9 ways to prepare for Diwali celebration
Diwali, or the festival of light, is probably the best well known Hindu celebration.
It’s particularly associated with Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth & Prosperity, and marks the beginning of the financial year in India.
To have the best Diwali celebration ever, make sure you follow these simple steps:
1. Spring-clean and have a good tidy
Cleaning, dusting and doing all your laundry is known as a ‘cleansing’ ritual.
This is to ensure the home is ready for the arrival of the Goddesses.
Did you know: depending on which region of India you are from, the celebrations can last up to five days!
2. Decorate your home
Decorate with as much colour and lights as possible.
Bells, flower garlands, wall hangings and lights are a joyful addition to welcome the Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity.
Traditional Rangoli designs in shapes of flowers, leaves and animals are the most popular at the entrance.
(Photo credit: @design_rangoli)
(Photo credit: @rangoli_art_and_craft)
3. Light lamps every night during the festival
During the evening small oil lamps, known as ‘diyas’, are lit and placed around the home.
Did you know: the diyas symbolises knowledge or inner light, that brings inner peace and fights off any trace of darkness.
4. Shop for a brand new outfit
Who would want to be seen in last season’s wear? Am I right?
It’s time to go shopping for a brand new outfit to wear.
5. Prepare a festive meal
Making sweets, snacks and savories are a tradition for Diwali and are often given as gifts too.
So don your apron and get the oven ready for some tasty treats!
Don’t forget: you’ll have to prepare to go vegetarian too, as this is a time not to eat meat. However, you can’t really say no to a home-cooked vegetarian meal!
6. Make an awesome fireworks display
Fireworks are commonly used to ward off evil during the celebrations.
But, make sure you save them for the actual day of Diwali.
Did you know: Through various legends told over the years, the festival celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.
7. Prepare for ‘Lakshmi Pooja’
This is a religious ritual performed on Diwali day.
This ritual seeks divine blessings from the Goddess of Wealth, Lakshmi
During the Lakshmi Pooja, you will recite the mantras and prepare to give offerings of dried fruit and money.
8. Play games
Card games, charades, pass the parcel, musical chairs and scavenger hunts are some of the most popular games played during Diwali.
So, gather your friends and make the most of your competitive side.
9. Buy a gift for your siblings
The relationship between your bother or sister is very important in the Hindu culture.
During Diwali, it’s customary to buy one another gifts or cook each other a meal.
So when you go shopping, don’t forget to buy something special for your siblings!
And lastly… join in the fun and celebrate Diwali with all your family and friends.
Happy Diwali to all our #INTOfriends from around the world.
Are you planning on celebrating the festival of light this year? Then share your festivities with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Want to learn more about Diwali? Click here for more information on the origin and traditions surrounding this wonderful festival.
Discover more about how studying abroad can be a life changing experience with INTO Study.
