why people gamble on diwali
Why People Gamble on Diwali: A Celebration of Fortune, Faith, and FestivityDiwali, the Festival of Lights, is a time of joy, celebration, and renewal across India and the world. While the festival is traditionally associated with the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance, it has also become intertwined with another facet: gambling. The urge to gamble during Diwali stems from a unique confluence of factors:1. A Celebration of Luck and Fortune: Diwali is synonymous with prosperity, wealth, and good fortune. The festival marks the return of Lord Rama and his wife Sita to Ayodhya after their 14year exile. This victory is seen as a symbol of conquering obstacles and attaining success, making it a natural time to celebrate and invoke luck.2. The Playful Spirit of the Festival: Diwali is a time for family gatherings, feasts, and entertainment. Gambling, particularly games of chance like cards and dice, is often seen as a fun and exciting way to add an element of excitement to the celebrations. 3. A Belief in Propitious Timing: Diwali is believed to be an auspicious time for new beginnings, making it a propitious occasion to test ones luck and try their hand at gambling. People may believe that gambling during this time could bring them good fortune for the year ahead.4. Traditional Practices and Rituals: While the act of gambling is not a direct part of Diwali rituals, certain games like paasa dice and satlu a game played with cowrie shells have been historically associated with the festival. These games were traditionally played during the festival as a means of entertainment and a chance to engage in friendly competition.5. Social and Cultural Influence: In many communities, gambling during Diwali is a deeply ingrained tradition, passed down through generations. It serves as a way to connect with family and friends and to partake in a shared cultural experience.However, its important to note that gambling should always be approached responsibly. While it can be a fun part of the Diwali festivities, it should never be taken as a guaranteed path to wealth or fortune. Excessive gambling can lead to financial hardship and addiction. Diwali is a time for joy, celebration, and togetherness. While gambling can be an enjoyable aspect of the festivities, it should always be approached with moderation and responsibility, ensuring that the true spirit of the festival remains at the heart of the celebrations.