Diwali Padwa, also known as Padva or Balipratipada, marks the day after Diwali and signifies the beginning of the Hindu New Year in various regions of India. Celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy, Diwali Padwa holds immense cultural and traditional significance. Families come together to partake in rituals, enjoy festive meals, exchange gifts, and seek blessings for a prosperous year ahead. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a detailed overview of the celebration of Diwali Padwa 2023, along with its customs, rituals, and significance.
1. Diwali Padwa 2023 Date
Diwali Padwa in 2023 is on Monday, 23rd of October.
2. Significance of Diwali Padwa
- Diwali Padwa commemorates the return of Lord Rama along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana to Ayodhya after their 14-year exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana.
- It is believed that on this day, King Bali, who was a devotee of Lord Vishnu, was granted permission by Lord Vishnu to visit his kingdom in Kerala once a year, thus symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
3. Preparation for Diwali Padwa
- Cleaning and Decorating: Similar to Diwali, houses are cleaned, decorated, and adorned with rangoli, diyas, and flowers.
- Shopping: People buy new clothes, ornaments, utensils, and gifts for family and friends.
- Special Dishes: Traditional sweets and snacks like puran poli, karanji, shrikhand, and chakli are prepared.
4. Rituals and Customs
- Abhyang Snan: A holy bath is taken in the morning using scented oils or ubtan to purify the body and soul.
- Prayers and Pujas: Families gather for prayers and pujas to seek the blessings of the deities for a prosperous year ahead.
- Visiting Temples: Many visit temples to offer prayers and seek blessings.
- Gifting: Exchanging gifts and sweets with loved ones is a common practice during Diwali Padwa.
5. Cultural Celebrations
- New Year Celebrations: Many regions consider this day as the start of the New Year, and people greet each other with well-wishes for the upcoming year.
- Processions and Events: Some areas organize processions, cultural programs, and events to celebrate the occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Diwali Padwa:
Q1. What is the significance of Abhyang Snan on Diwali Padwa?
A1. Abhyang Snan is considered auspicious on Diwali Padwa as it signifies the cleansing of the body, mind, and soul to welcome the New Year with positivity and purity.
Q2. Can you suggest some traditional dishes to prepare for Diwali Padwa?
A2. Traditional dishes like puran poli, karanji, shrikhand, and chakli are popular choices for Diwali Padwa celebrations.
Q3. Are there any specific rituals for Diwali Padwa that vary by region?
A3. Yes, certain rituals and customs may vary by region, but the essence of celebrating the victory of good over evil and seeking blessings for the New Year remains consistent.
Q4. How do people exchange gifts during Diwali Padwa celebrations?
A4. People exchange gifts like sweets, clothes, ornaments, and utensils with family and friends as a token of love and good wishes for the New Year.
Q5. Is decorating the house with rangoli and diyas a common practice on Diwali Padwa?
A5. Yes, decorating the house with rangoli designs and lighting diyas is a common practice to enhance the festive spirit and welcome prosperity into the home.
In conclusion, Diwali Padwa 2023 is a time of joy, togetherness, and renewal as people celebrate the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. By partaking in the rituals, customs, and cultural celebrations associated with Diwali Padwa, individuals can embrace the spirit of positivity, gratitude, and new beginnings as they welcome the Hindu New Year with open arms.
