Back to Australia Calendar
Spiritual Significance
Diwali, the festival of lights, is India's most widely celebrated festival and marks Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. The entire city was illuminated with oil lamps to welcome him back after defeating Ravana. In other traditions, it marks Goddess Lakshmi blessing devotees with prosperity and Lord Krishna defeating the demon Narakasura.
How to Celebrate in Australia
Observing Diwali (Deepavali) in Australia is highly auspicious. Because local timezone sunrise and moonrise times differ, follow these practices:
- Align Fasting with Local Sunrise: Start your vrat precisely at sunrise in Sydney (approx 18:30 local time), rather than following Indian Standard Time.
- Perform Puja during local Auspicious Hours: Make sure to perform the main rituals during local AEST evening/night windows as shown above.
- Lakshmi Puja during Pradosh Kaal with diyas and flowers
- Lighting oil lamps along pathways and windows
- Setting off fireworks and sparklers
- Exchanging gifts and sweets with family and friends
- Card games traditionally associated with Lakshmi's visit
Auspicious Items to Prepare
🌸 Diyas (oil lamps)🌸 Gold and silver🌸 Lotus flowers🌸 Sweets🌸 New clothes