Author: Abdhesh Jha*
Deepavali falls on the Amavasya (new moon) of the month of Kartik, when the Sun is in Libra (the sign of Venus) and the Moon is in Scorpio. On this day, both luminaries are considered debilitated, symbolizing a time of low energy and absence of light. Yet, it is precisely in this darkest phase that we invoke the power of illumination — this is the hidden astrological mystery of Deepavali.
Astrological Insight:
According to Jyotish (Vedic astrology), when the Sun and Moon are weak, lighting lamps symbolizes the awakening of the inner light of the soul. The Upanishadic prayer —
“Tamaso mā jyotir gamaya” — Lead me from darkness to light is embodied in this sacred festival.
Planetary and Spiritual Confluence:
During Deepavali, Venus (significator of wealth and beauty, representing Goddess Lakshmi) and Jupiter (significator of wisdom and dharma) hold special influence. When a person engages in pure thoughts, truthfulness, and charity during this period, the benefic effects of Venus and Jupiter multiply manifold. Hence, Deepavali is regarded as the meeting point of Dharma (righteousness) and Dhana (prosperity).
Five Planetary Days of Deepavali:
Dhanteras (Trayodashi) – Worship of Lord Dhanvantari, bestower of health and wealth; harmonizes the energy of Venus.
Naraka Chaturdashi – Removal of tamas (ignorance), purification of Mars.
Deepavali (Amavasya) – Balance between the Sun and Moon, the union of inner and outer light.
Govardhan Puja (Pratipada) – Reverence to the Earth element; pacifies Saturn.
Bhai Dooj (Dwitiya) – Celebration of emotional harmony; balance between Moon and Mercury.
Thus, each day of this five-day festival connects to a planet, aligning the five elements of human existence in harmony.
Festival of the Inner Light:
The lamp (deepa) is not just a source of external light — it represents the inner flame of consciousness that dispels the darkness of ignorance. The Upanishads declare:
“Dīpo na nāmarūpebhyaḥ paraḥ” — The light (of the Self) transcends name and form.
When we light lamps outside, they remind us to ignite the lamp of knowledge within.
The Secret of Goddess Lakshmi:
Lakshmi does not only signify material wealth but manifests as seven forms — wealth, food, progeny, victory, knowledge, patience, and inner contentment.
She dwells only where there is purity, virtue, and truth.
Thus, the real purpose behind cleaning and decorating homes is the purification of mind, intellect, and heart.
From Ravana’s Ego to Rama’s Light:
Historically, Deepavali marks Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya — but spiritually, it signifies the triumph of the Self (Rama) over Ego (Ravana).
When Rama’s light awakens within, Ayodhya — the heart — becomes illuminated.
Jai Shri Ram!
A Time for Silence and Meditation:
Kartik Amavasya is highly auspicious for meditation. With the Moon absent, the mind (governed by the Moon) naturally attains stillness. Observing silence, meditation, or mantra recitation on this day leads to rapid spiritual elevation. Thus, Deepavali is not just a festival of celebration but also of introspection.
Spiritual Essence:
Astrologically, when the outer planets reside in darkness, we must light the lamp within.
Spiritually, this lamp is the light of the Self — eternal and indestructible.
“Dīpajyotiḥ paraṁ Brahma dīpajyotir Janārdanaḥ
Dīpo haratu me pāpaṁ sandhyādīpa namo’stu te.”
Deepavali, in its truest sense, is the festival of journeying from the outer flame to the inner divine light (Brahmajyoti) —
where illumination shines not only in homes, but also in the soul.
