Diwali Celebration 

In India Diwali is celebrated is many ways, according to the state the method of celebration changes. Diwali is a 5 days festival. Dhanteras / Dhantrayodashi is the day one of Diwali, an auspicious bath is taken with ubtan and a bitter fruit known as chirata which symbolizes a demon is crushed under the feet with the help of left toe. Small children wake up early morning and go outside to burst crackers after their auspicious bath. It is said that it is a good day to buy gold, silver and other expensive things. Day two of Diwali is generally celebrated with friend and relatives wherein one exchanges sweets and faral (savory food). Laksmi Pujan is the day three of Diwali. Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha are worshiped on this day. Day four is Balipratipada. Bali was a king who also a demon yet during his time there was peace and prosperity but he was killed by lord Vishnu. People believe that he will return someday and they celebrate this day in his honor. Bhai dooj is on day 5, it is a festival which celebrates the siblings bond. Beautiful rangolis (geometric patterns and mandalas) are drawn outside the house and the house s lit with oil lamps till Diwali ends. For most of the states this is the festival’s last day but in Maharashtra Tulsi vivah is the Diwali’s last day, it also indicates the end of monsoon. On this day ceremonial marriage is conducted between tulsi which basil plant and God Shaligram. In Northern states Fair is organized during Diwali. In eastern states, the departed souls of loved ones are guided by earthen oil lamps which are set up on poles. Here Goddess Kali is worshiped in Diwali. Outside India Diwali is celebrated to strengthen the inner light which will protect us from spiritual hollowness.