What is Diwali?

For those of you who don't know, today marks the beginningof Diwali, the annual Hindu festival of light. With more than 100,000 Indiansbased in Australia, the five-day celebration has great significance Down Under. 

The first day of Diwali is known as Dhanvantari Triodasi,Dhanwantari Triodasi or Dhan Theras. The second day, Narak Chaturdasi,commemorates Lord Krishna destroying the demon Narakasur and consequentlyfreeing the world from fear.

The traditional Diwali takes place on the third day,focusing on the worship of Goddess Lakshmi. On the fourth day, Goverdhan Pooja (theoffering of vegetarian food to the murtis of Paramatma as a sign of gratitude)is performed. The final day of Diwali, known as Bhai Dooj, is dedicated tosisters.

To find about more about Diwali and celebrations throughout Australia,visit http://www.diwalifestival.org/diwali-in-australia.html.