Diwali in Jammu and Kashmir

Diwali is as happy occasion in Jammu & Kashmir Province, as in rest of India. During any festive season, the whole city of Jammu brightens up and there is lot of excitement in the air. Watching or taking part in the Diwali festivities, can be an interesting experience in this state. Diwali is celebrated with traditional fervor and joy, in special style.

The people of this state celebrate this day with great festivity. People decorate their houses much in advance in preparation of this festival. Some give a new paint to their homes while others clean their homes thoroughly. This is the occasion for buying new things - a new home, a new car, furniture, clothes, utensils etc.

On the day of Diwali people get up early in the morning and then put on new clothes, go to temples, and purchase lots of sweets and dry fruit for distribution among friends, relatives and colleagues. They also purchase earthen lamps, candles and electric accessories for illuminating their homes and business establishments. For children it is a day of merry making. They enjoy by playing with crackers especially at night time. They also receive cash from Parents and relatives as Diwali Gifts.

Celebrations By Kashmiri Pundits
Deepawali is one of the oldest rituals for Kashmiri Pundits. We find a mention of its celebrations in Nilmat Puran. It was then celebrated as Sukhsuptika which literally means sleep with happiness. The celebration would start from Ekadeshi and last till Amavasya. On Amavasya elders of family would keep a fast and worship goddess Laxmi after sunset. Earthen lamps are placed in temples, on the road crossings, cremation grounds, banks of rivers, streams and lakes hill houses, at the foot of trees, cow sheds, court yards and shops. People would wear new clothes and listen to music.