Diwali is one of the most celebrated festivals in India. Known as festivals of lights, it symbolises the victory of good over evil. During this five-day celebration, home, offices are decorated with lights. Diwali generally occurs between mid-October to mid-November. Diwali is a Sanskrit word which means a series of lights. In India, the festival varies with the regions and traditions also differ accordingly. As Diwali is considered as the success of light over darkness, homes, offices are decorated with lights, lamps and also decorating floors with rangoli. The festival also conveys the message of share and care, as it gives an opportunity for a bonding period between families, communities etc. and new clothes, sweets, gifts etc are shared with dear ones. 

Diwali celebration starts with Dhanteras. The day starts with cleaning the home followed by creating colourful rangoli’s and lighting up the diyas in earthen pots. The next day is Naraka Chaturdasi, also known as ‘Chhoti Diwali’. It is considered as the day Lord Krishna killed Narakasura. A variety of sweets are prepared on that day. Naraka Chaturdasi is followed by Lakshmi Pujan, it is considered as the main festival. The earthen oil lamps are illuminated whole the day and diyas are streamed in rivers. On the day people bursts fireworks and share sweets among family. Lakshmi puja is an offering towards the Goddess Lakshmi, in some regions like West Bengal the puja ritual focuses on Goddess Kali. Several hymns of Hindu Gods Rama, Krishna etc. are recited on the day. Families exchange new clothes and sweets between them.

The day after Deepavali is Govardhan pooja also known as Annakut and Balipratipada. This is mainly celebrated as the win of Rama over Bali and also Lord Krishna helping the people by lifting the Govardhan mountain. The last day is Bhai Duj which is celebrated as a symbol of brother-sister relationship. Like all festivals, Diwali is also celebrated to pass the message of family bonding, sharing and enjoyment.