Last updated on June 23rd, 2023
41. In the state of Odisha, Diwali is celebrated as “Kartika Purnima.” People light traditional lamps made of earthen pots and worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
42. In the town of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, Diwali is celebrated by lighting thousands of oil lamps on the banks of the holy river Ganges. The mesmerizing sight is known as “Ganga Aarti.”
43. In the Sindhi community, Diwali is known as “Chhoti Diwali.” They celebrate it a day before the main Diwali and mark the day by lighting earthen lamps filled with sesame oil.
44. In the region of Goa, Diwali is celebrated with a unique tradition called “Bhau Beej.” Sisters apply coconut paste on their brothers’ foreheads and perform aarti to seek their well-being and protection.
45. In Goa, a night before Diwali is celebrated as “Narkasur Night.” It involves the creation of larger-than-life effigies of the demon Narkasur, which are then burned to symbolize the victory of good over evil.
46. In the city of Kolkata, West Bengal, Diwali is celebrated with the unique tradition of “Kali Puja” and “Diwali Pujas.” The celebration involves elaborately decorated temporary structures called “pandals” that house artistic representations of Goddess Kali and other deities. Thousands of devotees visit these pandals throughout the festival.
47. In the city of Ayodhya, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, Diwali celebrations are taken to grand proportions. Over a million oil lamps are estimated to be lit during the festival, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
48. In the Jain community, Diwali holds special significance as it commemorates the attainment of moksha (liberation) by Lord Mahavira, the last Tirthankara. Jains celebrate Diwali by lighting lamps, offering prayers, and participating in processions. They also remember and honor their departed spiritual leaders during this time.
49. In Tamil Nadu, Diwali is celebrated as “Deepavali,” and people wake up before sunrise to have an oil bath, which is considered purifying and auspicious.