Deepavali: Inviting the Divine Light Within

Deepavali, or Diwali, is one of India’s most cherished festivals — a time when homes sparkle with lamps, streets echo with laughter, and hearts overflow with joy. Yet, beyond the shimmer of lights and sweetness of celebrations lies a profound spiritual essence — a reminder to awaken the light within us.

The word Deepavali comes from deepa (lamp) and avali (a row), signifying a series of lights that dispel darkness. It symbolizes the triumph of light over shadow, knowledge over ignorance, and remembrance over forgetfulness of the Divine.

Traditionally, Deepavali marks Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. The people of Ayodhya illuminated the entire city to celebrate His homecoming — a symbolic act of welcoming divine presence back into their lives. Just as they lit lamps to honor the Lord’s return, we too must light the lamps of devotion and awareness within our own hearts.

When the light of God is absent, darkness takes form as fear, restlessness, and discontent. In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna explains that wisdom and devotion together destroy this inner darkness. By lighting a lamp, we are in fact igniting our spiritual consciousness — making space for peace, clarity, and divine love to dwell.

Another story often remembered during this time is Damodar Lila — when little Krishna mischievously broke pots of butter, much to Mother Yashoda’s dismay. When she tried to bind Him as gentle punishment, she found every rope two inches short. Finally, when she was exhausted, Krishna allowed Himself to be tied — those missing two inches representing our sincere effort and the Lord’s grace.

This story beautifully teaches us that without devotion, we cannot receive divine mercy; and without mercy, our efforts remain incomplete. Both are needed for true spiritual perfection.

As we celebrate Deepavali, let us not only light our homes but also illuminate our inner world — with devotion, humility, and love. Let each flame remind us to invite the Lord back into our hearts, where He truly belongs.