Bhubaneswar, Nov 8: Diwali is more than a festival of lights, sweets and celebrations. It is a celebration of faith, hope and the eternal victory of good over evil. As millions of Indians prepare to celebrate Diwali 2026, the festival offers an opportunity to revisit the ancient story that gives it one of its most powerful meanings — the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya.

According to the Ramayana, Lord Rama spent 14 years in exile with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana. During this period, Ravana, the king of Lanka, abducted Sita, leading to a battle between Rama and Ravana. After defeating Ravana and rescuing Sita, Rama returned to Ayodhya after completing his exile.

Overjoyed by the return of their beloved prince, the people of Ayodhya are traditionally believed to have illuminated the kingdom with rows of oil lamps. This homecoming is widely associated with the celebration of Diwali, also known as Deepavali, meaning a row of lights.

But why do we celebrate this occasion even today?

The answer goes beyond mythology. Diwali represents the victory of dharma (righteousness) over adharma (unrighteousness), knowledge over ignorance and light over darkness. Rama's victory reminds us that power and arrogance cannot stand above truth and morality.

The festival is also associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, who represents wealth, prosperity and abundance. Families perform Lakshmi Puja, seeking happiness, peace and good fortune. In different parts of India, Diwali also carries other religious and cultural meanings, including the defeat of Narakasura and the attainment of nirvana by Lord Mahavira.

Interestingly, the Ramayana connection also offers a deeper personal lesson. Ravana was a learned and powerful king, yet his ego and arrogance contributed to his downfall. His story reminds us that the greatest battles are not always fought on the battlefield; sometimes, they are fought against our own anger, greed, jealousy and pride.

That is perhaps the real significance of Diwali in 2026.

Lighting a diya is not simply a ritual. It symbolises our willingness to remove negativity and bring kindness, honesty and compassion into our lives.

Centuries after Rama's return to Ayodhya, the tradition of lighting lamps continues to unite families and communities across India.

This Diwali, let us celebrate not just the return of Lord Rama, but the values he represents. Because the true meaning of Deepavali lies not only in illuminating our homes, but also in keeping the light of goodness alive within us.