Deepavali (Diwali) 2024 in Sri Lanka

Deepavali is one of Sri Lanka's most vibrant Hindu celebrations, known as the Festival of Lights. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, commemorating Lord Rama's victory over the demon king Ravana. This holiday has particular significance in Sri Lanka, as the famous epic of Ramayana, which is behind the legend, partially takes place in Lankapura (Sri Lanka).

Celebration Highlights

Deepavali, also known as Diwali in both India and Sri Lanka, is predominantly celebrated by Sri Lankan Tamils. The festival involves various rituals, including the lighting of small lamps to dispel darkness from homes and lives, earning it the name "Festival of Lights."

Traditions of the Celebration

Traditional Deepavali rituals involve lighting small lamps to ward off evil spirits, symbolizing hope for a bright future. People dress in new clothes and exchange gifts, and it's also a time when purchasing gold jewelry is common. In preparation for the festival, homes are thoroughly cleaned, renovated, and decorated. On Diwali night, Rangoli or Kolam designs—vibrant folk art patterns—are created on the floor, particularly in living rooms or shrine rooms, as a sacred welcome for Hindu deities. Deepavali, predominantly celebrated by Sri Lankan Tamils, also features fireworks. While the Tamil community is spread across the island, it is primarily concentrated in the northern region.

Dates

The five-day Deepavali festival culminates on the main night of Diwali, which falls on the darkest night of the new moon in the Hindu lunisolar month of Kartik, typically occurring between mid-October and mid-November. This year, it will be celebrated on October 31. Deepavali is a public holiday, with schools and most businesses closed, giving the general population a day off.

Myths of the Festival of Lights

Several legends in Hinduism are believed to be the origins of Diwali celebrations, passed down through generations and still shared with children as part of the festival's traditions.

One of the most well-known stories is linked to King Rama. According to legend, he returned to Ayodhya on Diwali after 14 years of exile, having defeated the demon king Ravana, who had abducted his wife, Sita. The people of Ayodhya were so overjoyed by their king's return that they lit up their homes and exchanged sweets. This tradition continues to be a central part of modern Diwali celebrations.

Another legend speaks of the defeat of Narakasura, an evil ruler in Assam, by Lord Krishna with the help of his wife, Satyabhama. Before his death, Narakasura requested that his demise be celebrated with colorful lights.