Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a major festival in Hindu culture. It celebrates the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.
Celebration
- Dates: Diwali is typically celebrated in October or November, marking the lunar month of Kartik.
- Duration: It lasts for five days.
- Activities: The festival involves lighting lamps and candles, performing puja (worship), distributing sweets, and fireworks.
Significance
- Lakshmi Puja: The first day of Diwali is dedicated to the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi.
- Rama's Return: The second day celebrates the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana.
- Krishna's Play: The third day commemorates the divine play of Lord Krishna with the cowherd girls.
Traditions
- Diyas: Small earthen lamps are lit in homes and outside buildings.
- Rangoli: Colorful patterns are created on the floor using colored rice, dry flour, or flower petals.
- Sweets: Various sweets are made and shared with family and friends.
Diwali Rangoli
Learning Resources
For more information about Diwali and other global festivals, visit our Global Festivals page.
If you're looking to learn more about the cultural significance of Diwali or other festivals, our Global Festivals page offers a wealth of resources.