As Deepawali, etymologically means a row of lights ('Deep'- light and 'Avali'-a row), it is known to all as the festival of lights. Illuminating homes and hearts with its brilliance and brightness, Deepawali or Diwali is a harkening to the New Year. Celebrated almost all over India, Diwali is a pan Indian festival, enjoyed by millions of Indians settled far away from the homeland.

Diwali symbolizes the victory of righteousness and the lifting of spiritual darkness. It celebrates the victory of good over evil - and the glory of light. Everywhere, it signifies the renewal of life, and accordingly it is common to wear new clothes on the day of the festival. The five-day festival heralds the approach of winter and the beginning of the sowing season.

People of Indian origin, all over the world, light up little oil lamps and put them around the house, fireworks light up the skies and a feeling of well being spreads across the land.

The rituals and traditions associated with this festival of lights have their home in various epic tales. While some celebrate the return of the righteous King Rama to the land called Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana, others pray to Goddesses Kali and Lakshmi. In ancient times, Diwali probably originated as a harvest festival. Diwali is also associated with food, kitchens are busy for days before and after Diwali as sweets and snacks are shared among friends and neighbors.

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