Diwali: India's Festival of Lights (11/12)

Harmeet Kaur, CNN, 11/11/23; CBS News; Dhr. Seven, Crystal Q. (eds.), Wisdom Quarterly

Ayodhya, India, laser show on eve of Diwali, 11/3/21 (Sanjay Kanojia/AFP/Getty Images)

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These are dipas or "lamps" for the holiday.

More than a billion Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs around the world are celebrating Diwali, the festival of lights. 

Diwali, also called Dipavali, is one of the biggest festivals in India.

Scenes of Diwali celebration from Greater Noida | Diwali 2023 | Festival of Lights | English News

(MIRROR NOW) Nov. 12, 2023: Times Network ground report brings insight into the celebrations taking place across India on Diwali, the "Festival of Lights," illuminating India with joy and fervor as 1 billion people or more celebrate the triumph of light over darkness. #diwali #mirrornow #diwali2023

India is on the right with "Shakya Land" in grey

It’s also widely celebrated in Nepal, Malaysia, Fiji, and other countries with large South Asian diasporas. Homes, businesses, and public spaces are lit up with diyas, or oil lamps made from clay, and fireworks displays abound.

People gather with their families, eat sweets, and exchange gifts. Despite its deep religious significance, Diwali today is also a cultural festival observed by people regardless of faith. Here’s what to know about the holiday.

What is Diwali?

Crowds in Bombay, India, ahead of 11/5/23.

Diwali comes from the Sanskrit word deepavali, meaning “row of lights.” It marks the triumph of light over darkness, of good over evil.

Though Diwali traditions vary according to region and religion, the myths and historical stories behind the holiday share themes of justice and liberation.

When is Diwali?

Are you Indian? - Ha ha, wait, I can answer!

Diwali is celebrated every year in autumn, usually falling between October and November.

The festival lasts five days, with the main celebration occurring on the third day.

This year, Diwali is observed on Sunday, November 12. These are the five days of Diwali... More