“ May the festival of lights be the harbinger of joy and prosperity. As the holy occasion of Diwali is here and the atmosphere is filled with the spirit of mirth and love, here's hoping this festival of beauty brings your way, bright sparkles of contentment, that stay with you through the days ahead “

According to Ramayana, Diwali commemorates the return of Ram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and the eldest son of King Dasharath of Ayodhya, from his 14-year exile with Sita and Lakshman after killing the Ravan, a demon king. The people of Ayodhya illuminated the kingdom with earthen diyas (oil lamps) and fireworks to celebration of the return of their king. The legend of Rama says, Lord Rama was the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He was a great warrior King. His father Dashratha, the King of Ayodhya sent him to exile along with his wife Sita and his younger brother Lakshman, on his wife's insistence. After 14 years of exile, in which he put an end to the demon Ravana Lord Rama returned to his Kingdom Ayodhya.

Ravana imprisoned Sita and forced her to marry him but she never agreed to this. Lord Rama with the help of Hanuman, Sugreev and Bali and their "vannar sena" attacked Lanka and after a fierce battle, got Sitaji released from the clutches of Ravana. After this victory of Good over Evil, Rama returned to Ayodhya.

According to Diwali legends in Ayodhya, the people welcomed them by lighting rows of clay lamps. Twinkling oil lamps or diyas were there in every home and firework were there too. Great celebrations were held and everyone was happy for Rama to be the King of Ayodhya. This celebration took place on the night of the new moon of Ashwin (October-November). The tradition and the timing continued to be followed even these days. Even today Diwali celebration means -happiness, fireworks and sweets.

Thus the festival of diwali is an honour of Rama's victory over Ravana. Among all the legends of Diwali this one is the most believed one.

This year Diwali is going to be very special for me, as the dance group I used to be a part of is going for its first US Diwali performance!!! I am very happy for them, and I will look forward for the updates on their trip! You are also welcome to the website of Maryuri Dance group (Petrozavodsk, Russia) http://www.dancemayuri.com/, where you could find links to their photos, videos and events

Taken at Cary Diwali Festival 2011 organized by HumSub. This was a brilliant dance performance by the Mayuri Dance Group based out of Petrozavodsk, Russia.

Hi All,

It's nice seeing you all again.

I hope you have been through a wonderful time altogather. Here in India festive season is continued and I am just enjoying them. Sharing a smile and a big hug to you all.

Abhi ))

Good to see you, Abhi!
All the best to you to!!!