New Delhi: What if you come to know that there is a village in the country named after your favourite and the world's biggest Hindu festival? But this is true.

Deepavali is a village in Gara Mandal of Srikakulam district in central Andhra Pradesh that gets its name from one of India's most loved festivals, Diwali. It is a beautiful village that gives a unique flavour to this traditional celebration and makes it an attractive destination for those looking for local customs and heritage.

historical context

There is a legend behind the name of the village. It is said that centuries ago, the king who ruled this area was very religious and often visited the holy Sri Kurmanadha temple in the area. One day, while returning from the temple, he fainted on the road. In such a time of panic, people from the entire village rushed to his aid with oil lamps, gave him water and brought him back to consciousness. When he regained consciousness, he was overwhelmed by the warmth of the people towards him.

The king was pleased and said, you have served me in the light of lamps; from today this village will be called Deepawali. Thus, the village went down in history, named after the festival of lights that symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Since then, Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the village as a tribute to the memory of the king and the villagers who helped him.

Special celebrations

Apart from the Diwali traditions, other traditions in the village also reflect the spirit of merriment that is seen in most Indian festivals. Festivals like Sankranti, grand welcome of the son-in-law, special customs and feasts are also seen in the village, in which families eat together, exchange sweets and share laughter, thereby strengthening relationships.

During Diwali the whole village is lit up with thousands of oil lamps. Rangolis are drawn on the streets and houses, often telling the story of the king and his miraculous recovery.

The highlight of the event is the procession which is an elaborate event in which villagers march in a grand procession and offer prayers. They wear traditional costumes, carry oil lamps and march through the streets to signify the collective effort that helped save the king's life. The procession culminates at the Kurmanadha Temple where special rituals and offerings are performed to seek blessings for the coming year.

Diwali Celebration in Modern Times

Diwali Village attracts many tourists and pilgrims every year, who come to enjoy this different celebration. On the day of Diwali, there is an influx of tourists in this hilly region to witness some of the most vibrant cultures, as well as enjoy all the rituals as part of the celebration.

The name of the village and its historical story have also attracted scholars and historians to the cultural and social dynamics that have shaped its identity. Deepawali Village is evidence of the enduring power of tradition and shows how a community can gain strength and unity from its past.