Deepawali

Deepawali, the 'festival of lights' conquers an exceptional spot in the hearts of the Hindus residing not only in Bihar, but across the country. Legend has it that it was 'Hanuman', the fervent devotee of Lord Rama, who conveyed the tidings referring to his much awaited return to his motherland of Ayodhya after spending 14 long and atrocious years in exile in the midst of thick woodlands.

Hence to display their gratitude and pay homage to their idol and hero, the inhabitants of Ayodhya brushed up their abodes and adorned them with earthen lamps and dazzling lights to cherish this blessed occasion.

Deepawali of Bihar is also feted to mark the humongous victory of Lord Rama over ten-headed demon Ravana who had snatched away his beloved spouse, Sita from him by treachery. Being celebrated in the month of Kartik on the occasion of 'Amavasya', in Deepawali deities like 'Ganesha' and 'Lakshmi' are also honored in a very grand and opulent way.

The day prior to the magnanimous festivity of Deepawali is the 'Chotti Deepawali' that is aptly marked by the people taking part in social activities and commuting presents and mouth-watering delicacies that primarily includes sweets among themselves.

Firecrackers form an integral appendage of the auspicious occasion of Deepawali in Bihar as the markets are aptly adorned in all various types of crackers like bombs, flower-pots, 'ground-chakkars', sparklers, shells and many more alluring items that not only entice the kids but tempt the adults as well. The people also purchase brand new clothes and ornaments as well as gold jeweleries on the exalted occasion of Deepawali.

It is on the sole occasion of Deepawali that the residents across the entire country rejoice and indulge themselves in the divine spirit.