3 Facts about Diwali, the Festival of Lights

Happy Diwali! Today is Diwali — the third of the five-day Hindu festival of lights, which is celebrated every year in October or November. The festival, which originated in India, is now celebrated by Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities all over the world. The festival typically lasts for five days and is observed during the Hindu lunar month of Kartika. Here are 3 Facts about Diwali, the Festival of Lights:

1. What is Diwali?

Diwali commemorates the return of Lord Rama from his fourteen-year exile and victory over the demon King Ravana. Diwali is known as the “festival of lights” because homes and temples are decorated with oil lamps (diyas) and candles (Deepavali means “row of lights” in Sanskrit). On the eve of Diwali, people also light fireworks to ward off evil spirits. Family gatherings are an important part of Diwali celebrations, and delicious food is typically served.

2. How people celebrate Diwali:

1. They decorate their home with oil lamps (diyas) and candles. They sometimes string up fairy lights for an extra special touch.2. They make traditional Indian food like Kerala chicken or butter chicken.3. They set off some fireworks!4. They attend a Diwali festival or celebration in their community.5. They give gifts to their friends and family. Typical gifts include sweets, clothes, or money wrapped up in pretty paper or boxes.

3. Some more facts about Diwali

1. Diwali is one of the most popular festivals in India and is celebrated by millions of people around the world.

2. Along with being celebrated in India, Diwali is also observed by Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities in countries such as Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Mauritius, Guyana and the United States.

3. Celebrations in Southern California can be found at the BAPS Hindu temple in Chino Hills and in restaurants on Pioneer Boulevard in Artesia.

4. During Diwali, many Hindus wear new clothes to symbolize a fresh start.

5. Coincidentally, today, Rishi Sunak, a British Parliament Member of Indian and Hindu descent, was selected as the first non-white Prime Minister of Britain.

Diwali is a five-day Hindu festival of lights that is celebrated every year in October or November. The festival, which originated in India, is now celebrated by Hindu communities all over the world. From decorating their home to feasting on traditional Indian cuisine, there are plenty of ways people participate in this festive holiday.

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