Diwali, the essence of the festival stays the same across the country, its traditions vary in every state.
Jaipur: Marvel over the illuminated markets
A large part of the enthusiasm for Diwali comes from the warm sparkle of lights. Probably the best spot to encounter this is in the Pink City of Jaipur, in Rajasthan. Every year, there’s a rivalry for the best designed and most splendidly illuminated market. It’s a stunning showcase that draws in tourists from across India. Just like Las Vegas has a “Strip”, Johari Bazaar has acquired the title of “The Strip” in Jaipur during Diwali.
Goa: Watch effigies of demon Narkasur
In Goa, Diwali is devoted to Lord Krishna destroying the demon Narkasur. On the dawn of a day before Diwali, massive effigies of the demon are made and burnt down. The state turns into a place of healthy competition to see who makes the greatest and most unnerving model of the devil.
Varanasi: Fireworks over the Ganges River
Varanasi is an overcrowded spot anytime of the year; however, it turns out to be significantly more during Diwali with a steady stream of fireworks and firecrackers going off the entire evening. For the best view, one should stay at one of the riverside lodgings in Varanasi, to have a spectacular perspective on the firecrackers over the Ganges. Different features are the unique Ganga aarti, ghats enlightened with candles, and diyas (earthen pots) that are floated over the river.
Kolkata: Attend Kali Puja
While many people in India worship Goddess Lakshmi on Diwali, the day is broadly celebrated as Kali Puja in Kolkata and West Bengal (just as Odisha, Tripura and Assam). Goddess Kali sanctuaries such as Kalighat, Belur Math and Dakshineswar, draw in countless enthusiasts. Brilliantly finished symbols of awe-inspiring Goddess Kali, are put in plain view across the city for individuals to visit.
Amritsar: A sacred and golden Diwali
In Punjab, Diwali is also the day of Bandi Chhor Diwas, a Sikh festival celebrated with lighting up of households and gurudwaras, gifting, bursting crackers and feasting. The festival Diwali also marks the arrival of winters in Punjab. Bandi Chhor Divas is a celebration that memorializes the day the sixth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Hargobind ji and 52 Hindu kings were released from Gwalior Fort imprisoned by Mughal Emperor Jahangir. A grand show of firecrackers is on display at the Golden Temple in Amritsar, even the edges of the sarovar in the temple are all lined with lit earthen pots and candles.
Gujarat: A peaceful tribal Diwali
Need a calm Diwali without fireworks? Provincial Pleasure, an honour winning organization working in the country takes one to a far off town in Dang district. The ancestral inhabitants showcase a night of rangoli and decorations, and cook heavenly meals. Also, unlike any other state in India, Gujarat observes a five-day holiday. Gujaratis celebrate the Gujarati New Year’s Day, Bestu Varas, on the next day of Diwali. The celebrations start with Vaag Baras, followed by Dhanteras, Kali Chaudash, Diwali, Bestu Varas, and Bhai Bij.
Also published on Medium.