What is Diwali, the Festival of Lights, and how is it celebrated?

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a major annual celebration in India and among its diaspora, observed by more than one billion people across several faiths. Its central theme is the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness, expressed through prayer, family gatherings and rows of lamps.

The festival follows the Hindu lunar calendar and falls on 8 November this year. Traditions vary: many people light firecrackers, exchange sweets and gifts, wear new clothes or create colourful rangoli patterns; some buy gold, worship Lakshmi or take a ritual oil bath. Jains mark the day Mahavira attained liberation, Sikhs celebrate Guru Hargobind’s release from imprisonment, and some Buddhists commemorate Emperor Ashoka’s conversion.