Diwali – A Journey from Outer Lights to Inner Illumination

By HG Gauranga Sundar Dasa

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is more than a celebration of glowing lamps and joyful gatherings. It is a spiritual reminder that the real light we seek is not external but within the heart—kindled through devotion, wisdom, and remembrance of the Supreme Lord.

In life’s journey, challenges and uncertainties often create inner darkness. Just as a lamp effortlessly drives away night, the light of spiritual knowledge dispels ignorance and awakens divine consciousness. True Diwali is celebrated when the heart is illuminated with love, humility, and surrender to the Lord.

Diwali – A Five-Day Tapestry of Divine Remembrance

The sight of thousands of diyas glowing in unity represents the awakening of countless hearts towards the light of truth. Although well known as a single day, Diwali actually unfolds over five sacred days, each filled with deep spiritual meaning and divine pastimes.

Dhanteras – Remembering Lord Dhanvantari

The festival begins with Dhanteras, honouring Lord Dhanvantari, who appeared during the churning of the cosmic ocean carrying the pot of nectar. He brought the gift of Ayurveda, the divine science of health, showing that true well-being has its roots in spiritual alignment and divine grace.

Naraka Chaturdashi – Liberation by Lord Krishna

On Naraka Chaturdashi, Lord Krishna liberated the 16,100 imprisoned princesses by defeating the arrogant demon Narakasura. When they turned to Him with sincere longing, He accepted them without hesitation. This divine act teaches that no one is ever too lost to be accepted by the Lord when the heart calls out in devotion.

Lakshmi Puja, Damodara-lila and the Return of Lord Rama

The third day is the heart of Diwali.

Lakshmi Puja

Devotees honour Goddess Lakshmi, understanding that wealth, when used in the Lord’s service or for righteous living, becomes a blessing. She eternally resides with the Supreme Lord and bestows fortune where devotion and purity are present.

Damodara-lila

This day also recalls the tender pastime of Damodara-lila, where Mother Yashoda bound Lord Krishna with a rope out of loving affection. Yet, it was her devotion—not the rope—that bound Him. Even while tied, the Lord granted liberation to two celestial beings trapped in the form of trees, showing how devotion brings freedom.

Return of Lord Rama

This moment also marks Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana. As the Lord entered the city, the people welcomed Him with lamps and joy, symbolizing the soul’s celebration when the Lord returns to the heart.

Govardhana Puja – Shelter Under the Lord’s Compassion

The fourth day commemorates Govardhana Puja, when Lord Krishna lifted Govardhana Hill on His little finger to protect the residents of Vrindavan from torrential rains sent by Indra. For seven days, all took refuge under His protection. This beautifully illustrates that surrender to the Lord brings complete safety and nourishment of the soul.

Bhai Dooj – The Sacred Bond of Protection

On Bhai Dooj, sisters offer prayers for their brothers’ protection and apply tilak on their foreheads. In return, brothers offer gratitude and promise care and shelter, reflecting divine principles of duty, affection, and mutual protection.

Lighting the Heart – The True Spirit of Diwali

The glow of each lamp signifies the eternal truth expressed in the Vedic prayer:

asato mā sad gamaya, tamaso mā jyotir gamaya

“From the unreal, lead me to the real; from darkness, lead me to the light.”

This temporary world, though filled with external brilliance, can only offer lasting light when the heart connects to divine wisdom. Real Diwali begins when we invite the Lord into our lives, allowing His presence to light our inner world.

A Prayer of Devotion

May this Diwali not just brighten our surroundings but awaken our hearts. May the Supreme Lord Krishna light within us the eternal flame of devotion, guiding us from momentary joy to everlasting spiritual fulfilment.