In India there are many different places that are definitely worth a trip. In addition, the country offers many different traditions and festivals, which you should definitely experience once. One of these festivals is called Diwali, which is one of the most important festivals in Hinduism and is also called the Feast of Lights. The festival lasts 5 days, the most important day being the third, because then you feast and celebrate with your family. Diwali is celebrated almost everywhere in India.
Since India is a very large country with many different regions, various rituals have also developed that are performed during Diwali. In general, the atmosphere during Diwali is quite cheerful and a warm and welcoming atmosphere is spread.
In addition to various rather “usual” traditions, some of which can be found also in the western world, such as lighting fireworks, cleaning the house, exchanging old clothes and kitchen appliances with new models, there are also some astonishing traditions. Taking a bath in essential oils before sunrise would be one of them, usually this bath takes place on the morning of the second day. On the third day the whole family comes together for a delicious dinner. On this day, casinos are also visited or various raffles are held. Throughout the five days and nights, card games such as rummy and skat, but also poker, are not uncommon. Online games are also played, and various websites offer a wide range of games.
In addition to Diwali, there are many other traditions and festivals that you have to experience. There are, for example, the henna and mehndi traditions, in which the hands and body are painted with henna and also the hair is dyed with henna. This is a tradition, especially at weddings.
Another custom is to paint a point between the eyebrows, which is called Tika, Tilaka or Tila. This point stands for the so-called third eye, which does not look outwards, but inwards. This means that this point sees things that are not normally recognizable by the naked eyes.
Other Indian traditions are the various dances, the music produced with special instruments and carriage festivals.
Diwali is one of the most important festivals in India. It’s like a Indian Christmas, families come together, eat together and perform various rituals. If you want to experience this festival, you should plan your next holiday in India. Not only Diwali, but many different attractions and places are waiting for curious tourists who want to learn more about this wonderful country and its culture. In addition, you have the opportunity to celebrate Diwali not only in India, but also in Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore and other Asian countries. In 2018, by the way, the Festival of Lights will take place from the seventh to the eleventh of November. So there’s still plenty of time to explore and book an unforgettable trip.
