Everyone eagerly awaits the festival of Diwali. This festive period begins with Dhanteras and concludes with Bhai Dooj. During this time, lighting lamps (diyas) every evening holds special significance. This tradition has been followed since ancient times, but do you know why lamps are lit from Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj, and what the underlying reason is? If not, let us explore the mystery behind it in detail.

The Significance of Lighting Lamps from Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj
Dhanteras: The festival of Dhanteras marks the first day of the Diwali celebrations. On this day, it is considered particularly significant to light a lamp—known as the 'Yama Diya'—in the southern direction of the home. According to religious belief, lighting a lamp in the name of Yamraj (the Lord of Death) on Dhanteras helps dispel the fear of untimely death within the family.

Chhoti Diwali (Naraka Chaturdashi): According to mythology, lighting lamps on the occasion of Chhoti Diwali is considered auspicious. It was on this day that Lord Krishna slew the demon Narakasura and liberated 16,100 princesses and captives from his tyranny. Thus, lamps are lit on this day as a symbol of the triumph of good over fear and darkness.

Diwali: On the day of the new moon (Amavasya) in the month of Kartik, Lord Rama, Mother Sita, and his brother Lakshmana returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. To celebrate their arrival, the residents of the city lit lamps to welcome them. Consequently, lighting lamps on the day of Diwali is considered highly auspicious. The light from these lamps dispels the darkness of ignorance, bringing knowledge, happiness, and prosperity into one's life.

Govardhan Puja: The fourth day of the Diwali festival is dedicated to Govardhan Puja. According to mythology, in the Dvapara Yuga, the people of the Braj region used to worship Indra, the King of the Devas. One day, Lord Krishna suggested to the residents of Braj that they should instead worship Mount Govardhan, as it provides fodder for their cattle and sustains their lives. On this day, Lord Krishna shattered the ego of Indra and protected the residents of Braj by lifting Mount Govardhan. Following this, the people offered '56 Bhog' (a ceremonial feast of 56 food items) to the Lord and lit lamps. It is for this reason that there is a tradition of lighting lamps on the day of Govardhan Puja.

Bhai Dooj: This festival symbolizes the unbreakable bond of love between a brother and a sister. It is believed that on this day, Yamraj visited the home of his sister, Yamuna. On this occasion, sisters apply a 'tilak' on their brothers' foreheads—praying for their longevity, good health, and prosperity—and perform an 'aarti' by lighting lamps.

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