Stars and Beyond

Diwali, the festival of lights, comes to life in the midst of customs and the glow of clay lamps, shining as a symbol of happiness and importance in Indian culture. It transcends national boundaries; Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains celebrate it not just in India but also in Southern Asia and other areas of the world. This bright festival, which falls on the Hindu New Year, represents the victory of light over darkness and new beginnings. The Historical Tapestry of Diwali: Diwali, which has almost 2,500 years of history, was probably first celebrated as a harvest celebration. Its significance is, nevertheless, interwoven with countless traditions, many of which tell stories of good triumphing over evil. The legend of Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya following his victory over the demon king Ravana symbolizes the triumph of virtue over vice. The Tale of Ramayana: The epic Ramayana tells the story of Lord Rama's 14-year exile, which ends with his wife Sita being saved from the evil Rava...

Hindu homes have a special space for Dhanteras, which marks the start of Diwali, as the holiday season approaches. Families pray to Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kubera, and Lord Dhanvantari for blessings of money and success on this auspicious day.  Combining the words "Dhan" (wealth) with "Teras" (thirteenth), Dhanteras means "to invite good fortune." It's traditionally a lucky time to buy gadgets, silver, gold, and cutlery. Families go out on a ceremonial quest to welcome the gods of wealth into their dwellings. Puja rituals honoring Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kubera, and Lord Dhanvantari take place on Dhanteras. Seeking their blessings, according to devotees, guarantees wealth, health, and the healing of illnesses. During the puja, three manifestations of Goddess Lakshmi—Deity Saraswati, Maha Lakshmi, and Goddess Maha Kaali—are also revered. Hindu mythology's Dhanteras is a story of spiritual triumph. During "Sagar Manthan," devotees commemora...