Diwali – The array of lights...

The festive mood of the early shades of winter in India, always gears up with the arrival of a riot of colors, sounds and lights; the festival of colors, Diwali to be precise. Enthusiastically enjoyed by people of all religions, Diwali’s magical and radiant touch creates an atmosphere of joy and festivity in every nook and corner of the country.
This festival of Diwali, in India redefines merriment, brilliance and splendor. All Indians, the young and the old, the rich and the poor, indiscriminately immerse themselves in the brilliance of this festival and have a gala time, for unlike others, this festival isn’t a composite of just rituals, mundane ceremonies and some discordant exhaustion, but loads more. Legend has it, that Ram, the mythological ruler of Ayodhya, a dominating ancient state, had come back to his land, after a fourteen year long exile, only after bringing Ravan, a vicious demon ruler to his end. And it goes like, the locals of the town, all overwhelmed with victory and endless joy, decorated their homes with earthen lamps to welcome their triumphant ruler. It so happens that this has been passed down to generations after generations, and Indians hold on to it even today. So, that’s how the significant of Diwali is prevalent even in the 21^st century, amidst all the hyped modernization and individualism.
The uniqueness of this festival is it’s harmony of five varied philosophies, with each day to a special thought or idea. The third day emphatically makes up for the warmth of the festival. While the morning flies always with he household all engrossed in rituals and ceremonies, the evening is all about meeting friends, gifting sweets, bursting crackers and a whole load of fun and merriment. Yet, however, over the years, the festival has been commercialized and become an occasion for raucous rivalry. The earthen lamps have given way to designer candles while the sweets to dry fruits; it’s now merely concentrated in the extravagance of gifts of momentary joy.
All the pomp and show over it, has somehow disturbed or rather distorted the pleasant gesture behind it. But whatever it be, Diwali in a way still retains its essence.. With vibrant colors, brilliant lights and a boisterous beauty, Diwali’s got it all to make people wait for it with desperateness.

Hail the festival of lights and sounds…