Diwali: The Other Stories

We all grew up listening to Diwali stories that our Grannies narrated to us. While the return of Lord Ram along with Sita and Laxman to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile, is the most famous mythological chapter that we know, there are other interesting stories associated to this festival. Let us have a look at a few of them:

1. Killing of Narakasur by Krishna 

   The barbaric and evil king of Pragjyotishapura(near present-day Assam) once abducted 16000 daughters of Gods and even stole the earring of God’s mother Aditi. The God’s who were left bereaved approached Krishna for help. Lord Krishna put an end to Narakasur’s reign by killing him. Because of a few good deeds done in life, Narakasur was granted one last wish of his death being celebrated by feasting.

2. Crowning of the New King 

   The mythical Hindu King Vikramaditya, who was well known for his wisdom, bravery and large-heartedness throughout the sub-continent, was crowned the king on the day of Diwali.

3. Incarnation of Laxmi 

   Worshipping Laxmi on the day of Diwali is a tradition followed in every home. The reason behind this is that Laxmi, was incarnated on this day. She appeared during Samudra manthan that was performed by the Gods and the Demons.

4. Diwali for Jains 

   It is believed that the last Jain Tirthankara, Lord Mahavir, attained moksha or Nirvana on the day of Diwali in 527 BCE in Pavapuri.

5. Diwali For Sikhs 

   After Emperor Jahangir prisoned the sixth guru, Guru Hargobind, and 52 other princes, he was asked to release them all. Though he agreed to this, he added a clause to their release. Only those who would be able to hold on to the tail of the cloak of Hargobind Singh would be released. Though this seemed to be impossible, everyone along with Guru Hargovind Sing could leave as his cloak was made of 52 pieces of string.

6. Destruction of Evil by Kali 

   After a war with the devils, Goddess Kali went on a rampage of killing everyone who came here way. To stop her, Lord Shiva, laid himself at her feet and she unknowingly stepped on him. Once she realized her mistake she stuck her tongue out in shock. Hence, in Bengal, Diwali is celebrated by worshiping Kali at midnight.

Whatever be the reason, we love the sparkle of the lights, the colors of the Rangoli and the delicacies of Diwali.