Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most celebrated occasions in India. This sweet holiday is associated with fortune and prosperity and as such, gift giving is tradition during this festive celebration.

Living in New York City I have many friends who celebrate Diwali and I have come to appreciate the significance of this deeply spiritual holiday full of joy and light. Read on to learn about Diwali if you are not familiar with the beautiful celebration.

Credit: Diwalifestival.org

DIWALI THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS:

The festival gets its name from the row (avali) of clay lamps (deepa) that Indians light outside their homes symbolizing the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness.

FIVE DAYS OF DIWALI CELEBRATIONS:

• On day one celebrants clean their homes and shop for gold or kitchen utensils to help bring good fortune.
• On day two everyone decorates their homes with clay lamps. Colored powders as well as sand bring to life beautiful floor art called rangoli. You can see some brilliant and joyful examples –>Here<— On this day people rid themselves of everything negative.
• Day three is the main day of the festival. Families gather together for Lakshmi puja, a prayer to Goddess Lakshmi.  Delicious feasts and firework festivities also mark the day. The date of the five day festival changes every year with the Hindu and lunar calendar. In 2021 day three falls on November 4th.
• Day four marks the first day of the new year! Friends and relatives visit bearing gifts as well as best wishes.
• The final day is Bhai Dooj. Sisters give gifts to their brothers while they visit and enjoy a lavish and delicious meal together.

If you would like to learn more about the history and legends of this festival of joy and brightness you can visit Diwali Festival .