Diwali, or Deepavali is one of the most highly celebrated holidays in India. More commonly known as the Festival of Lights which symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance and light over darkness. Diwali follows the lunar calendar and it falls on the amavasya or new moon night.

The tale behind diwali is as diverse as its country of origin. Broadly three main epics converge in the celebration of Diwali: the liberation of Mahavira’s soul, Ramayana, and the victory of Krishna. The earliest known reference to diwali is from Jainism that commemorates the liberation of the 24th final Jain Mahavira. The Jains celebrate the festival as the time for spiritual reflection and new beginning. They light lamps to symbolize the spiritual light of Mahavira’s knowledge. In today’s world the most popular tale which is widely remembered among younger generations and immigrants across the world is the North Indian story which commemorates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya with his wife Sita after defeating affluent King Ravana who kidnapped Sita in order to humiliate Rama. People lit diyas (oil lamps) to welcome Rama back, a tradition still followed today.

A little less popular but a very well known tale from South India is Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura who was the son of Earth goddess and God, Vishnu. The story goes that Narakasura terrorized and imprisoned  thousands of people and Krishna, who is Vishnu’s avatar, fought and defeated Narakasura. This festival is also associated with the Goddess Lakshmi (the goddess of wealth) and the return of King Bali (the conqueror of earth, heaven and the netherworld). On this day Hindus across the world decorate their homes to bring prosperity and good health. People take an early morning oil bath before sunrise, visit temples for blessings, meet friends and family, share delicious sweets, light firecrackers and share happiness. 

In Northern India Diwali spans five days, including Dhanteras, Choti Diwali, Lakshmi Puja, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj. In South India, it’s a one day festival with candles, prayers and traditional sweets like murukku, adhirasam and laddu. Today Diwali is celebrated not only in India but worldwide bringing people together in celebration reminding everyone that good triumphs over evil.