Deepavali: Illuminating the Path of Sanatana Dharma
The Inner and Outer Light of the Festival of Lights
Diwali, or Deepavali—the ‘row of lamps’—is not merely a festival of lights; it is the annual reaffirmation of Sanatana Dharma itself. Falling on the darkest new moon night (Amavasya) of the Kartik month, it is the radiant testament to the timeless truth: light will always triumph over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and righteousness (Dharma) over unrighteousness (Adharma).
For every true Sanatani, Deepavali is a profound, multi-day spiritual journey that culminates in the worship of the Divine Mother Lakshmi and our beloved Lord.
The Foundations of Our Celebration: A Vaishnava Perspective
The essence of Diwali is deeply rooted in the sacred lore of our Hindu Dharma, drawing from the glorious pastimes of the Supreme Lord in His various descents (avatars).
1. The Triumph of Rama (Maryada Purushottama)
The most celebrated narrative, particularly in North India, is the jubilant return of Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, and Lakshmana to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and the defeat of the demon-king Ravana. The citizens of Ayodhya, overwhelmed with devotion, lit countless earthen lamps (diyas) to guide the path of their returning King on the dark Amavasya night. This act symbolised the restoration of Dharma and the victory of purity and goodness. This narrative holds special resonance for all Vaishnavas, celebrating the maryada (perfect conduct) and power of the Lord.
2. The Victory of Krishna (Narak Chaturdashi)
The day preceding the main Deepavali, known as Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali, celebrates another cornerstone of our Vaishnav tradition: the glorious triumph of Lord Krishna and His consort Satyabhama over the wicked demon Narakasura. This victory over the son of the Earth who terrorised the Devas and sages is a reminder that the Lord is eternally vigilant in protecting His devotees and destroying the forces of darkness.
The Sacred Five Days of Deepavali
The Deepavali celebration is a beautifully structured five-day spiritual calendar:
| Day | Sanskrit Name | Significance in Dharma |
| Day 1 | Dhanteras (Dhan Trayodashi) | We worship Lord Dhanvantari, the originator of Ayurveda, and Goddess Lakshmi. It is an auspicious day for acquiring new things (especially gold, silver, or utensils), symbolising the seeking of both material and spiritual wealth (Dhana). |
| Day 2 | Naraka Chaturdashi | We celebrate Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura. The traditional pre-dawn Abhyanga Snana (oil bath) cleanses the body and mind, symbolically washing away the darkness and impurity. |
| Day 3 | Deepavali / Lakshmi Puja | The main day. Homes are brilliantly lit with diyas and lights. We perform the sacred Lakshmi-Ganesha Puja to seek prosperity, wealth, and auspicious beginnings. It is the day Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya. |
| Day 4 | Govardhan Puja | This day is dedicated to Lord Krishna’s magnificent pastime of lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect the inhabitants of Vrindavan from the wrath of Indra. It reminds us of the power of unwavering faith in the Supreme Lord. Offerings of a mountain of food (Annakut) are made to the Lord. |
| Day 5 | Bhai Dooj (Bhagini Dwitiya) | This beautiful day celebrates the unbreakable bond between brother and sister, symbolising the love between Yama (God of Death) and his sister Yamuna. |
The True Spirit of Deepavali
Beyond the dazzling fireworks and sweet mithai, the true essence of Deepavali, as per Sanatana Dharma, is a deeper commitment to the light within.
- Purification and Preparation: The mandatory cleaning and renovation of the home, often begun weeks in advance, is a powerful outer ritual that mirrors the inner necessity to cleanse our minds of negative habits, ignorance, and ego, preparing our hearts to welcome Divine grace (Lakshmi).
- The Diya as a Symbol: The humble earthen lamp (diya) is the heart of the festival. The oil symbolises the negative tendencies of the mind, the wick is the ego, and the light is the spiritual knowledge (Jnana). Burning the wick in the oil to produce light signifies the burning away of ego and negativity through the fire of knowledge, leaving behind only the light of the soul.
- Spreading Dharma: Deepavali is also a “Festival of Giving.” We share our joy, gifts, and food with everyone—family, friends, and the less fortunate—reaffirming our commitment to compassion and selfless service (seva), which is central to a life lived in Dharma.
As we light the millions of lamps this year, let us not only illuminate our homes but also ignite the lamp of wisdom, love, and righteousness within our hearts. May the light of Sanatana Dharma guide your path to prosperity and peace.
Subh Deepavali!
