Diwali, or Deepavali, is a major Hindu festival known as the Festival of Lights. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It is celebrated over five days during the Hindu month of Kartika, which typically falls between October and November. The festival is marked by various traditions, including the lighting of diyas (oil lamps), fireworks, the sharing of sweets, and the coming together of families. It's also a time for cleaning and decorating homes, signifying the welcoming of prosperity and good fortune.
The historical and mythological stories associated with Diwali vary regionally across India and among different religions. Hindus predominantly commemorate the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, as recounted in the Ramayana. For Jains, it marks Lord Mahavira's attainment of moksha, while Sikhs observe it in honor of Guru Hargobind's release from imprisonment. Beyond its cultural and religious significance, Diwali embodies a universal spirit of joy, renewal, and enlightenment, with global celebrations that cut across diverse communities, reinforcing its message of unity and hope.