Diwali
artefacts
The
Hindu festival of Diwali (or Divali) celebrates good conquering evil.
It occurs in October or November each year and lasts for 3 to 5 days.
Fabric
Painting of the Ramayana
Hindus in different parts of India tend to remember different stories at Diwali, on the theme of good conquering evil. The story of the Ramayana (Rama and Sita) is one of the main stories remembered. The artefact shown here is a stunning giant fabric painting depicting the Ramayana. It measures 180cms by 120cms. The painting shows, from left to right, Lakshmana, Hanuman, Rama and Sita.
Diwa
Lamps
When
Rama returned after 14 years in exile to take his rightful place as
king, all the people came out to welcome him back. They lit rows of
lamps to lighten his path, called Diwa (or Diva) lamps. The word ‘Diwa’ means ‘light’ and ‘Diwali’ means ‘line
of lights’. Light is seen in Hinduism, as in some other religions,
as a symbol of good overcoming evil. Today, during Diwali, Hindus light
rows of small diwa lamps and display them in their windows.
Diwali
Greetings Cards
Hindus exchange greetings cards during the festival of Diwali.
