| Shabari is a significant character in the Indian epic Ramayana, known for her utmost devotion to Lord Rama. She was a tribal woman who lived in a forest and spent her life in the service of God. Her story is often associated with the festival of Diwali, which celebrates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after his 14-year exile and victory over the demon king Ravana. Shabari was born in a tribal family and was forced to marry at a young age. However, she ran away from her home to avoid the marriage and took refuge in the ashram of Sage Matanga at the foothills of the Mountain Rishyamukha. She served the sage with great dedication until his death. Before dying, Sage Matanga told Shabari that Lord Rama would visit her one day and she should offer him hospitality. Shabari waited for the arrival of Lord Rama every day. She would go to the forest and collect the best berries for him. She would taste each one to ensure that only the sweetest berries were offered to Lord Rama. This act of tasting the berries before offering them to God is often seen as a symbol of her pure devotion and love for God, which transcends the traditional norms and rituals. One day, during his search for his wife Sita, Lord Rama along with his brother Lakshmana visited the ashram of Sage Matanga. Shabari, filled with joy and devotion, welcomed them and offered the berries she had collected. Lord Rama was touched by her devotion and ate the berries with great delight. He blessed Shabari and granted her the boon of liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The story of Shabari is a reminder that God does not differentiate between his devotees based on their caste, gender, or social status. It emphasizes that pure devotion and love for God are the only things that matter. As for Diwali, it is a major Hindu festival celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy. It marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana and completing his 14-year exile. People light up their homes with diyas (oil lamps), burst firecrackers, and exchange sweets to celebrate the victory of good over evil. The story of Shabari is often narrated during this festival as a symbol of devotion and love for God. |