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Diwali: Myths and matter
 It is just a day before the festival of lights. According to Hindu scriptures, Diwali should be celebrated for five consecutive days at the end of Hindu month of Ashwin (Ashwayuja). The festival comes exactly twenty days after Dussehra. Hindus and Sikhs alike regard it as a celebration of life and use the occasion to strengthen family and social relationships.
According to mythology, Diwali marks Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana. Some also view it as the day Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura. For some others, Diwali is to commemorate the day Bali went to rule the netherworld obeying the order of Vishnu. In India, Diwali is now considered a national festival, the aesthetic aspect of which is enjoyed by most Indians regardless of their religious beliefs.
Even though the global economic situation sulks, bomb terror looms large and untimely rains clamour on obstinately, Kolkata is ready with a platter of festive offers for the Diwali shopper.
For the past couple of years, Diwali and Kali puja have coincided bringing together the four corners of the country residing in this metropolitan. Starting with Dhanteras, this festive line promises prosperity and showers discounts on jewellery to Jacuzzi. Although the myth behind Dhanteras – samudramanthan and the re-emergence of Lakshmi out of foam – is of little interest to the urban tribes, hot shades to wear this Diwali are high on the cards.
This year, gold is busting the charts with its price. But that is not where it ends. In the midst of the economic depression that, according to the PM, is bound to affect India, buyers want to invest big. So much so indeed that Gold Factory has launched its ‘Pure Gold Spaghetti Strap Tops’ and ‘Insta Bangles’ where one can choose a design and get the delivery the same day!
Big names in the world of electronics are on a more debonair competition. While some companies offer new products on satiating discounts, certain retail chains are offering free air conditioners for purchases above Rs. 50,000!
Kolkata is encouraging a life (of) style that has attracted all leading designer brands like Ritu Kumar, Satya Paul, Komal Sood, Biba and Fi, to set up their stalls at all leading shopping malls like South City, Forum or City Centre. So, this Diwali finds a range of the right shades, fusion wear, face and hairdo, not to forget meretricious details like combinations of sequins on kurtas, or mirrorwork to jazz up plain cushion covers.
For sure, Diwali decoration is the show-stealer this year. From fancy stores like Starmark and Nik-Nish down to the hawkers at Gariahat – everywhere the line of exquisite diyas, waxworks and candle stands is reaching high prices.
In Kolkata, celebrations are not complete without mishtimukh. Confectionaries are catering to the sweet tooth with novel delicacies of cashew nuts, almonds and jiggery, to name the least. So happy celebrations, everyone!
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