Diwali: the festival of lights

In short: Diwali is one of the most important festivals in Hinduism and is also celebrated by Sikhs and Jains. Lights, family and sweets are at its heart; the festival stands for the victory of light over darkness.

In more detail: The name comes from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, roughly “row of lights”. Diwali usually falls in October or November, on the new moon of a month in the Hindu lunar calendar, and in many regions is celebrated over several days.

In detail

• Lights: Small clay oil lamps called diyas, candles and fairy lights decorate homes, windows and streets.
• Stories: In northern India, Diwali often recalls the return of the god Rama after his victory over the demon king Ravana; in other regions other stories take centre stage.
• Lakshmi: Many families worship the goddess Lakshmi at Diwali, who stands for good fortune and prosperity.
• Rangoli: Colourful patterns made of powder, rice or petals are created in front of the entrance to welcome guests and blessings.
• Preparation: Before the festival homes are cleaned thoroughly, and new clothes and household items are often bought.
• Food and gifts: Families and friends visit each other and exchange sweets such as ladoo or barfi.
• Sikhs and Jains: At the same time Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas, and Jains remember Mahavira, a central figure of their religion.
• Fireworks: In many places fireworks are part of it; because of noise and air pollution some cities now restrict them.
• Worldwide: Communities in Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, the United Kingdom and Germany also celebrate Diwali, often with public festivals (silvester-und-neujahrsbraeuche, weihnachten-braeuche-und-geschichte).