Diwali Festival of Lights – Food
Diwali (a.k.a: Deepavali) will be celebrated in India on Nov. 12th, 2023.
Diwali [Dipavali] is a celebration of victory of good over evil, light over dark, freedom and enlightenment. In Sanksrit the word dipavali, means “row of lights.”which is fitting to a night celebration that fills the streets and homes with oil lamps (called diyas). In India the celbration lasts 5 days, but outside in other countries it is celebrated on the third day, which is the most important. Read about the love story of Rama and Sita in my blog ” Diwali a victory of good over evil”
Diwali is connected to various religious events, deities and personalities, such as being the day Rama returned to his kingdom in Ayodhya with his wife Sita and his brother Lakshmana after defeating the demon king Ravana.[14] It is also widely associated with Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, and Ganesha, the god of wisdom and the remover of obstacles.[15] Other regional traditions connect the holiday to Vishnu, Krishna, Durga, Shiva, Kali, Hanuman, Kubera, Yama, Yami, Dhanvantari, or Vishvakarman. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali]
The Festival last for five days, and each day has a special task or blessing , this year it begins on Nov. 10th, and ends on Nov. 15th, 2023.
First day. It is consider good luck to buy metal kitchen utensils, even appliances.
Second day. It is preparation day, and creating “rangoli” geometric designs on the floor or table made of colored sand and flowers.
Third day. This is the Diwali day, house decorated with marigolds, many diya lamps, new clothes, delicious food, and sweets, family prayers to Lakshmi Goddess of Good Luck, and Ganesh. He is widely revered, more specifically, as the remover of obstacles and thought to bring good luck;[9][10] the patron of arts and sciences; and the deva of intellect and wisdom. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha]
Fourth day. Dedicated to give thanks for their work utensils, like a taxi driver will give thanks for his taxi.
Fifth day. Dedicated to praying for the well being of their siblings.
Ingredients you need to make your own authentic creations.
Paneer Fresh Cheese
Clarified Butter
Chickpea Flour
Recipes for traditional Diwali Sweets
Indian Cook Books you might like to try.
Question I am often asked about Diwalli sweets
Q: Why are sweets eaten during Diwali?
A: Diwali is a celebration of good over evil, therefore the making and gifting of sweets reflect the joy and gratitude, and expression of love for one another.
Q: Is Diwali a religious celebration?
A: Yes, Diwali is primarily celebrated by followers of the Hindu, Sikh, and Jain faiths. in India and anywhere else in the world.
Q: Why is Diwali associated with Good luck, wealth, and prosperity?
A: Diwali celebrates the return of King Rama after rescuing Sita and defeating Ravana. Sita represents the goddess Lakshmi who brings wealth and prosperity. For the whole story click here.
