From Naraka Chaturdashi to Pathar Mela, this is how India celebrates Diwali

Let’s embark on a journey through India’s multifaceted Diwali traditions.

Pathar ka Mela in Himachal Pradesh

In the heart of Himachal, particularly in the village of Halog, Dhami the unique Pathar ka Mela takes centre stage. At the mela, people participate in a stone-pelting activity. Interestingly, getting struck by these stones during the festivities is believed to bring good luck.

Kali Puja in West Bengal

In West Bengal and the eastern regions, Kali Puja is observed with tremendous devotion. This ritual centers around the worship of Goddess Kali, considered the fiercer incarnation of Goddess Durga. The celebration includes elaborate rituals and offerings, and it holds a significant place in Bengali culture.

Naraka Chaturdashi in Karnataka, Goa

The southern state of Karnataka and Goa observe Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as Choti Diwali, with enthusiasm. This day is dedicated to the destruction of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna. People wake up before dawn, take an oil bath, and burst firecrackers to commemorate the victory of good over evil.

Gujarat’s Grandeur

In specific regions of Gujarat, individuals engage in a unique Diwali tradition by playfully hurling lit firecrackers at each other. Although it might seem hazardous, this age-old ritual is a distinctive practice in the Panchmahal village.

Additionally, during Diwali, some households in Gujarat maintain a ghee-lit diya, burning it throughout the night. The leftover residue from these diyas is collected the following morning and utilised to create kajal, a traditional eye cosmetic that women apply to their eyes. This custom is considered highly auspicious and is believed to bring prosperity to the household.

Varanasi’s Dev Deepavali

Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, celebrates Dev Deepavali with thousands of earthen lamps adorning the ghats of the Ganges River. The steps leading to the riverbanks become a radiant spectacle, and an elaborate aarti ceremony is conducted to honour the river as a deity. However, this happens a fortnight after Diwali.

Maharashtra’s Bhau Beej

The day after Diwali, Maharashtrians celebrate Bhau Beej, a festival that revolves around the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform aarti for their brothers and apply a tilak on their foreheads. Brothers, in return, offer gifts and blessings. Those in North India call it Bhai Dooj while Bengalis call it Bhai Phonta.

Punjab’s Bandi Chhor Divas

In Punjab, Diwali coincides with Bandi Chhor Divas, commemorating Guru Hargobind Ji’s release from imprisonment. The Golden Temple in Amritsar is beautifully illuminated, and Sikhs engage in prayers and festivities.

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