Diwali is a festival of lights and one of the major festivals celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists, notably Newar Buddhists. The festival usually lasts five days and is celebrated during the Hindu lunisolar month Kartika. This festival is a spiritual awakening in many South Indian cultures and marks the start of the new year.
Day 1: Families clean and decorate their homes. They also purchase something precious to usher in good wealth. (Dhanteras)
Day 2: Individuals wake up early to bathe and apply aromatic oils to cleanse themselves of impurities and sins. In observance this a day of rest or short visits with friends to gift treats and wish one another a happy holiday. (Naraka Chaturdashi)
Day 3: Day of worship and purification where families gather for ceremonial lighting of diyas, candles, and fireworks. (Lakshmi Puja)
Day 4: Celebrated in many ways, the fourth day of Diwali marks the new year and arrival of a fresh start. (Govardhan Puja)
Day 5: Siblings visit one another, sharing a meal, praying for one another and exchanging gifts. (Bhai Dooj)
May this time of year usher in peace, joy, and success for all celebrating. Wishing you beautiful beginnings and bright days ahead. Happy Diwali!
