Diwali, the “Festival of Lights,” is one of India’s most significant and widely celebrated festivals, and in Mumbai, it takes on an especially grand and luminous character. Spanning five glorious days, Diwali symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.
The Spiritual Significance
Diwali is primarily associated with several key Hindu legends:
- Lord Rama’s Return: It marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile, following his victory over the demon king Ravana. Homes were lit with lamps to welcome him.
- Goddess Lakshmi’s Worship: The third and most important day of Diwali, Lakshmi Pujan, is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. Businesses and homes throughout Mumbai perform elaborate pujas, seeking her blessings for success in the coming year.
- Lord Krishna’s Victory: It also commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura (celebrated as Naraka Chaturdashi).
Mumbai During Diwali: A City Ablaze
During Diwali, Mumbai transforms into a spectacle of light and sound:
- Dazzling Illumination: Every street, building, and landmark, from the historic Gateway of India and CSMT station to modern skyscrapers and humble homes, is adorned with thousands of twinkling electric lights, traditional diyas (oil lamps), and colorful lanterns (kandils).
- Fireworks Extravaganza: The Mumbai sky becomes a canvas for spectacular fireworks displays. Families gather on terraces and open spaces to light crackers, while organized shows often illuminate the seafronts, offering breathtaking panoramas.
- Shopping Frenzy: Markets like Zaveri Bazaar, Linking Road, and Colaba Causeway buzz with activity as Mumbaikars indulge in festive shopping for clothes, jewelry, home decor, and gifts.
- Culinary Delights: Homes are filled with the aroma of homemade Faral (traditional Diwali snacks and sweets) such as laddoo, chakli, shankarpali, and chivda. Gifts of sweets and dry fruits are exchanged widely among friends and family.
- Community & Family: Despite the bustling city life, Diwali in Mumbai is a time for family reunions, social gatherings, and extending goodwill to neighbors and colleagues.
Key Days of Diwali
- Dhanteras: The first day, dedicated to worshipping Lakshmi for wealth and prosperity. People often purchase gold, silver, or new utensils.
- Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali): The second day, signifying the triumph over evil. Many take an auspicious oil bath.
- Lakshmi Pujan: The most important day, devoted to worshipping Goddess Lakshmi. Homes and businesses conduct elaborate pujas.
- Govardhan Puja / Padwa: The fourth day, celebrated differently across communities. For many, it’s Padwa, marking the beginning of the Hindu financial new year and celebrating marital bonds.
- Bhai Dooj: The final day, dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters, where sisters pray for their brothers’ long lives.