Diwali 2022: 4 Reasons Why The Festival Isn't As Popular In Kerala

Diwali is the most popular Hindu festival celebrated throughout India. It has even been recognised in foreign countries, thanks to the Indian diaspora, and many companies offer a holiday for employees as well.

However, there is one state in India that does not celebrate Diwali like the rest of the country. It is Kerala, and they have valid reasons for it. Here’s why God’s Own Country does not celebrate the festival of lights like the rest of India.

Keralites Follow Different Mythology

In the North and many other parts of India, Diwali is supposed to be the day when Lord Ram and Goddess Sita returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. Before the grand celebration, people also celebrate Narak Chaudas (Choti Diwali).

In Kerala, Diwali is observed as the defeat of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna. Keralites worship Lord Krishna and visit temples. Lord Ram and Lord Krishna were both human forms of Lord Vishnu.

Climate Is Different

Diwali in the North marks the change in season. It brings an end to the monsoon season and marks the onset of winter. On the other hand, Kerala follows a completely different cycle.

Since the state is near the equator, there is no end to monsoons or the start of winter. It is one of the reasons why the festival is not as popular in the state. It does not hold the same significance pertaining to the seasons as in the other parts of the country.

Religious Difference

If we take the population into account, Kerala has a higher number of Christians than Hindus. It is one of the reasons why one would not witness Diwali in full fervour in the state unlike in other parts of India.

Keralites give major priority to Onam and Christmas. Onam is the annual festival that marks the harvest season. One can see the entire state light up and houses and streets decorated in vibrant colours. By the time Diwali arrives, people in the state have just gotten over celebrating Onam. Therefore, Diwali here does not evoke the same festive vibes as much as it does in the North.

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Geographic Barriers

If one sees the geography, Kerala is flanked by natural barriers, the Western Ghats. In the past, it did not make it easy for people from other cultures to infiltrate and mingle with Keralites.

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The exchange of culture was easier through sea than land. Hence, Vedic culture established its roots in the state later than in other parts of India. The non-tribal communities of Kerala have had a greater Dravidian influence. Hence, Diwali is not popular here.

Cultural, geographic, agricultural importance and other factors play a crucial role in deciding the importance of a festival, especially in a country like India, where crops and seasons drive economies. However, with shifts in time, Keralites have begun celebrating Diwali more, but in a low-key setting.

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