India Observes Diwali, the Festival of Lights

Millions of people across India are observing Diwali, known as the festival of lights, which stands as one of the most significant occasions in the Hindu calendar. This annual celebration typically occurs between October and November, with its precise date shifting each year due to the Hindu calendar’s lunar basis. For the current year, Diwali is being marked on Thursday, though certain regions of the country will commemorate the festival on Friday. Participants illuminate oil lamps and candles on this day, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. In the period leading up to Diwali, individuals undertake cleaning and organizing their residences. New attire is purchased, and sweets along with gifts are exchanged among friends, family members, and neighbors. Many create traditional designs, such as rangoli – crafted from vibrant powders – outside their entrances to invite good fortune and positive energy. On this particular day, households pay homage to Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth. Lamps are lit, and windows and doors are kept open to facilitate the goddess’s entry into homes. Fireworks traditionally constitute a major component of these festivities. However, in recent years, several state administrations have either imposed restrictions or prohibited their use, as states in northern India contend with severe air pollution. A complete prohibition on the sale and deployment of firecrackers is in effect in the capital city, Delhi, during the festival. Meanwhile, states including Haryana, Punjab, and Karnataka have restricted firecracker usage to specific timeframes on Diwali evening.