Deepavali

Deepavali or Diwali, in Sanskrit means 'rows of lights'. So it is quite apt to call Deepavali the 'Festival of Lights'. It is traditional for to light small clay lamps.

There are several legends which explain why lamps are lit during Deepavali. But there seems to be a common theme about these legends: good will eventually overcome evil. So by lighting lamps during Deepavali, Hindus celebrate the victory of light over darkness. To read more of such legends, click here...

It's also a time to drop bad habits and bring on the good, to let knowledge triumph over ignorance. It represents the dawn of good things to come!

During Diwali, many wear new clothes and share sweets/snacks with each other. Some Indian business communities start their financial year by opening new account books on the first day of Diwali for good luck the following year.

Here's wishing all our Hindu friends, a Happy Deepavali!