More than a Billion People Observe Diwali
The festival, which translates to a row of lights, is marked by religious ceremonies and public events across the globe on Sunday.
By Anthony Shevchenko ·
More than a billion people are observing Diwali on Sunday, Nov. 8. The holiday is the most important festival of the year in India and is widely marked by prayers, family gatherings, and fireworks. It is celebrated by Hindus, as well as Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists within the world's most populous nation and its global diaspora.
The name Diwali derives from Deepavali, a term meaning a row of lights. Participants place traditional clay oil lamps outside their homes. These rows of light symbolize the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. The date follows the Hindu lunar calendar, typically falling in late October or early November.
Origin stories differ by region but share a common theme of good overcoming evil. In northern India, the holiday honors the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana after 14 years of exile. In the south, it celebrates Lord Krishna's defeat of the demon Naraka, who was said to have imprisoned women and tormented subjects.
Regional customs include early morning baths with warm oil in southern India, a practice symbolizing purification in the holy River Ganges. In the north, worship focuses on the goddess Lakshmi, who represents wealth. Many people buy gold on Dhanteras, the first day of the festival, believing the purchase brings good luck. Gambling is also a popular tradition, as participants believe those who gamble on Diwali night will prosper for the year.
Jains mark the day as the anniversary of Lord Mahavira attaining nirvana. Sikhs observe Bandi Chhor Divas to commemorate the release of Guru Hargobind from Mughal imprisonment. Some Buddhists recognize the anniversary of Emperor Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism in the third century B.C.
Public celebrations have expanded across North America. Walt Disney World in Florida hosted several days of festivities featuring more than 500 dancers ahead of the holiday. Diwali at Times Square marked its 11th year in New York City with international performers and a lighting countdown at the Ball Drop Tower. Other events included Diwali Eve on the Waterfront in Jersey City, a family cruise on the Hudson River, Diwali on the Bay in San Francisco, and a Bollywood boat party in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Last year, California became the third U.S. state to designate Diwali as an official state holiday.
