Diwali Festival - 11 NOV

Diwali known as Deepawali or the festival of lights or row of lights is one of the most important festivals in Indian religion. It symbolises spiritual victory of light over darkness,good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is connected to various religious mythological events. The day celebrated Lord Rama's return to his kingdom Ayodhya with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana after defeating the demon Ravana during his 14 years of exile.

During the festival,Indians illuminate their homes temples and workspaces with diyas(oil lamps),candles and lanterns.It is also marked with bursting fireworks,decoration with rangoli(flowers or coloured powder) and with other decorative pieces.Food is a major highlight with families partaking in feasts and sharing delicacies.Diwali is celebrated twenty days after Vijayadashami festival with Dhanteras. The second day is Naraka Chaturdashi and the third day is the day of Lakshmi puja which is the darkest night of the traditional month and hence homes aglow with lights thereby making it the "festival of lights". Diwali celebrations include puja of Lakshmi and Ganesha and lay offerings of puffed rice, candy toys,rice cakes and batashas (sugar cakes).

On the night of Diwali,rituals across much of India are dedicated to Lakshmi, Goddess of wealth and prosperity to welcome her into their cleaned homes and bring prosperity and happiness for the coming year.Family members unite to light up firecrackers which is considered to be a way to ward off all evil spirit and add to the festive mood. During Diwali,numerous rural townships and villages host melas or fairs where local producers and artisans trade produce and goods. The families in particular adorn themselves in colourful traditional Indian attires. In some places, Diwali Fairs are held that include a variety of music,dance, arts performances,food,crafts and cultural celebrations.

Diwali, the Festival of lights, is celebrated with grand vigor not only in India but also in various countries around the world The Indian diaspora in countries Ike the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia comes together to celebrate Diwali with grand cultural events, colorful decorations, and traditional rituals.