As a cultural studies expert with a focus on South Asian traditions, I have a deep appreciation for the nuances and significance of various celebrations. One such celebration is Diwali, a festival that is not only significant in India but also celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and some Buddhists around the world. Known as the "Festival of Lights," Diwali is a time of great joy, reflection, and togetherness. Let's delve into the reasons why Diwali is celebrated.
Diwali is a festival that spans five days and is one of the most important celebrations in the Hindu calendar. It is a time when families come together, and homes are adorned with lights and decorations to welcome the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi. The festival is not just about one story or one reason; it encompasses multiple narratives that vary by region and community.
The most well-known story associated with Diwali is the return of Lord Rama, an avatar of the god Vishnu, to his kingdom Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. This story is from the ancient Hindu epic, the Ramayana. According to the legend, Rama, along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, defeated the demon king Ravana, who had abducted Sita. The people of Ayodhya, upon hearing the news of Rama's victory, lit oil lamps (*diyas*) to celebrate his triumphant return, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and light over darkness.
Another narrative linked to Diwali is the story of the Bhagavad Gita, where the prince Arjuna, guided by Lord Krishna, overcomes his doubts and prepares to fight in the Kurukshetra War. This signifies the triumph of dharma (righteousness) over adharma (unrighteousness).
In the Jain tradition, Diwali coincides with the attainment of *moksha* (liberation) by Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, marking a significant spiritual event for Jains.
For Sikhs, Diwali is also the commemoration of the release of the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind, from the Gwalior Fort in 1619, symbolizing the victory of freedom and justice.
The celebration of Diwali involves various rituals such as:
- Cleaning and decorating homes: This is done to welcome prosperity and good fortune.
- Lighting oil lamps and fireworks: The illumination is believed to drive away negative energy and invite positive vibes.
- Worshipping deities: Prayers are offered to various gods and goddesses, particularly Lakshmi and Ganesha, for blessings.
- Bursting firecrackers: This is a more modern addition to the celebration, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and joy over sorrow.
- Exchanging gifts and sweets: This is a way to strengthen relationships and share the joy of the festival with loved ones.
- Wearing new clothes: It is a sign of new beginnings and a fresh start.
Diwali is a time for reflection on the inner self, a time to let go of past mistakes, and to look forward to a brighter future. It is a festival that promotes the values of peace, love, and understanding among all, regardless of one's background or beliefs.
Now, let's transition to the translation of the above explanation into Chinese.

read more >>

Hindus across the world celebrate Diwali in honor of the return of Lord Rama, wife Sita, brother Lakshmana and lord Hanuman to Ayodhya from exile of 14 years after Rama defeated Ravana. ... For some, Diwali also celebrates the return of Pandavas after 12 years of Vanvas and one year of "Agyatavas" in Mahabharata.read more >>