Diwali Gifts That Bring Back Good fortune for the Giver! Ritual based Gifting Ideas for Celebrations News24 –
Diwali festivities have started — and just like the few of us, you’ve probably forgotten what to get for your friends as well. Well, even if you haven’t, this list will give you an idea of how gifting can lead to good fortune. We have prepared this list based on rituals from around the world, and in it, we’ve listed a wide range of items that are believed to bring good luck and fortune to the giver. So, if you’re planning a last-minute gift-buying spree, this is the right list for you.
Gold and silver coins – a tradition from ancient India and Europe
Historic rituals of India, the Middle East, and Europe regard gold and silver as pure and as symbols of wealth and power. In ancient India, gold coins were gifted during Diwali and Dhanteras as these festivals are associated with Goddess Lakshmi. In Europe, silver coins are often gifted at baptisms and weddings. Hence, gifting your sisters, friends, and relatives gold or silver coins will always lead to positive outcomes in life.
Salt – a tradition followed in Japan, Europe, and the Middle East
In the olden days, salt was used as currency in barter systems. Since then, the exchange of salt has always been considered an auspicious ceremony. In Japanese Shinto rituals, salt is sprinkled to purify spaces. It’s also the first gift that Europeans give along with bread and wine during housewarmings, as it brings abundance for both parties. Hence, salt could be a perfect gift.
But of course, it isn’t fancy enough to gift — you can go in for some high-quality pink salt or a Himalayan salt lamp for the perfect gift idea.
Cash gifts in red envelopes
As per the Hongbao custom in China, red envelopes are known for warding off evil. Hence, cash gifts in red envelopes always lead to a positive aura. The money, as per the Hongbao tradition, further symbolizes longevity, prosperity, and good fortune.
Lucky bamboo and money plants
In Chinese culture and Feng Shui, lucky bamboo attracts positive energy. Two stalks symbolize love and harmony, three stalks symbolize happiness, wealth, and long life, and five stalks symbolize wealth. These are some of the easiest presents to get, as Blinkit, Amazon, and Zepto are replete with such products.
Scented candles and lamps
Light has long been regarded as a symbol of hope and knowledge, and its presence is ubiquitous across different religions. Hence, gifting these to your friends and relatives could be another perfect choice. Lights are regarded as a good omen in Diwali, Hanukkah in Judaism, and in Christianity, where they symbolize hope, peace, and joy. So you can’t go wrong with a lamp or scented candles, really.
Perfumes and spices
Perfumes and spices were often considered to be the gifting items of the elite in the olden times in the Arab world and during the European Renaissance period. These were traded across ancient Silk Roads and offered to royalty and deities. So gifting your friends some authentic spices and perfumes could double down rewards for you as well.
Oranges and fruits
The Chinese consider gifting tangerines as a good fortune for both parties and believe that it brings prosperity and wealth. In Japan, tangerines are offered during New Year and temple visits. In Mediterranean cultures, pomegranates represent fertility and abundance. Hence, if you seek to give the ultimate gift to your friends, maybe you can complement your offerings with a side of some Valencia oranges or tangerines.
Gifts always reaffirm the profound bond of blood and friendship, and hence it’s only inevitable that they should mimic the warmth of gratitude.