Millions of Indians celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights
Al Jazeera
Many people light oil lamps and candles, and fireworks are set off as part of the celebrations.
Indians are celebrating Diwali as bright earthen oil lamps and colourful lights light up homes and streets across the country to mark the Hindu festival that symbolises the victory of light over darkness.
Diwali is the most important festival of the year in India and for Hindus in particular. It is celebrated across faiths in the world’s most populous nation and the diaspora.
Over five days starting on Thursday, people are taking part in fireworks displays, feasts and prayer. Diwali is derived from the word “Deepavali”, which means “a row of lights”. Celebrants light rows of traditional clay oil lamps outside their homes to symbolise the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.
The dates of the festival are based on the Hindu lunar calendar and typically fall in late October and early November.
The festival brings with it a number of unique traditions that vary by region. What all celebrations have in common are the lights, fireworks, feasting new clothes and praying.
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