Today we have replaced oil/ghee lamps with electric lights and bulbs, thinking that it is all about lightings. But if we see it on a deeper level, Maharajshri explains, that lighting oil lamps have always been a part of our traditions not only because it is cost-effective and can be afforded easily but also because it has strong scientific and spiritual reasons. Lighting mud lamps with ghee, mustard or sesame oil has certain significances. The light rays emitted from these lamps have wavelengths and radiations that purify the environment within and out.

Lamps lit with oil radiate vibrations that have more ‘Raja’ particles to attract health, wealth and prosperity. Whereas, the ones lit with ghee preferably made out of cow milk, tends to emit strong vibrations with ‘Satva’ particles. Maharajshri also says that, lighting a diya made out of fresh dough of floor with ghee has the power to negate the negative energy and emit high-frequency positive rays.

On Dhanteras, scriptures explain that it is very beneficial to lit ‘Chaumukhadiya; mud lamp with four corners’ with sesame oil in the Dakshin or south direction. It emits powerful rays that penetrates into the ozone layer because of its high wavelength and nullifies the impact of negative ultraviolet radiations coming from the south. This direction is said to be Yama Disha that brings disease or illness. By doing so one negates this negative energy. The oil lamps lit on Deepawali stands for removing the darkness from ones life in both literary and spiritual terms. They signify the welcoming of happiness and light in our lives.

Furthermore, according to Sanatan Dharma, lighting a lamp is a symbol of ‘Prakash’ or ‘Enlightenment’. Maharajshri expresses that, this Deepawali may you light the lamp of wisdom within, the lamp of love in your heart, the lamp of togetherness in your home. May it spread the light of peace, progress and strength for every individual. Lighting oil/ghee lamps should stand as a symbol for enlightenment within and peace outside.