India is the land of rich cultural heritage and various festivals. Diwali is one of the biggest Hindu festivals but it is enjoyed by people of all religions. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm and grandeur in India. Diwali marks the beginning of Hindu New Year according to the Lunar Calendar. Diwali or Deepawali is the ‘festival of lights’. This festival occurs between mid-October and mid-November.

People start making the festivity preparations many days before Diwali. On this day, the people wear new clothes, decorate their houses and distribute sweets among family members and friends. Diwali celebration is synonymous with multi-colored Rangoli designs, floral decorations and fireworks, and happiness. It is a glorious occasion and everyone is in a festive mood. The small earthen lamps known as diyas are filled with oil and lit all around the house. Laxmi Puja is performed in the evening to seek the divine blessing of the Goddess of Wealth. Card playing also takes place as a part of the festivity celebration.

Diwali symbolizes the triumph of righteousness and is celebrated to commemorate the return of Lord Rama, prince of Ayodhya along with wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, after completing their 14 years exile and defeating the demon king of Lanka, Ravana. To celebrate the victory of good over evil and to welcome their beloved prince, Lord Rama, the people of Ayodhya, illuminated the kingdom and homes with diyas. Since then, the houses are decorated with candles and diyas.