Diwali isn’t only associated with the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya

Diwali is one of the most extravagant festivals in India, marking the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana. However, given how diverse India is, Diwali has different meanings for people in the west, east, central, south, and northeast. This Diwali, check out how the festival is celebrated in other parts of India that do not fall in the north.

Kali Puja, West Bengal

(Credit- The Stateman)

The state of West Bengal has always worshipped goddesses, and after the carnival-like Durga Pujo, it celebrates Kali Pujo in the same manner. The night of Diwali belongs to Maa Kali, the goddess who symbolises destruction and liberation from ego and k*lled Raktabija to save the world from his demonic powers. Chants of “Jai Maa Kali” are heard across Bengal, and once the ritual is done, crackers are burst to celebrate the victory of good over evil.

Kaunriya Kathi and Badabadua Daka, Odisha

(Credit- Ommcom News)

For the people of Odisha, Diwali is all about paying respect to their ancestors. On Diwali, as dusk falls, family members stand on the doorsteps of their homes with tall jute sticks called Kaunriya Kathi. They hold the jute sticks, torch them and point them towards the sky while chanting, “Badabadua ho andhara re asa, aloka re jao,” which means “Ancestors, come in darkness and return along the lit path.” The ritual honours the departed soul while also guiding them to bless the living.

Naraka Chaturdashi, Goa

(Credit- ItsGoa)

In Goa, Diwali begins before sunrise with the burning of Naraka Chaturdashi. People parade the effigies, usually stuffed with firecrackers, throughout the city before nightfall. As dawn breaks, the effigies are set ablaze to celebrate the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon. Later, crackers are burnt, houses are cleaned, and Abhyang Snan, i.e., an oil bath, follows – all these symbolise purification and renewal. The celebration ended with feasts and prayers.

Diyari, Chhattisgarh

(Credit- The Curly Tales)

In Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region, Diwali becomes Diyari. The tribal communities in this region celebrate the day by marrying symbolic crops. Freshly harvested crops are tied to the idols of Lord Narayana as part of the ritual. This unique celebration sets it apart from how the festival is celebrated across the country.

Bali Pratipada, Karnataka

Credit- 99Pandit)

Bali Pratipada, also known as Bali Padyami, is celebrated on the fourth day of Diwali in Karnataka. People celebrated the return of King Bali, who was banished by Lord Vishnu to the netherworld and allowed to visit his subjects only once a year. The farming communities in Karnataka celebrate the occasion in various ways. However, a triangular idol of King Bali is common.