Diwali is often associated with glowing diyas, sweets and family celebrations. But did you know that the festival traditionally unfolds over five days, each with its own stories and customs?
From welcoming prosperity on Dhanteras to celebrating sibling bonds on Bhai Dooj, here’s a closer look at the five days of Diwali and their significance.
1. Dhanteras: Welcoming Prosperity and Good Health
Dhanteras marks the beginning of Diwali festivities. The day is associated with Goddess Lakshmi, who represents prosperity, and Lord Dhanvantari, who is linked to Ayurveda and good health.
Many families buy gold, silver or new utensils, believing these purchases symbolise good fortune. Others clean and decorate their homes and offer prayers for a healthy, prosperous year ahead.
How to explain it to children: “Dhanteras is a day to welcome good fortune and pray for health and
happiness. It also reminds us to appreciate the things that make our lives comfortable and joyful.”
2. Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali: Krishna’s Victory over Narakasura
According to a popular story, the demon Narakasura had become cruel and caused suffering. Lord Krishna fought and defeated him, freeing those who had been held captive. His defeat is remembered as the victory of good over evil.
In many parts of India, families celebrate Naraka Chaturdashi with an early morning oil bath, new clothes, festive food and lamps. In some regions, this day is more significant than Diwali night itself.
How to explain it to children: “Lord Krishna stood up to someone who was hurting others. This story reminds us that courage means doing what is right, even when it is difficult.”
3. Diwali and Lakshmi Puja: Rama Returns to Ayodhya
One of the best-known Diwali stories comes from the Ramayana. After 14 years in exile and his victory over Ravana, Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya with Sita and Lakshmana. The people welcomed them by lighting rows of lamps, celebrating the return of their beloved prince.
On Diwali, many Hindu families also perform Lakshmi Puja, praying to Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity and Lord Ganesha for wisdom and auspicious beginnings.
How to explain it to children: “The people of Ayodhya lit lamps because they were happy Rama was home. Diwali reminds us of the victory of good over evil and the joy of welcoming loved ones.”
4. Govardhan Puja: How Krishna Protected a Village
The story of Govardhan Puja tells how Lord Krishna protected the people and animals of Vrindavan from torrential rain. When the villagers faced a storm sent by Indra, the god of rain, Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill on his little finger, giving everyone shelter beneath it.
The story is remembered through prayers and food offerings. In many temples and homes, a variety of dishes are prepared as Annakut, meaning “mountain of food,” and offered to the deities.
How to explain it to children: “Krishna used his strength to protect an entire village. The story reminds us to care for one another and be grateful for the nature that sustains us.”
In some regions, the day is also associated with Bali Pratipada, with its own stories and customs.
5. Bhai Dooj: The Story of Yama and Yamuna
A popular story behind Bhai Dooj tells of Yamuna welcoming her brother Yama, the god of death, into her home. She treated him with love and warmth, and he blessed her. The day became associated with the bond between brothers and sisters.
Today, many families mark Bhai Dooj with a tilak ceremony, prayers for siblings' well-being, sweets and gifts. The exact customs differ across regions; in Maharashtra, the festival is commonly known as Bhau Beej.
How to explain it to children: “Bhai Dooj celebrates the love between brothers and sisters. It is a day to show each other that you care and will be there for one another.”
Are the Five Days of Diwali Celebrated the Same Way Everywhere?
Not quite. Traditions vary across India. In parts of southern India, Naraka Chaturdashi is especially important; many Bengali families celebrate Kali Puja on Diwali night; and in Maharashtra, Bhau Beej is a familiar part of the festive season. Some families observe all five days, while others celebrate the days most meaningful to their community or family.
Discovering the Stories Behind the Five Days of Diwali
Each day of Diwali offers a different story to discover, from Krishna's victory over Narakasura to Rama's return to Ayodhya. Sharing these tales helps children understand the traditions behind the celebrations they see around them.
WonderBuddy’s Bhakti StoryBox and Let’s Sing for Our Gods audio book introduce children to devotional stories, mantras and aartis, helping them discover the traditions and beliefs behind these familiar celebrations.
Whether your family observes all five days or follows a few cherished customs, these stories offer a lovely way to connect children with the many traditions that make Diwali special.
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