The True Meaning of Deepavali
By Loshinniy Nair S. Baskaran,
30th October: Deepavali, often linked to the defeat of the demon Naragasura by Lord Vishnu, has a deeper significance. Spiritual teacher Variyar Swamigal explains that “Deepavali” means “arranging lights to pray to God.” This festival of lights is mentioned in the Skanda Purana, an ancient Hindu text from the Krita Yuga, which is the first of four significant eras in Hinduism.
Originally, Deepavali was a day for fasting in honor of Lord Shiva. The connection to Naragasura emerged later during the Dvapara Yuga, when his defeat coincidentally fell on Deepavali. Additionally, many other important events are celebrated on this day, such as Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhyaafter rescuing Sita, Goddess Lakshmi’s birthday, and the Pandavas’ return home after 12 years of exile.
Thus, while Naragasura’s defeat is a well-known story associated with Deepavali, it is not the sole reason for the celebration. The festival encompasses various auspicious events and serves as a time for prayer and light, as stated in Astro Ulagam.
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