This year, on October 20th, a holiday called Diwali was celebrated. Diwali is an Indian national holiday celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists—each with their own special meanings for the holiday. However, not just people in India celebrate it; countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, and the U.K. have their own ways of taking part in the fun.
Diwali celebrates light winning over darkness and good winning over evil. It commemorates the god Rama returning after he vanquished the evil king Ravana within Hindu mythology. Goddess Lakshmi, in the role of the goddess of wealth and good fortune, is also worshiped.
You brighten homes with lights, decorate with colorful decorations, wear new clothes, and exchange gifts and sweets. Sounds like Christmas, the more you think about it! It’s a 5-day festival with the third day being the biggest and brightest. The holiday follows the lunar calendar, so it falls on different dates each year. In some parts of India, it kicks off the start of the new year! In Nepal, there’s a special day called Kukur Tihar where people celebrate dogs with flower garlands and treats. Diwali is a fun holiday with colors and play, and celebrations all over the world. If you’re interested, take part in the fun by wishing your family and friends a Happy belated Diwali.
