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Diwali is the most awaited festival in India. This year, it will be celebrated on November 3, 2013. As India is a land of different religions and all the religions have different festivals and fairs, which are celebrated every year. But, Diwali is a festival which is celebrated equally by all the religions. In Hinduism, Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama to his kingdom Ayodhya after defeating Ravana. This signifies the victory of good over evil. Diwali is all about fun, frolic and socializing with family, friends and relatives. It is the day where people light candles and diyas at their homes, decorated their house and most importantly exchange Diwali gifts. Diwali usually falls in the month of October or November, which is also called as the month of Karthik. This is the end of rainy season and the beginning of the winter season. The weather is very pleasant as it is neither hot not cold. Diwali is celebrated for 5 days which are Dhanteras, Choti Diwali, Lakshmi Pujan or Diwali, Govardhan Puja and Bhai Duj. All these days have different significance. On Dhanteras Hindus consider it auspicious to purchase gold or silver articles or at least one or two new utensils. It is believed that new "Dhan" or some form of precious metal is a sign of good luck. "Laxmi-Puja" is performed in the evenings when tiny Diyas of clay are lit to drive away the shadows of evil spirits. "Bhajans"-devotional songs- in praise of Goddess Laxmi are also sung. The second day marks the celebration of Choti Diwali. This day has a lot of religious significance for people, as it is on this day that Lord Krishna defeated the devil Naraksur, thus giving a sigh of relief to the people. As a part of its celebration, people massage their bodies with oil to bid bye to tiredness. The Third day is the main day. It is the Lakshmi Pujan or Diwali. The Lakshmi Puja is dedicated to the Lakshmi Goddess of prosperity and wealth. Lakshmi Pujan is performed in every home after sunset. Diwali is also considered as a New Year for business. People buy new clothes and exchange Diwali Gifts in India on this day. Diwali is also about enlightenment of soul and burning of all our bad times. It is about coming over the darkness of ignorance and stepping into a cleaner and brighter world. The Fourth day is the Govardhan Puja the Fifth Day is Bhai Duj. Bhai-Duj that celebrates the love and affection between a brother and a sister. The day itself is marked with great rejoicing and merry-making. Diwali is also known as the festival of lights. The illumination at night is a sight to see. There are rows of light to be seen on the roof of every house building. Earthen lamps are lighted in large numbers. Diwali gifts hold the major essence during the festival. As it is the token of love and affection towards your near and dear ones! Giving gifts is a symbol of friendship. Invite your colleagues for diwali celebration and build a special bond with them. Buy diwali gifts for employees and improve your professional relationship.
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