One of the most significant holidays in Hinduism is Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, which is a Hindu religious celebration. In some parts of India, it may last up to six days. It is observed during the Hindu lunisolar months of Ashwayuja and Kartika (between mid-October and mid-November). It represents the spiritual “winning of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and light over darkness.”
This festival’s origins can be traced back to the legendary story of Lord Rama, who lost his kingdom and spent 14 years in exile. This festival celebrates Lord Rama’s ultimate victory over the evil spirit Ravana and his victorious return to his hometown with his family.
Lord Rama spent 14 years in exile from his kingdom during which Ravana abducted Sita (Lord Rama’s wife). Even after King Ravana received multiple warnings to let Sita go, he refused to do so and caused the destruction of his own kingdom. He did not want to admit that he was doing something wrong.
My take on the Ramayana is not only about Lord Rama and Sita but also the art of perseverance. Perseverance is described as the ability to remain persistent in doing something despite difficulties or delays.
For instance, Lord Rama had to win many battles when he was banished from his very own kingdom, lived in the forests and ate berries and leaves. He never wavered from his Dharma and for 14 years he went through this. In the last stages of the 14 years, he also had to win a war with Ravana, the King of Lanka to get Sita back from him.
Not surprisingly, he did not want to fight Ravana but gave him multiple chances as he persevered and followed his Dharma.
For me, Diwali is not only lighting of lamps and bring light into darkness but, removing darkness from the minds and hearts of one’s self. For that to happen, one must persevere and is bound to win.