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Photographs: Jewella C Miranda
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Diwali is also called Deepavali in many parts of the country. The word Deepavali is a combination of 'Deep,' which means a lamp, and 'Avali,' which means a row. Literally it means 'a row of lamps.' The festival is meant to dispel darkness and usher in a new, bright future. The stories surrounding the origin of Diwali are numerous. In north India Diwali is the celebration of King Rama's coronation in Ayodhya after his epic war with Ravana, the demon king of Lanka. According to the legend, Ayodhya was lit up with diyas to welcome Lord Rama and his wife Sita. Markets all over the country are full of diyas in all shapes and sizes. The simple diyas have given way to designer diyas, which cost from Rs 12 to Rs 200. Also see: Eternal Festival |
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