History & Origin of Diwali
The history of Diwali, or to put it correctly, Deepavali, is replete with legends. And these legends are moored to the stories of Hindu religious scriptures, mostly the Purana(s). Though the central theme of all legends point out to the classic truth of the victory of the good over the evils, the mode of their presentation and the characters differ. Likewise the religion itself, the origin of Deepavali is dated back to a period when history was
probably not used to be written. Still by some mystery the traditions of this epical celebration continue to be transpired from one century to another. And during this relentless course of journey it has continued to illuminate the path of thousands to attain the ultimate good and complete ecstasy.
Diwali Celebrations
Diwali is one festival which is celebrated with utmost excitement not only in India but also in other parts of the world. The importance of Diwali in India is so great that there are five days of Diwali preserved for its celebration. Uniting all members of the community, young and old, rich or poor, the lighting of the lamps on Diwali represents a way of paying obeisance to God for attainment of health, wealth, knowledge, peace and valued fame. People give expressions to their happiness by lighting
earthen diwali diyas and Diwali lamps and decorating the houses to welcome Lakshmi- the Goddess of wealth and prosperity, bursting fire crackers and inviting the near and dear ones to their households for partaking in the luxurious feast of Diwali sweets . It is also marked as the beginning of the Hindu New Year and as a brand new beginning for all. Diwali is celebrated for five days, each day having it's own significance, rituals and myths.
When is Diwali
Diwali date falls every year on the day [night] of New Moon [Amavasya] in the month Kartik [according to Hindu calendar, and approximately around Oct-Nov] following the autumnal equinox. Diwali date [according to Hindu calendar] therefore does not fluctuate and is a one day affair, even though people in various parts of India may celebrate it differently.
Diwali in 2008 is on Tuesday, the 28th of October .
In 2009 , Diwali will be celebrated on 17th October 2009.
In 2010 , Diwali will be celebrated on 5th November 2010.
Diwali Celebrations in Mauritius
Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm at Mauritius as this country have great Indian crowd.
The Diwali celebrations at Mauritius is as good as in India.
The festival of lights- Diwali is celebrated in October/November. Diwali marks the victory of Rama over Ravana and also commemorates Krishna's destruction of the demon Narakasuran .
Earthen oil lamps are placed in front of every home turning the island into a fairyland of flickering lights.
Mauritius is a beautiful landmass full of picturesque landscapes and enchanting spots.
Mauritius accounts a 63% of Indian majority of which 80% follow Hinduism.
Hence, celebration of almost all the Hindu festivals in this island is a common phenomenon. In Mauritius, Diwali celebration is an age-old tradition.
Beautiful rows of twinkling candles and lamps of all sorts are lit all over the island to celebrate the return of the hero of the Ramayana, Rama, from his 14 years of exile.