This week, our Hindu colleagues, patients, and their families celebrate Diwali.

Beginning October 17, 2009 and continuing for four days, Hindu followers take part in the faith tradition's most festive observance, that of Diwali (also known as Deepavali), the Festival of Lights. It is dedicated to the goddess Kali in Bengal and to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, in the rest of India. All houses and streets are decorated with lights, firecrackers are set off, and many bright colors are used. In the temples, sacred worship places, and along the river, lights (also known as Deepotsavas) symbolize the radiance of all good spirits. The point of this observance is to celebrate the victory of the divine over the wicked. To demonstrate the goodness of light, those participating in the festival buy and wear new clothing, along with their best jewelry and accessories. Here is the story about this festival.

Narakaasura, a demon king, ruled over what was then known as Pragjyotishapura (now Assam). He became very powerful and had conquered all his foes. Soon, intoxicated by his own power, he became a menace even to the holy men and the gods. The gods, headed by Devendra, begged Sri Krishna, the premier god, to help them. Sri Krishna destroyed Narakaasura’s army and even killed Narakaasura. Those who had been oppressed by Narakaasura were freed and were given higher standing in society. Sri Krishna bathed himself in oil after the battle, which prompted part of the current-day festival, which is to take an oil-bath early on the festival day. Even Mother Earth, who was the mother of Narakaasura, asked Sri Krishna to celebrate the day as a great festival. The sun rising on Diwali signifies Mother Earth setting aside her own personal joys and sorrows so that the greater society might be benefited.

Amaavaasya, the new moon day, follows this celebration, and it is the time when followers offer prayers and gratitude to family ancestors for living in a holy way. On these days, followers worship Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.

There is no traditional greeting for this festival.