Dipavali Festival

Dipavali festival in Sri Lanka is also known as Diwali. It is referred as festival of lights. This festival marks the victory of good over the evil spirits. Dipavali is celebrated during the months of October or November. It is a five days festival, which is celebrated by lighting oil lamps, crackers, fireworks and distribution of sweets.
Hindu legendary stories are associated with the Dipavali festival. It is believed that this festival is observed to mark the victory of Lord Rama in a battle with Ravana, the demon king. On this day Lord Rama returned to his kingdom Ayodhya after an exile of 14 years. Dipavali or Diwali is also observed by Hindus to worship Goddess Lakshmi for blessings to gain wealth and prosperity.
In Sri Lanka, Tamil and Hindu families light up decorative diyas or lamps in their homes. They take oil bath, wear new clothes and visit temples. People meet their friends and family on this auspicious day. Sweet dishes are also prepared for this occasion. Figures from crystal sugar – known as misiri are prepared during Dipavali celebration in Sri Lanka. These sweets are distributed among neighbors and relatives. On the evening of Dipavali or Diwali crackers and fireworks are burned.

10:36 AM Monday September 13th, 2010