The festival is usually between October and November, with the dates changing every year. This year it begins today on 12th of November and it lasts for 5 days with the main day falling on Saturday 14 November.

The word ‘DIWALI’ comes from the Sanskrit word deepavali, meaning “rows of lighted lamps”. Houses, shops and public places decorate with small oil lamps called diyas. Children enjoy it with sweets, presents and fireworks. 

Further on, each religion marks different historical events and stories. Hindus celebrate the return of deities Rama and Sita to Ayodhya after their 14-year exile. They also celebrate the day Mother Goddess Durga destroyed a demon called Mahisha. 

Sikhs particularly celebrate the release from prison of the sixth guru Hargobind Singh in 1619, with the festival happening before this date. 

The traditions vary between religions when many lights and oil lamps are lit on the streets and in houses, people visiting their relatives and have feasts as well as fireworks and festivities are an essential part of the occasion. Finally but not last, Lakshmi, the ‘Hindu’ goddess of wealth, is worshipped as the bringer of blessings for the new year. 

Happy Diwali to Everyone!