About Diwali
Diwali (Deepavali) is a major festival celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and many others. It’s known as the festival of lights, where homes are cleaned, decorated with lamps, candles, and rangoli, and families gather to pray, share sweets, and exchange gifts. The date varies each year, based on lunar calendars.
Where it's celebrated
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Other years
Traditions & activities
Traditions
- Lighting diyas and candles
- Rangoli decorations
- Lakshmi puja
- Fireworks (where permitted)
- Exchanging sweets and gifts
- New clothes
- Family visits
- Community celebrations
Activities
- Home cleaning and decorating
- Puja and prayers
- Family feasts
- Gift exchanges
- Community events
- Lighting lamps
- Making rangoli
- Sharing sweets
Symbols & foods
Symbols
- Diyas (light and hope)
- Rangoli (welcome and beauty)
- Lakshmi (prosperity)
- Fireworks (celebration)
- Sweets (sharing joy)
- Marigold garlands
- Incense
- Gold coins (prosperity)
Traditional foods
- Laddu
- Barfi
- Jalebi
- Kaju katli
- Samosas
- Chakli
- Kheer
- Assorted mithai
History & significance
History
Diwali has diverse regional origins and meanings. In many Hindu traditions, it is associated with the return of Rama to Ayodhya; in others it honors Lakshmi, goddess of prosperity. Sikh communities mark Bandi Chhor Divas, and Jain communities commemorate Mahavira’s nirvana—showing how the festival holds layered significance across communities.
Significance
Diwali symbolizes renewal, hope, and prosperity—celebrating the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness, and strengthening family and community bonds.
Frequently asked questions
When is Diwali 2024?
Diwali 2024 is on November 1, 2024 (Friday).
Is Diwali a public holiday?
In many countries it is an official public holiday, but public holiday status varies by country and region.
What day of the week is Diwali 2024?
Diwali 2024 falls on a Friday.
Is Diwali 2024 a fixed date holiday?
Diwali 2024 is a variable date holiday.
Which countries celebrate Diwali?
Diwali is celebrated in 8 countries including Singapore and more.