Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, is one of the most celebrated festivals in India and within Indian communities all over the world. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. The festival is observed over five days, with each day carrying its own significance.
This festival is associated with various legends in different places and religions. In Hindu, Diwali is commemorated as the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya with Sita Mata, and his brother, Lakshmana after spending 14 years outside his kingdom and killing Ravana, the demon king. People lit oil lamps to guide him home, and this tradition continues as families decorate their homes with diyas, small clay lamps that symbolize the triumph of light. In other traditions, Diwali is a celebration of the goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, for which people pray for prosperity in the coming year. The occasion marks the day for Jains when Lord Mahavira became enlightened, while Sikhs recall the freeing of Guru Hargobind Ji from prison.
