Diwali: India’s Festival of Lights – Celebrating Tradition, Faith, and the Triumph of Light Over Darkness

Department of Strategic Security and Military Research and Studies 01-11-2024

Across India and in communities worldwide, millions celebrate Diwali, the vibrant festival of lights that fills homes and streets with glowing oil lamps, colorful decorations, and fireworks. Diwali, derived from the Sanskrit word “Deepavali,” meaning “a row of lights,” represents the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance, making it a highly revered celebration for Hindus and other faith communities across India, the world’s most populous country.

Diwali is a multi-day celebration, typically spanning five days. This year, it began on a Thursday, marking the onset of extensive displays of fireworks, family feasts, prayer gatherings, and other festivities. The festival’s timing is governed by the Hindu lunar calendar, which means it generally occurs in late October or early November. During this period, celebrants fill their homes with rows of traditional clay oil lamps known as *diyas* to symbolize the victory of light over darkness, enhancing the festive aura of neighborhoods and cities.

Each day of Diwali carries its own meaning and traditions, which vary from region to region, showcasing India’s rich cultural diversity. Common practices, however, unify the celebration, including lighting lamps, setting off firecrackers, dressing in new clothes, gathering for meals, and offering prayers. For Hindus, Diwali is of particular importance and stands as the most significant festival of the year, celebrated across religious communities within India and among its diaspora around the globe.

In southern India, many people begin Diwali with a ritualistic oil bath taken early in the morning. This practice is symbolic of bathing in the sacred waters of the river Ganges, representing physical and spiritual cleansing. Meanwhile, in the northern regions, worship of the goddess Lakshmi, who embodies wealth and prosperity, is customary. This worship underscores the hope for abundance and good fortune in the coming year.

Gambling also plays a notable role in Diwali traditions, rooted in the belief that those who participate in games of chance during this time will experience good fortune throughout the year. Many also purchase gold on Dhanteras, the festival’s first day, as a gesture of seeking luck and prosperity.

Exchanging sweets and gifts is another cherished custom, helping to strengthen bonds among family and friends. Firecrackers are widely used to heighten the festive spirit, and colorful *rangoli*— intricate patterns made from colored powders in geometric or floral designs—adorn many households, showcasing artistry and symbolizing good luck.

However, recent years have seen some regions, including New Delhi and several northern states, impose restrictions on fireworks. These measures aim to address rising pollution levels that often intensify during the Diwali season, as air quality in densely populated areas can be adversely affected.

Diwali remains an enduring symbol of India’s cultural heritage, celebrated with great enthusiasm. Its traditions, ancient yet adaptable, unite people in a joyful tribute to light, faith, and prosperity. Whether through the lighting of *diyas*, the sounds of firecrackers, or the creation of colorful *rangoli*, Diwali fosters a deep sense of togetherness, marking the enduring victory of light over darkness.