Diwali Diya

The thirteenth day from Poornima (Full Moon) (Dhanatrayodashi or Dhanteras). This is the first day of Diwali. "Dhan" means "wealth" and "Teras" means "thirteenth day". This is the day for praying the goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth. For some places in India, the lamps are kept burning for Lord Yamaraj, the God of Death.The fourteenth day Chhoti Diwali or Narak chaturdashi is celebrated. Hindus believe that on this is the day Lord Krishna destroyed the demon Narakasur, to set the world free from fear. Firecrackers are often let off from this day.The new moon day of the dark fortnight of Ashvin is celebrated as Diwali Lakshmi pooja Lakshmipujan. This is the actual day of Diwali, and the most significant day of the festival. If the house has not already been cleaned, it must be done early this day to welcome the Goddess Lakshmi. Gifts and sweets are exchanged on this day to strengthen bonds of love between family and friends. Firecrackers are let off after Laxmi Pooja.The first day of the bright fortnight of Kartik (Balipratipada Padiwa Goverdhan puja Varshapratipada). This is the day that Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Parvat to protect the people of Gokul from Indra's wrath and King Vikramaditya was crowned.