Diwali (or Deepavali, "row of lights") is the Hindu festival of lights, celebrated in October or November on the new moon night of the Hindu month of Kartika. It is one of the most important festivals of the year and is celebrated over five days.

The Stories of Diwali

Several stories are linked to Diwali:

The return of Rama, his wife Sita and his brother Lakshmana to the city of Ayodhya after fourteen years in exile and the defeat of the ten-headed demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya lit oil lamps to welcome them home.
The worship of Lakshmi, goddess of wealth, who visits well-lit and clean homes.
The killing of the demon Narakasura by the avatar Krishna.

How Diwali is Celebrated

Homes are cleaned from top to bottom so that Lakshmi will visit.
Coloured patterns called rangoli are drawn at the front door to welcome guests and gods.
Small oil lamps (divas) are lit and placed everywhere - on windowsills, around the home and on streets.
Families share sweets such as ladoo and barfi.
People wear new clothes, exchange gifts and light fireworks.

Diwali is also celebrated by Sikhs (to mark the release of Guru Hargobind from prison) and Jains (to mark Lord Mahavira reaching moksha). For Hindus, it is above all a festival of light overcoming darkness and good overcoming evil.

Y8 Hinduism

Diwali - Festival of Lights