Celebration of Diwali
Every state has its unique way of celebrating Diwali. Dev Diwali also known as Diwali of gods is commemorated in the Varanasi. People believe that it is auspicious to immerse themselves in water as Gods themselves have come down on earth during this festival. The banks of Ganga are lit with oil lamps commonly referred as diyas. Oil lamps are kept on poles to guide souls of departed loved ones, this believe is prevalent in the eastern state of Odissa. Diwali in Kolkata is very unique as compared to rest of the India. Durga puja / Kali puja is on the same day as Diwali. Huge pandals (temporary shed) are set up for the celebrations. More than 2000 pandals are put up here. They worship Goddess Durga on this day. The Durga Idol is beautifully decorated with beads. Diwali is commemorated to mark the defeat of Mahishasura (a buffalo demon) by Goddess Durga. At the Howrah Bridge Ganga aarti is done which will give you shivers. Other than this the Bengali sweets are a total bliss which adds a unique touch to Diwali. Dhanteras is Maharashtra is celebrated honor Dhanvantari who was an ancient doctor. Bali Pratipada is also celebrated here, they believe that bali, a demon king will return some day and make their lives better. Diwali ends after the celebrations of Tulsi vivah. Coconut oil is smeared on the body by the people to free themselves from the sins.