Maharashtra, with its major chunk of Marathi population celebrates Diwali in a special way that is quite different from Diwali celebrations in North India. The four day long Diwali Festival, in this state usually begins with Vasu-baras, in honor of the female cow, representing motherhood. The rituals of this day involves married women performing puja to lactating cows with calves, offering gratitude for providing milk and in turn contributing to the overall well being of their children. An important tradition followed on this day is also buying gold and silver jewelries. It is believed that doing thus, ushers in wealth and good fortune throughout the year. Another festival held on the same day is the Dhanatrayodashi, which is the Marathi name for Dhanteras. Unlike in other parts of India, on this day the Maharashtrian women light diyas in the name of each male members of the family for their long life. Known as Yama-Deep-Dan in the state, the festival involves lighting specially kneaded flour diyas in honor of Lord Yama, the god of death in Hindu mythology. There is an interesting legend related to this festival, a young prince was predestined to die on the fourth day of his marriage. But on that day, his wife kept him awake and lighted diyas at the entrance. As it was destined, god of death 'Yama' disguised as a snake tried to enter the Prince's chamber but could not complete his mission out of compassion for the young wife who lighted the diyas to pray to him. This day is hence celebrated as Yamandeepdaan and a diya is kept burning whole night in the name of Yama. The second day is marked by Narak-Chaturdashi, another name for Chhoti Diwali in Maharashtra. This day is marked by taking special bath early in the morning after a full body massage of scented oil. The special locally abhyang-snan involves using a particular ayurvedic preparation made of sandalwood, camphor, manjistha, rose, orange peels and turmeric instead of synthetic soap. Firecrackers and fireworks add to the overall festive mood of the whole ritualistic bath. Steamed vermicelli with milk and sugar or puffed rice with curd is prepared as a part of the celebration on this day. | |||
Special thanks to Diwaligifts2indians.com and Infibeam.com for content | |||
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