Diwali has always been known as the Festival of Lights. However, with the introduction of cheap Chinese lights, the traditional diyas are losing their sheen. There was a time when the potters were able to make a living by just making diyas throughout the year and during Diwali, the sales would go up. Today most of the potters have opted for another profession.
Image Source: AFP
Image Source: PTI
Image Source: PTI
Photo by Dibyangshu SARKAR / AFP
Potters arrange earthen pots in the sun.
Photo by Dibyangshu SARKAR / AFP
Potters arrange earthen pots in the sunlight for drying.
Photo by Dibyangshu SARKAR / AFP
Potters colours diyas on the outskirts of Kolkata.
Photo by Dibyangshu SARKAR / AFP
This coloured diyas are again sun dried.
Significance of lighting diyas
Lighting diyas is an integral part of Diwali. The festival marks the triumph of light over darkness, the good over evil. Our neighbourhood comes alive with the excitement of the festival and these diyas add fervour to the festive spirit. According to mythology, when Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman were making their way home after 14 years in exile, it was a moonless night and hence the people of Ayodhya lit diyas to welcome them.