What is Diwali All About and How is it Celebrated?

Significance of Diwali 

Diwali is the festival of lights, a significant celebration that originated in India.  Many people around the world celebrate this important tradition including Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and some Buddists. Although each religion celebrates this festival in different ways, this five day festival focuses on light over darkness and good over evil to signify new beginnings. Diwali honours Lakshmi (the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity). This tradition runs between October to mid November. This year, Diwali will be observed on November 4th, 2021. 

Celebrating Diwali 

Although, families may celebrate Diwali in different ways, here are some common traditions: 

• • •  At the beginning of the celebration, families usually clean their homes to prepare for this festival. 
    • The homes are decorated with rangoli art which consists of designing detailed patterns on the ground using sand, flower petals or dry rice flour. 
    • Homes are lit up with ‘diyas’ which are small clay lamps and are usually placed in rows. The goal is to help the goddess locate her way into people’s homes which is believed to bring prosperity. 
    • Fireworks are another popular activity during Diwali. 
    • Bright colours and ethnic clothing are usually worn during Diwali. 
    • There are often exchanges of gifts and sweets, opens a new window.

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