Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, holds a special place in Indian culture, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. The festival, celebrated with great fervor across India, has its own unique charm in the state of Punjab. Here, Diwali is not only rooted in Hindu traditions but also carries deep significance in Sikhism, making the celebrations even more vibrant and meaningful.
In Punjab, Diwali is a blend of rich cultural traditions, festive food, spiritual celebrations, and community spirit. From the spiritual observances at the Golden Temple to the buzzing markets and family gatherings, the festival lights up the hearts of the people, reflecting the exuberance for which the state is known. In this blog, we will explore how Diwali is celebrated in Punjab, its unique significance in Sikhism, the rich food traditions, and the vibrant customs that make this festival a grand affair in the land of five rivers.
Sikh Significance of Diwali: Bandi Chhor Divas
In addition to the traditional Hindu celebration of Diwali, which marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile, Punjab observes an important Sikh event on this day—Bandi Chhor Divas. This day holds historical significance in Sikhism as it commemorates the release of the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Ji, from the Gwalior Fort.
Guru Hargobind Ji was imprisoned by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir along with 52 Hindu kings. The Guru negotiated his release on the condition that the other rulers imprisoned with him would also be freed. As he made his way out of the fort, Guru Hargobind Ji earned the title of "Bandi Chhor" (liberator of the prisoners). The day he returned to Amritsar coincided with Diwali, and since then, Sikhs celebrate the festival as a symbol of freedom and justice.
Diwali Celebrations at the Golden Temple
One of the most awe-inspiring aspects of Diwali in Punjab is the grand celebration at the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) in Amritsar. Thousands of devotees visit the Golden Temple on this day to pay their respects and seek blessings. The entire temple complex is adorned with thousands of oil lamps and lights, creating a mesmerizing sight as the shimmering lights reflect in the sacred pool surrounding the temple.
The day starts with the recitation of the Sikh holy scripture, Guru Granth Sahib, followed by special prayers and hymns. The tradition of serving langar (community meal) is observed throughout the day, with devotees volunteering to prepare and serve food to all visitors. In the evening, the temple comes alive with a spectacular display of fireworks, and the lighting of diyas and candles symbolizes the victory of light over darkness.
Pre-Diwali Preparations in Punjab
In the days leading up to Diwali, the festive atmosphere starts to build. Homes, shops, and streets are cleaned and decorated with lights and colorful banners. People purchase new clothes, gifts, and sweets to exchange with family and friends. Markets buzz with activity as vendors sell decorative items, firecrackers, and a variety of festive foods.
The practice of cleaning and decorating homes is deeply symbolic. It represents the removal of negative energies and the invitation of positivity and prosperity into one's life. Many homes in Punjab are also adorned with traditional rangolis—intricate designs made with colored powders, flowers, or rice at the entrance of the house, believed to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth.
The Five Days of Diwali in Punjab
1. Dhanteras
The first day of the Diwali festival is known as Dhanteras. This day is dedicated to the worship of wealth and prosperity. In Punjab, families clean their homes and purchase precious metals like gold and silver, as it is considered auspicious to buy something valuable on this day. People also light lamps in their homes to usher in prosperity.
2. Choti Diwali
The second day of the festival, known as Choti Diwali or Naraka Chaturdashi, is observed with rituals aimed at warding off evil spirits. In Punjab, people decorate their homes with diyas, and sweets are exchanged among friends and family.
3. Diwali (Main Day)
The third day is the highlight of the festival—Diwali itself. On this day, families gather to perform special pujas, especially in honor of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha. People light diyas and candles in every corner of their homes, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness and ignorance. In the evening, firecrackers light up the sky, and families enjoy festive meals together.
In Sikh households, Diwali is also a day for visiting gurdwaras to participate in prayers and serve langar. The atmosphere is filled with a sense of community and joy, as everyone comes together to celebrate this auspicious day.
4. Govardhan Puja
The fourth day, known as Govardhan Puja or Annakoot, is a day to express gratitude for the abundance of food and shelter. In Punjab, many families prepare a lavish feast to offer to the deities, and the day is marked by sharing food with the community and neighbors.
5. Bhai Dooj
The fifth and final day of the Diwali festival is Bhai Dooj, a day that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for the long life and well-being of their brothers, while brothers offer gifts in return. This day is a time for family gatherings, marked by traditional meals and the exchange of gifts.
Food and Festivities: Punjabi Diwali Delights
Diwali in Punjab is incomplete without the culinary extravagance that the state is known for. The festival is a time for families to come together over grand feasts, indulging in both sweet and savory delights.
Sweets
Some of the popular sweets during Diwali in Punjab include:
- Pinni: Made from wheat flour, ghee, jaggery, and dry fruits, this energy-packed sweet is a staple in Punjabi households during Diwali.
- Besan Ladoo: These round sweets made from gram flour, ghee, and sugar are a common Diwali treat.
- Gulab Jamun: Soft and syrupy, this milk-based sweet is a favorite at every festive occasion.
- Kaju Katli: A cashew-based sweet that melts in the mouth, Kaju Katli is a must-have during Diwali celebrations.
Savory Dishes
While sweets dominate the Diwali menu, savory snacks are equally enjoyed. Some popular savory dishes during Diwali include:
- Chole Bhature: This classic Punjabi dish made of spicy chickpeas and fried bread is a popular festive meal.
- Pakoras: Deep-fried fritters made from gram flour and vegetables are served as a snack.
- Aloo Tikki: Fried potato patties spiced with herbs and served with chutney.
Fireworks and Environmental Concerns
One of the most beloved traditions during Diwali in Punjab is the bursting of firecrackers. Fireworks are used to signify the victory of light over darkness, and the sight of colorful sparks lighting up the sky is a thrilling part of the celebration.
However, in recent years, there has been growing awareness about the environmental impact of firecrackers. Many families in Punjab are now opting for a more eco-friendly Diwali, using less noisy and polluting fireworks or substituting them entirely with traditional lamps and diyas. This shift towards a greener Diwali is gaining traction, especially in urban areas where air pollution is a serious concern.
Conclusion: The Light and Spirit of Diwali in Punjab
Diwali in Punjab is a beautiful blend of spiritual observance, community celebration, and joyous festivity. From the deeply rooted Sikh significance of Bandi Chhor Divas to the exuberant lighting of homes and fireworks, the festival is a reflection of Punjab’s rich cultural heritage and the spirit of togetherness.
The essence of Diwali in Punjab lies not just in the lights, sweets, or firecrackers, but in the values it promotes—love, unity, and hope. Whether it is families coming together for prayers, serving in the langar, or lighting up their homes with traditional diyas, Diwali in Punjab is a celebration that transcends religious boundaries and brings people closer, spreading light and positivity across the state.
As Punjab celebrates Diwali, the message is clear: no matter the darkness, light will always prevail.
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