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Celebrating Diwali

A calendar with a shape over 20 October that reads 'Diwali'
  • Written byStudent Communications
  • Published date 20 October 2025
A calendar with a shape over 20 October that reads 'Diwali'
Diwali | UAL Creative

On Monday 20 October 2025, millions of people from different faiths will be celebrating Diwali.

What is Diwali?

Diwali, also known as Divali or Deepawali, comes from the Sanksrit word dipavali meaning “row or series of lights” and is an important festival for Hindu communities around the world. It is also celebrated by Sikh, Jain and Buddhist communities. Diwali is a 5-day festival which is a celebration of light triumphing over darkness and commemorates the return of the Lord Rama to his kingdom, Ayodhya, after 14 years of exile. It is celebrated by lighting many clay lamps called ‘diyas’ around the home, outside doors and windows and buildings – which is why it is known as the Festival of Light. Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth, fortune and prosperity is also celebrated in Hindu households and communities during Diwali.

When is Diwali?

Diwali follows the Hindu lunar calendar and its date changes annually; the festival typically lasts for 4 to 5 days. It is celebrated on a moonless night and this year it is celebrated on Monday 20 October 2025.

How do people celebrate Diwali?

Diwali is a celebration of light triumphing over darkness time when people come together, decorate their homes with lights (diyas), beautiful patterns (rangoli), perform worship ceremonies, light fireworks and feast while exchanging sweets (mithai) and gifts with each other. While some Diwali celebrations take place in large community gatherings, many other traditions take place in the home. The presence of lights in many different forms is crucial to celebrating and marking this 5-day festival, which is why candles, oil lamps and fireworks play such a pivotal role.

Celebrating Diwali at UAL

The UAL Indian Society is hosting a Diwali Gala Night on 20 October from 6pm to midnight.

It will be an evening filled with Bollywood beats, an incredible DJ, live dhol, live performances, mehendi and authentic Indian sweets. Make sure to join them at this event designed to blend culture, community and celebration in true Diwali spirit.

Book your tickets now for UAL's Diwali Gala Night

Join the Supper Club in the LCC canteen from 4–6pm for a Diwali-inspired menu, and stop by the LCC Information Centre between 3–6pm to enjoy a selection of sweet and savoury snacks.

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