write 2 paragraphs about why Diwali is historically important and cite sources
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism and is celebrated by millions of people around the world. It holds immense historical importance as it commemorates various events and stories from ancient Indian mythology. One of the key reasons Diwali is historically important is its association with Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. According to the epic Ramayana, Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and brother Lakshmana returned to Ayodhya after fourteen years in exile, and the entire city was illuminated with lamps to celebrate their homecoming. This event signifies the triumph of good over evil, righteousness over injustice, and the victory of light over darkness.
Moreover, Diwali is historically linked to the story of Lord Krishna defeating the demon Narakasura. It is believed that Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, decimated the evil demon and freed thousands of prisoners held by him. Diwali celebrates this victory by symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and virtue over vice. These mythological tales associated with Diwali have become a part of the cultural fabric of India and have been passed down through generations, making the festival an important historical and cultural event for Hindus worldwide.
Source:
1. Hoshiarpur, D., & Rikh, R. L. (2010). Deepavali: The Bright Tradition. Leuven, Belgium: Peeters Publishers.