Billions of individuals all over the world this week will probably be celebrating Diwali, often known as the pageant of lights.

The annual vacation is well known yearly, often in late October or early November. Diwali is well known in a number of Indian and South Asian religions, together with Hinduism and Sikhism.

In keeping with The Instances of India, Diwali is important as a result of it’s a “celebration of sunshine triumphing over darkness.”

This yr, Diwali coincides with Halloween, because it falls on Oct. 31, however the celebration lasts a number of days.

In keeping with Nationwide Geographic, Diwali is the largest and most vital vacation in India. Additionally it is typically referred to as Deepawali or Dipavali.

Here is what to know.

When is Diwali?

Diwali is well known for 5 days, in response to The Instances of India. It started on Oct. 29 and can finish on Nov. 2.

The third day of the pageant is an important, in response to Nationwide Geographic. Through the third day of Diwali, households collect collectively for Lakshmi puja, which is a prayer to Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of prosperity.

This yr, Lakshmi puja will probably be celebrated on Oct. 31.

Who celebrates Diwali?

Diwali is well known by many South Asian religions, specifically Hinduism.

In keeping with Nationwide Geographic, different religions that commemorate Diwali embrace Jainism and Sikhism. Some Buddhists in India have a good time Diwali as nicely.

Diwali traditions

Diwali is held on the evening of a brand new moon, which is why lights are vital to have a good time it, in response to NPR.

Some of the frequent traditions throughout Diwali is to gentle clay lamps and line them round your house. It’s believed that extra well-lit houses will probably be visited by Lakshmi, the Hindu god of prosperity, per NPR.