GUWAHATI: Guwahati’s Diwali festivities witness the city come to life with diverse cultural expressions, as different communities bring unique traditions to Lakshmi Puja and Kali Puja festivities.
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A cultural mosaic of indigenous people, the area is divided between Assamese Hindus, Bengali Hindus, a vibrant Hindi-speaking community, and several other indigenous tribes like the Bodos, Ahoms, and Mishings, each adding their customs to the festival.
For most Assamese Hindus, Diwali centres around the goddess Kali, as Kali Puja is celebrated with fervour by most Assamese households. All Assamese people contribute to elaborate decorations, pandals (temporary shrines), and the worship of Goddess Kali, symbolising strength and the removal of evil.
Meanwhile, the Bengalis of Assam also hold Kali Puja ceremonies of the highest grandeur, followed by offering traditional bhog (food offerings) and lighting fireworks. Pandu and Maligaon are the two places in Guwahati that witness the full swing of Kali Puja celebrations.
However, for the Hindi-speaking community, the prevalence of Lakshmi Puja is noticed during Diwali. With the other communities already celebrating Lakshmi’s blessings during Durga Puja, the Hindi-speaking community are known for worshipping the wealth goddess during Dhanteras, as they seek for the prosperity and wealth of their families.
Thus, Diwali in Assam thus reflects the state's rich cultural diversity, where communities adapt their rituals to create a unique regional blend of tradition and modernity. While some focus on Kali’s power and strength, others invite Lakshmi’s grace and prosperity, all adding to the vibrant Diwali tapestry in Assam.