Deepavali is a festival of light; it has different connotations to different sections of the people. While for the children it is an occasion of joy and enjoyment, new clothes, fireworks and good food, the traders celebrate it as the beginning of a New Year. In most of the household men express their reverence to the departed parents and forefathers on this auspicious day. Ladies dress up in their best, and make the celebration grand by their innovative ideas and domestic backup.
In some regions like Bengal and Orissa people worship Mother Kaali, a form of Durga, who destroys all the evils and ushers good. In most part of the country, people worship, Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. In Indian context, light stands for wisdom and enlightenment. Therefore, the peace-mantra from Rigveda is very relevant and apt for this occasion:
