Diwali is celebrated not only by Hindus but by Sikhs & Jains to symbolize the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. For Jains, it marks the day when Lord Mahavira attained nirvana or liberation. For Sikhs, it commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind from prison by the Mughal emperor Jahangir. Hindus, celebrate Diwali as the return of Lord Rama from exile with his wife Sita, and his loyal companion Hanuman to their kingdom of Ayodhya, after defeating the demon king Ravana.
In the Hindu tradition Diwali is celebrated over five days, each with its own significance and rituals. The first day is Dhanteras, when people buy gold and other precious items to bring good luck and prosperity. The second day is Naraka Chaturdasi or Choti Diwali, when people light lamps and firecrackers to ward off evil spirits. The third day is Diwali or Deepavali, when people worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. The fourth day is Diwali Padva or Govardhan Puja, when people worship Lord Krishna and his miraculous lifting of the Govardhan mountain to protect his devotees from a torrential rain. The fifth day is Bhai Duj or Bhaiya Dooj, when sisters apply a tilak or a mark on their brothers’ foreheads and pray for their long life and happiness.
In the Tantra tradition, Diwali is not just an external celebration but also an opportunity for inner reflection and spiritual growth.
The lighting of diyas symbolises the illumination of one’s inner self, driving out ignorance and negativity, and ushering in wisdom and positivity.
Kali Chaudas hold a special significance in Tantra, it is celebrated day before Diwali festival with prayers offered to Goddess Kali the destroyer of all evil spirits, negative energy and demons with great devotion and reverence. For Tantra practitioners, it is a day to honor the fierce and compassionate aspect of Kali Maa and seek her grace.
Tantriks believe that Kali Chaudas night is the most auspicious time to perform their sadhanas & use various mantras, yantras and vidhis to invoke the power of Kali Maa and achieve their desires.
In parts of India like Bengal Kali puja is, performed at night with an idol or image of Kali Maa. The puja involves offering flowers, fruits, sweets, incense, lamps and animal sacrifices to the goddess. The puja mantra is “Om Kring Kalikaye Namah”.
Observed on the fourteenth day of the dark fortnight of Kartik month, a day before Diwali. Tantriks , worship Kali Maa and perform various rituals to seek her blessings and protection. Kali Chaudas is one of the most important days in the year for tantra practice.
