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 Sunday 8 November 2026.

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.