By Bhaktisiddhanta Swami
The meanings of Dipavali, its symbols and rituals, and the reasons for celebration are innumerable. Dipavali celebrates Lord Rama’s glorious and long-awaited return to His Kingdom of Ayodhya after his fourteen long years of exile in the forests.
It commemorates Lord Krsna’s victory over the demon Narakasura who had kidnapped and terrorized the gopis of Vrndavana. Before the evil Naraka was finally killed by Bhagavan Krsna in the presence of Satyabhama, he begged pitifully for mercy; thus, upon his entreaties, it was declared that this day of his death would be celebrated with great joy and festivity. It is also celebrated as the day Bhagavan Visnu married Maha Laksmi.
Dipavali is also associated with the story of the fall of Bali – a demon king who was conquered by Lord Visnu. Lord Visnu appeared to the demon king Bali in the form of a dwarf and requested only three steps of land. Bali granted the drawf’s meager request of only three feet. Suddenly, Lord Visnu took on His grand size and placed one foot on the Earth, another on the Heavens and His third on the head of Bali.

In general, Dipavali signifies the triumph of good over evil, of righteousness over treachery, of truth over falsehood, and of light over darkness.
Last night at Radha-kunda, a multi step lamp offering was made, many pilgrims offered individual lamps from the banks; a maha arotik was also performed by devotee from Iskcon.
May one and all have a unique Diwalli day(where ever you are), more importantly than personal gain, may new unprecedented victories come in the protection and preservation of Braja Dhama.
Best wishes
Your servant
Bhaktisiddhanta Swami