*SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE OF FIVE DAYS DIWALI FESTIVALS *

*SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE OF FIVE DAYS DIWALI FESTIVALS *

Axis of the Earth is inclined at 23.5 degree from the axis of its orbit in which it revolves around the Sun. When the sun appears to move southward of the equator (Dahshinayana), intensity of the sun is not harsh during this period, and the environment is full of moisture. As Earth orbits the sun, the sun appears to pass in front of different constellations. The signs are derived from the constellations that mark out the path on which the sun appears to travel over the course of a year. During Diwali (around October), winter season approches; and before sun-rise, we can visualise the constellation “Libra” {तुला–राशि} on the horizon as ascendants. This signifies the onset of winters. Because of the begining of the change of season, during these periods human body becomes more prone to diseases as it is less resistant, both physically and mentally to the attack of outside environment, micro organism, bacteria and viruses. In order to remain disease free during these days, it is the utmost necessity that the area around you should be clean and hygenic. Before Diwali, people clean or decorate their homes and workplaces by cleaning, whitewashing and painting. Leading up to this day, houses and businesses are cleaned and decorated.

On the days of Diwali festival, the Sun, and the Moon are in conjunction which means that this period promotes harmony. Both these luminaries the Sun and the Moon are placed in Libra ( in the Swati Nakshatra). Libra or Tula is denoted by the balance symbol representing universal brotherhood, a much needed character for observing a festival of joy.

This balance of the Sun and the Moon is to be maintained in our body also. We have two nostrils for breathing. Normally on nostril is operating at a time. Left nostril is said to be connected with Moon-nerves (चन्द्र-नाड़ी) as breathing in through this will cool the body. Right nostril is said to be connected with Sun-nerves (सूर्य-नाड़ी) as breathing in through this will heat the body. In order to maintain health of the one should balance by breathing in alternately with left and right nostril (नाड़ी-शोधन प्राणायाम)

Dhan terasa: Dhanvantari, the god of good health and medicine, emerged  with the gift of Ayurveda (the knowledge of life) to humanity. One can enjoy wealth only when he is blessed with the health. Celebration of Dhanteras is to show importance to health and bringing wealth to home.

Narak Chaturdashi: When the body is cleansed, the mind becomes calmer and more peaceful and alert because of the deep connection between the body and mind. This day is celebrated by taking oil-bath in the morning and putting lighted lamps near drainages of the house to ensure perfect cleanliness.

Main Diwali: The Swati Nakshatra is the ruling Nakshatra during Diwali. This is a feminine constellation connected to Goddess of knowledge Saraswati, Laxmi, and Kali. One or more of these Mother Goddesses are worshipped on the Diwali day. Preference is given to Lord of intellect  Shree Ganesh before starting the worship of Laxmi. This symbolize that wealth should be earned by applying intellect fully. Then only purifying profit (शुभ लाभ) will make you prosperous. Floors are decorated with bright, geometric patterns called rangoli, which serve as symbols of good luck and welcome guests and Lakshmi. According to sixth shloka of second chapter of Rigveda Goddess Laxmi is invited by following Mantra

ॐ हिरण्य-वर्णां हरिणीं, सुवर्ण-रजत-स्त्रजाम्।…
चन्द्रां हिरण्यमयीं लक्ष्मीं, जातवेदो म आवह।।

Gowardhan Pooja (अन्नकूट): On this day lord Krishna is worshipped and mixed vegetable (अन्नकूट) is prepared to signify that all sorts of vegetables and fruits should be eaten in order to be healthy.

Bhai duja: The Swati Nakshatra is the ruling Nakshatra during Diwali. This is a feminine constellation. Relation of brother and sister is considered the most holy relationship purifying the mind. Bhaiduj is celebrated to pay respect this relationship.  

Celebration is an attitude, to celebrate life you don’t have to spend a lot of money . Celebration comes from enthusiasm and joy . When you are depressed, that’s when celebration is needed the most. Reconcile with the past and move on to the future with enthusiasm and share what you have with others.

The cleaner the mind, the more one is attracted to all that is good and noble, and it is such a mind that seeks enlightenment. The multifarious lights that illumine homes during Diwali are a symbol of the human yearning for the light of true knowledge.

Just as darkness inspires fear and causes sorrow in the form of mishaps, ignorance of one’s true identity leads to all human suffering, as body-consciousness gives rise to vices such as lust, anger, attachment and ego, which corrupt our thoughts and actions.

There is something beyond the physical body and mind, which is pure and eternal, called the soul. The celebration of Diwali refers to the light of this higher knowledge, dispelling the darkness of ignorance which masks one’s true identity as an immortal, immanent being.