What Is Diwali?

Diwali — also spelled Deepavali — is one of the most widely celebrated festivals on earth. Taking place over five days each autumn (typically October or November, determined by the Hindu lunar calendar), it is observed across South Asia and in diaspora communities from London to Nairobi to Toronto. While it is often called the "Festival of Lights," its meaning runs far deeper than its most visible symbol.

The Many Meanings of Diwali

One of the most important things to understand about Diwali is that it holds different significance depending on one's religious and cultural background.

For Hindus

The most widely known narrative associates Diwali with the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his defeat of the demon king Ravana — a triumph of good over evil. Citizens lit oil lamps (diyas) to welcome Rama home, a tradition continued to this day. In many regions, Diwali also honours the goddess Lakshmi, deity of wealth and prosperity, who is said to visit clean and well-lit homes.

For Sikhs

Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas ("Day of Liberation") on the same day, marking the release of Guru Hargobind Ji and 52 other prisoners from the Gwalior Fort. The Golden Temple in Amritsar is spectacularly illuminated in recognition.

For Jains

Diwali marks the spiritual liberation (moksha) of Lord Mahavira, the last of the Jain tirthankaras. It is a time for prayer, fasting, and deep reflection on the path toward spiritual enlightenment.

The Five Days of Diwali

  1. Dhanteras: The festival opens with prayers for health and prosperity. Many families buy gold, silver, or new utensils on this auspicious day.
  2. Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali): Commemorates the defeat of the demon Narakasura. Firecrackers and early morning rituals mark the day.
  3. Diwali (Main Day): The central celebration — Lakshmi puja, lighting of diyas, fireworks, and gathering of family and friends.
  4. Govardhan Puja / Padwa: Regional variations include celebrations of Krishna, the new year in some communities, and the honouring of spouses.
  5. Bhai Dooj: A celebration of the bond between brothers and sisters, similar to Raksha Bandhan in spirit.

Diwali Around the World

Today, Diwali is a public holiday in countries including India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, Trinidad and Tobago, and Fiji. Major celebrations occur in cities like Leicester (UK), which holds one of the largest Diwali events outside India, and in New York City, where it was declared a school holiday in 2023.

The Debate Around Fireworks

In recent years, Diwali celebrations have sparked conversations about air quality and environmental impact, particularly in densely populated cities where fireworks can significantly worsen pollution levels. Many communities and local governments have moved toward eco-friendly celebrations — using clay diyas, flowers, and coloured powders rather than fireworks — while honouring the spiritual essence of the festival.

How to Respectfully Participate

If you're invited to a Diwali celebration, consider bringing sweets (mithai) as a gift, dressing in festive colours like red, gold, or orange, and being open to learning about the specific traditions your hosts observe. Diwali is, at its heart, a celebration of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance — values that transcend any single tradition.