The Festival of Light - Diwali

The Hindu festival of Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm by Hindus all across the world. It is a five-day holiday, and the third day is known as the Festival of Lights. During this period, various types of fireworks are lit in a myriad of colors. Many Hindus light up their houses and light up candles and perform a ritual known as a puja to the Goddess of Wealth. The festival continues with the exchange of gifts.

The various rituals performed during this festival have a unique significance. The illumination of the houses with lights and the fireworks in the sky are considered to be expressions of respect for the heavens. Firecrackers are also lit to signify the abundance of joy on Earth. One of the main reasons why people light them is to make the gods aware of the people's blessings.

Diwali festivals differ depending on the region of India. For instance, in Western and Northern India, the festivities start with the festival of Dhanteras and last for five days. On the other hand, in Southern India, the festival is shorter. On the same night that Hindus celebrate Diwali, Jains celebrate a festival of lights to mark the attainment of moksha by Mahavira, Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas, and some Buddhists also celebrate Diwali remembering Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism. Diwali is an official holiday in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Guyana, Mauritius, Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname, Fiji, Malaysia, and Singapore, and it is also celebrated in many other countries.