Celebrating Diwali
With fact files, activity packs and great educational pieces to read, this is the place to find out all about Diwali, the colourful five-day festival of lights, which is celebrated by millions of people in India and around the world.
What is Diwali?
Diwali is a colourful religious festival celebrated by millions of Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and some Buddhists across the world every year. The celebrations take place over five days in October or November, depending on the cycle of the moon.
Where does the name ‘Diwali’ come from?
The word ‘Diwali’ comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Deepavali’, which means ‘rows of lighted lamps’. During Diwali, many people light candles and clay lamps called diyas and, as a result, it is commonly referred to as the festival of lights.
Why do people celebrate Diwali?
Many people celebrate Diwali to welcome in a new year and to honour Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Venerated for her grace and beauty, Lakshmi is one of the most worshipped Hindu goddesses – not least of all during the festival of lights.
How do people celebrate?
It is traditional to light candles and clay lamps called diyas during the festival. Light represents triumph over darkness, good defeating evil and knowledge over ignorance, so people often decorate with lots of lights in the hope that the goddess Lakshmi will visit their home and bless them with good fortune.
Gold and Diwali
For a festival that honours Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, it is not surprising that gold is a popular gift to give at Diwali. Gold plays a part in some of the stories told during the festival too.
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Diwali Fact File
We’ve gathered some fascinating facts, stories and fun activities for you to enjoy in the lead up to Diwali.
The Jai Jais Diwali Activity Pack
Learn about Diwali, Lakshmi, Ganesh and more while having fun with this brilliantly entertaining activity pack from The Jai Jais.
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