Deepavali is the biggest and the brightest festival joyously celebrated throughout India. It is not only the festival of lights, but also marks the beginning of the New Year. “Deepavali” literally means “Row of Lights”. It symbolizes the victory of Goodness over Evil and Light over Darkness, ushering in the New Year.
Before Diwali night, people clean, renovate and decorate their homes and offices. On Diwali night, they dress up in new clothes or their best outfit, light up diyas (lamps and candles) inside and outside their homes, participate in family pujas, enjoy feasts with families and friends, exchange gifts and watch fireworks, etc.
There is significant variation in regional practices and rituals. Depending on the region, prayers are offered before one or more deities, with most common being Lakshmi, Goddess of wealth, light, prosperity and wisdom, as well as Ganesha, the “Remover of Obstacles” and the “Lord of Beginnings”.
At Amritapuri campus, Deepavali is celebrated with great spirit and joy by all students and staff. We conduct Deepavali pujas and prayers, the lighting of many small oil lamps throughout the campus, and firework. There are a series of cultural performances in vocal, dance and drama by our talented students too.
