VIJAYE KUMAR BEEHARRY, OSK
Member of Arya Veer
Deepavli (deep meaning lamps and avli meaning row) means a row of lights. It is the most popular festival celebrated by Hindus all over the world and it is also known as Diwali.
The festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Nowadays, electronic bulbs are used to decorate houses, buildings, and public places. Yet, it is a must to light the traditional earthen oil lamps to perform the rituals.
An important event is associated with this festival. The founder of the Arya Samaj movement, Swami Dayanand Saraswati, left this world on the night of Deepavli of 30th October 1883. He did not die an ordinary death. He ‘planned’ everything.
Swami Dayanand survived many attempts of food poisoning because of his regular practice of Hatha Yoga. In a last attempt, small pieces of glass were mixed to milk and served to him. This caused him immense pain and suffering. He was bedridden for several days and when he could not bear it anymore, he decided to leave his mortal body. On the evening of 30th October 1883, while lying on his bed, he called his followers to stand behind him and no one to be in front of him. He asked them to open all doors and windows. He chanted a few Vedic hymns and praised the virtues of God. He added ‘oh all mighty, this is your wish. Your wish be fulfilled.’ With a light smile on his face, he changed side, he inhaled and exhaled, and he left this world and attained Nirvana. Nirvana is a Sanskrit word meaning extinction or disappearance. It is the highest state when feelings like suffering and desires disappear.
This is why followers of Arya Samaj celebrate Rishi Nirvana Diwas on Diwali night.
