Lord Krishna proclaims, jñāna-dīpena bhāsvatā, “I, dwelling in their hearts, destroy with the shining lamp of knowledge the darkness born of ignorance.”
– Bhagavad Gita (10.11) –
“Deepa” means light, and “avali” means numerous, so Deepavali signifies “numerous lights.” When Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana and rescuing Sita, the citizens welcomed Him by lighting numerous lamps in celebration.
Deepavali is also observed as the day when Lord Krishna killed the demon Narakasura, who symbolized ignorance, and liberated the earth from his tyranny. Additionally, in the purport of Śrīmad Bhāgavatam (Canto 10, Chapter 9, Verses 1-2), Śrīla Prabhupāda mentions that the pastime of Krishna breaking the pot of yogurt and being bound by Mother Yaśodā occurred on Dīpāvalī, or Dīpa-mālikā. Even today in India, this festival is celebrated in the month of Kārtika with grand displays of fireworks and lights, especially in places like Bombay.
However, the deeper meaning of Deepavali goes beyond the symbolic lighting of lamps. The true essence is to ignite the lamp of knowledge within our hearts, dispelling the darkness of ignorance. It is a festival to welcome the Lord into our lives and to reconnect with Him through love and devotion.
Festival Donation Opportunities
Offer a lamp on this sacred day to Śrī Śrī Rādhā Madanamohana on the festive of Deepavali.
Be a sponsor of the special mahā-prasādam offered to Śrī Śrī Rādhā Madanamohana on the auspicious Deepavali.
Contribute towards decorating the altar and temple hall of ISKM with colourful flower garlands, mango leaves and banana plants on the day of Deepavali
Contribute towards decorating the Deities of Śrī Śrī Rādhā Madanamohana with colorful flower garlands on the day of Deepavali
General contribution to this festival in support of the transcendental Deepavali
Program Schedule