WHAT IS DIWALI?

Deepavali, commonly known as Diwali, occurs 20 days after Dussehra. Many myths, gods and goddesses are associated with the festival. As per the most popular myth, Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama, his brother Lakshmana and wife Sita after 14 years in exile. He returns after defeating the Lankan King Ravana who had abducted Sita. Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Ganesha, the god of good beginnings, are worshipped on this festival. People light lamps, decorate their homes, draw intricate floor patterns in an art form known as rangoli, exchange gifts and set off fireworks in celebration.

WHERE IS DIWALI CELEBRATED?

Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists in countries like India, Nepal and Sri Lanka celebrate Diwali. Diasporas in places around the world also mark the occasion. These include Britain, the United States, Canada and elsewhere.

WHY DO THEY CELEBRATE IT?

Deepavali is a portmanteau of the words deepa, meaning “lamp”, and avali, meaning “row.” During Deepavali, or Diwali, the celebrators light rows of lamps that line the outside of their homes. The deepas symbolize the light that protects each household from spiritual darkness.

While the significance of Diwali and the myths associated with it vary by region, the common theme of the festival is the victory of light over darkness. These myths focus on righteousness, self-inquiry and, according to noted scholar Lindsey Harlan, the importance of knowledge as the path to overcome “the darkness of ignorance.”

Diwali celebrates the harvest following the monsoon rains in the Indian subcontinent. Most households worship Lakshmi because she symbolizes wealth and prosperity, fertility and abundant crops, and good fortune.