TLDR;
This podcast episode discusses the Diwali festival, addressing the confusion surrounding the correct date due to a solar eclipse. It explores the stories behind Diwali, including Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya and Lord Krishna's victory over Narakasura. The episode also touches on how Diwali is celebrated, emphasizing the importance of an eco-friendly Diwali and helping those in need.
- Diwali is celebrated on October 24th this year.
- The festival commemorates Lord Rama's return and Lord Krishna's victory.
- An eco-friendly Diwali is encouraged to reduce pollution.
Introduction to Diwali [0:04]
The podcast begins by introducing Diwali, the Festival of Lights, which brings happiness, removes darkness, and invites Goddess Lakshmi. This year, there's confusion about the correct date for Diwali due to a solar eclipse on October 25th. Despite this, astrologers have determined that Diwali should be celebrated on October 24th, with Amavasya beginning in the evening of the same day. People are encouraged to celebrate with holy baths and Dhanalakshmi Puja on this day.
Poem About Diwali [1:37]
A student shares a poem about Diwali, highlighting the contrast between the dark night and the bright lights of the festival. The poem encourages enjoying the delights of Diwali, inviting happiness, and letting the glow be bright. It also advises against excessive firecrackers to avoid pollution and suggests enjoying tasty treats instead.
Stories Behind Diwali [2:36]
The podcast shares the Hindu mythological stories behind Diwali. One story recounts Lord Rama, his wife Sita Devi, and brother Lakshmana returning to their homeland after 14 years of exile. The people of Ayodhya lit lamps to show their happiness. Another story tells of Lord Krishna defeating the demon Narakasura, who troubled people, gods, and sages. Narakasura requested that his death be celebrated as a festival, leading to the Diwali celebration. Regardless of the specific story, Diwali represents a new beginning and the triumph of light over darkness.
How Diwali is Celebrated [3:22]
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by decorating houses with rows of earthen lamps. Modern celebrations include electrical lamps. People perform Puja of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganapati for prosperity. Children and adults enjoy playing with firecrackers and distributing sweets among friends and relatives.
Eco-Friendly Diwali [3:54]
The podcast emphasizes the importance of an eco-friendly Diwali to combat pollution. Students are encouraged to take responsibility for keeping the earth pollution-free. Instead of spending money on firecrackers, they can help poor children in orphanages and old people in old age homes, finding satisfaction in bringing happiness to others. The episode concludes by encouraging listeners to celebrate an eco-friendly Diwali for the prosperity of themselves and the nation.