Diwali 2023: 13 Reasons To Light 13 Diyas On Deepavali

Diwali 2023: Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a Hindu festival of lights celebrated on the new moon day of the Kartika month. It is one of the most joyous festivals in India, marked by fireworks, Diyas, and colourful lights.

The Sanskrit word "dipavali" means "row of lights." Different parts of India celebrate Diwali for different reasons: In Bengal, people worship the goddess Kali; in South India, they celebrate Krishna's victory over Narakasura; and in North India, they celebrate Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana.

How many diyas should be lit for Diwali?

On Diwali, people traditionally light 13 diyas, each with a specific meaning and purpose. No diya should be omitted, even the one placed facing south near garbage outside the home on Dhanteras to ward off death.

Diwali 2023: 13 Reasons To Light 13 Diyas On Deepavali | Shutterstock

Why are there 13 Diyas on Diwali?

These 13 diyas are placed in different corners of the home and some in the nearest temple to ward off evil energies, negative spirits and ensure that nothing dulls the colour of Diwali and ensures the protection of all family members. Happy Choti Diwali Wishes, Quotes And Images

Hindus believe that lighting 13 Diyas in different places during Diwali wards off evil and brings good luck and prosperity.

1. On Dhanteras, 13 Diyas are lit facing south near garbage outside the home to ward off death.

2. On Diwali night, the second diya is lit with ghee and kept in front of the mandir (home shrine) for good luck.

3. The third diya is placed in front of Goddess Lakshmi to seek blessings for prosperity.

4. The fourth diya is placed in front of a tulsi plant for peace and happiness.

5. The fifth diya is placed at the entrance of the home to welcome prosperity, joy, and good luck.

6. The sixth diya is placed under a peepal tree with mustard oil to get rid of financial and health problems.

7. The seventh diya is placed in any mandir near the house for positivity.

8. The eighth diya is placed near garbage to ward off bad luck.

9. The ninth diya is placed outside the washroom to help the flow of positive energy.

10. The tenth diya is placed on the roof for protection.

11. The eleventh diya is placed at the window for good luck.

12. The twelfth diya is also placed on the roof to maintain the festive spirit.

13. The thirteenth diya is placed at the intersection of the home.

Diwali 2023: 5-Day Festival Important Dates And Days

How many diyas for Laxmi Puja?

The idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi have to be kept on a wooden stool. Five big earthen lamps or 'diyas' are to be kept for worship on Diwali.

What is the significance of 14 diyas?

In West Bengal, the day is known as Bhoot Chaturdashi/ Kali Chaudus, and it is observed by lighting 14 diyas to honour a family's 14 forefathers. The forefathers are said to visit their ancestors to help them and remove obstructions from their lives.

Diwali 2023: FAQs

Q: What are the five days of Diwali?

Diwali is a five-day festival. The first day, known as Dhanteras, is dedicated to wealth worship. The second day is Naraka Chaturdashi, marking the defeat of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna. The third day is Diwali itself. The fourth day is Govardhan Puja, and the fifth day is Bhai Dooj, celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters.

Q: How is Diwali celebrated?

Diwali is celebrated with immense enthusiasm. People clean and decorate their homes, light oil lamps, burst firecrackers, exchange gifts, and partake in sumptuous feasts. Temples are illuminated, and prayers are offered to deities.

Q: When is Diwali celebrated?

Diwali falls in either October or November, depending on the lunar calendar. The main day of celebration is on the third day, but the festivities span five days.

Q: What is the significance of Diwali?

Diwali holds great significance as it marks the return of Lord Rama, an incarnation of the god Vishnu, to his kingdom after defeating the demon king Ravana. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness.

(Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.)

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