Myths and Legends of Diwali

by Vikas Kamat
First Online: January 02,2007
Page Last Updated: September 07,2008

While Diwali is a very popular festival observed all over the world wherever people of Indian origin live, the mode of celebrations and the traditions depend on which of the legends the particular family or community had followed in the past.

Rama's Return to Ayodhya

Diwali is observed as the day Rama returned to Ayodhya to assume his role as the king of India. It is said that the citizens of Ayodhya lit lamps to welcome Rama back, and hence Diwali is observed by re-enacting that joyous occasion.

See Also: Ramayana

Killing of Narakasura

Followers of Krishna observe Diwali as the day Narakasura, a demon of dirt and darkness was vanquished by Krishna. Hence the practitioners clean houses and neighborhoods, and take an elaborate, deep cleansing bath.

Worship of Goddess Laxmi

The festival of Diwali is celebrated in devotion to goddess Laxmi, the provider of health, wealth, and prosperty.

See Also: Goddess Laxmi

Vishnu Appears as Vamana

Another legend of Diwali is that it was the day Lord Vishnu appeared in human form to rescue the world from a demon Bali.

See Also: The Story of Vamana

See Also:

• Hinduism Potpourri -- Hindu mythology, point of views, pictures of deities, sages and stories.
• The Deccan Plateau -- Known as the Dravida land, the four states of South India offer a marked cultural and literary experience from that of the North.