Diwali in Delhi

Delhi is at the heart of India; the capital of this beautiful country brings together all the elements of the mysticism, cultural heritage and trade. In many ways, it sets the tone for the rest of the nation. Like all other multi-ethnic cities all over the world, Delhi boasts of a veritable melting pot of cultures. One can find people from all castes, creeds, races and religions in India and beyond. All festivals become larger than life in this humane city, however it's Diwali that rules the roost. Delhi becomes one big picnic spot as Diwali draws near, markets are decorated, security perked up and joyousness in the air.

Diwali Traditions in Delhi

One of the chief attractions in Delhi during Diwali are the various Ramlilas, a dramatic rendition of the epic Ramayan, staged all over the city. Makeshift stages are set up in community parks as various local bodies organize these entertaining shows which continue for several evenings and culminate in the defeat of the evil demon Ravana at the hands of the virtuous Lord Rama on the Dussehra day. People come out in hordes to attend these Ramlila where the figurine of the evil Ravana is usually stuffed with firecrackers and burnt at the end to indicate the victory of good over evil.

Houses in Delhi are cleaned and decorated for Diwali, and on the evening of the festival, before the celebration start in full force, the Lakshmi Puja is organized in every household. In some houses, there is a ritual of immersing a silver coin in a tumbler of milk. The milk is then sprinkled lightly in the rooms of the house. The Prashad is kept in front of the idol throughout the night. Thereafter, its time to burst crackers and take in the sights and sounds of Diwali!

Diwali Celebrations in Delhi

Diwali festivities in Delhi commence with Dussehra. From thereon, people set out on a frantic spree of shopping, spring-cleaning, whitewashing and Diwali decorating. It is also the best time of the year for shopkeepers and traders who bring out a spate of promotional offers especially for the festive season. Since it is considered auspicious to purchase new things during this period, most people wait till the Diwali season to do their annual shopping, thereby resulting in the shopkeepers laughing all the way to the bank.

On Diwali Day, most shops in Delhi remain open till mid-afternoon, propagated by the belief that good sales on this auspicious day predict a prosperous year ahead. In the corporate sector, the process of buying and distributing Diwali gifts begins several days before the big day, and slowly picks up pace. Sweets and dry fruits are the most common gifts, as are silver coins. But gifts also range from silver dishes and other household gifts to suit pieces.