Diwali, as we all know, is the grand festival that is celebrated all over the country with new full zeal every year. It is also one of the most important festivals for Jaipur and Jaipurites, as here it is observed for a full 5 days. During this time entire Pink city is decked up, and all monuments and buildings are lit up which makes the city truly beautiful and full of splendour. The preparations start almost a month ago when Jaipurites starts cleaning the house, and decorating it because Diwali is not just a day-long affair for us but it is a complete five-day long event. And we believe to celebrate each and every day of Diwali with full passion. But did you know the significance of all these five days?
Let’s get a bit of knowledge about our favourite 5 Diwali days-
Dhanteras
Dhanteras which is also known as “Dhanvantari Trayodashi” is the first day of the five days of Diwali celebration. The legend behind celebrating Dhanteras is that the ocean was churned by Gods and demons to get Amrita or nectar. Dhanvantari (known as physician of Gods) had emerged out with a jar of elixir from the ocean. That is why this day is celebrated as Dhanteras.
It is believed that buying things such as gold or silver coins, jewellery, new utensils or other new things is the sign of Lakshmi coming home whole year. On this day Jaipur markets like Tripolia Bazaar, Johari Bazaar gets all bustled up with the people as everyone is busy buying the things.
Roop Chaturdashi
The second day is Roop Chaturdashi which is also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, Kali Chaudas or Choti Diwali. After a month-long cleaning of the home, it is time to deck up ourselves. It is believed that on this day it is very important to take care of one’s body and also improving one’s appearance through external means. In the old days, women used to apply ubtan to get that natural glow and now they go to parlours to get the festive look.
Whatever you opt for, this day signifies that you need to glow & shine like Diwali lights.
Diwali
This is the main day and marks the return of Lord Rama along with wife Sita to their kingdom from 14 year-long exile after defeating Ravana. When Rama, Sita and Lakshaman were back, the people of Ayodhya celebrated the return of their king by illuminating the earthen diyas and bursting firecrackers. Hence, Diwali is the celebration of Homecoming. We light up homes, wear new clothes, prepare lots of delicacies and offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi. No matter where you are Jaipurites love to come back home to be with their family, and this is the true essence of this festival of Diwali.
Govardhan Pooja
The fourth day is Govardhan Pooja or Annakoota, people show their gratitude towards Lord Krishna by offering various types of food. The story behind this day is that, once Lord Indra got angry for the villagers had stopped offering him lavish meals which in return he promised good rains for their crops. So he flooded the village and soon it was underwater. Lord Krishna then came to their rescue by lifting the huge Govardhan Mountain on his little finger.
Bhai Dooj
Last day is called Bhai Dooj which celebrates the love of brother and sister. On this day, women pray to God for the long and prosperous lives of their brother and apply ‘tilak’ on their foreheads. According to mythology, on this day Yamraj visited his sister Yami, where she welcomed him with an aarti, applied tilak and offered sweets. Moved by his sister’s love he declared that any brother who received ‘tilak’ from his sister shouldn’t be afraid of death.
Now, that you know the significance of the five days of Diwali, go ahead and take part in the rituals and celebrations this Diwali with great enthusiasm. But remember to play eco-friendly Diwali and avoid bursting crackers for the sake of our environment.
Wishing you all a Joyful & Safe Diwali!
Jaipur Beat 