Diwali – the season of happiness, the month of lights, a series of lamps that glitter the buildings and roads, all this and much more happens in The Pink City during the biggest festival of India. Diwali typically means the festival of lights, a season that marks the beginning of the tourism season in Rajasthan, where probably people from all over the world visit here especially to see the lightening of the state. In Sanskrit, it means a series of Deepak (lamps). The city of Jaipur is decked up with lights to attract visitors from around the world. The main markets of the city are decorated with colorful lights everywhere – dwelling units, malls, buildings, and monuments. People flock to markets hunting for gifts and deals.
It is one of the few places in India, where the festival is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm. The festival marks the start of the festive season, thus you can find wedding oriented exhibitions & shows during this season. As an Urban phenomenon, there are various Diwali parties in the city especially the card parties where people mingle with their family and friend and start the celebrations approx. around 2 weeks before. Like any other state, Diwali in the state of Rajasthan has an interesting history behind it.
History Of Diwali In Jaipur
Regarded as the Biggest Festival of India, just like the state of Punjab, it starts with a tradition of observing 5 day Diwali celebrations which probably starts with Dhanteras followed by Roop Chaudas on day 2, then the main festival which is Day 3 of Diwali or Lakshmi Puja, Govardhan Puja on Day 4 and finally concluded with Bhai Duj on day 5. So starting from day 1 the city remains decked up with lights till the end of Day 5. This year the celebrations will start from October Traditionally, the lightening is done with Diyas made of clay but nowadays this trend is also replaced by LED-based lights which have far more impact as far as illumination is concerned. Being synonymous with Diyas, some shopkeepers are keeping the old tradition alive as always.
Religious Significance Of Deepawali
Being recognized differently in different regions of India, the festival of lights is celebrated in a Glitzy Avatar in the Royal City. Where East of India associate Diwali with Goddess Durga, Northern India derives its significance from the holy book of Ramayana. Ultimately event marks the victory of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance. Celebrated in the month of October or November, the festival of lights falls on the 15th day of Kartik month of Hindu Calendar when it is believed that Lord Rama returned to his capital, Ayodhya on this day after an exile of 14 long years and brought enlightenment in the lives of people.
Goddess Lakshmi – The Goddess of wealth is also worshipped by all on this auspicious Diwali Puja. It is believed that this day marks the beginning of new account books in all offices.
Diwali Celebrations In Jaipur
Arriving on the 27th day of October this year, the celebrations bring with it bright and vibrant colors. Besides the obvious fervor of celebrating the festival, Jaipur has a very interesting reason to celebrate Diwali, though, most of the people are not aware of it. The Royal Family of Jaipur considers them as the descendants of Kusha who is the son of Lord Rama. And hence the importance of homecoming of Lord Rama gives us another reason to celebrate this festival.
This 5-day carnival is celebrated with great pomp and show. Preparations for Jaipur Diwali celebration start almost a month ago, the actual festival celebration is a 5-day event. People of all age groups wait for Jaipur Diwali for the whole year. It is considered the auspicious time for purchasing assets, jewelry, gold, vehicles, etc. It is true that only a few festivals in the world can match the sheer grandeur and spectacle of Diwali. Though the festival is celebrated in most parts of the country Jaipur Lighting stands apart. Witness the dazzling lights of Jaipur’s markets and enjoy the glory of Pink City captured in the pictures.
1. Johri Bazaar
2. Bapu Bazaar
3. Chaura Bazaar
4. Ganpati Plaza
5. MI Road
6. Nahargarh Fort
7. Jal Mahal
8. World Trade Park
9. Akshar Dham Mandir
10. Albert Hall
People who have witnessed Diwali celebrations across various cities claim that the “Diwali celebration in Jaipur is one of its kind”. Therefore Jaipur is the best place to celebrate the festival of lights immersing itself completely in the illumination. The city surely knows how to celebrate Diwali and spread good vibes all around. You should experience the festival of lights in Jaipur, at least once in your lifetime.