Diwali is the most awaited Indian festival, celebrated with great enthusiasm around the country. It brings the sweetness of delicacies, sparkles of crackers, and lightning of diyas and candles. Teaching students the story of Diwali is an excellent way to share with them the significance of this festival in Indian culture. Moreover, Diwali is among the most popular festivals in November which brings a smile to everyone’s face. In this blog, you will read the story of Diwali in English for kids, perfect for nurturing young minds.
Story of Diwali Festival for Kids
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Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated over five days, each dedicated to different deities and traditions. It all begins with the auspicious occasion of Dhanteras and ends with Bhai Dooj. However, the heart of the Diwali celebration lies in the story of Lord Rama, his wife goddess Sita, and his brother Lakshman.
According to Hindu Mythology and the Ramayana, Diwali is celebrated to mark the return of Lord Rama, Mata Sita and Lakshmana to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. Lord Rama was sent to exile in the forests by his own father King Dasharatha as he was provoked by Lord Rama’s stepmother, Mata Kaikeyi. She wanted her son Bharata to take over the kingdom instead of Lord Rama.
Being a kind-hearted person, Lord Rama accepted King Dashratha’s decision with grace. His wife Sita and his brother Lakshmana chose to accompany him, showing the value of family love and loyalty.
Ravana Abducted Goddess Sita
While in exile, one day, mata Sita saw a golden deer in the forest. However, the deer was a demon in disguise sent to trick goddess Sita. Mesmerised by the beauty of this deer, goddess Sita requested Lord Rama to bring it to her. He left Lakshamana to protect Mata Sita.
Soon, Lakshmana and Sita heard Lord Rama’s voice calling for help. It appeared as if he was in great danger. Compelled by Mata Sita’s requests to find and bring back Lord Rama safely, Lakshamana agreed to search for him in the great depths of the jungle.
Before leaving, Lakshamana drew a protective Lakshmana Rekha line. In that span of time, Ravan came disguised in the avatar of a priest. As soon as Maa Sita stepped out of the Lakshmana Rekha, Ravan kidnapped her and took her across the sea in Lanka in his “Pushpak Vahan”.
Lord Rama and Hanuman
In his search for Sita, Lord Rama met many people. Among them, was a devotee Hanuman, who gradually became his greatest ally. Hanuman helped Lord Rama and took him to Sugriva, the King of Vanars (monkey warriors). Together, they built a bridge of floating stones to cross the sea and reach Sri Lanka. The stones were blessed with the power of Lord Rama which gave them the magical ability to float on water.
Victory of Good over Evil
After reaching Lanka, Lord Rama and the demon king Ravana engaged in a fierce battle. Eventually, Lord Rama defeated the evil king Ravana and rescued Sita, showing that goodness and righteousness always triumph over evil. Their return to Ayodhya was a moment of great joy. This is why, to this day, Diwali is celebrated with the lighting of lamps, symbolizing the power of goodness, truth, and love. It reminds us that the power of righteousness and kindness will always prevail.
Significance of Diwali
Diwali is celebrated to commemorate the victory of Lord Rama over Ravan. People in India clean their houses, light diyas, and decorate their places with rangoli and flowers to welcome back Lord Rama. It is believed that this occasion is celebrated because on this day Lord Rama together with Mata Sita and Lakshamana returned back to Ayodhya after completing 14 years of exile.
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FAQs
Diwali is celebrated to welcome Lord Rama and on this special occasion, people worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha and seek the blessings of wealth, prosperity and happiness.
Diwali is celebrated to welcome Lord Rama, Mata Sita and Lakshmana to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile.
According to the Hindu Lunar Calendar, Diwali is celebrated in the Ashvin and Kartik month (mid-September or mid-November) and this festival lasts for 5 days.
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