Stories associated with Diwali.

 

Jai Shri Ram ~ Om Namo Narayana ~ Om Namah Shivaya!

Let’s take a look at some of the well-known and lesser known stories associated with Diwali.

Main legend is The story of Lord Rama and Maa Sita. Diwali is the day when King Rama`s coronation was celebrated in Ayodhya after his war with Ravana. Lord Rama a great warrior, was exiled by his father Dashratha along with his wife Sita and his younger brother Lakshman. Lord Rama returned to his Kingdom Ayodhya after 14 years of exile, in which he put an end to Ravana. In Ayodhya, the people welcomed them by lighting rows of clay lamps. So, it is an occasion in honor of Rama's victory over Ravana, of Truth's victory over Evil.

According to various Puranas, Lord Vishnu in his 8th incarnation as Krishna destroyed the demon Narkasura. The demon Narakasura was the evil king of Pragjyotishapura, near present-day Assam. Power made the demon king arrogant and he became dangerous to his subjects and even to the gods. He ruled with a reign of terror, abducted 16,000 daughters of the gods, and stole the earrings of Aditi, mother of the gods. Krishna had to fight with the demon. The rescue of the 16,000 girls is said to be the origin of the story that Krishna had 16,000 wives. Krishna granted Narakasur one last request, because of the good deeds he had done. Narkasura hoped that his death might bring joy to others. So, before being killed, he cried, “Let this day be celebrated as a day of feasting in the World!" Krishna granted his request. After his victory Krishna returned very early in the morning and was bathed and massaged with scented oils. Taking an early morning bath with oil is still a Deepavali tradition. This Diwali story is a reminder that good always defeats evil. The day therefore is dedicated to lights and prayers heralding a future full of joy and laughter.

Another legend about Diwali celebrations relates to one of the legendary Hindu kings Vikramaditya. Historically it is believed that on a Diwali day in 56 BC King Vikramaditya, famed for his wisdom, bravery and large heartedness, was crowned and declared to be a king.

Another story is related to Sri Vishnu. as it's said that lord Vishnu miraculously assumed the form of a dwarf, Vamana. It was on a Kartik day that Lord Vishnu disguised himself as a short Brahmin and approached Bali for some charity. A large-hearted king, Bali tried to help the Brahmin. But the whole thing was a trick by Lord Vishnu and ultimately the King had to give up all his kingship and wealth. Diwali celebrates this defeating of Mahabali by Lord Vishnu.

On the auspicious new moon day, which is 'Amavasyaa' of the Hindi month of Kartik, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity, Lakshmi had incarnated. She appeared during the churning of the ocean, which is known as 'Samudra Manthan', by the demons on one side and 'Devataas' on the other side. Therefore, the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the Lakshmi Pujan, on the day of Diwali, became a tradition.

Another very interesting story about Diwali day is from the Kathopanishad. A small boy Nichiketa believed that Yam, the god of Death was as black as the dark night of amavasya. But when he met Yam in person he was puzzled seeing Yam's calm countenance and dignified stature. Yam explained to Nichiketa that on Diwali, passing through the darkness of death, man sees the light of highest wisdom. It is only then only his soul can escape from the bondage of his mortal frame to mingle with the Supreme Power. It was then that Nichiketa realized the importance of worldly life and significance of death.

Maa Kali is the fearful and ferocious form of the mother goddess Durga. She assumed the form of a powerful goddess and became popular with the composition of the Devi Mahatmya. She is depicted as having born from the brow of Goddess Durga during one of her battles with the evil forces. As the legend goes, in the battle, Kali was so much involved in the killing spree that she got carried away and began destroying everything in sight. To stop her, Lord Shiva threw himself under her feet. Shocked at this sight, Kali stuck out her tongue in astonishment, and put an end to her homicidal rampage. On Diwali, Kali Puja is done to diminish the ego and all negative tendencies that hinder spiritual progress and material prosperity. The main purpose of the puja is to seek the help of the goddess in destroying evil, both in the outside world and within us.!

Jai Shri Ram !