In case you are not aware of what Diwali is, let me give you a little background on this special holiday. Every autumn, Diwali is celebrated in the northern hemisphere, and every spring it takes place down in the southern hemisphere. It is a popular festival amongst Hindus and it is when they have their festival of lights while celebrating their spiritual victory of light instead of darkness, good instead of evil, and knowledge instead of ignorance.
When the festivities are held, every building, home, and temple is brightly lit, and they stay that way for the entire five days that the celebrations are taking place. Prior to the start of Diwali, people will clean their homes and buildings, and may even redecorate, to ensure that everything is fresh and ready for guests.
Diwali in Canada
While many people will travel to India to celebrate this holiday with their loved ones, others will stay at home during this time. Those who do stay home in Canada, never need to be alone during Diwali though. There is a large number of Indians residing in that country and entire communities get together to celebrate every year.
In fact, it has become one of the most popular celebrations that is held in Canada. Celebrations are held in cities large and small, with Vancouver, Montreal, Edmonton, Calgary, and Toronto topping the list. Everything for these celebrations is well organized by the India Canada Association and they take pride in making sure that everyone has an amazing time playing games, listening to music, and enjoying the refreshments.
Diwali normally occurs sometime between the middle of October and the middle of November. This year, the dates happen to fall in November and include the days of the 5th through the 9th. The first day is known as Dhanteras and everyone celebrates prosperity on that day. The second day is known as Chhoti Diwali or Nakara Chaturdasi and this is the day when the demon Narakasura was believed to have been destroyed.
The New Moon
The new moon occurs on the third day, which is known as Amavasya. It is the darkest day of the month and the most significant day of the entire celebration. Everyone will worship Lakshmi on this day and a special puja, or prayer ritual, is performed during the evening hours.
There are multiple meanings for the fourth day of Diwali, so some people may celebrate the defeating of Indra, while others will celebrate the start of a new year or the victory of Lord Vishnu. The last day of Diwali is known as Bhai Duj, and this is when brothers and sisters honor the bond that they have with each other.
Everyone can enjoy the festivities of Diwali in Canada, even if they have never celebrated it before. People are encouraged to learn more about Diwali this year and see how this amazing holiday allows family and friends to spend time together while rejoicing in everything that is good.