Peda

Diwali brings along with itself immense joy and celebrations. It is a day to burst crackers, decorate the home with bandawars and diyas and feast with all the near and dear ones. People in different parts of the country make different kinds of sweet dishes on festive occasions out of which Kheer, Jalebi, Sheera, Ladoo and Peda are the most common sweets. Peda, a scrumptious white khoya recipe is generally loved by everybody. It is not even very difficult to make. So if you want to try some sweet recipe, you can try the Peda recipe given below.

Peda Recipe

Ingredients

• 1/2 kg. Soft white khoya
• 2 1/2 cups (approx.300gms) sugar powdered
• 1/2 tsp. cardamom powder
• 1 tsp. cardamom seeds semi crushed
• 1 tbsp. slivered or crushed pistachios

Method

• Grate khoya with a steel (not iron) grater.Add powdered sugar and mix well.
• Put mixture in a large heavy or nonstick pan. Heat first on high for few minutes.The on slow till done.
• Make sure to stir continuously, while on heat. When mixture thick and gooey, add cardamom.
• Mix well, and take off fire. Allow to cool, gently turning occasionall
• Use cookie moulds, or shape pedas with palms into patty rounds.
• Mix pistachios and cardamom seeds and press a bit on top of each.
• If using moulds, first sprinkle some at bottom. Take some mixture and press into mould. When set well, invert and carefully, unmould.

Tip
Given above is the basic recipe. Any color (yellow, orange, green, cochineal), essence (pineapple, orange, pista, chocolate), topping (almonds, walnuts, cashews), can be added to the recipe. You can also add any of following for varied flavors: cashew powder 1/2 cup, cocoa 2 tbsp (then increase sugar by 1/2 cup), walnuts powdered 1/2 cup, etc.

Gulab Jamun

Diwali seems imperfect without umpteen varieties of sweet and scrumptious dishes. Though there are lots of sweet dishes that you can prepare on Diwali, the lip-smacking Gulab Jamun has no substitute. Liked by almost everybody, there are sweet softballs with delightful aroma and luscious taste. Prepared from milk powder, flour and milk, this is one sweet dish that is easy to prepare, however takes a little more time compared to other desserts as it requires to be dipped in sugar syrup for whole night. If you are also in love with this sweet soft ball, scroll down for the recipe.

Gulab Jamun Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup Carnation Milk Powder
• 1/2 cup Bisquick - Pancake mix (Instead of Bisquick Pancake mix, use 1/2 cup all purpose flour and 1/2 tsp baking soda)
• 2 tablespoons butter -melted
• Whole milk just enough to make the dough
• 2 cups Sugar
• 1 cup water
• Oil for frying

Method

• Make the dough by combining the milk powder, Bisquick, butter. Add just enough whole milk to make a medium-hard dough.
• Divide the dough into 18-20 portions.
• Make balls by gently rolling each portion between your palms into a smooth ball. Place the balls on a plate. Cover with a damp yet dry kitchen towel.
• Heat the oil on high and then lower the heat to medium.
• Slip in the balls into the hot oil from the side of the pan, one by one. They will sink to the bottom of the pan, but do not try to move them. Instead, gently shake the pan to keep the balls from browning on just one side.
• After about 5 mins, the balls will rise to the surface. The Gulab Jamuns should rise slowly to the top if the temperature is just right. Now they must be gently and constantly agitated to ensure even browning on all sides.
• If the temperature of the oil is too high then the gulab jamuns will tend to break. So, adjust the temperature to ensure that the gulab jamuns do not break or cook too quickly.
• The balls must be fried very slowly under medium temperatures. This will ensure complete cooking from inside and even browning.
• The syrup should be made earlier and kept warm. To make the hot sugar syrup add mix the 2 cups of sugar to 1 cup of water. Add 4-5 cardamom pods, slightly crushed and a few strands of "Kesar". Mix with a spoon and then heat at medium heat for 5-10 minutes until sugar is all dissolved in water. Do not overheat, that will caramelize the sugar.
• Transfer this hot syrup into a Corning serving dish. Keep warm on stove. Add the fried gulab jamuns directly into the warm syrup.
• Leave gulab jamuns in syrup overnight for best results. They can be served warm or at room temperature.

Badam Phirni

On the occasion of Diwali, no Indian family can do without sweet dishes. Most of the families prefer making things that are liked by every body. Though the list of those universally liked Indian dishes is exhaustive, one sweet dish that we are going to tell you here is the ‘Badam Phirni’. Mostly made of almond, rice flour and milk, the Badam Phirni is scrumptious and fulfilling. People who love kheers and payasam will surely like dish. Easy and quick to make, this recipe is an excellent dessert option. Check out the recipe given below.

Badam Phirni Recipe

Ingredients

• 12 nos. Almonds
• 4 tablespoons Rice flour
• 21/2 cups Milk
• 5 tablespoons Sugar
• 8 strands Saffron
• 1 teaspoon Cardamom powder

Method

• Blanch and grind the almonds to a fine paste with 1/2 cup milk. Mix together the ground almond paste and rice flour and keep aside.
• Bring the milk to a boil. Add the sugar and stir till the sugar dissolves. Keep aside a tablespoon of hot milk and dissolve the saffron in it. Add the almond-rice mixture into the boiling milk along with the saffron.
• Stir continuously for a few mintues till the milk thickens and attains a custard-like consistency. Sprinkle in the cardamom powder. Take off fire and cool to room temperature.
• Pour into individual bowls, garnish with almonds and pistachios and refrigerate.

Diwali Recipes

Diwali is the festival of lights, crackers and sweets. Days before the festival, the females of the family start preparing traditional delicacies for the family and friends. On Diwali, there is a custom to exchange sweets to the friends and neighbors that is why Diwali can’t even be imagined without sweets and savories that are specially made at home. The list of Diwali special sweets is exhaustive. Gulab Jamun, Gajar Ka Halwa, Besan Ke Ladoo, Karanji and Jalebis are the most commonly made sweets on this occasion.

Apart from sweet dishes, there are several other delicacies that are made on the occasion of Diwali, Dahi-bhalle and Ghathiya are the two most popular of them. The Diwali cuisines also depend upon the culture and family traditions. From north to south and east to west India, several mouth watering delights are prepared in various manners depending upon the prevailing custom and taste of the family members. Here we have provided you with the recipes of few traditional mouth watering recepies. We have also listed some of the unusual Diwali recipes. Now you can try your hand at these too!

Badam Phirni
On the occasion of Diwali, no Indian family can do without sweet dishes. Most of the families prefer making things that are liked by every body. Though the list of those universally liked Indian dishes is exhaustive, one sweet dish that we are going to tell you here is the ‘Badam Phirni’. Mostly made of almond, rice flour and milk, the Badam Phirni is scrumptious and fulfilling.

Gulab Jamun
Diwali seems imperfect without umpteen varieties of sweet and scrumptious dishes. Though there are lots of sweet dishes that you can prepare on Diwali, the lip-smacking Gulab Jamun has no substitute. Liked by almost everybody, there are sweet softballs with delightful aroma and luscious taste.

Peda
Diwali brings along with itself immense joy and celebrations. It is a day to burst crackers, decorate the home with bandawars and diyas and feast with all the near and dear ones. People in different parts of the country make different kinds of sweet dishes on festive occasions out of which Kheer, Jalebi, Sheera, Ladoo

Besan Ke Ladoo
Ladoos are one of the most liked Indian sweets. Be it a festive occasion or any pooja at home, any happy moment in an Indian family is incomplete without a ladoo. On the occasion of Diwali, ladoo is of special significance because it is considered auspicious to offer ladoo to Lord Ganesha at the Lakshmi-Ganesh Poojan.

Jalebi
Diwali is incomplete without sweet and scrumptious dishes. One of the most delicious of them is the sugar dipped, beautiful and orange Jalebis. In a country like India where umpteen varieties of sweets are available, Jalebi is a universal favorite. Not only on Holi, Diwali or any festive occasions, Jalebi is something which is included in the regular diet of all the people born with a sweet tooth.

Rasmalai
On the occasion of lights- Diwali-people enjoy feasting on mouthwatering recipes. Since there is a practice of exchange of sweets on this occasion, it has almost become a custom in every family to prepare umpteen numbers of scrumptious traditional sweets and distribute them amongst relatives and neighbors. People generally prefer making sweets that are universally liked.

Channar Payesh
On the occasion of Diwali unlike every year when you are busy making Gujiya and Gajar Ka Halwa, you must try something new this time. The new dish given here is Channar Payesh and it is made up of condensed milk, nuts and raisins. A mouthwatering delight to all the dairy products lover, the Channar Payesh is a very easy-to-make kind of recipe. The Channar Payesh tastes the best when it is served chilled. 

Karanji
On the occasion of Diwali people all over the country prepare best dishes at their home. There are so many varieties of Diwali dishes that it is difficult of decide what to make and what not! However, the salty and yummy Dahi-bhalle and the sweet and scrumptious Karanji are the two special dishes that do not have a substitute on Diwali. 

Rawa Ladoo
On the festival of lights - Diwali - preparing delicious sweets is a very old tradition. People indulge themselves in making lip smacking sweets, to serve them to their guests and exchange as gifts. Ladoo is a very popular Indian sweet, which has a number of variety. Rawa ladoo is one such variant, which is easy to make as well as tastes delicious.

Doodh Pak
Diwali is an occasion you can get to taste umpteen numbers of sweet dishes. Though Jalebi, Gujiya, Gulab Jamun and Gajar ka Halwa are well known and commonly seen of Diwali, Doodh Pak, an equally scrumptious dish is a little less known. Made of almond and milk, it is mostly popular in north and west India. Loved by people who relish on dairy products, the Doodh Pak makes an excellent dessert. 

Kesar Kaju Barfi
On the occasion of Diwali, every Indian home is full of umpteen numbers of sweet delicacies. One of the most popular amongst them is the Kesar Kaju Burfi. Also known as Kaju Katli, it is a diamond-shaped sweet, made of cashew nuts and sugar. As this sweet dish is moderately sweet in taste and rich with scrumptious taste of cashew-nuts, it is preferred by all the people who do not like extremely sugary items.

Shakkarpare
Shakkarpare is a melt-in-the-mouth sweet, made especially on festivals in India. On the occasion of Diwali, people in northern parts of the country enjoy making shakkar pare, an easy to make recipe, which doesn’t require too many ingredients. Moreover, you can relish on the sweet for many days, because it has a long shelf life.

Gajar Ka Halwa
When we talk is about Indian desserts, one name that undoubtedly comes into every person's mind is the traditional Gajar ka halwa prepared on every Indian home in almost all the festivals. On the occasion of Diwali, Gajar ka Halwa is an unavoidable part of the menu. When served hot, the Gajar Ka Halwa tastes wonderful.

Kheer
Diwali is a festival of crackers, lights and sweets. Every Indian home is flooded with sweet dishes on the occasion of Diwali. Thousand varieties of sweet dishes are prepared by the many families residing in the country. However, out of them, the one dish that remains special for every one is the traditional ‘kheer’. Made up of rice, milk and various kinds of dry fruits, kheer is one of the most popular Indian desserts.

Ghathia
On the occasion of Diwali when everybody around is busy making sweet dishes, tasty, crunchy and salty Ghathia or Namak Pare are great relief. Though it is not full time dish, it can be used as snacks and munchies anytime anywhere. Ghathias are like finger chips in shape. Made of either white flour or maida, the Ghathias are light snacks which can be served alone or along with any sweet dish like Gujiya or Gulab Jamun. 

Lapsi
Diwali is a festival of sweets, lights and crackers. On this occasion, every India house is flooded with variety of sweets. However, the variety of sweets depend upon the culture and taste of the region as if people in South India make Mysore Pak, Kesari, Rava Ladoo, Pongal, Payasam, Badhusa and in North India people make ladoos, Jalebi, Kheer, Kaju barfi, halwa etc. 

Diwali Traditions

Diwali is celebrated to commemorate the victory of good over the evil. In northern India, the festival is celebrated to honor the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana. Coming down to the southern parts of the country, people there celebrate the festival to venerate Lord Krishna, when he defeated Narakasura. In eastern India, particularly in Bengal, the victory of Goddess Kali over Bakasura is the reason behind the celebration of Diwali. Happiest of all the occasion, Diwali has its own traditions that have been followed since years. In this article, we have given information on the traditions of Diwali.

Traditions Of Deepavali Festival

Playing Cards
Playing cards is one of the oldest traditions of Diwali. According to the legends, Goddess Parvati was playing dice with her spouse Lord Shiva on this day. She enjoyed herself so much that she said that whoever would gamble on Diwali night, would remain prosperous throughout the year. Nowadays, dice has become outdated. It has been replaced by cards. However, many people put a limit to the stakes that can be played. 

Bursting Crackers
Fireworks are one of the major attractions of Diwali. People of all ages - from children to the old one - enjoy bursting crackers on the occasion. Choti Diwali is exclusive for small children to express their happiness and enjoyment, by bursting crackers. Crackers are burst during the night time in northern parts of India, while in southern parts of the country Diwali is celebrated early in the morning. Crackers are traditionally burst to ward off the evil spirits.

Cleaning And Decorating Home
Days before the celebration of Diwali, people clean every nook and corner of their home and premises. It is believed that on Diwali, Goddess Lakshmi visits only those homes, which are kept spick and span. The homes and premises are decorated beautifully with thorans, flower garlands, strings of colorful LED lights, ribbons and streamers. Women sift powder through their fingers to make beautiful simple as well as intricate patterns of rangoli, on their living room floors and the front entrances, using vibrant colors of rice powder. 

Exchanging Gifts And Sweets
Exchange of gifts and sweets is a good old tradition of Diwali. The festival is a golden opportunity for the people to revive their personal relationships and social ties, through the exchange of gifts and sweets. During the festive season, almost all the kitchens of the Indian household are filled with the enticing aroma of sweets, which are prepared to exchange with the acquaintances. Exchange of attractive gifts is a way to strengthen the bond of the relationships. 

Shopping
Dhanteras, the first day of the five-day festival - Diwali - is considered auspicious to purchase jewelry and utensils made of silver. People shop for cutlery made of silver, steel, copper and other metals. The business of gold and silver coins is also at the peak, during the festive season. Apart from jewelry and utensils, people purchase many other things, such as kitchen appliances, gadgets, clothes and comforters. Purchasing new things on Diwali is regarded as auspicious.

Diwali Songs

Diwali is a five-day extravaganza in India, the land of colorful festival. On the occasion of Diwali, people spread good cheer and indulge themselves in a number of activities, one of them being throwing parties and get together. While partying during the festive season, people would dance to the tune of peppy numbers that boost up their celebrating mood. Songs that carry the essence of the festival can better serve the purpose. In case you are looking for the lyrics of popular songs for Deepavali, go through the following lines.

Popular Diwali Songs

Aayi Hai Diwali
Movie: Aamdani Atthani Kharcha Rupaiya 

Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra Ra Oh Mere Sajna
Fatakda Phoot Ne Wala Hai De Taali
Aayi Hai Diwali Suno Ji Gharwaali
Aayi Hai Diwali Suno Ji Gharwaali
Tere Kangane Ne Dil Dhadkaya Hai
Lage Sajna Mera Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra 
Lage Sajna Mera Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra
Lage Sajna Mera Aaj Paglaaya Hai
Lage Sajna Mera Aaj Paglaaya Hai
Aayi Hai Diwali Suno Ji Gharwaali
Tere Kangane Ne Dil Dhadkaya Hai
Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra Ra Sajna Paglaaya Hai
Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra Ra Sajna Paglaaya Hai

Tera Singaar Laga Bahar Aaya Re
Aaya Tujhpe Hum Ko Pyaar
Mardo Ka Kya Bedardo Ka Kya 
Kya Jaano Tum Kya Hota Hai Pyaar
Kyon Bhala Hum Kare Tum Pe Aitbaar
Bhole Hoton Ki Laali Dole Kaano Ki Baali
Teri Chunri Ne Jalwa Dikhaya Hai 
Lage Sajna Mera Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra 
Lage Sajna Mera Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra
Lage Sajna Mera Aaj Paglaaya Hai
Lage Sajna Mera Aaj Paglaaya Hai

Charo Taraf Diye Jal Rahe
Dehko Ji Dekho Yeh Kya Keh Rahe
Kahin Pe Nigahein Kahin Pe Nishana
Hum Jaante Hai Yeh Kissa Purana
Na Karo Dillagi Chhodo Sataana
Tu Yeh Maane Na Maane Hum Hai Tere Dewaane
Dekho Mausam Mohabbat Ka Aaya Hai
Lage Sajna Mera Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra 
Lage Sajna Mera Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra
Lage Sajna Mera Aaj Paglaaya Hai
Lage Sajna Mera Aaj Paglaaya Hai

Yaaro Meri Maano Miya Biwi Ke Rishte Ko Jaano
Pyaaro Oh Mere Pyaaro Kya Hai Jeevan Tum Yeh Pehchano
Chhodo Chhodo Chhodo Takraar Karlo Karlo Karlo Pyaar
Oh Chayi Nakhrewali Gharwaali Hai Gharwaali
Oh Chayi Nakhrewali Gharwaali Hai Gharwaali
Sara Sansaar Is Mein Samaya Hai
Lage Sajna Mera Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra 
Lage Sajna Mera Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra
Lage Sajna Mera Aaj Paglaaya Hai
Lage Sajna Mera Aaj Paglaaya Hai
Aayi Hai Diwali Suno Ji Gharwaali
Tere Kangane Ne Dil Dhadkaya Hai
Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra Ra Sajna Paglaaya Hai
Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra Ra Sajna Paglaaya Hai

Happy Diwali
Movie: Home Delivery

Yeh Din Jahaan Mein Har Kahi Bhar De Roshani Usi Ke Pyar Ki
Dil Dil Se Woh Mila De Har Chehra Woh Khila De
Rut Laaye Aaj Khushiyon Ki
Yeh Din Yeh Din Jahaan Mein Har Kahi Kahi 
Bhar De Roshani Roshani (Usi Ke Pyar Ki) - 2
Dil Dil Se Woh Mila De Har Chehra Woh Khila De
Rut Laaye Aaj Khushiyon Ki
(Mere Tumhare Sabke Liye Happy Diwali
Saare Sitaarein Uske Liye Happy Diwali) - 2

Ham Sabhi Mein Har Kisike Dil Mein Hai Wahi
Ho Zameen Ya Asmaan Ho Woh Hai Har Kaheen
Roshani - 3 Yeh Music Ka Naam Hain
Yeh Jahaan - 3 Saara Usi Ka Kaam Hain
(Usne Banayi Sabke Liye Happy Diwali
Saare Sitaarein Uske Liye Happy Diwali) - 2

Usne Kaha Ke Jab Main Kahu Aayega Woh Mere Liye
Kyun Na Bhala Main Duurr Rahu Aayega Woh Mere Liye
Usne Kaha Ke Jab Main Kahu (Aayega Woh Mere Liye) - 3
Duniya Meri Kaise Chamke Jaise Roshani Ne Roshani Ho Bhar Di Har Kahi
Duniya Saari Aaise Mehake Jaise Iss Khushi Mein Har Kali Ho Mehaki Har Kahi
(Aaj Jahaa Bhi Tum Raho Chalo Saath Hamare Ab Kaho Say (Happy Diwali) - 2
Aaj Miley Tumse Koi Use Tum Bhi Bade Dil Se Milo Say (Happy Diwali) - 2) - 2
Mere Tumhare Sabke Liye Happy Diwali

Diwali Greetings

Being the festival of lights, Diwali in India is a holy tradition and it symbolizes the emergence of light in the darkness, the triumph of truth and the extinction of ignorance and arrival of wisdom. The festival is celebrated with great joy and ecstasy all over the country. It is a glorious occasion to rejuvenate your relationship with your loved ones. It is the time to get back to your long lost friends and acquaintance and celebrate the festival of lights together, with fun and fervor. The best way to convey your heartfelt wishes is to send greetings to your loved ones. Since sending greeting cards via the traditional system of post can be a bit time consuming, you may opt for the easier ways to put across the thoughts. One such way is sending SMS. In the article, we have compiled a list of Diwali wishes that can be used in greeting cards.

Happy Deepavali Wishes

• "Celebrate the triumph of Goodness over evil. May this bright day bless you with health, wealth and prosperity. Happy Diwali.
• Hope the festival of lights enlightens your home and heart with peace and serenity. Wishing you loads of joy and happiness, on Diwali.
• May the Goddess of wealth and the God of Knowledge bless you with their choicest blessings on this Diwali!
• May the festival of lights encircle your life with joy and happiness. Success comes at your doorsteps. With these blessings, I send my warm wishes to you on Diwali.
• May the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi bestow you with opulence and prosperity. May you have a sparkling Deepavali.
• As the holy occasion of Diwali is here and the atmosphere is filled with the spirit of mirth and love, here's hoping this festival of beauty brings your way.
• On Diwali, I send you wishes for a year filled with prosperity, health and lots of fun! Hope you have a happy Diwali!
• I hope that the beauty of this festival of lights, bring a world of joy, happiness and contentment to you, to last the whole year through. Happy Diwali.
• May the lamps of joy, illuminate your life and fill your days with the bright sparkles of peace, mirth and goodwill, because you are someone who deserves life's best and so much more. Have a joyous Diwali.
• May the warmth and splendor, that are a part of this auspicious occasion, fill your life with happiness and bright cheer, and bring to you joy and prosperity, for the whole year.
• May the festival of lights be the harbinger of joy and prosperity. As the holy occasion of Diwali is here and the atmosphere is filled with the spirit of mirth and love, here's hoping this festival of beauty brings your way, bright sparkles of contentment, that stay with you through the days ahead. Best wishes on Diwali
• Diwali is the time for joy and happiness. Rejoice on this blessed occasion, spread the glee to your friends and loved ones by sending them our dazzling Happy Diwali greetings.

Diwali SMS

On the festive occasions like Durga Pooja, Holi and Diwali, we often miss people who are far away. Though we can’t fly to them, we can always send our blessings and good wishes to them through advance telecommunication facilities we have. Sending a text message of SMS is the best option as it takes little time and is also very economic. So, this Diwali flood your dear ones with wonderful wishes, blessings and jokes. Look for the Diwali SMSes given below and select the one which you think is the most suitable one.

Deepavali Text Messages 

Diwali aai, masti chahi, rangi rangoli,
Diwali aai, masti chahi, rangi rangoli,
deep jalaye, Dhoom Dhadaka, chhoda phataka, jali Phuljadiyan,
Sabko Bhaye, ‘Happy Diwali’

Diwali Parva hai Khushio ka,
Diwali Parva hai Khushio ka,
Ujalo ka, Laxmi ka.... Is Diwali Aapki Jindagi khushio se bhari ho,
Duniya ujalo se roshan ho, ghar par Maa Laxmi ka Aagman ho...
Happy Diwali 

Laxmi aayegi itni ki sab jagah Naam hoga,
Laxmi aayegi itni ki sab jagah Naam hoga,
Din raat vyapar bade itna adhik kaam hoga,
Ghar Pariwar samaj me banoge Sartaj, Yehi Kamna hai hamari aap ke liye
Diwali ki Dhero Shubh Kamanaye...

Aai aai Diwali aai, Saath me kitni Khushiya laayi,
Aai aai Diwali aai, Saath me kitni Khushiya laayi,
Dhoom machao, mauz manao, aap sabhi ko Diwali ki badhai.
Happy Diwali 

Deep Jalte jagmagate rahe, 
Deep Jalte jagmagate rahe, Hum aapko Aap hame yaad aate rahe,
Jab tak zindagi hai, dua hai hamari 'Aap Chand ki tarah Zagmagate rahe...' Happy Diwali

Troubles as light as Air,
Troubles as light as Air,
love as deep as Ocean,
Friends as Solid as Diamonds,
and Success as bright as Gold...
These are the wishes for you and your family on the eve of Diwali.
Diwali ki Shubhkamana!

May the divine light of Diwali spread into your life peace, prosperity, happiness and good health. Happy Diwali 

Safalta Kadam Chumti rahe,
Safalta Kadam Chumti rahe,
Khushi Aaspas ghumti rahe,
Yash Itna faile ki KASTURI Sharma Jaye,
Laxmi ki kripa itni ho ki BALAJI bhi dekhte rah jaye,
Happy Diwali

Ek Dua Mangte hai hum apne Bhagwan se.
Ek Dua Mangte hai hum apne Bhagwan se...
Chahte hai Aapki Khushi Pure imaan se,
Sab Hasratein Puri Ho Aapki, 
Aur Aap Muskaraye Dil-o-Jaan se!!
Happy Diwali

I Pray to God to give U Shanti, Shakti, Sampati, Swarup, Saiyam, Saadgi, Safalta, Samridhi, Sanskar, Swaasth, Sanmaan, Saraswati, aur sneh. Shubh Diwali...

Laksh Divyani Ujalali Nisha Ghevuni Navi Umed, 
Laksh Divyani Ujalali Nisha Ghevuni Navi Umed, 
navi asha Hotil purna manatil sarva Iccha,
Diwalichya Tumhala Khup Khup Shubheccha...
Happy Diwali

May This Diwali be as bright as ever.
May this Diwali bring joy, health and wealth to you.
May the festival of lights brighten up you and your near and dear ones lives.
Happy Diwali

May this Diwali bring in the brightest and choicest happiness and loves for you.
May this Diwali bring you the utmost in peace and prosperity.
Happy Diwali

May lights triumph over darkness
May peace transcend the earth
May the spirit of light illuminate the world
May you celebrate a wonderful Diwali this year!
Happy Diwali

Diwali Quotes

Diwali is not simply about lighting diyas, bursting crackers and relishing good food. It is also about enlightenment of soul and burning all your bad times. It is about coming over the darkness of ignorance and stepping into a cleaner and brighter world. If you want to explore philosophical meanings of this festive occasion and also want to send it to your friends, you can refer to the wonderful quotes given below. These quotations go beyond the superficial meanings and celebration and give you a deep insight view of the festival. Read on to understand.

Popular Deepavali Quotations

• Let this diwali burn all your bad times and enter you in good times.
• The truth is that existence wants your life to become a festival...because when you are unhappy, you also throw unhappiness all around.
• Ram! The light of lights, the self-luminous inner light of the Self is ever shining steadily in the chamber of your heart. Sit quietly. Close your eyes. Withdraw the senses. Fix the mind on this supreme light and enjoy the real Deepavali, by attaining illumination of the soul.
• He who Himself sees all but whom no one beholds, who illumines the intellect, the sun, the moon and the stars and the whole universe but whom they cannot illumine, He indeed is Brahman, He is the inner Self. Celebrate the real Deepavali by living in Brahman, and enjoy the eternal bliss of the soul.
• The sun does not shine there, nor do the moon and the stars, nor do lightning shine? All the lights of the world cannot be compared even to a ray of the inner light of the Self. Merge yourself in this light of lights and enjoy the supreme Deepavali.
• Many Deepavali festivals have come and gone. Yet the hearts of the vast majority are as dark as the night of the new moon. The house is lit with lamps, but the heart is full of the darkness of ignorance. O man! wake up from the slumber of ignorance. Realize the constant and eternal light of the Soul which neither rises nor sets, through meditation and deep enquiry.
• May you all attain full inner illumination! May the supreme light of lights enlighten your understanding! May you all attain the inexhaustible spiritual wealth of the Self! May you all prosper gloriously on the material as well as spiritual planes!

Diwali Puja

Though we often recognize Diwali as a festival of lights, crackers and sweets, the most important part of the entire festival is the Diwali Poojan. As we consider Diwali as an auspicious festival which is said to bring prosperity, wealth and wisdom in home, we pray to the Goddess of wealth, Laxmi and the God of Wisdom, Ganesha for showering their blessings upon us. It is believed that on the eve of Diwali Goddess Laxmi visits everyone and brings peace and prosperity to those homes where she feels happy and pleased. That is why a traditional Diwali Pooja is performed after sunset in all the homes on the day of Diwali.

Traditional Deepavali Pooja 
Diwali Pooja is performed in different families in a different way depending upon their regional and cultural customs. In villages, even the cattle are adorned and worshipped by farmers on this occasion as they regard them as their main source of their income. In south India also, cows are offered special veneration this day as they are supposed to be the incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi. However, in most of the families the Pooja is done in a simple way by installing the idols of Goddess Laxmi and Lord Ganesha on the eve of Diwali. 

The Pooja begins by the gathering of the entire family in the Pooja room and installation of the new idols of the deities in the small mandir at home. The senior most member of the family along with the priest of the family performs all the ritual. The ritual begins with the purification ceremony, each of the deities is bathed first with water, then with panchamitra (a mixture of milk, curd, ghee sugar & honey) and then with water again, this is actually a process of the purification of the idols before deities are invoked into it. After this, five pieces of ghee diyas are lit in front of the deities in order to drive away the shadows of evil spirits. The pooja thali containing all kids of prasads are then placed infront of the deities.

All the members of the family are then asked to close their eyes and chant the mantras as recited by the priest. Even if they do not know the mantra they can simply close their eyes and remember the deities with full devotion. It is said that if you remember the God by true heart, they certainly come to your place to bless you. Once the mantras are over, all the members of the family offer auspicious items like abir (red colour), sindoor (vermillion) and haldi (turmeric), flower and sweet dishes to the deities. They also light incense sticks and diyas infront of the deities and seek their blessings. People also offer silver or gold coins, nariyal and jewelries to the deities.

Once the offering and individual Pooja is over, people do arti and sing bhajans for welcoming the god in to their home and thanking them for being kind to their family till now. Ganesh Aarti is followed by Lakshmi Aarti. The aarti thali is then taken in each room of the home to purify the entire home. After the aarti is over, the priest of the family is presented with gifts and the process of lighting diyas in the entire home begins. After the lighting is done, people take the ‘prasad’ and burst crackers.

Diwali Legends

Diwali is a lively and sparkling occasion. It is a festival full of ecstasy and joy. This festival actually celebrates the abundance of autumn harvest and is dedicated to numerous gods and goddesses. It also marks the auspicious ceremony of the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya after a long exile of fourteen years. Diwali is also regarded as the day of the rebirth of Goddess Laxmi from the ‘Samudra Manthan’ that the Gods and Demons performed together in order to get the ‘drink of immortality’. That is why this day is dedicated to Lakshmi, whose blessings are essential for a prosperous, fruitful and peaceful life. There are several other mythological stories related to Diwali. If you want to know more, read on.

Deepavali Legends & Stories

Goddess Lakshmi
It is said that the occasion of Diwali is actually the birth anniversary of Goddess Lakshmi. As per Legends, the Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi was re-incarnated on the new moon day (amaavasyaa) of the Kartik month while the samudra-manthan by the Gods and Demons. This is why Diwali is celebrated to mark the importance of this day and seek the blessings of Goddess of prosperity for a lucky and happy future ahead. 

Lord Krishna 
Some of the mythological books also relate the occasion of Diwali to Lord Krishna’s victory over Narkasur. It is said that on the day preceding Diwali, Lord Krishna killed the demon king Narakasur and rescued 16,000 women from his imprisonment. Krishna then accepted these 16,000 women as his wife in order to save them from any kind of public embarrassment. This celebration of their freedom and victory of truth went on for two days including the Diwali day as a victory festival. 

Pandavas
According to 'Mahabharata', Diwali is celebrated in order to mark the return of the Pandavas from 12 year exile. It is said that on the occasion of ‘Kartik Amavashya', the Pandavas were welcomed by the people of their hometown by lighting earthen lamps. Since then Diwali is celebrated to mark the return of Pandava brothers after a long rigorous exile.

Lord Rama
According to the 'Ramayana', it was the new moon day of Kartik when Lord Ram, along with his wife Sita and Lakshman returned to Ayodhya after killing the ten headed Ravana and conquering his empire ‘Lanka’ as well as establishing a kingdom of peace and prosperity there. The citizens of Ayodhya overjoyed by the return of their dear prince lightened the entire city with the earthen lamps and illuminated it like never before. It was when the first ‘ Diwali’ was celebrated.

Vikramaditya
It is said that the Diwali also marks the auspicious occasion of a legendary Hindu King Vikramaditya. It is said that it is also one of the reasons for which Diwali is regarded as one of the most important festival for Hindus.

Diwali Decorations

Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm by the Hindus across the globe. In India, it is a five-day festival that brings with it good cheers. It is the time to celebrate the victory of good over the evil. People clean and decorate their homes in the best possible way, so that Goddess Lakshmi enters their premises and showers blessings on them. There is a number of ways to decorate home during the festival. If you want some bright ideas, then read the article. In the following lines, we have provided some of the best décor tips and idea for Deepavali.

Diwali Home Decoration Ideas

Rangoli
On Diwali, colorful rangoli designs are made by women, on the floor of their living room or entranceway, to welcome Goddess Lakshmi - the Goddess of Wealth. Commonly made with vibrant colors, rice flour or chawk, rangoli make magnificent piece of art. It is considered good luck symbol. Place an earthen diya at the center of the rangoli, to increase the overall appeal of the art.

Diyas
The traditional way of illuminating the home and premises on Diwali is to light diyas, the earthen lamps, made out of clay. In the present time, due to increase in the competition, a wide variety of diyas is available in the market. So, this Diwali, decorate your home and premises with beautiful diyas. Place them at the windowsill, doorstep, staircase and lobby, on the occasion. 

Candles
Candles are equally important, when it comes to the home décor for Diwali. Make use of aroma candles for the interiors of your home. Cylindrical candles can serve the purpose for your windowsill, balcony and staircase. At the entrance way, arrange an assortment of diyas and candles, to welcome the guests and Goddess Lakshmi.

Electric Lamps
While candles and diyas have a special place in the list of decorative items for Diwali, electric lamps have also gained popularity. Brighten up your rooms with the use of decorative chandeliers. Make use of lanterns for the backyard or lobby. You may hang string of colorful LED lights at the entranceway. Lamps come in various shapes and sizes. Buy a number of these to brighten up your home this Diwali. 

Torans
This Diwali, decorate your home with torans (hangings). Make use of mango leaf toran for the main door of your home, because mango leaves are considered auspicious for the occasion. You may also hang 'shubh laabh' hangings at the door. You may use torans made of fresh flowers or garlands for the purpose. Door hangings adorned with bells or mirror would look good.

Flowers
Flowers are great embellishments. Spread the aroma of flowers in your home, by hanging garlands made of flowers. You may choose marigold, lilies, rose, jasmine or exotic flowers like orchid and carnations, to decorate your home for Diwali. Fill a flower vase with aromatic fresh cut flowers and place it at your living room table.

Diwali Activities

India is a land of diverse culture and traditions. Hundreds of festivals are celebrated here in a year, giving it at least one occasion for festivities and celebrations in every month. Despite a clutter of festivals, the Diwali festival in the country holds a special place. It is one of the most auspicious and grand occasions celebrated with great zeal and warmth among all races and religions in the country, not only from religious, but also from aesthetic aspects of this festival. People indulge themselves in a number of activities to utilize their holidays in the best possible way. In this article, we have provided the common activities of Diwali

Fun Activities For Deepavali

Playing Games
Playing cards is a good old tradition of Diwali. It is the one of the best pastimes for the occasion. While playing cards, be sure not to keep a lot of money on stake. You may play cards without gambling as well. Rummy is a popular game of cards. Apart from card games, you can utilize the time in playing indoor games such as 'dumb charades', 'pass the parcel', 'musical chair', and outdoor games such as 'scavenger hunt', 'hide and seek' etc.

Bursting Crackers
It is said that Diwali is incomplete without bursting crackers. Although people are well aware of the harmful effects of the chemical, noise and pollution emitted by the crackers, they would not mind bursting them, on the occasion of Diwali. The best way to ensure that you do not do much harm to your environment is to use crackers that do not make much noise and are safe to use. Children should burst crackers only under the guidance of adults. 

Feasting
Diwali is a festival when people feast on lavish meal. Delicious sweets are prepared by the women, to serve on sumptuous dinner and lunch. You may call upon and host a dinner or lunch. Although feasting is not mandatory for Diwali, many households take immense pleasure in hosting lunch or dinner, because they get a chance to strengthen their social ties, through the get-together. 

Cleaning And Decorating Home
The home is scrub cleaned few days prior to the festival, in order to welcome Goddess Lakshmi - the Goddess of Wealth. People ensure that every nook and corner of their home and premises is cleaned. Apart from cleaning, they would decorate their place with flower garlands, torans, wall hangings, embellishments made of bells and mirrors etc. Making rangoli is a beautiful aspect of the festival.

Making Crafts
Beautiful crafts are made on the occasion of Diwali. People who have a creative mind explore their surroundings and collect items that can be used to make beautiful embellishments for their home. Making diya is a popular activity, because it gives them the opportunity to illuminate their home with a wide variety of diyas. Kids especially feel special about making decorative items on their own. 

Cooking
It can be said that cooking is an inevitable activity for Diwali. This is largely because during the season, numerous varieties of mouth-watering sweets are prepared. Cooking is something that keeps the people, who have interest in the culinary art, busy for many days.