What is Diwali?
Diwali is the Hindu festival of lights which celebrates the new years. it is indias most important holiday.
Why is it called the festival of Lights?
People light hundreds of small oil lamps (called diyas) They place them around the home, in courtyards and in gardens, as well as on roof-tops and outer walls. This is to commemorate the part of the story that describes oil lamps being placed outside peoples homes to light the way for Rama and Sitas triumphant homecoming to Ayodhya
The more lamps they light, the more likely it is that Lakshmi will be tempted to visit them. Hindus believe that the goddess brings wealth with her when she visits.
What happens during Diwali?
Gifts are exchanged often sweets or candles. Homes are decorated and oil lamps are lit. Fireworks are common.
People clean up their homes and let go of the past. They will forgive and forget misdeeds of the past and resolve to spend to coming year in pace, harmony, purity and to earn Lakshmi (wealth) by observing Dharma (righteous conduct).
