Diwali: What is it?

Diwali is celebrated in a variety of ways across India, but everyone agrees that it is a celebration of the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and wisdom over ignorance. This is related to the ancient myth about Lord Rama, who was exiled for 14 years after losing his kingdom. Diwali commemorates Rama's triumphant return to his home and his eventual defeat of the evil spirit Ravana.

Because the festival coincides with the Hindu New Year, the business community views it as a favorable time to launch new ventures. It also has special meaning for newlyweds and infants celebrating their first Diwali because it allows both families to come together.

In the weeks leading up to Diwali, people usually decorate their homes, buy new clothes and jewelry, and give diwali gifts like sweets, dried fruits, and nuts to each other. Dinner parties, outdoor food festivals, and craft fairs are common this time of year, helping to build anticipation for the main Diwali celebration.

In the weeks leading up to Diwali, card games are played late into the night and gambling is a part of traditional celebrations, especially in north India. These parties typically feature platters of kebabs, fried savory snacks, tandoori grills, and spiced sweetmeats as well as plenty of drinks and finger food.

Buy a metal kitchen tool, like a steel ladle, two days before the main festival day, or a more expensive kitchen appliance if your budget will allow.
Chotti Diwali, or "little Diwali," is the day before Diwali. Traditionally, it was a day for getting on with preparations for the big day, but now it’s also an opportunity for last-minute errands and gift exchanges. It’s also a time when intricate floral and geometrical designs, known as ‘rangoli’, are created on floors using colored powders, rice flour, and flower petals.

The third day is the main Diwali celebration. As the sun sets, prayers are said to Lakshmi and Ganesh, and then dozens of clay lamps are arranged around the house. Firework displays follow, but in recent years these have been scaled back due to noise and air pollution concerns. This doesn't dampen the party spirit, though – especially as there’s a lavish dinner to enjoy.

Activities on the day after Diwali will vary across different regions. In north India, for example, the morning is dedicated to worshipping the tools of work. Chefs will pay homage to their kitchen implements, businessmen will venerate their ledgers, and artists will offer gratitude for their paints and palettes.

On the fifth and final day of Diwali celebrations, sisters pray for the well-being of their brothers and receive sweetmeats and gifts in return.