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Diwali is …

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an ancient Hindu festival celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy across India and many other parts of the world. The festival signifies the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, and it holds immense cultural and religious significance.

During Diwali, people illuminate their homes with earthen diyas (oil lamps) and decorative lights, creating a beautiful and vibrant atmosphere. The streets are adorned with colorful rangolis (artistic designs made with colored powders or flower petals) that symbolize auspiciousness and invite prosperity into homes.

One of the main rituals of Diwali is the Lakshmi Puja, where devotees offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. It is believed that on this auspicious day, Goddess Lakshmi visits homes and blesses them with abundance and good fortune. People clean their houses, decorate them with flowers and garlands, and prepare delicious traditional sweets and snacks to offer to the goddess.

Fireworks and firecrackers are an integral part of Diwali celebrations, signifying the triumph of light over darkness. The night sky dazzles with vibrant colors and sparkling lights as people burst fireworks to celebrate the festive spirit.

Beyond the religious and cultural significance, Diwali is also an occasion for family gatherings and socializing. People exchange gifts and sweets with their loved ones, visit relatives and friends, and share festive meals together. It is a time when people set aside their differences and come together to celebrate the joyous festival.

Diwali is not only celebrated among Hindus but also embraced by people of various other religions and communities, showcasing the diversity and unity of India. It is a time when people come together to cherish the values of love, compassion, and harmony.

As the festival of Diwali approaches, the air is filled with excitement and anticipation. The markets and shops are bustling with people buying new clothes, festive decorations, and traditional items. The aroma of incense sticks and sweet delicacies fills the air, adding to the festive ambiance.

Diwali is a magical festival that brings brightness and happiness into the lives of millions of people. It is a time to rejoice, reflect, and seek blessings for a prosperous future. May the festival of lights bring joy, peace, and prosperity to your life and the lives of your loved ones. Happy Diwali!

The word Diwali originates from the Sanskrit word, Deepavali, which means, row of lights.

It is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists in South Asia and its diaspora, and also by non-community members nowadays. It marks different events for each community but it celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

In preparation for the festival, homes are cleaned and decorated with fresh garlands and rangolis.

A rangoli is a colourful design that is made on the ground to the entrance of the home to welcome visitors. 

Rows of diyas, which are clay lamps, and nowadays, even electric lights, are placed on rooftops, outside doorways, along windowsills, and all around the home. New clothes are purchased and adorned.

Activities include rituals, feasting with loved ones, distributing sweet treats to friends, family and neighbours, and lighting fireworks.