory dishes is an integral part of Diwali celebrations, symbolizing the sharing of joy and happiness.
- Fireworks: While fireworks are a relatively recent addition to Diwali celebrations, they have become a popular way to mark the festival with dazzling displays of light and color.
- Gift-Giving: Exchanging gifts during Diwali is a gesture of love and goodwill among friends and family, reinforcing social bonds.
- New Clothes: Wearing new clothes during Diwali symbolizes a fresh start and the shedding of old, negative energies.
Conclusion:
Read More:-The Importance of Family Reunions on Diwali
The chronicled advancement of Diwali celebrations could be a testament to the strength and flexibility of Indian culture. From its humble Vedic roots as a harvest celebration to its present-day status as a worldwide celebration of light, Diwali has advanced through seven distinct times, each taking off its mark on the festival’s character and importance.
