Diwali - Festival of Lights
दिवाली
Diwali, celebrated in October or November across India, is the Festival of Lights marking the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. Families light diyas (oil lamps), exchange gifts, burst fireworks, and prepare traditional sweets during this five-day celebration.
Key facts
- Diwali is celebrated on the new moon day (Amavasya) in the Hindu month of Kartik (October-November).
- The festival celebrates Lord Rama's return from exile and his victory over the demon Ravana.
- Families clean and decorate homes, light diyas and candles, and create colorful rangoli designs.
- Traditional sweets like gulab jamun, barfi, and kheer are prepared and exchanged as gifts.
- Lakshmi Puja, the worship of the goddess of wealth, is performed on Diwali evening.
- People wear new clothes, burst firecrackers, and celebrate with family and friends.
Details
Diwali, known as Deepavali (row of lights), is the most significant festival across India, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains. The five-day celebration begins with Dhanteras, followed by Choti Diwali, Diwali (main day), Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj. On Diwali evening, households perform Lakshmi Puja to invite prosperity and wealth. The festival symbolizes the triumph of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana after 14 years of exile, as narrated in the Ramayana. Traditional practices include creating intricate rangoli (colored powder designs) on the floor, lighting oil diyas throughout the home, and preparing festive meals with sweets and savories. Cities across India are decorated with colorful lights and lanterns, creating a spectacular sight during the evening hours. The festival also marks the beginning of the new year in some regions and is celebrated with equal enthusiasm in Indian communities worldwide. Modern celebrations blend traditional customs with contemporary decorations, fireworks, and shopping, making Diwali a vibrant and joyous occasion.