Deepavali, or Diwali, literally means " row or garland of lights" - is celebrated by Hindus worldwide on Monday 27th October 2008.
It symbolises the victory of Lord Krishna, one of the deities of the Hindu pantheon, over the demon king Narakasura, a victory of good over evil.
Hindus believe that departed souls return during this time, so their favourite food, along with new clothes, are placed on banana leaves before their photographs, and prayers are said.
Weeks before Deepavali, preparations for the celebration such as spring cleaning of the home, buying new clothes are carried out. The women will beautify their hands by painting with the intricate designs of mehndi, also known as henna. The women also make cakes and other tidbits - the most popular and favourite being murukku.
Hindus celebrate the day with an early morning traditional oil bath. The gingelly oil is extracted from fermented sesame seeds. Visiting the temple to receive the blessings of Lord Krshna and the Goddess of Wealth is also part of the ways to celebrate Deepavali.
If you have the opportunity to drop by at Little India in Singapore, you will definitely able to soak yourself in the Spirit of Celebration of Deepavali.
Let's hear from you, how other Hindus celebrate Deepavali in other parts of the World.
It symbolises the victory of Lord Krishna, one of the deities of the Hindu pantheon, over the demon king Narakasura, a victory of good over evil.
Hindus believe that departed souls return during this time, so their favourite food, along with new clothes, are placed on banana leaves before their photographs, and prayers are said.
Weeks before Deepavali, preparations for the celebration such as spring cleaning of the home, buying new clothes are carried out. The women will beautify their hands by painting with the intricate designs of mehndi, also known as henna. The women also make cakes and other tidbits - the most popular and favourite being murukku.
Hindus celebrate the day with an early morning traditional oil bath. The gingelly oil is extracted from fermented sesame seeds. Visiting the temple to receive the blessings of Lord Krshna and the Goddess of Wealth is also part of the ways to celebrate Deepavali.
If you have the opportunity to drop by at Little India in Singapore, you will definitely able to soak yourself in the Spirit of Celebration of Deepavali.
Let's hear from you, how other Hindus celebrate Deepavali in other parts of the World.
