Which Indian festival is celebrated to mark the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Correct Answer
Diwali
Explanation
Diwali (or Deepavali), known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated to mark the historic return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana to their kingdom of Ayodhya after spending 14 years in exile and defeating the demon king Ravana. To welcome them and illuminate their path on a dark, moonless night (Amavasya), the citizens of Ayodhya lit countless clay lamps (diyas), a tradition that continues to this day.
The other options represent different significant events in Hindu mythology. Holi is the festival of colors that marks the arrival of spring and the victory of devotion over evil (associated with Prahlad and Holika). Navratri is a nine-night festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga. Dussehra (or Vijayadashami) is celebrated just twenty days before Diwali to mark the exact day Lord Rama killed Ravana, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Key Points
Diwali falls on the Amavasya (new moon night) of the Hindu lunar month of Kartik, making the lighting of diyas symbolically significant to dispel darkness.
The word Deepavali literally translates to a 'row of lights' in Sanskrit, reflecting the core practice of illuminating homes, temples, and public spaces during the festival.
Additional Facts
While Diwali is most prominently associated with Lord Rama's return in northern and western India, it holds multi-layered significance across different regions and faiths. In southern India, it is often celebrated as the day Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura. For Jains, Diwali marks the day Lord Mahavira attained Nirvana (liberation). For Sikhs, it coincides with Bandi Chhor Divas, celebrating the release of Guru Hargobind Ji from Gwalior Fort.
Important Questions and Answers
Question: Which major deity is predominantly worshipped alongside Lord Ganesha on the night of Diwali for wealth and prosperity?
Answer: Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu deity of wealth, fortune, and prosperity, is universally worshipped during Diwali evening prayers (Lakshmi Puja).
Question: What is the significance of the day immediately following Diwali in many parts of Western and Northern India?
Answer: The day after Diwali is celebrated as Govardhan Puja (or Annakut), which commemorates Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect the villagers of Vrindavan from torrential rains.