The world of Tzu Chi May 2021 (Vol.134)

In western India, Deepavali is associated with the legend ofVamana, the fifth incarnation of LordVishnu. When the Asura King Bali held a ritual according to the Vedic tradition, all who were present were given a gift. By the time Vamana arrived, Bali informed that he came too late and there was no more gift for him. Vamana thus requested Bali to allow him to walk three steps, and give the area he stepped over as a gift. Thinking it was only three steps of land, Bali agreed. To his surprise, Vamana suddenly transformed into a giant. He covered the entire earth with his first step, and the sky with his second. Then, he asked Bali, “Where should I put my third step?” Only then Bali realized that Vamana was actually Lord Vishnu. So, he bowed his head and let Vamana step over him. Having tricked and tamed Bali, Vamana released all of Bali’s captives, including Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth, and Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. Both of them descended to the human world and brought prosperity to mankind. In southern India, another legend has it that Lord Vishnu killed the devilish Narakasura, thus defeating the evil and saving the people from harm. So, the Festival of Lights was in celebration of the death of this devil. (3) Vamana defeated the Asura King Mahabali Deepavali is believed to be the birthday of Lakshmi, the consort of Lord Vishnu and the goddess of wealth and happiness. Thus, Hindus worship her on this day, hoping that she will bestow more wealth and happiness upon them, with businessmen praying for prosperous business. In certain parts of India, people would also worship Goddess Kali on Deepavali. (4) A celebration of Goddess Lakshmi’s birthday TZU CHI 134 19