Diwali, the festival of lights, dazzles South Asia and beyond

DIWALI, the festival of lights, is being celebrated across India, Nepal and in Hindu communities across South Asia, including in Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

The festival, which symbolises the victory of good over evil, marks one of the most important days of the year for Hindus. But the occasion is also a popular celebration that extends beyond any one faith — and is popular within the South Asian diaspora globally.

More than one billion people of different faiths take part in the celebrations, gathering for prayers, family reunions and the lighting of fireworks.

The name Diwali comes from “Deepavali”, meaning “a row of lights”, and many families place clay oil lamps outside their homes to symbolise the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.

The festival follows the Hindu lunar calendar and usually falls in late October or early November. This year, Diwali is marked on November 8.

While Diwali is rooted in Hindu tradition, it is also observed by Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists, with regional origin stories that share a common theme – the victory of good over evil.

Celebrations often include feasting, new clothes, rangoli floor designs, and the exchange of sweets and gifts with friends and neighbours.