Let's explore the traditions and legends of Diwali and unlock our best hack to save money this festival season!

Diwali, otherwise known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the largest festivals in India. Celebrated in other nations as well, including Nepal, Malaysia, Fiji and right here in Aotearoa, Diwali is a festival that brings people together amongst vibrant lights to eat yummy food and exchange gifts. 

What is Diwali and What is the Meaning Behind It?

Diwali is an annual festival, celebrated between the months of October and November. The festival is also called deepavali and is a Sanskrit word meaning “row of lights.”

In essence, Diwali is a celebration of light over darkness, of the triumph of good over evil. There are various ways that Diwali is celebrated across religion and region, but generally, different stories and myths behind the festival share themes of justice and freedom. 

While Diwali is traditionally celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists and Jains, the holiday is also celebrated by people outside these religions. There are many different legends and stories that tell the story of Diwali, varying by region and religion.

One of the more commonly known legends comes from Ramayana, a Hindu epic. In the story, the Prince of Rama and Sita are exiled. Sita is then kidnapped by the demon king Ravana. To many Hindus, Diwali celebrates the return of Rama and Sita to their kingdom after 14 years in exile. 

For other Hindus, Diwali commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakusura, and as a result freeing the 16,000 girls who were kidnapped. 

Meanwhile for those from western India, Diwali celebrates the moment when Lord Vishnu vanished the demon king Bali to the netherworld. 

For the Sikhs, their Diwali celebration highlights “Bandi Chhor Divas” (The Day of Liberation). On this day, their sixth guru, known as Guru Hargobind along with 52 Hindu kings were released from prison. According to the story, the man who freed them, Mughal Emperor Jahangir, only agreed to free Guru Hargobind. However, Hargobind refused to go without the kings. The emperor declared that any royal who could hold onto the guru’s cloak could leave. So, Hargobind tied 52 tassels to his cloak, and all the kings could be free. 

How is Diwali Celebrated?

There are common traditions that many enjoy when celebrating Diwali. People decorate their homes, release fireworks, and tuck into yummy food. In some parts of India, people play card games. Diwali also marks the start of the Hindu financial year. 

Diwali is traditionally celebrated over five days and each day follows a different set of customs and traditions. 

Day One: People often tidy and clean their homes. They may shop for gold or silver jewelery or even kitchen utensils, with the intention of bringing them good fortune. 

Day Two: Homes are decorated with clay lamps and people craft design patterns on the floor with coloured powders such as sand. This design is called rangoli. 

Day Three: This is typically the main day of the festival, and is commemorated by families gathering together, praying to the Goddess Lakshmi – known as Lakshmi puja – and enjoying a feast and fireworks. 

Day Four: Considered the first day of the new year, celebrated by exchanging gifts and well wishes with friends and family. 

Day Five: Traditionally, brothers will visit their married sisters, who will welcome them with a yummy meal. 

Save Money This Diwali by Comparing

If you are gearing up to get into the spirit and lights of Diwali this year, and wish to save money on household bills before the festival so you can treat your loved ones to thoughtful gifts, there are things you can do! One of the most effective ways to save money on your household bills such as broadband, power, mobile, and even insurances and loans, is to compare. There are so many benefits to comparing! When you compare providers and plans, and switch, you can unlock savings that make a true difference to your budget. Make an informed decision and take back control of your bills so you can enjoy the lights, the food, and the love that comes with this colourful and bright festival. 

It is easy to compare! 

Simply: 

1. Jump on our website. 
2. Choose which bill you want to compare such as broadband, power, mobile, or insurances and loans.
3. Type in your address and/ or select your preferences. 
4. Compare the different plans side-by-side. 
5. Find one you like and switch!

Further Reading: 

5 Way to Save Money in the Last Half of 2024

How to Create and Maintain a Budget