Shining a light on tradition: 7 key symbolisms of Deepavali

Learn the meaning behind the symbolism of classic Diwali (also known as Deepavali) decorations and customs

Deepavali, more aptly known as the “Festival of Lights”, is a radiant celebration that illuminates the hearts and homes of millions across South Asia and beyond. Rooted in ancient traditions, it represents hope, love, and renewal, weaving a tapestry of cultural significance through generations.

From the bindi to the oil lamps to the magnificent peacock, let’s shed light on some of the key symbols of Deepavali and the cultural significance they carry that enrich this festival’s vibrant traditions.

1. Diya

Diyas are a common sight during the Festival of Lights (Photo: Udayaditya Barua)

Above Diyas are a common sight during the Festival of Lights (Photo: Pexels / Udayaditya Barua)

Pronounced dee-ya and more commonly known as an oil lamp, a diya is a small clay oil lamp and the main symbol of Diwali. Usually made from earth with cotton wicks suspended in a pool of vegetable oil or ghee to help them burn, many diyas are sold plain and can be painted with beautiful colours and patterns.

In Hinduism, the diya symbolises knowledge and the choice of light over darkness, destroying the reign of ignorance. As the word “Deepavali” translates to “row of lights” from Sanskrit, the lighting of diyas is an important part of the celebration, seen in houses and lining the streets of the cities.

2. Lotus flower

Pink lotuses are prominently depicted alongside Hindu deities (Photo: Sora Sagano)

Above Pink lotuses are prominently depicted alongside Hindu deities (Photo: Unsplash / Sora Sagano)

Many are familiar with the pink lotus flower that features prominently in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain iconography, resting in the palms of gods and goddesses sitting atop lotus thrones.

In Hinduism, the lotus is seen as its sacred flower because the bloom extols the virtue of remaining untarnished by external circumstances, growing in muddy water but still floating on the surface, pure and unsullied.

The lotus is also closely associated with Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of prosperity and auspiciousness, who is given a special welcome into homes during Deepavali.

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3. Rangoli

Each household has their own Rangoli design (Photo: Sandeep Kr Yadav)

Above Each household has their own Rangoli design (Photo: Unsplash / Sandeep Kr Yadav)

Referred to as “kolam” in South India, a rangoli is a handmade design created on the ground using colourful materials such as dyed rice, flour, sand, or flowers.

While its main purpose is to welcome visitors into a specific area, a rangoli on Deepavali is used to welcome Lakshmi so that she may bring strength, kindness, and good luck to the particular household.

Strictly a female activity, rangoli designs often reflect traditions, folklore, and practices that are unique to either the specific region of India or the household itself.

4. Toran

Above Torans are hung on the doorway of home entrances to welcome Lakshmi (Photo: @aarambhbpriyanka / Instagram)

Decorative door hangings are used during Diwali. It is common to place these at the main entrances of homes to welcome both guests and the goddess Lakshmi for good luck and prosperity.

Torans are usually made from marigold flowers and mango leaves, occasionally featuring colours such as green, yellow, and red. Some torans are made of cloth or metal cut to resemble mango leaves, which are thought to represent Lakshmi and ward off negative energy during Deepavali.

5. Marigold flowers

Marigold flowers are reminiscent of the Sun and new beginnings (Photo: Yan Krukau)

Above Marigold flowers are reminiscent of the Sun and new beginnings (Photo: Pexels / Yan Krukau)

Sometimes referred to as the ‘Herb of the Sun’ marigold flowers are known to have many benefits, such as improving one's mood and warding off stress. In Hinduism, these orange and yellow flowers are considered auspicious, especially when signalling new beginnings and important life events.

During Diwali, many Hindus decorate their homes with marigold flowers or garlands to honour Ganesh and Lakshmi.

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6. Bindi

It is an auspicious activity to have a bindi placed for you at the door during Deepavali (Photo: Anastasia Shuraeva)

Above It is an auspicious activity to have a bindi placed for you at the door during Deepavali (Photo: Pexels / Anastasia Shuraeva)

Worn by men and women with different colours used to reflect the individual’s marriage status, the bindi is placed at the ajna point, the sixth chakra of the human body. It represents the spiritual third eye and is said to protect the wearer from the evil eye and negative energies.

Guests visiting Hindu homes during Deepavali are welcomed with a dot of red or saffron powder as a sign of auspiciousness.

7. Peacock feathers

Peacock feathers are a sign of wealth and prosperity (Photo: Magda Ehlers)

Above Peacock feathers are a sign of wealth and prosperity (Photo: Pexels / Magda Ehlers)

Peacocks and their feathers are a common decorative motif in Indian culture that is said to represent Saraswati and Lakshmi. It is also depicted as the vehicle for various Hindu deities.

A symbol of auspiciousness, many often keep peacock feathers in their home all year long as the eye-shaped patterns of the feathers are believed to possess protective qualities that guard against harm and negativity.

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Topics

Symbolism Deepavali 2023 Diwali Decorations Traditional Decorations

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