Diwali is finally here, and paps cannot keep calm as the surroundings will now be illuminated with twinkling lights and decorations. It is one of the popular festivals of India, and there are also various regional variations as to how it is celebrated in which parts of India. Observing and participating in the rituals of the Diwali festival, which are different from yours, is a delightful and enjoyable experience.
From Ayodhya to Jaipur to Amritsar, every place has its own unique way of celebrating Diwali in some unique manner. This year, Diwali will be celebrated on November 12. Every celebration has a unique blend of traditional and contemporary mix, which makes it more beautiful and authentic. Here are five places from India where you can enjoy the Festival of Lights.
Diwali at Ayodhya
Ayodhya can be identified as the hotspot when it comes to Diwali celebrations. The city, which is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, is lit up to celebrate and commemorate the return of their king after 14 years in exile. Also, the festival of lights is accompanied by a special aarti near the Sarayu River, which offers spiritual peace and tranquillity to its visitors and devotees. This year, Diwali in Ayodhya will be more special as the government aims to set a world record by lighting 21 lakh diyas during the Deepotsav celebrations.
Goa’s Diwali
Everyone is sure that Goa is only famous for New Year and Christmas celebrations, but there are certain Goan Hindus who celebrate Diwali by observing Naraka Chaturdashi. According to mythology, Narakasura asked for a boon from Goddess Bhevdevi, who wanted people to celebrate his death with colorful celebrations. Therefore, we can see many communities used to burn Narakasura’s effigy on the day of Diwali.
Diwali at Jaipur
The Diwali rituals at Jaipur start with Dhanteras, which falls just two days before Diwali. The whole city can be seen decorated with lights, garlands, and beautiful decor. Landmarks and markets like Jal Mahal, Johri Bazar, and Chaura Rasta look surreal during Diwali. One should definitely visit Jaipur once to witness the illuminating festival of lights.
Diwali at Amritsar
The iconic city of Punjab, Amritsar, is famous for its Golden temple. But during Diwali, the city lights up as the Sikh’s Bandi Chhor Divas overlap with Diwali. This festival celebrates the release of Guru Hargobind and 52 other prisoners from Gwalior Fort, where they were imprisoned by Mughal king Jahangir. They mainly celebrate by lighting up their homes, distributing sweets, and holding kirtans.
Varanasi’s Diwali
Varanasi is mainly well-known for celebrating Dev Deepawali, a festival that is dedicated to Lord Shiva’s victory over the demon Tripurasur. One should definitely pay a visit to Varanasi as we can get glimpses of the devotees taking a dip in the holy water of the Ganga River in the morning.
