Sat Nov 16 13:35:08 IST 2024: **Dev Diwali Celebrated with Fervor as Tripurari Purnima: Varanasi Dazzles with Lights**
VARANASI, INDIA – Dev Diwali, also known as Tripurari Purnima, was celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, particularly in Varanasi. This Hindu festival, falling on Kartik Purnima, commemorates Lord Shiva’s victory over the demon Tripurasura.
According to Hindu mythology, Tripurasura, a powerful demon with three sons, terrorized the three worlds. After failing to obtain immortality from Brahma, he secured a boon making his death nearly impossible – only achievable if his three citadels were aligned and destroyed simultaneously by a single arrow. Distressed by Tripurasura’s tyranny, the Gods sought Lord Shiva’s intervention.
Shiva, using the earth as his chariot, the sun and moon as wheels, and Mount Meru as his bow, and Vasuki as his bowstring, fulfilled the impossible task. He destroyed Tripurasura’s three citadels with a single arrow when they were perfectly aligned during the auspicious Abhijit Nakshatra on Kartik Purnima. This act earned Shiva the epithet “Tripurari” (conqueror of Tripura).
In celebration of this divine victory, the Gods illuminated the city of Kashi (Varanasi) with lamps, marking the origin of Dev Diwali. Today, Varanasi transforms into a breathtaking spectacle of light as thousands gather along the ghats of the Ganges River, offering prayers and floating diyas (oil lamps) down the river. The event draws visitors from across India and the world.
The festival also holds significance for its emphasis on charity and ritual bathing in the Ganges. Devotees believe that performing these acts on Kartik Purnima brings immense merit and washes away sins.
**Note:** While this article recounts the mythological narrative surrounding Dev Diwali, its accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Consult with relevant experts before basing actions on this information. (Disclaimer provided in original text)
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LUCKNOW, INDIA – The Allahabad High Court has ordered a CBI investigation into allegations of nepotism and corruption surrounding 186 recent appointments to the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly. The court described the situation as a “shocking scam,” noting that nearly all appointments appear to have favored relatives of VIP officials or politicians.
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