Deepavali or Diwali is India's most significant and important holiday of the year. The celebration takes its name from the row (avali) of clay lanterns (deepa) that Indians light outside their houses to symbolize the inner light that guards them against spiritual wickedness. This festival is as important to Hindus as the Christmas celebration is to Christians.
Diwali falls between October to November each year, on the night of a new moon, which is considered to be the darkest night of the year. For 2020, it takes time on November 14.
Various stories deliver growth to Deepavali’s origins. One of the most famous is when Lord Krishna conquered the Demon King Narakaasur. Because of this story, this festival represents all about the victory of good over evil and light over darkness.
Over time, Diwali has become a national festival that is likewise experienced by some non-Hindu societies all around the world as it is celebrated by Singaporeans.
To Singaporean who never celebrates and want to do it, you guys need to check several things to understand more about Diwali. What is allowed and what is forbidden. So, let's go check out some tips below.
All about Diwali
The Colors
After precisely cleaning every single cranny and hole, Hindu people decorate the door of their homes with kolam, or rangoli, a colorful and detailed design drawn by hand with colored rice, flour, or chalk. These drawings meant to greet the visitors and Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity and wealth, into the house.
The buzz
The day before the celebration, Buffalo Road in Little India is abuzz with movement as families complete their last-minute buying for flowers, floral collections composed of jasmine, marigold and red rose, vegetables, and prayer things.
The Sights
One must not skip the Deepavali Bazaar in Campbell Road. The lane is a treasure trove of Indian specialties from traditional costumes to lamps and diyas in all colors and designs his year can imagine.
The aroma
Families also provide tasty Indian meals and desserts for Deepavali like murukku, a savory fried cracker, and laddu. At the Komala Vilas 76-78 Serangoon Road, you can try them.
Moreover, go check out the lively bazaars in the Little India Arcade for the taste of North Indian sweets such as Kaju Katli –cashew nut cake, and Kesar Peda –sweet milk and a selection of savories in 48 Serangoon Road.
The tradition
The Indians have traditional oil baths in Deepavali morning, in which oil is massaged and washed off with warm water before placing colorful new clothing into their scalp.
The younger members of the families prostrate themselves before the elders for blessing and pray and perform rituals on the home altar or shrine.
The family then goes to the temple to pray and enjoy a delicious feast before meeting with friends and relatives. Oil and sparkling lamps come out during the night!
Dos and Dont’s
DO
- Wear traditional clothes. The more bling, the better! By wearing amazing fashion, it can immerse to get into history.
- Bring a little present. Boxes of cakes and sweets are a good way, to begin with, as are fruit hampers.
- Check out your host's dishes. What is being served is impolite to refuse. You can eat or use the cutlery if you like with your right hand.
DON’T
- Bring alcoholic beverages. Additionally, steer clear of food items with beef.
- Wear tight clothes or anything black or white. These colors are usually linked with funerals.
Source : The Finder Life
