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The Joyous Deepavali: A Journey Through The Festival of Lights

Have you questioned what led to the glowing houses with Oil lamps, the alluring aromatic scent of freshly made ghee sweets drifting through streets, and the vibrant lighted night sky with fireworks? It’s not our usual holiday, it’s a celebratory festival that nurtures the spirit of joy in families.

Deepavali the festival of lights, commonly celebrated by Hindus in Malaysia is also celebrated throughout the world by millions and not just by Hindus; Deepavali is also known as Diwali is known to be celebrated for a few reasons which include the common reason for the victory of lights over darkness, or even goods triumph against evil, in North India, it commemorates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, while in South India, it celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. But what do the people celebrating Deepavali do leading toward the festival and the day itself? Let’s briefly journey through the festival lights to make it a glorious celebration.

The Art of Cleaning

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Source: joyofcleaning.com

The few weeks before Deepavali, the common practice in the journey starts with cleaning houses. Families meticulously clean every part of their houses and decorate them with colorful things like rangolis. Cleaning houses are essential as Deepavali approaches, as it is believed that a tidy home invites the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth, prosperity, and fortune.

Lights from the Festival of Lights

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Source: blog.hummings.com

Another aspect practiced during the festival is the lighting of oil diya lamps. This is usually done when daylight dims and the families light up clay lamps to illuminate the house. The lighting of clay symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and is also said to be a field of protection that wards off negativity. 

The Taste of Deepavali & Bonds Created

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Source: foodmarkethub.com

Food usually plays an integral role in any celebration and just like that also in Deepavali it has its significance, before Deepavali, the family prepares sweets and savory snacks like ghee-made Ladoos, chocolaty cookies, the ever-famous murukku, and many more. 

On Deepavali day, the ladies typically prepare a variety of dishes for everyone, such as idli, chicken, mutton, ghee rice, biryani, and vegetables, serving a splendid feast. This festive meal is also served to guests who visit, and sweets and snacks are brought as gifts to the houses they visit. In Malaysia, it’s an integral tradition to invite friends from various ethnic, and nourish the bond between friends and family.

The Festival Full of Rituals

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Source: thehoneycombers.com

Deepavali is a time of devotion to the gods and also a reflection of our past. Many people pray for their ancestors before Deepavali, cooking and serving the feast enjoyed by them when they were alive. This is followed by a prayer ritual seeking their blessing and reflecting on the time families had with them. In some instances, they visit their graveyard to carry out the ritual. 

Oil Bath, New Clothes, and Fireworks The Day Itself

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Sourec: ding.com

The day of Deepavali may differ for the family but there are some common practices among all, and below are the breakdowns of the prominent practices & rituals with an explanation 

The Traditional Oil Bath

  • What It Is: The day typically begins with a traditional oil bath. Sesame oil is applied to the head and body, followed by a warm bath.
  • Significance: A ritual isn’t just a physical cleansing but also from a spiritual perspective. It means the removal of past negativity for a new start

Wearing New Clothes

  • What It Is: After the oil bath, everyone wears new traditional attire, often accompanied by jewelry. These clothes are usually gifts from elders or family heads.
  • Significance: Wearing new clothes represents a fresh start and the elimination of the old and negative and a sign of love from the elders.

Prayers and Puja

  • What It Is: Devotees perform puja to the deities, especially Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
  • Significance: These rituals are meant to invite blessings for a prosperous and joyful year. Lakshmi puja, in particular, is believed to invoke the goddess’s presence, ensuring success, happiness, and financial well-being for the family.

Feasting and Exchanging Gifts

  • What It Is: Families gather to share meals, including sweets and savory dishes. Gifts are also exchanged among family and friends.
  • Significance: This act is to strengthen family bonds. It serves as an opportunity to be grateful and celebrate the joy of togetherness.

Fireworks Display

Significance: Fireworks are believed to ward off evil spirits and add a sparkling element to the celebration. It showcases the triumph of light over darkness. However, many have transitioned to an eco-friendly lifestyle opting for a peaceful or action to reduce environmental impact.

What It Is: One of the most iconic aspects of Deepavali is the colorful fireworks that light up the sky.

The Colourful Conclusion

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Deepavali isn’t our usual festival as it is an opportunity that creates new relationships, improves bonds, and unites people, especially in our country Malaysia among people from various religions and communities which showcases the sense of togetherness among Malaysians. The celebration is also a reminder for us that joy and hope will prevail even on the darkest day for us all to practice even in the lowest point in our life regardless of whether it is Deepavali or not, and it promotes unity among family and friends, so let us all cherish this year’s Deepavali pleasure uniting as one in the light of the festival.

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