🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 152 (from laksa074)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa152.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali","crawl_time":1776130883,"first_indexed_time":1376009833,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,wikipedia!en,\/wiki\/Diwali s443","src_root_hash":"17790707453426894952","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Diwali - Wikipedia","meta_descriptions":[],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Diwali\nRangoli\ndecorations, made using coloured fine powder or sand, are popular during Diwali.\nOfficial name\nDīpāvalī\nAlso called\nDeepavali, Deepawali\nObserved by\nHindus\n,\nJains\n,\nSikhs\n,\n[\n1\n]\nsome\nBuddhists\n(notably\nNewar Buddhists\n[\n2\n]\n)\nType\nReligious, cultural, seasonal\nSignificance\nSee below\nCelebrations\nDiya\nlighting\npuja\n(worship and prayer)\nHukka Paati\nin\nMithila region\nhavan\n(fire offering)\nvrat\n(fasting)\ndāna\n(charity)\nmelā\n(fairs\/shows)\nhome cleansing and decoration\nfireworks\ngifts\nand partaking in a feast and\nsweets\nBegins\nAshwayuja 27 or Ashwayuja 28 (\namanta\ntradition)\nKartika 12 or Kartika 13 (\npurnimanta\ntradition)\nEnds\nKartika 2 (\namanta\ntradition)\nKartika 17 (\npurnimanta\ntradition)\nDate\nAshvin Krishna Trayodashi, Ashvin Krishna Chaturdashi, Ashvin Amavasya, Kartik Shukla Pratipada, Kartik Shukla Dwitiya\n2025 date\nOctober\n[\n3\n]\n18 (\nDhanteras\n\/Yama Deepam\/Kwah Puja\/Kaag Tihar)\n19 (\nNaraka Chaturdashi\n\/Kali Chaudas\/Hanuman Puja\/Chhoti Diwali\/Khicha Puja\/\nKukur Tihar\n)\n20 (\nLakshmi Puja\n\/\nKali Puja\n\/Sharda Puja\/Kedar Gauri Vrat\/Sa Puja\/Gai Tihar)\n21 (\nGovardhan Puja\n\/\nBalipratipada\n\/\nMha Puja\n\/Goru Puja)\n22 (\nBhai Dooj\n\/\nVishwakarma Puja\n\/\nGujarati New Year\n\/Kija Puja)\n2026 date\n8 November 2026\n2027 date\n29 October 2027\nDuration\n5 or 6 days (regional variations)\nFrequency\nAnnual\nRelated to\nDiwali (Jainism)\n,\nBandi Chhor Divas\n,\nTihar\n,\nSwanti\n,\nSohrai\n,\nBandna\nExplanatory note\non Hindu festival dates\nThe\nHindu calendar\nis lunisolar but most festival dates are specified using the lunar portion of the calendar. A lunar day is uniquely identified by three calendar elements:\nmāsa\n(lunar month),\npakṣa\n(lunar fortnight) and\ntithi\n(lunar day).\nFurthermore, when specifying the masa, one of two traditions are applicable, viz.\namānta\n\/\npūrṇimānta\n. If a festival falls in the waning phase of the moon, these two traditions identify the same lunar day as falling in two different (but successive) masa.\nA lunar year is shorter than a solar year by about eleven days. As a result, most Hindu festivals occur on different days in successive years on the Gregorian calendar.\nv\nt\ne\nDeepavali\nUNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage\nCountry\nIndia\nReference\n02312\nRegion\nAsia and the Pacific\nInscription history\nInscription\n2025 (20th session)\nList\nRepresentative\nDipavali\n(\nIAST\n:\nDīpāvalī\n),\n[\na\n]\ncommonly known as\nDiwali\n(\n),\n[\n4\n]\nis the\nHindu festival\nof lights, with variations celebrated in other\nIndian religions\nsuch as\nJainism\nand\nSikhism\n.\n[\nb\n]\nIt symbolises the spiritual victory of\nDharma\nover\nAdharma\n, light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.\n[\n5\n]\n[\n6\n]\n[\n7\n]\n[\npage needed\n]\n[\n8\n]\nDiwali is celebrated during the\nHindu lunisolar\nmonths of\nAshvin\n(according to the\namanta\ntradition) and\nKārtika\n– between around mid-October and mid-November.\n[\n9\n]\n[\n10\n]\n[\n11\n]\n[\n12\n]\n[\n13\n]\nThe celebrations generally last five or six days.\n[\n14\n]\n[\n15\n]\nDiwali is connected to various religious events, deities and personalities, such as being the day\nRama\nreturned to his\nkingdom\nin\nAyodhya\nwith his wife\nSita\nand his brother\nLakshmana\nafter defeating the demon king\nRavana\n.\n[\n16\n]\nIt is also widely associated with\nLakshmi\n, the goddess of prosperity, and\nGanesha\n, the god of wisdom and the remover of obstacles.\n[\n17\n]\nOther regional traditions connect the holiday to\nVishnu\n,\nKrishna\n,\nDurga\n,\nShiva\n,\nKali\n,\nHanuman\n,\nKubera\n,\nYama\n,\nYami\n,\nDhanvantari\n, or\nVishvakarman\n.\nPrimarily a\nHindu\nfestival, variations of Diwali are also celebrated by adherents of other faiths.\n[\n14\n]\nThe\nJains\nobserve their\nown Diwali\nwhich marks the final liberation of\nMahavira\n.\n[\n18\n]\n[\n19\n]\nThe\nSikhs\ncelebrate\nBandi Chhor Divas\nto mark the release of\nGuru Hargobind\nfrom a\nMughal\nprison.\n[\n20\n]\nNewar Buddhists\n, unlike other\nBuddhists\n, celebrate Diwali by worshipping Lakshmi, while the Hindus of\nEastern India\nand\nBangladesh\ngenerally, celebrate Diwali by worshipping the\ngoddess Kali\n.\n[\n21\n]\n[\n2\n]\n[\n22\n]\nDuring the festival, the celebrants illuminate their homes, temples and workspaces with\ndiyas\n(oil lamps), candles and lanterns.\n[\n8\n]\nHindus, in particular, have a ritual oil bath at dawn on each day of the festival.\n[\n23\n]\nDiwali is also marked with fireworks as well as the decoration of floors with\nrangoli\ndesigns and other parts of the house with\njhalars\n. Food is a major focus with families partaking in feasts and sharing\nmithai\n.\n[\n24\n]\nThe festival is an annual homecoming and bonding period not only for families,\n[\n16\n]\n[\n17\n]\nbut also for communities and associations, particularly those in urban areas, which will organise activities, events, and gatherings.\n[\n25\n]\n[\n26\n]\nMany towns organise community parades and fairs with parades or music and dance performances in parks.\n[\n14\n]\nSome Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs will send Diwali greeting cards to family near and far during the festive season, occasionally with boxes of Indian confectionery.\n[\n14\n]\nAnother aspect of the festival is remembering the ancestors.\n[\n27\n]\nDiwali is also a major cultural event for the\nHindu\n,\nSikh\n, and\nJain\ndiaspora\n.\n[\n28\n]\n[\n29\n]\n[\n30\n]\nThe main day of the festival of Diwali (the day of Lakshmi Puja) is an official holiday in\nFiji\n,\n[\n31\n]\nGuyana\n,\n[\n32\n]\nIndia\n,\nMalaysia\n,\n[\nc\n]\n[\n33\n]\nMauritius\n,\nMyanmar\n,\n[\n34\n]\nNepal\n,\n[\n35\n]\nPakistan\n,\n[\n36\n]\nSingapore\n,\n[\n37\n]\nSri Lanka\n,\nSuriname\n, and\nTrinidad and Tobago\n,\n[\n38\n]\nand the\nUS\nstates of\nConnecticut\n,\nPennsylvania\n, and\nCalifornia\n.\n[\n39\n]\n[\n40\n]\n[\n41\n]\nEtymology\nDiwali\n[\n9\n]\n[\nd\n]\ncomes from\nDipavali\n(\nSanskrit\n:\nदीपावली\n,\nromanized\n: \nDīpāvalī\n), meaning\n'\na row or series of lights\n'\n.\n[\n24\n]\n[\n43\n]\nThe term is a compound of the Sanskrit words\nदीप\n,\ndīpa\n,\n'\nlamp, light, lantern, candle, that which glows, shines, illuminates or knowledge\n'\n[\n44\n]\nand\nआवलि\n,\nāvali\n,\n'\na row, range, continuous line, series\n'\n.\n[\n45\n]\n[\ne\n]\nDates\nThe five-day celebration is observed every year sometime from the second half of October to the first half of November\n[\n46\n]\ncoinciding with a new moon (\namāvasyā\n) as per the\nHindu lunisolar calendar\n.\n[\n47\n]\nThe festivities begin two days before\namāvasyā\n, on\nDhanteras\n, and extend two days after, until the second (or 17th) day of the month of Kartik.\n[\n48\n]\n(According to Indologist Constance Jones, this night ends the lunar month of Ashwin and starts the month of Kartik\n[\n46\n]\n– but see this note\n[\nf\n]\nand\nAmanta and Purnima systems\n.) The darkest night is the apex of the celebration.\nThe festival climax is on the third day and is called the main Diwali. It is an official holiday in a dozen countries, while the other festive days are regionally observed as either public or optional restricted holidays in India.\n[\n50\n]\nIn Nepal, it is also a multiday festival, although the days and rituals are named differently, with the climax being called the\nTihar\nfestival by Hindus and\nSwanti\nfestival by Buddhists.\n[\n51\n]\n[\n52\n]\nHistory\nThe five-day long festival originated in the\nIndian subcontinent\nand is likely a fusion of harvest festivals in ancient\nIndia\n.\n[\n46\n]\nIt is mentioned in early\nSanskrit\ntexts, such as the\nPadma Purana\nand the\nSkanda Purana\n,\nboth of which were composed between the 7th and 10th centuries.\n[\n53\n]\n[\n54\n]\nThe\ndiyas\n(lamps) are mentioned in\nSkanda Kishore Purana\nas symbolising parts of the sun, describing it as the cosmic giver of light and energy to all life and which seasonally transitions in the Hindu calendar month of Kartik.\n[\n55\n]\n[\n56\n]\nEmperor\nHarsha\nrefers to Deepavali, in the 7th-century Sanskrit play\nNagananda\n, as\nDīpapratipadotsava\n(\ndīpa\n= light,\npratipadā\n= first day,\nutsava\n= festival), where lamps were lit and newly engaged brides and grooms received gifts.\n[\n57\n]\n[\n58\n]\nRajasekhara\nreferred to Deepavali as\nDipamalika\nin his 9th-century\nKavyamimamsa\n, wherein he mentions the tradition of homes being whitewashed and oil lamps decorated homes, streets, and markets in the night.\n[\n57\n]\nRadha and Krishna celebrating Diwali\nby Sitaram.\nKishangarh\n, late 18th-century.\nNational Museum, New Delhi\nDiwali was also described by numerous travellers from outside India. In his 11th-century memoir on India, the Persian traveller and historian\nAl Biruni\nwrote of Deepavali being celebrated by Hindus on the day of the New Moon in the month of Kartika.\n[\n59\n]\nThe Venetian merchant and traveller\nNiccolò de' Conti\nvisited India in the early 15th century and wrote in his memoir, \"on another of these festivals they fix up within their temples, and on the outside of the roofs, an innumerable number of oil lamps\n \n... which are kept burning day and night\" and that the families would gather, \"clothe themselves in new garments\", sing, dance, and feast.\n[\n60\n]\n[\n61\n]\nThe 16th-century Portuguese traveller\nDomingo Paes\nwrote of his visit to the Hindu\nVijayanagara Empire\n, where\nDipavali\nwas celebrated in October with householders illuminating their homes, and their temples, with lamps.\n[\n61\n]\nIt is mentioned in the\nRamayana\nthat Diwali was celebrated for only 2 years in\nAyodhya\n.\n[\n62\n]\nIslamic historians of the\nDelhi Sultanate\nand the\nMughal Empire\nera also mentioned Diwali and other Hindu festivals. A few, notably the\nMughal\nemperor\nAkbar\n, welcomed and participated in the festivities,\n[\n63\n]\n[\n64\n]\nwhereas others banned such festivals as Diwali and\nHoli\n, as\nAurangzeb\ndid in 1665.\n[\n65\n]\n[\n66\n]\n[\ng\n]\n[\nh\n]\nPublications from the time of the\nBritish Raj\nalso made mention of Diwali, such as the note on Hindu festivals published in 1799 by\nSir William Jones\n, a philologist known for his early observations on Sanskrit and\nIndo-European languages\n.\n[\n69\n]\nIn his paper on\nThe Lunar Year of the Hindus\n, Jones, then based in\nBengal\n, noted four of the five days of Diwali in the\nautumn\nmonths of\nAswina-Cartica\n[\nsic\n] as the following:\nBhutachaturdasi Yamaterpanam\n(2nd day),\nLacshmipuja dipanwita\n(the day of Diwali),\nDyuta pratipat Belipuja\n(4th day), and\nBhratri dwitiya\n(5th day). The\nLacshmipuja dipanwita\n, remarked Jones, was a \"great festival at night, in honour of Lakshmi, with illuminations on trees and houses\".\n[\n69\n]\n[\ni\n]\nEpigraphy\nWilliam Simpson labelled his chromolithograph of 1867 as \"Dewali, feast of lamps\". It showed streets lit up at dusk, with a girl and her mother lighting a street corner lamp.\n[\n70\n]\nSanskrit inscriptions in stone and copper mentioning Diwali, occasionally alongside terms such as\nDipotsava\n,\nDipavali\n,\nDivali\nand\nDivalige\n, have been discovered at numerous sites across India.\n[\n71\n]\n[\n72\n]\n[\nj\n]\nExamples include a 10th-century Rashtrakuta empire copper plate inscription of\nKrishna III\n(939–967 CE) that mentions\nDipotsava\n,\n[\n73\n]\nand a 12th-century mixed Sanskrit-Kannada Sinda inscription discovered in the Isvara temple of\nDharwad\nin Karnataka where the inscription refers to the festival as a \"sacred occasion\".\n[\n74\n]\nAccording to\nLorenz Franz Kielhorn\n, a German Indologist known for translating many Indic inscriptions, this festival is mentioned as\nDipotsavam\nin verses 6 and 7 of the Ranganatha temple Sanskrit inscription of the 13th-century\nVenad\nHindu king\nRavivarman Samgramadhira\n. Part of the inscription, as translated by Kielhorn, reads:\nthe auspicious festival of lights which disperses the most profound darkness, which in former days was celebrated by the kings Ila, Kartavirya and Sagara, (...) as Sakra (Indra) is of the gods, the universal monarch who knows the duties by the three Vedas, afterwards celebrated here at Ranga for Vishnu, resplendent with Lakshmi resting on his radiant lap.\n[\n75\n]\n[\nk\n]\nJain inscriptions, such as the 10th-century Saundatti inscription about a donation of oil to Jinendra worship for the Diwali rituals, speak of\nDipotsava\n.\n[\n76\n]\n[\n77\n]\nAnother early 13th-century Sanskrit stone inscription, written in the Devanagari script, has been found in the north end of a mosque pillar in\nJalore\n,\nRajasthan\nevidently built using materials from a demolished Jain temple. The inscription states that Ramachandracharya built and dedicated a drama performance hall, with a golden cupola, on Diwali.\n[\n78\n]\n[\n79\n]\n[\nl\n]\nReligious significance\nDiwali is commonly celebrated in the honour of\nLakshmi\n, the goddess of wealth.\nThe religious significance of Diwali varies regionally within India. \nOne tradition links the festival to legends in the Hindu epic\nRamayana\n, where Diwali is the day Rama, Sita,\nLakshmana\n, and\nHanuman\nreached\nAyodhya\nafter a period of 14 years in exile after Rama's army of good, defeated demon king\nRavana\n's army of evil.\n[\n80\n]\nThroughout the epic, Rama's decisions were always in line with\ndharma\n(\nduty\n)\nand the Diwali festival serves as a reminder for followers of Hinduism to maintain their dharma in day-to-day life.\n[\n81\n]\nPer another popular tradition, in the\nDvapara Yuga\nperiod,\nKrishna\n, an\navatar\nof\nVishnu\n, killed the demon\nNarakasura\n, who was the evil king of\nPragjyotishapura\n, near present-day Assam, and released 16000 girls held captive by Narakasura. Diwali was celebrated as a signifier of triumph of good over evil after Krishna's Victory over Narakasura. The day before Diwali is remembered as Naraka Chaturdashi, the day on which Narakasura was killed by Krishna.\n[\n82\n]\nA picture of Lakshmi and\nGanesha\nworship during Diwali\nDiwali Ganesh Laxmi Puja\nMany Hindus associate the festival with Goddess\nLakshmi\n, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and wife of Vishnu. According to Pintchman, the start of the 5-day Diwali festival is stated in some popular contemporary sources as the day goddess Lakshmi was born from\nSamudra Manthana\n, the churning of the cosmic ocean of milk by the\nDevas\n(gods) and the\nAsuras\n(demons) – a Vedic legend that is also found in several\nPuranas\nsuch as the\nPadma Purana\n, while the night of Diwali is when Lakshmi chose and wed Vishnu.\n[\n55\n]\n[\n83\n]\nAlong with Lakshmi, who is representative of\nVaishnavism\n,\nGanesha\n, the elephant-headed son of\nParvati\nand\nShiva\nof\nShaivism\ntradition, is remembered as one who symbolises ethical beginnings and the remover of obstacles.\n[\n80\n]\nHindus of eastern India associate the festival with the Goddess Kali, who symbolises the victory of good over evil.\n[\n84\n]\n[\n85\n]\n[\n86\n]\nHindus from the Braj region in northern India, parts of\nAssam\n, as well as southern Tamil and Telugu communities view Diwali as the day the god Krishna overcame and destroyed the evil demon king Narakasura, in yet another symbolic victory of knowledge and good over ignorance and evil.\n[\n87\n]\n[\n88\n]\nTrade and merchant families and others also offer prayers to\nSaraswati\n, who embodies music, literature and learning and\nKubera\n, who symbolises book-keeping, treasury and wealth management.\n[\n55\n]\nIn western states such as Gujarat, and certain northern Hindu communities of India, the festival of Diwali signifies the start of a new year.\n[\n87\n]\nMythical tales shared on Diwali vary widely depending on region and even within Hindu tradition,\n[\n89\n]\nyet all share a common focus on righteousness, self-inquiry and the importance of knowledge,\n[\n90\n]\n[\n91\n]\nwhich, according to Lindsey Harlan, an Indologist and scholar of Religious Studies, is the path to overcoming the \"darkness of ignorance\".\n[\n92\n]\nThe telling of these myths is reminiscent of the Hindu belief that good ultimately triumphs over evil.\n[\n93\n]\n[\n10\n]\nOther religions\nOriginally a Hindu festival, Diwali has transcended religious lines.\n[\n94\n]\nDiwali is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Newar Buddhists,\n[\n2\n]\nalthough for each faith it marks different historical events and stories, but nonetheless the festival represents the same symbolic victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.\n[\n5\n]\n[\n6\n]\n[\n95\n]\n[\n96\n]\nJainism\nLord Mahavir\nin meditation before attaining nirvana, the day is celebrated by\nJains\nas\nDipalikaya\nIn Jain religion, Diwali is celebrated in observance of \"Mahavira Nirvana Divas\", the physical death and final nirvana of\nMahavira\n, the 24th\nTirthankar\nof current time cycle. Nirvana is considered to be the state of a soul when it escapes from the cycle of birth and death, while experiencing its true nature of boundless bliss and infinite knowledge.\n[\n97\n]\nThe Jain Diwali celebrated in many parts of India has similar practices to the Hindu Diwali, such as the lighting of lamps. However, the focus of the Jain Diwali remains the dedication to Mahavira.\n[\n98\n]\nAccording to the Jain tradition, this practice of lighting lamps first began on the day of Mahavira's nirvana in 527 BCE,\n[\nm\n]\nwhen 18 kings who had gathered for Mahavira's final teachings issued a proclamation that lamps be lit in remembrance of the \"great light, Mahavira\".\n[\n101\n]\n[\n102\n]\nThis traditional belief of the origin of Diwali, and its significance to Jains, is reflected in their historic artworks such as paintings.\n[\n103\n]\nSikhism\nA\nhukamnama\nfrom the tenth Sikh guru,\nGuru Gobind Singh\n, requesting all of the Sikh congregation to convene in his presence on the occasion of Diwali\nSikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas in remembrance of the release of\nGuru Hargobind\nfrom the\nGwalior Fort\nprison by the Mughal emperor\nJahangir\nand the day he arrived at the Golden Temple in Amritsar.\n[\n104\n]\nAccording to J.S. Grewal, a scholar of Sikhism and Sikh history, Diwali in the Sikh tradition is older than the sixth Guru Hargobind legend.\nGuru Amar Das\n, the third Guru of the Sikhs, built a well in Goindwal with eighty-four steps and invited Sikhs to bathe in its\nsacred waters\non Baisakhi and Diwali as a form of community bonding. Over time, these spring and autumn festivals became the most important of Sikh festivals and holy sites such as Amritsar became focal points for annual pilgrimages.\n[\n105\n]\nThe festival of Diwali, according to Ray Colledge, highlights three events in Sikh history: the founding of the city of Amritsar in 1577, the release of Guru Hargobind from the Mughal prison, and the day of Bhai Mani Singh's martyrdom in 1738 as a result of his failure to pay a fine for trying to celebrate Diwali and thereafter refusing to convert to Islam.\n[\n106\n]\n[\n107\n]\n[\nn\n]\nBuddhism\nDiwali is not a festival for most Buddhists, with the exception of the\nNewar\npeople of Nepal who revere various deities in\nVajrayana\nBuddhism and celebrate Diwali by offering prayers to Lakshmi.\n[\n2\n]\n[\n22\n]\nNewar Buddhists in Nepalese valleys also celebrate the Diwali festival over five days, in much the same way, and on the same days, as the Nepalese Hindu Diwali-Tihar festival.\n[\n110\n]\nAccording to some observers, this traditional celebration by Newar Buddhists in Nepal, through the worship of Lakshmi and Vishnu during Diwali, is not\nsyncretism\nbut rather a reflection of the freedom within\nMahayana\nBuddhist tradition to worship any deity for their worldly betterment.\n[\n2\n]\nCelebrations\nDiwali celebrations\nHindu girls lighting\ndiyas\nin Bangladesh\nDecorations in\nKathmandu\nfor\nTihar\n(Diwali in Nepal)\nDiwali lamps arranged in the pattern of\nOm\nDeepavali night fireworks over\nChennai\nIndoor Diwali decorations in front of an altar in\nHaridwar\nDance event for Diwali in\nTexas\n, US\nDivali Nagar\ncelebration in Trinidad and Tobago\nDiyas lit for Diwali at\nGolden Temple\n, Punjab\nDiwali sweets and snacks\nDecorative lights for Diwali on a house in Haryana\nDiwali festivities include a celebration of sights, sounds, arts and flavours. The festivities vary between different regions.\n[\n111\n]\n[\n55\n]\n[\n16\n]\nIn the lead-up to Diwali, celebrants prepare by cleaning, renovating, and decorating their homes and workplaces with\ndiyas\n(oil lamps) and\nrangolis\n(colourful art circle patterns).\n[\n112\n]\nDuring Diwali, people wear their finest clothes, illuminate the interior and exterior of their homes with saaki (earthen lamp),\ndiyas\nand\nrangoli\n, perform worship ceremonies of\nLakshmi\n, the goddess of prosperity and wealth,\n[\no\n]\nlight fireworks, and partake in family feasts, where\nmithai\n(\nsweets\n) and\ngifts\nare shared.\nThe height of Diwali is celebrated on the third day coinciding with the darkest night of Ashvin or Kartika.\nThe common celebratory practices are known as the festival of light, however there are minor differences from state to state in India. Diwali is usually celebrated twenty days after the\nVijayadashami\nfestival, with\nDhanteras\n, or the regional equivalent, marking the first day of the festival when celebrants prepare by cleaning their homes and making decorations on the floor, such as\nrangolis\n.\n[\n114\n]\nSome regions of\nIndia\nstart Diwali festivities the day before Dhanteras with\nGovatsa Dwadashi\n. The second day is\nNaraka Chaturdashi\n. The third day is the day of\nLakshmi Puja\nand the darkest\nnight\nof the\ntraditional month\n. In some parts of\nIndia\n, the day after\nLakshmi Puja\nis marked with the\nGovardhan Puja\nand\nBalipratipada\n(Padwa). Some\nHindu\ncommunities mark the last day as\nBhai Dooj\nor the regional equivalent, which is dedicated to the bond between sister and brother,\n[\n115\n]\nwhile other Hindu and Sikh craftsmen communities mark this day as\nVishvakarma Puja\nand observe it by performing maintenance in their work spaces and offering\nprayers\n.\n[\n116\n]\n[\n117\n]\nDiwali celebrations include\npuja\n(prayers) to Lakshmi and Ganesha. Lakshmi is of the Vaishnavism tradition, while Ganesha of the Shaivism tradition of Hinduism.\n[\n118\n]\n[\n119\n]\nChandua lanterns on display for Diwali.\nRituals and preparations for Diwali begin days or weeks in advance, typically after the festival of Dusshera that precedes Diwali by about 20 days.\n[\n80\n]\nThe festival formally begins two days before the night of Diwali and ends two days thereafter. Each day has the following rituals and significance:\n[\n55\n]\nDiwali has become more popular in other countries. In\nNew York City\nlawmakers have passed legislation to make holidays in school. But debates over the holiday push back. In the future Diwali will be a holiday.\n[\n120\n]\nDhanteras and Yama Deepam (Day 1)\nDhanteras starts off the Diwali celebrations with the lighting of\nDiya\nor Panati\nlamp rows, house cleaning and floor\nrangoli\nDhanteras\n, also known as\nDhanatrayodashi,\nis derived from\nDhan\nmeaning wealth and\nteras\nmeaning thirteenth, marks the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Kartik and the beginning of Diwali in most parts of India.\n[\n121\n]\nOn this day, many Hindus clean their homes and business premises. They install\ndiyas\n, small earthen oil-filled lamps that they light up for the next five days, near Lakshmi and Ganesha iconography.\n[\n121\n]\n[\n118\n]\nWomen and children decorate doorways within homes and offices with\nrangolis\n, colourful designs made from rice flour, flower petals, coloured rice or coloured sand,\n[\n14\n]\nwhile the boys and men decorate the roofs and walls of family homes, markets, and temples and string up lights and lanterns. The day also marks a major shopping day for buying new utensils, home equipment, gold jewellery, firecrackers, and other items.\n[\n118\n]\n[\n55\n]\n[\n83\n]\n[\n122\n]\nOn the evening of Dhanteras, families offer prayers (\npuja\n) to Lakshmi and Ganesha, and lay offerings of puffed rice, candy toys, rice cakes and\nbatashas\n(hollow sugar cakes).\n[\n118\n]\nAccording to Tracy Pintchman, Dhanteras is a symbol of annual renewal, cleansing and an auspicious beginning for the next year.\n[\n121\n]\nThe term\nDhan\nfor this day also alludes to the\nAyurvedic\nicon\nDhanvantari\n, the god of health and healing, who is believed to have emerged from the \"churning of cosmic ocean\" on the same day as Lakshmi.\n[\n121\n]\nSome communities, particularly those active in Ayurvedic and health-related professions, pray or perform\nhavan\nrituals to Dhanvantari on Dhanteras.\n[\n121\n]\nOn Yama Deepam (also known as Yama Dipadana or Jam ke Diya), Hindus light a\ndiya\n, ideally made of wheat flour and filled with sesame oil, which faces south in the back of their homes. This is believed to please\nYama\n, the god of death, and to ward off untimely death.\n[\n123\n]\nSome Hindus observe Yama Deepam on the second night before the main day of Diwali.\n[\n124\n]\n[\n125\n]\nNaraka Chaturdashi, Kali Chaudas, Chhoti Diwali, Hanuman Puja, Roop Chaudas, Yama Deepam (Day 2)\nChoti Diwali is the major shopping day for festive\nmithai\n(sweets)\nNaraka Chaturdashi\n, also known as Chhoti Diwali, is the second day of festivities coinciding with the fourteenth day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Kartik.\n[\n126\n]\nThe term \"chhoti\" means little, while \"Naraka\" means hell and \"Chaturdashi\" means \"fourteenth\".\n[\n127\n]\nThe day and its rituals are interpreted as ways to liberate any soul from suffering in \"Naraka\", or hell, as well as a reminder of spiritual auspiciousness. For some Hindus, it is a day to pray for the peace to the manes, or defiled souls of one's ancestors and light their way for their journeys in the cyclic afterlife.\n[\n128\n]\nA mythological interpretation of this festive day is the destruction of the asura (demon)\nNarakasura\nby Krishna, a victory that frees 16,000 imprisoned princesses kidnapped by Narakasura.\n[\n127\n]\nIt is also celebrated as Roop Chaudas in some North Indian households, where women bathe before sunrise, while lighting a\ndiya (lamp)\nin the bath area, they believe it helps enhance their beauty – it is a fun ritual that young girls enjoy as part of festivities.\nUbtan\nis applied by the women which is made up of special gram flour mixed with herbs for cleansing and beautifying themselves.\nNaraka Chaturdashi is also a major day for purchasing festive foods, particularly sweets. A variety of sweets are prepared using flour, semolina, rice, chickpea flour, dry fruit pieces powders or paste, milk solids (\nmawa\nor\nkhoya\n) and clarified butter (\nghee\n).\n[\n10\n]\nAccording to Goldstein, these are then shaped into various forms, such as\nladdus\n,\nbarfis\n,\nhalwa\n,\nkachoris\n,\nshrikhand\n, and\nsandesh\n, rolled and stuffed delicacies, such as karanji,\nshankarpali\n, maladu, susiyam, pottukadalai. Sometimes these are wrapped with edible silver foil (\nvark\n). Confectioners and shops create Diwali-themed decorative displays, selling these in large quantities, which are stocked for home celebrations to welcome guests and as gifts.\n[\n10\n]\n[\n118\n]\nFamilies also prepare homemade delicacies for Lakshmi Pujan, regarded as the main day of Diwali.\n[\n10\n]\nChhoti Diwali is also a day for visiting friends, business associates and relatives, and exchanging gifts.\n[\n118\n]\nOn the second day of Diwali, Hanuman Puja is performed in some parts of India especially in\nGujarat\n. It coincides with the day of Kali Chaudas. It is believed that spirits roam around on the night of Kali Chaudas, and\nHanuman\n, who is the deity of strength, power, and protection, is worshipped to seek protection from the spirits. Diwali is also celebrated to mark the return of\nRama\nto\nAyodhya\nafter defeating the demon-king Ravana\n[\n129\n]\nand completing his fourteen years of exile. The devotion and dedication of Hanuman pleased Rama so much that he blessed Hanuman to be worshipped before him. Thus, people worship Hanuman the day before Diwali's main day.\n[\n130\n]\nThis day is commonly celebrated as Diwali in\nTamil Nadu\n,\nGoa\n, and\nKarnataka\n.\n[\ncitation needed\n]\nTraditionally,\nMarathi\nHindus and South Indian Hindus receive an oil massage from the elders in the family on the day and then take a ritual bath, all before sunrise.\n[\n131\n]\nMany visit their favourite Hindu temple.\n[\n132\n]\nSome Hindus observe Yama Deepam (also known as Yama Dipadana or Jam ke Diya) on the second day of Diwali, instead of the first day. A diya that is filled with sesame oil is lit at back of their homes facing in the southern direction. This is believed to please\nYama\n, the god of death, and to ward off untimely death.\n[\n123\n]\n[\n124\n]\n[\n125\n]\nLakshmi Pujan, Kali Puja (Day 3)\nThe third day is the height of the festival\n[\n133\n]\nand coincides with the last day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Kartik. This is the day when Hindu, Jain and Sikh temples and homes are aglow with lights, thereby making it the \"festival of lights\". The word Deepawali comes from the Sanskrit word\nदीप\n(dīpa, \"light\") and\nआवलि\n(āvali, \"series, line, row\"), where dīpa means an Indian lantern or lamp.\n[\n47\n]\n[\n134\n]\nA sparkling firecracker, commonly known as 'Kit Kat' in India\nThe youngest members in the family visit their elders, such as grandparents and other senior members of the community, on this day. Small business owners give gifts or special bonus payments to their employees between Dhanteras and Lakshmi Pujan.\n[\n131\n]\n[\n135\n]\nShops either do not open or close early on this day allowing employees to enjoy family time. Shopkeepers and small operations perform\npuja\nrituals in their office premises. Unlike some other festivals, the Hindus typically do not fast during the five-day long Diwali including Lakshmi Pujan, rather they feast and share the bounties of the season at their workplaces, community centres, temples, and homes.\n[\n131\n]\nWoman lighting candles for Diwali. People light candles and clay lamps in their houses and at temples during Diwali night\nAs the evening approaches, celebrants will wear new clothes or their best outfits, teenage girls and women, in particular, wear saris and jewellery.\n[\n136\n]\nAt dusk, family members gather for the Lakshmi Pujan,\n[\n136\n]\nalthough prayers will also be offered to other deities, such as Ganesha, Saraswati, Rama, Lakshmana, Sita, Hanuman, or Kubera.\n[\n55\n]\nThe lamps from the puja ceremony are then used to light more earthenware lamps, which are placed in rows along the parapets of temples and houses,\n[\n137\n]\nwhile some\ndiyas\nare set adrift on rivers and streams.\n[\n7\n]\n[\n138\n]\n[\n139\n]\nAfter the\npuja\n, people go outside and celebrate by lighting up\npatakhe\n(fireworks) together, and then share a family feast and\nmithai\n(sweets, desserts).\n[\n55\n]\nThe\npuja\nand rituals in the\nBengali Hindu\ncommunity focus on Kali, the goddess of war, instead of Lakshmi.\n[\n113\n]\n[\n140\n]\nAccording to Rachel Fell McDermott, a scholar of South Asian, particular Bengali, studies, in Bengal during Navaratri (Dussehra elsewhere in India) the\nDurga puja\nis the main focus, although in the eastern and northeastern states the two are synonymous, but on Diwali the focus is on the puja dedicated to Kali. These two festivals likely developed in tandem over their recent histories, states McDermott.\n[\n113\n]\nTextual evidence suggests that Bengali Hindus worshipped Lakshmi before the colonial era, and that the Kali puja is a more recent phenomenon.\n[\np\n]\nContemporary Bengali celebrations mirror those found elsewhere, with teenage boys playing with fireworks and the sharing of festive food with family, but with the\nShakti\ngoddess Kali as the focus.\n[\n141\n]\nA child playing with\n(fuljhadi) sparklers\nduring Diwali\nOn the night of Diwali, rituals across much of India are dedicated to Lakshmi to welcome her into their cleaned homes and bring prosperity and happiness for the coming year.\n[\n142\n]\n[\n62\n]\nWhile the cleaning, or painting, of the home is in part for goddess Lakshmi, it also signifies the ritual \"reenactment of the cleansing, purifying action of the monsoon rains\" that would have concluded in most of the Indian subcontinent.\n[\n142\n]\nVaishnava families recite Hindu legends of the victory of good over evil and the return of hope after despair on the Diwali night, where the main characters may include Rama, Krishna, Vamana or one of the avatars of Vishnu, the divine husband of Lakshmi.\n[\n142\n]\n[\n143\n]\nAt dusk, lamps placed earlier in the inside and outside of the home are lit up to welcome Lakshmi.\n[\n133\n]\nFamily members light up firecrackers, which some interpret as a way to ward off all evil spirits and the inauspicious, as well as add to the festive mood.\n[\n144\n]\n[\n145\n]\nAccording to Pintchman, who quotes Raghavan, this ritual may also be linked to the tradition in some communities of paying respect to ancestors. Earlier in the season's fortnight, some welcome the souls of their ancestors to join the family for the festivities with the\nMahalaya\n. The Diwali night's lights and firecrackers, in this interpretation, represent a celebratory and symbolic farewell to the departed ancestral souls.\n[\n146\n]\nThe celebrations and rituals of the Jains and the Sikhs are similar to those of the Hindus where social and community bonds are renewed. Major temples and homes are decorated with lights, festive foods shared with all, friends and relatives remembered and visited with gifts.\n[\n135\n]\n[\n98\n]\nAnnakut, Balipratipada (Padwa), New Year's Day, Govardhan Puja (Day 4)\nThe day after Diwali is the first day of the bright fortnight of Kartik.\n[\n147\n]\nIt is regionally called Annakut (heap of grain), Padwa, Goverdhan puja, Bali Pratipada, Bali Padyami, Kartik Shukla Pratipada and other names.\n[\n14\n]\n[\n147\n]\nAccording to one tradition, the day is associated with the story of Bali's defeat at the hands of Vishnu.\n[\n148\n]\n[\n149\n]\nIn another interpretation, it is thought to reference the legend of Parvati and her husband Shiva playing a game of\ndyuta\n(dice) on a board of twelve squares and thirty pieces, Parvati wins. Shiva surrenders his shirt and adornments to her, rendering him naked.\n[\n147\n]\nAccording to Handelman and Shulman, as quoted by Pintchman, this legend is a Hindu metaphor for the cosmic process for creation and dissolution of the world through the masculine destructive power, as represented by Shiva, and the feminine procreative power, represented by Parvati, where twelve reflects the number of months in the cyclic year, while thirty are the number of days in its lunisolar month.\n[\n147\n]\nAnnakut community meals (left), Krishna holding\nGovardhan Hill\nritually made from cow dung, rice and flowers (right).\nThis day ritually celebrates the bond between the wife and husband,\n[\n150\n]\nand in some Hindu communities, husbands will celebrate this with gifts to their wives. In other regions, parents invite a newly married daughter, or son, together with their spouses to a festive meal and give them gifts.\n[\n150\n]\nIn some rural communities of the north, west and central regions, the fourth day is celebrated as Govardhan puja, honouring the legend of the Hindu god Krishna saving the cowherd and farming communities from incessant rains and floods triggered by Indra's anger,\n[\n150\n]\nwhich he accomplished by lifting the Govardhan mountain. This legend is remembered through the ritual of building small mountain-like miniatures from cow dung.\n[\n150\n]\nAccording to Kinsley, the ritual use of cow dung, a common fertiliser, is an agricultural motif and a celebration of its significance to annual crop cycles.\n[\n119\n]\n[\n151\n]\n[\n152\n]\nThe agricultural symbolism is also observed on this day by many Hindus as Annakut, literally \"mountain of food\". Communities prepare over one hundred dishes from a variety of ingredients, which is then dedicated to Krishna before being shared among the community. Hindu temples on this day prepare and present \"mountains of sweets\" to the faithful who have gathered for\ndarshan\n(visit).\n[\n150\n]\nIn Gujarat, Annakut is the first day of the new year and celebrated through the purchase of essentials, or\nsabras\n(literally, \"good things in life\"), such as salt, offering prayers to Krishna and visiting temples.\n[\n150\n]\nIn Gujarat\nNew Year\nis celebrated after the day of Diwali. In the early morning people take showers, do prayer at home, visit temples for worship and children in the evening visit neighbour's houses to say happy new year, shake hands, get mukhvas for dessert, and chocolate.\nBhai Duj, Bhau-Beej, Vishwakarma Puja (Day 5)\nA sister ritually feeding her brother on Bhai Duj-Diwali\nThe last day of the festival, the second day of the bright fortnight of Kartik, is called\nBhai Duj\n(literally \"brother's day\"\n[\n153\n]\n),\nBhau Beej\n,\nBhai Tilak\nor\nBhai Phonta\n. It celebrates the sister-brother bond, similar in spirit to\nRaksha Bandhan\nbut it is the brother that travels to meet the sister and her family. This festive day is interpreted by some to symbolise Yama's sister\nYamuna\nwelcoming Yama with a\ntilaka\n, while others interpret it as the arrival of Krishna at his sister\nSubhadra\n's place after defeating Narakasura. Subhadra welcomes him with a\ntilaka\non his forehead.\n[\n150\n]\n[\n154\n]\nThe day celebrates the sibling bond between brother and sister.\n[\n155\n]\nOn this day the womenfolk of the family gather, perform a puja with prayers for the well-being of their brothers, then return to a ritual of feeding their brothers with their hands and receiving gifts. According to Pintchman, in some Hindu traditions the women recite tales where sisters protect their brothers from enemies that seek to cause him either bodily or spiritual harm.\n[\n154\n]\nIn historic times, this was a day in autumn when brothers would travel to meet their sisters or invite their sister's family to their village to celebrate their sister-brother bond with the bounty of seasonal harvests.\n[\n55\n]\nThe artisan Hindu and Sikh community celebrates the fourth day as the Vishwakarma puja day.\n[\nq\n]\nVishwakarma is the presiding Hindu deity for those in architecture, building, manufacturing, textile work and crafts trades.\n[\n116\n]\n[\nr\n]\nThe looms, tools of trade, machines and workplaces are cleaned and prayers offered to these livelihood means.\n[\n158\n]\nOther traditions and significance\nDuring the season of Diwali, numerous rural townships and villages host\nmelas\n,\n[\n159\n]\nor fairs, where local producers and artisans trade produce and goods. A variety of entertainments are usually available for inhabitants of the local community to enjoy. The women, in particular, adorn themselves in colourful attire and\ndecorate\ntheir hands with\nhenna\n. Such events are also mentioned in Sikh historical records.\n[\n160\n]\n[\ns\n]\nIn the modern day,\nDiwali mela\nare held at college, or university, campuses or as community events by members of the Indian diaspora. At such events a variety of music, dance and arts performances, food, crafts, and cultural celebrations are featured.\n[\n161\n]\n[\n162\n]\n[\n92\n]\nIn October 2025, the state of California made Diwali an official state holiday.\n[\n163\n]\nEconomics\nDiwali marks a major shopping period in India,\n[\n28\n]\nand is comparable to the Christmas period in terms of consumer purchases and economic activity.\n[\n164\n]\nIt is traditionally a time when households purchase new clothing, home refurbishments, gifts, gold, jewelry,\n[\n165\n]\n[\n166\n]\nand other large purchases particularly as the festival is dedicated to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and such purchases are considered auspicious.\n[\n167\n]\n[\n168\n]\nAccording to Rao, Diwali is one of the major festivals where rural Indians spend a significant portion of their annual income, and is a means for them to renew their relationships and social networks.\n[\n169\n]\nOther goods that are bought in substantial quantities during Diwali include confectionery and fireworks. In 2013, about\n₹\n25 billion\n(US$300 million) of fireworks were sold to merchants for the Diwali season, an equivalent retail value of about\n₹\n50 billion\n(US$590 million) according to\nThe Times of India\n.\n[\n170\n]\n[\nt\n]\nASSOCHAM\n, a trade organisation in India, forecasted that online shopping alone to be over\n₹\n300 billion\n(US$3.5 billion) over the 2017 Diwali season.\n[\n173\n]\nAbout two-thirds of Indian households, according to the ASSOCHAM forecast, would spend between\n₹\n5,000\n(US$59) and\n₹\n10,000\n(US$120) to celebrate Diwali in 2017.\n[\n174\n]\nStock markets like NSE and BSE in India are typically closed during Diwali, with the exception of a Diwali Muhurat trading session for an hour in the evening to coincide with the beginning of the new year.\n[\n175\n]\nIn 2020, the INDF ETF was launched to mark the start of Diwali.\n[\n176\n]\nPolitics\nDiwali has increasingly attracted cultural exchanges, becoming occasions for politicians and religious leaders worldwide to meet Hindu or Indian origin citizens, diplomatic staff or neighbours. Many participate in other socio-political events as a symbol of support for diversity and inclusiveness. The Catholic dicastery\nPontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue\n, founded as Secretariat for non-Christians by Pope Paul VI, began sending official greetings and the Pope's message to the Hindus on Diwali in the mid-1990s.\n[\n177\n]\n[\nu\n]\nMany governments encourage or sponsor Diwali-related festivities in their territories. For example, the Singaporean government, in association with the\nHindu Endowments Board\nof Singapore, organizes many cultural events during Diwali every year.\n[\n178\n]\nNational and civic leaders such as\nthe former Prince Charles\nhave attended Diwali celebrations at prominent Hindu temples in the UK, such as the\nSwaminarayan Temple in Neasden\n, using the occasion to highlight contributions of the Hindu community to British society.\n[\n179\n]\n[\n180\n]\nAdditionally, cities across the UK show support of the celebrations through Diwali lights, decorations, and cultural festivities such as dance performances, food stalls and workshops.\n[\n181\n]\nSince 2009, Diwali has been celebrated every year at\n10 Downing Street\n, the residence of the British Prime Minister.\n[\n182\n]\nDiwali was first celebrated in the\nWhite House\nby\nGeorge W. Bush\nin 2003, and its religious and historical significance was officially recognized by the\nUnited States Congress\nin 2007.\n[\n183\n]\n[\n184\n]\nBarack Obama\nbecame the first president to personally attend Diwali at the White House in 2009. On the eve of his first visit to India as President of the United States, Obama released an official statement sharing his best wishes with \"those celebrating Diwali\".\n[\n185\n]\nPresident\nDonald J. Trump\nposted an official statement celebrating Diwali in October 2025.\n[\n186\n]\n[\n187\n]\nA similar message posted online by Trump administration\nFBI\nDirector\nKash Patel\nwas met with a flood of\nracist\nand\nxenophobic\ninvective from\nChristian nationalists\nand other\nMAGA\n-aligned individuals.\n[\n188\n]\n[\n189\n]\nAs of October 2025, Diwali was an official holiday in three U.S. states:\nCalifornia\n,\nConnecticut\n, and\nPennsylvania\n.\n[\n190\n]\n[\n191\n]\nEvery year during Diwali, Indian forces approach their\nPakistani\ncounterparts at the border bearing gifts of traditional Indian confectionery, a gesture that is returned in kind by the Pakistani soldiers who give Pakistani sweets to the Indian soldiers.\n[\n192\n]\n[\nv\n]\n[\n196\n]\nHazards\nThe use of\nfirecrackers\non Diwali increases the concentration of\ndust\nand\npollutants\nin the air. After firing, the fine dust particles get settled on the surrounding surfaces which are packed with chemicals like\ncopper\n,\nzinc\n,\nsodium\n,\nlead\n,\nmagnesium\n,\ncadmium\nand pollutants like\noxides of sulfur\nand\nnitrogen\n.\n[\n197\n]\nThese invisible yet harmful particles affect the environment and in turn, put people's health at stake.\n[\n198\n]\nThe smoke created by firecrackers lit up on Diwali causes smog which sometimes takes days to clear.\n[\n199\n]\nDuring Diwali, the levels of suspended particulate matter increase. When people are exposed to these pollutant particles, they may suffer from eye, nose, and throat-related problems. To produce colours when crackers are burst,\ncarcinogenic\nand poisonous elements are used.\n[\n200\n]\nDuring the 2023 celebration,\nNew Delhi\nbriefly took the top spot in the world for\nair pollution\nwith an\nair quality index\nof 680 on one night.\n[\n201\n]\nThe use of fireworks during Diwali can also lead to burn injuries. One particular firework called\nanar\n(fountain) has been found to be responsible for 65% of such injuries, with adults being the typical victims. Most of the injuries sustained are Group I type burns (minor) requiring only outpatient care. Experts urge precaution around candles and fires and ask for children to be kept a safe distance from flames and to enjoy the festivity of Diwali.\n[\n202\n]\n[\n203\n]\nGuinness World Record\nIn October 2025, a Diwali celebration in\nAyodhya\n, Uttar Pradesh, India, broke the\nGuinness World Record\nfor the largest display of oil lamps with 2,617,615 displayed on the eve of Diwali.\n[\n204\n]\nUNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage\nDiwali has been inscribed on\nUNESCO’s\nList of Intangible Cultural Heritage, becoming the 16th Indian tradition to receive global honour  joining the ranks of\nDurga Puja\nand\nYoga\nin international recognition.\n[\n205\n]\nSee also\nBandna\n– Agrarian festival that coincides with Diwali\nBandi Chhor Divas\n– Sikh festival that coincides with Diwali\nCandlemas\n– the\nChristian\ncelebration involving candles, celebrating the\nPresentation of Jesus\nChinese New Year\n- Chinese celebration, one of the most important holidays in Chinese culture\nDay of the Little Candles\n– the Colombian Catholic festival of candles\nDiwali (Jainism)\n– Diwali's significance in Jainism\nGuy Fawkes Night\n– the British festival of bonfires and fireworks held on the fifth of November. In towns with a large\nBritish Asian\ncommunity, Diwali and Guy Fawkes festivities are often combined.\nHanukkah\n– the Jewish festival of lights\nJashn-e-Chiragah\n- the Mughal celebration of Diwali\nKali Puja\n– Diwali is most commonly known as Kali Puja in West Bengal or in Bengali dominated areas\nKarthika Deepam\n– the festival of lights observed by\nTamils\nof\nTamil Nadu\n,\nPuducherry\n,\nKerala\n,\nSri Lanka\nand elsewhere\nLehyam\n, often prepared on the occasion of Deepavali to aid the digestion\nLantern Festival\n– the Chinese festival of lanterns\nLoy Krathong\n– the Thai festival of lights\nNowruz\n– the Persian new year and festival of lights\nSaint Lucy's Day\n– the Christian festival of lights\nSwanti\n– Newar version of Diwali\nTihar\n– Nepali version of Diwali\nWalpurgis Night\n– the German festival of bonfires\nNotes\n^\nAlso spelled as\nDipawali\n,\nDeepavali\n, or\nDeepawali\n.\n^\nRelated to\nJain Diwali\n,\nBandi Chhor Divas\n,\nTihar\n,\nSwanti\n,\nSohrai\nand\nBandna\n^\nexcept\nSarawak\n^\nAlso spelled as\nDivali\nor\nDewali\n.\n[\n4\n]\n[\n42\n]\n^\nThe holiday is known as\ndipawoli\nin\nAssamese\n:\nদীপাৱলী\n,\ndīpabolī\nor\ndipali\nin\nBengali\n:\nদীপাবলি\/দীপালি\n,\ndīvāḷi\nin\nGujarati\n:\nદિવાળી\n,\ndivālī\nin\nHindi\n:\nदिवाली\n,\ndīpavaḷi\nin\nKannada\n:\nದೀಪಾವಳಿ\n,\nKonkani\n:\nदिवाळी\n,\ndīpāvalī\nin\nMaithili\n:\nदीपावली\n,\nMalayalam\n:\nദീപാവലി\n,\nMarathi\n:\nदिवाळी\n,\ndīpābali\nin\nOdia\n:\nଦୀପାବଳି\n,\ndīvālī\nin\nPunjabi\n:\nਦੀਵਾਲੀ\n,\ndiyārī\nin\nSindhi\n:\nदियारी\n,\ntīpāvaḷi\nin\nTamil\n:\nதீபாவளி\n, and\nTelugu\n:\nదీపావళి\n,\nGalungan\nin\nBalinese\nand\nSwanti\nin\nNepali\n:\nस्वन्ति\nor\ntihar\nin\nNepali\n:\nतिहार\nand Thudar Parba in\nTulu\n:\nತುಡರ್ ಪರ್ಬ\n.\n^\nHistorical records appear inconsistent about the name of the lunar month in which Diwali is observed. One of the earliest reports on this variation was by Wilson in 1847. He explained that though the actual Hindu festival day is the same, it is identified differently in regional calendars because there are two traditions in the Hindu calendar. One tradition starts a new month from the new moon, while the other starts it from the full moon.\n[\n49\n]\n^\nAccording to Audrey Truschke, the Sunni Muslim emperor Aurangzeb did limit \"public observation\" of many religious holidays such as Hindu Diwali and Holi, but also of Shia observance of Muharram and the Persian holiday of Nauruz. According to Truschke, Aurangzeb did so because he found the festivals \"distasteful\" and also from \"concerns with public safety\" lurking in the background.\n[\n67\n]\nAccording to Stephen Blake, a part of the reason that led Aurangzeb to ban Diwali was the practice of gambling and drunken celebrations.\n[\n66\n]\nTruschke states that Aurangzeb did not ban private practices altogether and instead \"rescinded taxes previously levied on Hindu festivals\" by his Mughal predecessors.\n[\n67\n]\nJohn Richards disagrees and states Aurangzeb, in his zeal to revive Islam and introduce strict\nSharia\nin his empire, issued a series of edicts against Hindu festivals and shrines.\n[\n68\n]\nAccording to Richards, it was Akbar who abolished the discriminatory taxes on Hindu festivals and pilgrims, and it was Aurangzeb who reinstated the Mughal era discriminatory taxes on festivals and increased other religion-based taxes.\n[\n68\n]\n^\nSome Muslims joined the Hindu community in celebrating Diwali in the Mughal era. Illustrative Islamic records, states Stephen Blake, include those of 16th-century Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi who wrote, \"during Diwali.... the ignorant ones amongst Muslims, particularly women, perform the ceremonies... they celebrate it like their own Id and send presents to their daughters and sisters,.... they attach much importance and weight to this season [of Diwali].\"\n[\n66\n]\n^\nWilliams Jones stated that the\nBhutachaturdasi Yamaterpanam\nis dedicated to Yama and ancestral spirits, the\nLacshmipuja dipanwita\nto goddess Lakshmi with invocations to Kubera, the\nDyuta pratipat Belipuja\nto Shiva-Parvati and Bali legends, and the\nBhratri dwitiya\nto Yama-Yamuna legend and the Hindus celebrate the brother-sister relationship on this day.\n[\n69\n]\nJones also noted that on the Diwali day, the Hindus had a mock cremation ceremony with \"torches and flaming brands\" called\nUlcadanam\n, where they said goodbye to their colleagues who had died in war or in a foreign country and had never returned home. The ceremony lit the path of the missing to the mansion of Yama.\n[\n69\n]\n^\nSome inscriptions mention the festival of lights in Prakrit terms such as\ntipa-malai\n,\nsara-vilakku\nand others.\n^\nThe Sanskrit inscription is in the Grantha script. It is well preserved on the north wall of the second\nprakara\nin the\nRanganatha temple\n, Srirangam island, Tamil Nadu.\n[\n75\n]\n^\nThe Diwali-related inscription is the 4th inscription and it includes the year Vikrama Era 1268 (c. 1211 CE).\n[\n78\n]\n^\nScholars contest the 527 BCE date and consider Mahavira's biographical details as uncertain. Some suggest he lived in the 5th-century BCE contemporaneously with the Buddha.\n[\n99\n]\n[\n100\n]\n^\nSikhs historically referred to this festival as Diwali. It was in early 20th-century, states Harjot Oberoi, a scholar of Sikh history, when the Khalsa Tract Society triggered by the\nSingh Sabha Movement\nsought to establish a Sikh identity distinct from the Hindus and the Muslims.\n[\n108\n]\nThey launched a sustained campaign to discourage Sikhs from participating in Holi and Diwali, renaming the festivals, publishing the seasonal greeting cards in the Gurmukhi language and relinking their religious significance to Sikh historical events.\n[\n109\n]\nWhile some of these efforts have had a lasting impact for the Sikh community, the lighting, feasting together, social bonding, sharing and other ritual grammar of Sikh celebrations during the Diwali season are similar to those of the Hindus and Jains.\n[\n109\n]\n^\nHindus of eastern and northeastern states of India associate the festival with the goddess\nDurga\n, or her fierce avatar\nKali\n(\nShaktism\n).\n[\n84\n]\nAccording to McDermott, this region also celebrated the Lakshmi puja historically, while the Kali puja tradition started during the British Raj and was particularly prominent from the 1920s.\n[\n113\n]\n^\nAccording to McDermott, while the Durga Puja is the largest Bengali festival and it can be traced to the 16th-century or earlier, the start of Kali puja tradition on Diwali is traceable to no earlier than about the mid-18th-century during the reign of Raja Krishnacandra Ray.\n[\n113\n]\nMcDermott further writes that the older historic documents of the Bengal confirm that the Bengali Hindus have long celebrated the night of Diwali with illuminations, firecrackers, foods, new account books, Lakshmi (not Kali), inviting their friends (including Europeans during the colonial era) and gambling.\n[\n113\n]\nThe Kali\nsarbajanin\ntradition on Diwali, with tantric elements in some locations, grew slowly into a popular Bengali tradition after the mid-1920s.\n[\n113\n]\n^\nAccording to a Government of Himachal Pradesh and India publication, the Vishvakarma puja is observed on the fourth day of Diwali in the Himalayan state.\n[\n156\n]\n^\nThe Vishwakarma puja day is alternatively observed in other Hindu communities in accordance with the Hindu solar calendar, and this falls in September.\n[\n157\n]\n^\nMax Macauliffe\n, who lived in northwest Punjab area during the colonial era and is known for his work on Sikh literature and history, wrote about Diwali\nmelas\nto which people visited to buy horses, seek pleasure, pray in nearby Amritsar temples for the prosperity of their children and their souls, and some on \"errands, more or less worthy or unworthy character\".\n[\n160\n]\n^\nA 2017 estimate states 50,000 tons (100 million pounds) of fireworks are exploded annually in India over the Diwali festival.\n[\n171\n]\nAs a comparison, Americans explode 134,000 tons (268 million pounds) of fireworks for 4 July celebrations in the United States.\n[\n172\n]\n^\nThe Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue was founded as Secretariat for non-Christians by Pope Paul VI. It began sending official greetings and message to Muslims in 1967 on\nId al-Fitr\n. About 30 years later, in the mid-1990s the Catholic authorities began sending two additional annual official greetings and message, one to the Hindus on Diwali and the other to the Buddhists on Buddha's birthday.\n[\n177\n]\n^\nDiwali was not a public holiday in Pakistan from 1947 to 2016. Diwali along with Holi for Hindus, and Easter for Christians, was adopted as public holiday resolution by Pakistan's parliament in 2016, giving the local governments and public institutions the right to declare Holi as a holiday and grant leave for its minority communities, for the first time.\n[\n193\n]\n[\n194\n]\nDiwali celebrations have been relatively rare in contemporary Pakistan, but observed across religious lines, including by Muslims in cities such as Peshawar.\n[\n195\n]\nReferences\n^\nTownsend, Charles M (2014).\nThe Oxford Handbook of Sikh Studies\n. Oxford University Press. p. 440.\nISBN\n \n978-0-19-969930-8\n.\n^\na\nb\nc\nd\ne\nTodd T. Lewis (7 September 2000).\nPopular Buddhist Texts from Nepal: Narratives and Rituals of Newar Buddhism\n. State University of New York Press. pp. \n118–\n119.\nISBN\n \n978-0-7914-9243-7\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 2 January 2017\n. Retrieved\n14 October\n2016\n.\n^\n\"Diwali 2025 Date: When is Diwali? All About the 5 Days Festival of Lights\"\n. 16 November 2023.\n^\na\nb\nMead, Jean (February 2008).\nHow and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?\n. Evans Brothers.\nISBN\n \n978-0-237-53412-7\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 11 November 2023\n. Retrieved\n5 August\n2022\n.\n^\na\nb\nVasudha Narayanan; Deborah Heiligman (2008).\nCelebrate Diwali\n. National Geographic Society. p. 31.\nISBN\n \n978-1-4263-0291-6\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 2 January 2017\n. Retrieved\n14 October\n2016\n.\nAll the stories associated with Deepavali, however, speak of the joy connected with the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.\n^\na\nb\nTina K Ramnarine (2013).\nMusical Performance in the Diaspora\n. Routledge. p. 78.\nISBN\n \n978-1-317-96956-3\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 2 January 2017\n. Retrieved\n14 October\n2016\n.\nLight, in the form of candles and lamps, is a crucial part of Diwali, representing the triumph of light over darkness, goodness over evil and hope for the future.\n^\na\nb\nMead, Jean (February 2008).\nHow and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?\n. Evans Brothers.\nISBN\n \n978-0-237-53412-7\n.\n^\na\nb\nJones 2011\n, pp. 252–255\n^\na\nb\nThe New Oxford Dictionary of English\n(1998)\nISBN\n \n978-0-19-861263-6\n– p. 540 \"\nDiwali\n\/dɪwɑːli\/ (also\nDiwali\n)\nnoun\na Hindu festival with lights...\".\n^\na\nb\nc\nd\ne\nGoldstein 2015\n, pp. 222–223.\n^\nDiwali\nArchived\n1 May 2015 at the\nWayback Machine\nEncyclopædia Britannica\n(2009)\n^\n\"Diwali 2020 Date in India: When is Diwali in 2020?\"\n.\nThe Indian Express\n. 11 November 2020.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 16 November 2020\n. Retrieved\n13 November\n2020\n.\n^\n\"Diwali 2024: When is Diwali in 2024? All you need to know its Significations - Global Times 18\"\n.\nGlobal Times 18\n. 23 October 2024\n. Retrieved\n24 October\n2024\n.\n^\na\nb\nc\nd\ne\nf\nFieldhouse 2017\n, pp. 150–151.\n^\nStent, David (22 October 2013).\nReligious Studies: Made Simple\n. Elsevier. p. 137.\nISBN\n \n978-1-4831-8320-6\n.\n^\na\nb\nc\nDeborah Heiligman,\nCelebrate Diwali\n,\nISBN\n \n978-0-7922-5923-7\n, National Geographic Society, Washington, D.C.\n^\na\nb\nSuzanne Barchers (2013).\nThe Big Book of Holidays and Cultural Celebrations\n, Shell Education,\nISBN\n \n978-1-4258-1048-1\n^\nSharma, S.P.; Gupta, Seema (2006).\nFairs and Festivals of India\n. Pustak Mahal. p. 79.\nISBN\n \n978-81-223-0951-5\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 26 January 2021\n. Retrieved\n10 November\n2020\n.\n^\nUpadhye, A.N. (January–March 1982). Cohen, Richard J. (ed.). \"Mahavira and His Teachings\".\nJournal of the American Oriental Society\n.\n102\n(1):\n231–\n232.\ndoi\n:\n10.2307\/601199\n.\nISSN\n \n0003-0279\n.\nJSTOR\n \n601199\n.\n^\nGeoff Teece (2005).\nSikhism\n. Smart Apple Media. p. 23.\nISBN\n \n978-1-58340-469-0\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 2 January 2017\n. Retrieved\n14 October\n2016\n.\n^\nMcDermott and Kripal p.72\n^\na\nb\nPrem Saran (2012).\nYoga, Bhoga and Ardhanariswara: Individuality, Wellbeing and Gender in Tantra\n.\nRoutledge\n. p. 175.\nISBN\n \n978-1-136-51648-1\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 2 January 2017\n. Retrieved\n14 October\n2016\n.\n^\nKaren-Marie Yust; Aostre N. Johnson; Sandy Eisenberg Sasso (2006).\nNurturing Child and Adolescent Spirituality: Perspectives from the World's Religious Traditions\n. Rowman & Littlefield. pp. \n232–\n233.\nISBN\n \n978-0-7425-4463-5\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n29 August\n2018\n.\n^\na\nb\nLochtefeld 2002\n, pp. 200–201\n^\nJohnson, Teuscher & Sabean 2011\n, pp. 300–301.\n^\nShah 1995\n, pp. 41–44.\n^\nDiane P. Mines; Sarah E. Lamb (2010).\nEveryday Life in South Asia, Second Edition\n. Indiana University Press. p. 243.\nISBN\n \n978-0-253-01357-6\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 2 July 2021\n. Retrieved\n25 September\n2018\n.\n^\na\nb\nIndia Journal: ‘Tis the Season to be Shopping\nDevita Saraf, The Wall Street Journal (August 2010)\n^\nJohnson 2007\n, pp. 71–73.\n^\nKelly 1988\n, pp. 40–55.\n^\nPublic Holidays\nArchived\n16 September 2018 at the\nWayback Machine\n, Government of Fiji\n^\nPublic Holidays\nArchived\n19 October 2017 at the\nWayback Machine\n, Guyana\n^\nPublic Holidays\nArchived\n5 March 2019 at the\nWayback Machine\n, Government of Malaysia\n^\nPublic Holidays\nArchived\n17 August 2018 at the\nWayback Machine\n, Government of Myanmar\n^\nPublic Holidays\nArchived\n19 October 2017 at the\nWayback Machine\n, Government of Nepal\n^\nPakistan parliament adopts resolution for Holi, Diwali, Easter holidays\nArchived\n6 March 2018 at the\nWayback Machine\n, The Times of India (16 March 2016)\n^\nPublic Gazetted Holidays\nArchived\n19 October 2017 at the\nWayback Machine\n, Government of Singapore\n^\nOfficial Public Holidays\nArchived\n3 March 2021 at the\nWayback Machine\n, Government of Trinidad & Tobago\n^\nCal. Government Code §\n 6700 subd. (a)(9)\n^\n\"Full list of USA states that recognise Diwali as a state holiday\"\n.\nThe Times of India\n. 25 October 2024.\nISSN\n \n0971-8257\n. Retrieved\n25 October\n2024\n.\n^\nKarmarkar, Richa (10 October 2025).\n\"Three US states now recognize Diwali as a holiday\"\n.\nReligion News Sercice\n. Retrieved\n19 October\n2025\n.\n^\nShattuck 1999\n, pp. 51, 124.\n^\nFrazier & Flood 2011\n, p. 255.\n^\nMonier Monier Williams (2008 updated, Harvard University), Sanskrit English dictionary, दीप,\np. 481\nArchived\n17 August 2018 at the\nWayback Machine\n^\nMonier Monier Williams (2008 updated, Harvard University), Sanskrit English dictionary, आवलि,\np. 155\nArchived\n27 March 2019 at the\nWayback Machine\n^\na\nb\nc\nJones 2011\n, pp. 252–253.\n^\na\nb\nPintchman 2005\n, pp. 61–62.\n^\nPintchman 2005\n, p. 61.\n^\nH.H. Wilson (1847). \"Religious festivals of the Hindus\".\nJournal of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland\n.\n9\n: 61.\n^\n\"Indian Government Holiday Calendar\"\n. National Portal of India.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 25 December 2018\n. Retrieved\n16 November\n2016\n.\n^\nRobert Isaac Levy; Kedar Raj Rajopadhyaya (1990).\nMesocosm: Hinduism and the Organization of a Traditional Newar City in Nepal\n. University of California Press. pp. \n411–\n417.\nISBN\n \n978-0-520-06911-4\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 12 January 2021\n. Retrieved\n20 August\n2018\n.\n^\nShrestha, Bal Gopal (July 2006).\n\"The Svanti Festival: Victory over Death and the Renewal of the Ritual Cycle in Nepal\"\n(PDF)\n.\nContributions to Nepalese Studies\n.\n33\n(2):\n206–\n221.\nArchived\n(PDF)\nfrom the original on 13 December 2013\n. Retrieved\n20 August\n2018\n.\n^\nDoniger, W. (2010).\nThe Hindus: An Alternative History\n. OUP Oxford. p. 370.\nISBN\n \n978-0-19-959334-7\n. Retrieved\n29 October\n2024\n.\n^\nClothey, F.W. (1978).\nThe Many Faces of Murukan̲: The History and Meaning of a South Indian God\n. Religion and society. Mouton. p. 224.\nISBN\n \n978-90-279-7632-1\n. Retrieved\n29 October\n2024\n.\n^\na\nb\nc\nd\ne\nf\ng\nh\ni\nPintchman 2005\n, pp. 59–65\n^\nLochtefeld 2002\n, p. 355.\n^\na\nb\nBN Sharma,\nFestivals of India\n, South Asia Books,\nISBN\n \n978-0-8364-0283-4\n, pp. 9–35\n^\nVaradpande, Manohar Laxman (1987).\nHistory of Indian Theatre, Volume 1\n. Abhinav Publications. p. 159.\nISBN\n \n978-81-7017-221-5\n.\n^\nR.N. Nandi (2009), in\nA Social History of Early India\n(Editor: B. Chattopadhyaya), Volume 2, Part 5, Pearson Education,\nISBN\n \n978-81-317-1958-9\n, pp. 183–184\n^\nEraly 2015\n, pp. 315–316.\n^\na\nb\nSewell 2006\n, pp. 85–86.\n^\na\nb\n\"Diwali Festival 2020 India:Date,Story,Celebration,Diwali Special Gift\"\n.\nS A NEWS\n. 12 November 2020.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 14 November 2020\n. Retrieved\n14 November\n2020\n.\n^\nEaton 1996\n, pp. 159–160 with footnotes.\n^\nMelville 2012\n, p. 526: \"He [Mahmud b. Amir Vali] gives a very detailed account of the celebration of the ten days of Moharram, which he witnessed in Lahore in 1965, as well as Hindu festivals such as Diwali (...).\"\n^\nOkita 2014\n, pp. 28–29.\n^\na\nb\nc\nBlake 2013\n, pp. 87–89.\n^\na\nb\nTruschke 2017\n, pp. 74–75.\n^\na\nb\nJohn F. Richards (1995).\nThe Mughal Empire\n. Cambridge University Press. pp. \n38–\n40,\n175–\n176.\nISBN\n \n978-0-521-56603-2\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 29 May 2016\n. Retrieved\n23 August\n2018\n.\n^\na\nb\nc\nd\nSir William Jones\n(1799). \"The Lunar Year of the Hindus\".\nAsiatic Researches\n.\n3\n:\n263–\n267, context: 257–293, note the mention of Brahmaputra and Ganges rivers, immersion ceremony on Durga puja.\n^\nJohn William Kaye; William Simpson (1867).\nIndia ancient and modern: a series of illustrations of the Country and people of India and adjacent territories. Executed in chromolithography from drawings by William Simpson\n. London Day and Son. p. 50.\nOCLC\n \n162249047\n.\n^\nDineschandra Sircar (1966).\nIndian Epigraphical Glossary\n. Motilal Banarsidass. p. 98.\nISBN\n \n978-81-208-0562-0\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 26 January 2021\n. Retrieved\n21 August\n2018\n.\n^\nE. Hultzsch (1899).\nEpigraphia Indica and Record of the Archæological Survey of India, Volume V\n. Office of the Superintendent of Government Printing, India. p. 13.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n21 August\n2018\n.\n^\nDineschandra Sircar (1971).\nStudies in the Religious Life of Ancient and Medieval India\n. Motilal Banarsidass. pp. \n128–\n129.\nISBN\n \n978-81-208-2790-5\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 15 August 2021\n. Retrieved\n21 August\n2018\n.\n^\nR.S. Panchamukhi (1933). Hirananda Sastri (ed.).\nEpigraphia Indica, Volume XX\n. Archaeological Society of India. pp. \n117\n, 121, see Lines 44–52.\n^\na\nb\nF. Kielhorn (1896). E. Hultzsch (ed.).\nEpigraphia Indica, Volume IV\n. Archaeological Society of India. pp. \n148–\n151.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n21 August\n2018\n.\n^\nRamendra Nath Nandi (1973).\nReligious Institutions and Cults in the Deccan, c. A.D. 600–A.D. 1000\n. Motilal Banarsidass. p. 38.\nISBN\n \n978-0-8426-0564-9\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n21 August\n2018\n.\n^\nMadhusudan A. Dhaky; Michael W. Meister (1996).\nEncyclopaedia of Indian temple architecture, Volume 1, Part 3\n. American Institute of Indian Studies. pp. \n255–\n257.\nISBN\n \n978-81-86526-00-2\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n21 August\n2018\n.\n^\na\nb\nE. Hultzsch (1980).\nEpigraphia Indica, Volume XI\n. Archaeological Society of India. pp. \n52–\n55.\n^\nManohar Laxman Varadpande (1983).\nReligion and Theatre\n. Abhinav Publications. p. 23.\nISBN\n \n978-0-391-02794-7\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n21 August\n2018\n.\nThe most important reference is to the setting up of the golden cupola in the newly built central hall for dramatic performances on the occasion of Dipotsava Dana in v.s. 1268. The inscription written in Sanskrit clearly points out a tradition, in the Jain Viharas of performing plays on festive occasions before the idol of Mahavira.\n^\na\nb\nc\nBahadur 2006\n, p. 91.\n^\nCampbell, Mason (2022).\nDiwali and Its Origins\n. OUACHITA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY. p. 2.\n^\n\"Krishna Killed Narakasur – The Narakasur Legend of Diwali – Diwali Legend\"\n.\ndiwalicelebrations.net\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 27 February 2019\n. Retrieved\n17 December\n2018\n.\n^\na\nb\nPechilis, Karen (2007). \"Guests at God's Wedding: Celebrating Kartik among the Women of Benares\".\nThe Journal of Asian Studies\n.\n66\n(1):\n273–\n275.\ndoi\n:\n10.1017\/S0021911807000460\n.\n^\na\nb\nAmazzone 2012\n.\n^\nBuck, C. (2008).\nHindu Festivals\n, Festivals in Indian Society (2 Vols. Set), Vol 1,\nISBN\n \n978-81-8324-113-7\n^\nHolm, Jean (2006). \"Growing Up in Hinduism\".\nBritish Journal of Religious Education\n.\n6\n(3):\n116–\n120.\ndoi\n:\n10.1080\/0141620840060303\n.\n^\na\nb\nCoogan 2003\n, pp. 152–153.\n^\nVemsani 2016\n, pp. 190–191.\n^\nVasudha Narayanan; Deborah Heiligman (2008).\nCelebrate Diwali\n. National Geographic. p. 31.\nISBN\n \n978-1-4263-0291-6\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 2 January 2017\n. Retrieved\n14 October\n2016\n.\n^\nHindu Festivals\nArchived\n11 October 2015 at the\nWayback Machine\nHinduism Today (2010)\n^\nCarol Plum-Ucci (2007).\nCelebrate Diwali\n, Enslow Publishers,\nISBN\n \n978-0-7660-2778-7\n, pp. 39–57\n^\na\nb\nSalamone 2004\n, p. 112, Article on Divali by Lindsey Harlan.\n^\nBridget Brereton\n(1996).\nAn Introduction to the History of Trinidad and Tobago\n. Heinemann. p. 113.\nISBN\n \n978-0-435-98474-8\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n19 August\n2018\n.\n^\nJohnson 2007\n, pp. 71–79.\n^\nDiwali – Celebrating the triumph of goodness\nArchived\n24 September 2015 at the\nWayback Machine\nHinduism Today (2012)\n^\nJean Mead, How and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?,\nISBN\n \n978-0-237-53412-7\n, pp. 8–12\n^\nJacobi, Hermann; Ed. F. Max Müller (1895).\nUttaradhyayana Sutra, Jain Sutras Part II, Sacred Books of the East, Vol. 45\n. Oxford: The Clarendon Press.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 4 July 2009\n. Retrieved\n19 December\n2007\n.\n^\na\nb\nLong 2009\n, pp. 26, 42.\n^\nPotter 2007\n, pp. 35–36.\n^\nDundas 2002\n, p. 22.\n^\nMelton 2011\n, p. 255.\n^\nLong 2009\n, p. 42.\n^\nJain & Fischer 1978\n, p. 13.\n^\nH.S. Singha (2000).\nThe Encyclopedia of Sikhism (over 1000 Entries)\n. Hemkunt Press. p. 62.\nISBN\n \n978-81-7010-301-1\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 2 January 2017\n. Retrieved\n6 April\n2016\n.\n^\nGrewal 1998\n, pp. 50–51, 60, 73–78, 93.\n^\nColledge 2017\n, pp. 276–278.\n^\nSingh & Louis E. Fenech 2014\n, pp. 431–433.\n^\nOberoi 1994\n, pp. 346–349.\n^\na\nb\nOberoi 1994\n, pp. 347–349.\n^\nJon Burbank (2002).\nNepal\n. Marshall Cavendish. pp. \n111–\n112.\nISBN\n \n978-0-7614-1476-6\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 2 January 2017\n. Retrieved\n14 October\n2016\n.\n^\nFrank Salamone (2004).\nEncyclopedia of Religious Rites, Rituals and Festivals\n,\nISBN\n \n978-0-415-88091-6\n, Routledge, pp. 112–113, 174, 252\n^\nPramodkumar (2008).\nMeri Khoj Ek Bharat Ki\n. Lulu.com.\nISBN\n \n978-1-4357-1240-9\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n26 October\n2011\n.\nIt is extremely important to keep the house spotlessly clean and pure on Diwali. The goddess\nLakshmi\nlikes cleanliness, and it is believed that she will visit the cleanest house first. Lamps are lit in the evening to welcome the goddess. They are believed to light up her path.\n^\na\nb\nc\nd\ne\nf\nMcDermott 2011\n, pp. 183–188.\n^\nKaren Bellenir (1997).\nReligious Holidays and Calendars: An Encyclopedic Handbook\n, 2nd Edition,\nISBN\n \n978-0-7808-0258-2\n, Omnigraphics\n^\nRajat Gupta; Nishant Singh; Ishita Kirar.\nHospitality & Tourism Management\n. Vikas. p. 84.\nISBN\n \n978-93-259-8244-4\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n13 August\n2018\n.\n^\na\nb\nKristen Haar; Sewa Singh Kalsi (2009).\nSikhism\n. Infobase Publishing. pp. \n98–\n99.\nISBN\n \n978-1-4381-0647-2\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 8 February 2020\n. Retrieved\n13 August\n2018\n.\n^\nShobhna Gupta (2002).\nFestivals of India\n. Har-Anand. p. 84.\nISBN\n \n978-81-241-0869-7\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n13 August\n2018\n.\n^\na\nb\nc\nd\ne\nf\nBahadur 2006\n, pp. 92–93.\n^\na\nb\nKinsley 1988\n, pp. 33–34.\n^\nClosson, Troy (26 June 2023).\n\"Diwali Is Set to Become a School Holiday in New York City\"\n.\nThe New York Times\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 4 August 2023\n. Retrieved\n2 August\n2023\n.\n^\na\nb\nc\nd\ne\nPintchman 2005\n, pp. 59–60.\n^\n\"Diwali | Definition & Facts | Britannica\"\n.\nEncyclopædia Britannica\n. 14 July 2023.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 1 May 2015\n. Retrieved\n27 July\n2023\n.\n^\na\nb\nLLP, Adarsh Mobile Applications.\n\"2020 Yama Deepam date and timings for New Delhi, NCT, India\"\n.\nDrikpanchang\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 23 December 2017\n. Retrieved\n28 August\n2021\n.\n^\na\nb\n\"The 'Yam-deep' or 'Jam ke Deeya' – SWAHA International\"\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n11 November\n2020\n.\n^\na\nb\n\"Significance of Yama Deepam on Diwali Eve\"\n. AstroVed.com. 29 December 2021.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 19 April 2021\n. Retrieved\n10 January\n2022\n.\n^\n\"Choti Diwali 2020 date: Kali Chaudas significance, when and how to celebrate\"\n.\nThe Times of India\n. 13 November 2020.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 14 November 2020\n. Retrieved\n14 November\n2020\n.\n^\na\nb\nPintchman 2005\n, pp. 60–61.\n^\nPintchman 2005\n, pp. 60–61, 63.\n^\n\"Ravana | King of Lanka, Demon King, Ten-Headed | Britannica\"\n.\nEncyclopædia Britannica\n. 24 June 2023.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 2 June 2023\n. Retrieved\n28 July\n2023\n.\n^\n\"2020 Hanuman Puja date and time during Diwali for New Delhi, NCT, India\"\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 3 November 2021\n. Retrieved\n6 November\n2020\n.\n^\na\nb\nc\nBahadur 2006\n, pp. 93–94.\n^\nRodrigues 2016\n, p. 29.\n^\na\nb\nJacobs 2010\n, p. 26.\n^\nJean Mead (February 2008).\nHow and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?\n. Evans Brothers. pp. 4–.\nISBN\n \n978-0-237-53412-7\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n25 March\n2019\n.\n^\na\nb\nJones 2011\n, p. 254.\n^\na\nb\nBahadur 2006\n, pp. 94–95.\n^\nBahadur 2006\n, pp. 97–98.\n^\nJohn Bowker, ed., Oxford Concise Dictionary of World Religions (Oxford UP, 2000), See Festivals\n^\nKlostermaier 2014\n, pp. 59, 69.\n^\nRhodes 2010\n, pp. 1–2.\n^\nMcDaniel 2004\n, pp. 253–255.\n^\na\nb\nc\nPintchman 2005\n, pp. 61–63.\n^\nBahadur 2006\n, pp. 94–97.\n^\nPetrillo, Valerie (28 May 2007).\nAsian American History\n. Chicago Review Press.\nISBN\n \n978-1-55652-634-3\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n26 October\n2011\n.\nThere are firecrackers everywhere to scare off evil spirits and contribute to the festive atmosphere.\n^\nDeRocco, David; Dundas, Joan; Ian Zimmerman (1996).\nThe International Holiday & Festival Primer\n. Full Blast Productions.\nISBN\n \n978-1-895451-24-5\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 11 November 2023\n. Retrieved\n26 October\n2011\n.\nBut as well as delighting the spectators, the fireworks are believed to chase away evil spirits.\n^\nPintchman 2005\n, p. 63.\n^\na\nb\nc\nd\nPintchman 2005\n, pp. 63–64.\n^\nM.G.S. Narayanan; K.K.N. Kurup (1976).\nHistorical Studies in Kerala\n. Department of History, University of Calicut.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 3 January 2014\n. Retrieved\n12 October\n2014\n.\n^\nDeborah Heiligman,\nCelebrate Diwali\n,\nISBN\n \n978-1-4263-0291-6\n, National Geographic, p. 31\n^\na\nb\nc\nd\ne\nf\ng\nCrump 2014\n, pp. 112–113.\n^\nPintchman 2005\n, pp. 64–65.\n^\nLodrick 1987\n.\n^\nDavid L. Haberman (2006).\nRiver of Love in an Age of Pollution: The Yamuna River of Northern India\n. University of California Press. p. 129.\nISBN\n \n978-0-520-24789-5\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 11 November 2023\n. Retrieved\n19 August\n2018\n.\n^\na\nb\nPintchman 2005\n, pp. 66–69.\n^\n\"Bhai Bij in India in 2020\"\n.\nOffice Holidays\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 16 November 2020\n. Retrieved\n14 November\n2020\n.\n^\nGovernment of India & Himachal Pradesh (1982).\nCensus of India, 1981: Himachal Pradesh\n. Controller of Publications. p. 46.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 11 November 2023\n. Retrieved\n20 August\n2018\n.\n^\nMelton 2011\n, pp. 908–909.\n^\nNarayan, Kirin; George, Kenneth M. (2017). \"Tools and world-making in the worship of Vishwakarma\".\nSouth Asian History and Culture\n.\n8\n(4):\n478–\n492.\ndoi\n:\n10.1080\/19472498.2017.1371506\n.\nS2CID\n \n149325687\n.\n^\nKadowala, Dilip (1998).\nDiwali\n. London: Evans Brothers Limited.\nISBN\n \n978-0-237-51801-1\n.\n^\na\nb\nOberoi 1994\n, pp. 188–190 with footnote 96.\n^\nPriya Krishna (2017),\nIf You Missed Diwali in India, Dallas Is the Place to Be\nArchived\n20 August 2018 at the\nWayback Machine\n,\nThe New York Times\n, 31 October 2017\n^\nManchester Dashehra and Diwali Mela plans announced\nArchived\n20 August 2018 at the\nWayback Machine\n, Asian Image (2 October 2017), United Kingdom\n^\nBharath, Deepa (7 October 2025).\n\"California makes Diwali an official statewide holiday\"\n.\nAP News\n. Retrieved\n9 October\n2025\n.\n^\nKlostermaier 2014\n, p. 59.\n^\nFestive season to boost India gold buying\nArchived\n7 December 2013 at the\nWayback Machine\nBullion Street (15 October 2013)\n^\nGold, Key markets: India\nArchived\n7 December 2013 at the\nWayback Machine\nWorld Gold Council (2013)\n^\nIndia's banks face pre-Diwali cash crunch\nArchived\n10 January 2022 at the\nWayback Machine\nJames Lamont,\nThe Financial Times\n(29 October 2010)\n^\nDiwali lights up consumer spending, festive spirit beats inflation\nM.G. Arun, India Today (1 November 2013)\n^\nRao 2001\n, pp. 71–95.\n^\nFirecrackers to cost a bomb this Diwali\nThe Times of India\n(24 October 2013)\n^\nFear Of Toxic Smog Leads India To Limit Diwali Fireworks\nArchived\n22 August 2018 at the\nWayback Machine\n, NPR (17 October 2017)\n^\nFirework Facts: Americans Incinerate $1 Billion in July Fourth Fireworks Every Year\nArchived\n22 August 2018 at the\nWayback Machine\n, Fortune (29 June 2018)\n^\nOneline sales may surpass Rs 30000 crores in festive months\nArchived\n28 August 2018 at the\nWayback Machine\nThe Times of India (11 October 2017)\n^\nAverage family to spend Rs. 10,000 on this Diwali: ASSOCHAM survey\nArchived\n20 August 2018 at the\nWayback Machine\n, ASSOCHAM (17 October 2017); Tarandip Kaur (2017),\n\"Festival of Lights: All You Need to Know About Diwali\"\nArchived\n19 August 2018 at the\nWayback Machine\n,\nForbes\n(18 October 2017)\n^\n\"DNA Explainer: What is Diwali Muhurat Trading and why it is best time to invest in stocks\"\n.\nDNA India\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 5 November 2021\n. Retrieved\n5 November\n2021\n.\n^\n\"NextFins Celebrates Diwali With the Launch of INDF\"\n.\nbusinesswire.com\n. 12 November 2020.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 12 November 2020\n. Retrieved\n12 November\n2020\n.\n^\na\nb\nBarbato 2017\n, pp. 93–97.\n^\nLittle India, Singapore (2013),\nDeepavali in Singapore\nArchived\n3 December 2013 at the\nWayback Machine\n^\nPTI (10 November 2007).\n\"Prince Charles, Camilla celebrate Diwali in UK\"\n.\nThe Times of India\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 4 November 2013\n. Retrieved\n3 November\n2013\n.\n^\n\"Their Royal Highnesses The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall Celebrate Diwali at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London\"\n.\nmandir.org\n. BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. Archived from\nthe original\non 14 November 2012\n. Retrieved\n3 November\n2013\n.\n^\n\"Mayor announces the capital's Diwali in the Square celebrations | London City Hall\"\n.\nwww.london.gov.uk\n. Retrieved\n13 November\n2023\n.\n^\nPTI (17 October 2009).\n\"Brown celebrates Diwali at 10, Downing Street, in a 'historic' first\"\n.\nThe Times of India\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 4 November 2013\n. Retrieved\n3 November\n2013\n.\n^\nSanchez, Aurelio (2 November 2007). \"Fest celebrates triumph of light over dark\".\nThe Albuquerque Journal\n. p. 10.\nAccording to a resolution passed recently by the Foreign Affairs Committee of the House of Representatives, the festival is celebrated by almost 2 million in the United States and many millions more around the world. The bill, H.R. 747, calls for the U.S. Congress to acknowledge 'the religious and historical significance of the festival of Diwali.'\n^\n\"US House passes resolution on significance of Diwali\".\nHindustan Times\n. 30 October 2007.\n^\n\"Statement by the President on Diwali\"\n.\nwhitehouse.gov\n. 4 November 2010.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 18 January 2017\n. Retrieved\n1 March\n2021\n– via\nNational Archives\n.\n^\nHouse, The White (20 October 2025).\n\"Presidential Message on Diwali\"\n.\nThe White House\n. Retrieved\n21 October\n2025\n.\n^\n\"\n'To every American…': Trump extends Diwali greetings with message of 'hope and peace' amid US-India tariff tension\"\n.\nHindustan Times\n. 20 October 2025\n. Retrieved\n21 October\n2025\n.\n^\n\"\n\"Go Back\": MAGA Floods Kash Patel's Diwali Post With Racism\"\n.\nThe New Republic via Yahoo News\n. 21 October 2025\n. Retrieved\n21 October\n2025\n.\n^\nOur Web Desk (21 October 2025).\n\"Kash Patel makes a Diwali post, gets MAGA lessons and Valhalla reminders\"\n.\nThe Telegraph Online\n.\n^\n\"Diwali is now an official holiday in 3 states\"\n.\nDeseret News\n. 20 October 2025\n. Retrieved\n21 October\n2025\n.\n^\nHindmon, Jade; Rusch, Ashley.\n\"Diwali becomes an official California state holiday\"\n.\nKPBS Public Media\n. Retrieved\n21 October\n2025\n.\n^\nDiwali Lights up India\nIndia Today (3 November 2013)\n^\n\"Pakistan parliament adopts resolution for Holi, Diwali, Easter holidays\"\n.\nThe Times of India\n. 16 March 2016.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 6 March 2018\n. Retrieved\n13 March\n2017\n.\n^\nSridharan, Vasudevan (2016).\n\"Muslim-majority Pakistan set to declare Holi, Diwali and Easter as public holidays\"\n.\nInternational Business Times\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 18 March 2016\n. Retrieved\n19 March\n2016\n.\n^\n\"Muslims join Hindus in Diwali celebrations in Pakistan's Peshawar\"\n.\nThe Economic Times\n. 17 November 2015. Archived from\nthe original\non 11 December 2015\n. Retrieved\n19 March\n2016\n.\n^\n\"India-Pakistan border troops exchange Diwali sweets near Jaisalmer\"\n. Mathrubhumi. November 2024.\n^\n\"Air Pollution: Delhi's air quality enters 'Red Zone' ahead of Diwali\"\n.\nDNA India\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 6 November 2021\n. Retrieved\n4 November\n2021\n.\n^\n\"Diwali may bring 'severe' air pollution to Delhi, despite fireworks ban\"\n.\nThe Washington Post\n.\nISSN\n \n0190-8286\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 5 November 2021\n. Retrieved\n4 November\n2021\n.\n^\n\"Residents across India celebrate Diwali with festivities and dazzling lights\"\n.\nAP\n.\nNPR\n. 24 October 2022.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 27 July 2023\n. Retrieved\n10 November\n2023\n.\n^\n\"Firecrackers Not Only Pollute The Environment But Also Carry Cancer Causing Chemicals\"\n.\nNews18\n. 23 October 2018.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 6 November 2021\n. Retrieved\n4 November\n2021\n.\n^\nMehta, Tanvi (13 November 2023).\n\"Three Indian cities among world's 10 most polluted after Diwali\"\n.\nReuters\n. Retrieved\n22 November\n2023\n.\n^\nMohan, D.; Varghese, M. (1990). \"Fireworks cast a shadow on India's festival of lights\".\nWorld Health Forum\n.\n11\n(3):\n323–\n326.\nPMID\n \n2291800\n.\n^\nAhuja, R.B.; Bhattacharya, S. (August 2004).\n\"Burns in the developing world and burn disasters\"\n.\nThe BMJ\n.\n329\n(7463):\n447–\n449.\ndoi\n:\n10.1136\/bmj.329.7463.447\n.\nPMC\n \n514214\n.\nPMID\n \n15321905\n.\n^\nAddow, Amina (17 November 2023).\n\"Largest display of oil lamps illuminate Indian city to celebrate Diwali\"\n.\nGuinness World Records\n. Retrieved\n20 July\n2024\n.\n^\n\"Historic moment as Diwali makes it to Unesco list: Deepavali joins Yoga, Durga Puja among intangible cultural heritage — full list\"\n.\nThe Times of India\n. 10 December 2025.\nISSN\n \n0971-8257\n. Retrieved\n10 December\n2025\n.\nBibliography\nAmazzone, Laura (2012).\nGoddess Durga and Sacred Female Power\n. University Press of America.\nISBN\n \n978-0-7618-5314-5\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 17 March 2020\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nBahadur, Om Lata (2006). \"Diwali: The Festival of Lights\". In John Stratton Hawley; Vasudha Narayanan (eds.).\nThe Life of Hinduism\n. University of California Press.\nISBN\n \n978-0-520-24914-1\n.\nBarbato, Melanie (2017). \"Diplomatic Language in the Deepavali Messages of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue\".\nThe Review of Faith & International Affairs\n.\n15\n(4: Popes on the Rise: The Modern Papacy in World Affairs):\n93–\n104.\ndoi\n:\n10.1080\/15570274.2017.1392707\n.\nS2CID\n \n148694739\n.\nBlake, Stephen (2013).\nTime in Early Modern Islam: Calendar, Ceremony, and Chronology in the Safavid, Mughal and Ottoman Empires\n. Cambridge University Press.\nISBN\n \n978-1-139-62032-1\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 26 January 2021\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nColledge, Ray (2017).\nMastering World Religions\n. Macmillan.\nISBN\n \n978-1-349-14329-0\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n18 August\n2018\n.\nCoogan, Michael D. (2003).\nThe Illustrated Guide to World Religions\n. Oxford University Press.\nISBN\n \n978-0-19-521997-5\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 17 December 2019\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nCrump, William D. (2014).\nEncyclopedia of New Year's Holidays Worldwide\n. McFarland.\nISBN\n \n978-0-7864-9545-0\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nDundas, Paul\n(2002).\nThe Jains\n(Second ed.). Routledge.\nISBN\n \n978-0-415-26605-5\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 22 January 2017\n. Retrieved\n18 August\n2018\n.\nEaton, Richard M. (1996).\nThe Rise of Islam and the Bengal Frontier, 1204–1760\n. University of California Press.\nISBN\n \n978-0-520-20507-9\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 6 January 2017\n. Retrieved\n25 September\n2018\n.\nEraly, Abraham (2015).\nThe Age of Wrath: A History of the Delhi Sultanate\n. Penguin Books.\nISBN\n \n978-93-5118-658-8\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 28 April 2016\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nFieldhouse, Paul (2017).\nFood, Feasts, and Faith: An Encyclopedia of Food Culture in World Religions\n. ABC-CLIO.\nISBN\n \n978-1-61069-412-4\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 7 May 2021\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nFrazier, Jessica; Flood, Gavin (2011).\nThe Continuum Companion to Hindu Studies\n. A&C Black.\nISBN\n \n978-0-8264-9966-0\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 19 August 2020\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nGoldstein, Darra (2015).\nThe Oxford Companion to Sugar and Sweets\n. Oxford University Press.\nISBN\n \n978-0-19-931339-6\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 25 February 2021\n. Retrieved\n14 October\n2016\n.\nGrewal, J. S. (1998).\nThe Sikhs of the Punjab\n. Cambridge University Press.\nISBN\n \n978-0-521-63764-0\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 4 May 2019\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nJacobs, Stephen (2010).\nHinduism Today: An Introduction\n. A&C Black.\nISBN\n \n978-0-8264-3065-6\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nJain, Jyotindra; Fischer, Eberhard (1978).\nJaina Iconography\n. BRILL Academic.\nISBN\n \n978-90-04-05259-8\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 26 April 2017\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nJohnson, Christopher H.; Teuscher, Simon; Sabean, David Warren (2011).\nTransregional and Transnational Families in Europe and Beyond: Experiences Since the Middle Ages\n. Berghahn.\nISBN\n \n978-0-85745-183-5\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n19 August\n2018\n.\nJohnson, Henry (June 2007). \"\n'Happy Diwali!' Performance, Multicultural Soundscapes and Intervention in Aotearoa\/New Zealand\".\nEthnomusicology Forum\n.\n16\n(1):\n71–\n94.\ndoi\n:\n10.1080\/17411910701276526\n.\nJSTOR\n \n20184577\n.\nS2CID\n \n191322269\n.\nKelly, John D. (March 1988). \"From Holi to Diwali in Fiji: An Essay on Ritual and History\".\nMan\n.\n23\n(1):\n40–\n55.\ndoi\n:\n10.2307\/2803032\n.\nJSTOR\n \n2803032\n.\nKinsley, David (1988).\nHindu Goddesses: Visions of the Divine Feminine in the Hindu Religious Tradition\n. University of California Press.\nISBN\n \n978-0-520-90883-3\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 1 April 2019\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nKlostermaier, Klaus K. (2014).\nA Concise Encyclopedia of Hinduism\n. Oxford: Oneworld Publications.\nISBN\n \n978-1-78074-672-2\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 29 December 2020\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nLochtefeld, James G. (2002).\nThe Illustrated Encyclopedia of Hinduism: A–M, Volume 1\n. Rosen Publishing.\nISBN\n \n978-0-8239-3179-8\n.\nMcDermott, Rachel Fell (2011).\nRevelry, Rivalry, and Longing for the Goddesses of Bengal\n. Columbia University Press.\nISBN\n \n978-0-231-52787-3\n.\nLodrick, Deryck O. (1987). \"Gopashtami and Govardhan Puja: Two Krishna Festivals of India\".\nJournal of Cultural Geography\n.\n7\n(2):\n101–\n116.\ndoi\n:\n10.1080\/08873638709478510\n.\nLong, Jeffery D.\n(2009).\nJainism: An Introduction\n. I. B. Tauris.\nISBN\n \n978-1-84511-625-5\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 23 April 2017\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nMcDaniel, June (2004).\nOffering Flowers, Feeding Skulls: Popular Goddess Worship in West Bengal\n. Oxford University Press.\nISBN\n \n978-0-19-516790-0\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 26 January 2021\n. Retrieved\n19 August\n2018\n.\nMelton, J. Gordon, ed. (2011).\nReligious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays Festivals Solemn Observances and Spiritual Commemorations\n. ABC-CLIO.\nISBN\n \n978-1-59884-205-0\n.\nJones, Constance (2011). Melton, J. Gordon (ed.).\nReligious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays Festivals Solemn Observances and Spiritual Commemorations\n. ABC-CLIO.\nISBN\n \n978-1-59884-205-0\n.\nMelville, Charles (2012).\nA History of Persian Literature\n. Vol. X:\nPersian Historiography\n. I. B. Tauris.\nISBN\n \n978-0-85773-657-4\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 26 September 2020\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nOberoi, Harjot (1994).\nThe Construction of Religious Boundaries: Culture, Identity, and Diversity in the Sikh Tradition\n. University of Chicago Press.\nISBN\n \n978-0-226-61593-6\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 19 August 2020\n. Retrieved\n19 August\n2018\n.\nOkita, Kiyokazu (2014).\nHindu Theology in Early Modern South Asia: The Rise of Devotionalism and the Politics of Genealogy\n. Oxford University Press.\nISBN\n \n978-0-19-870926-8\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n18 August\n2018\n.\nPintchman, Tracy (2005).\nGuests at God's Wedding: Celebrating Kartik among the Women of Benares\n. State University of New York Press.\nISBN\n \n978-0-7914-8256-8\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 26 December 2018\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nPotter, Karl H.\n(2007). Malvania, Dalsukh; Soni, Jayendra (eds.).\nEncyclopedia of Indian Philosophies\n. Vol. X:\nJain Philosophy\n. Motilal Banarsidass.\nISBN\n \n978-81-208-3169-8\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 12 April 2017\n. Retrieved\n25 September\n2018\n.\nRao, V. (October 2001). \"Celebrations as Social Investments: Festival Expenditures, Unit Price Variation and Social Status in Rural India\".\nJournal of Development Studies\n.\n38\n(1):\n71–\n97.\ndoi\n:\n10.1080\/713601102\n.\nS2CID\n \n59148993\n.\nRhodes, Constantina (2010).\nInvoking Lakshmi: The Goddess of Wealth in Song and Ceremony\n. State University of New York Press.\nISBN\n \n978-1-4384-3322-6\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nRodrigues, Hillary (2016).\nIntroducing Hinduism\n. Routledge.\nISBN\n \n978-0-415-54966-0\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nSalamone, Frank (2004).\nEncyclopedia of Religious Rites, Rituals and Festivals\n. Routledge.\nISBN\n \n978-0-415-88091-6\n.\nShah, Manju N. (Winter–Fall 1995). \"Celebrating Diwali in America\".\nJournal of South Asian Literature\n.\n30\n(\n1–\n2):\n41–\n44.\nJSTOR\n \n40873556\n.\nShattuck, Cybelle T. (1999).\nHinduism\n. Prentice Hall.\nISBN\n \n978-0-13-266255-0\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 26 January 2021\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nSewell, Robert (2006).\nA Forgotten Empire (Vijayanagar): A Contribution to the History of India\n. Echo.\nISBN\n \n978-0716521372\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 10 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nSingh, Pashaura; Louis E. Fenech (2014).\nThe Oxford Handbook of Sikh Studies\n. Oxford University Press.\nISBN\n \n978-0-19-969930-8\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 4 May 2019\n. Retrieved\n18 August\n2018\n.\nTruschke, Audrey (2017).\nAurangzeb: The Life and Legacy of India's Most Controversial King\n. Stanford University Press.\nISBN\n \n978-1-5036-0259-5\n.\nVemsani, Lavanya (2016).\nKrishna in History, Thought, and Culture: An Encyclopedia of the Hindu Lord of Many Names: An Encyclopedia of the Hindu Lord of Many Names\n. ABC-CLIO.\nISBN\n \n978-1-61069-211-3\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 6 December 2017\n. Retrieved\n17 August\n2018\n.\nExternal links\nThe Ancient Origins of Diwali, India's Biggest Holiday\n—Becky Little (2017)\nDeepawali\nat Know India (archived)\nWinter air pollution around Diwali and Asthma","attrs_markdown":"[Jump to content](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#bodyContent)\n\nMain menu\n\nMain menu\n\nmove to sidebar\n\nhide\n\nNavigation\n\n- [Main page](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Main_Page \"Visit the main page [z]\")\n- [Contents](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Contents \"Guides to browsing Wikipedia\")\n- [Current events](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Current_events \"Articles related to current events\")\n- [Random article](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:Random \"Visit a randomly selected article [x]\")\n- [About Wikipedia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:About \"Learn about Wikipedia and how it works\")\n- [Contact us](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Contact_us \"How to contact Wikipedia\")\n\nContribute\n\n- [Help](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Help:Contents \"Guidance on how to use and edit Wikipedia\")\n- [Learn to edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Help:Introduction \"Learn how to edit Wikipedia\")\n- [Community portal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Community_portal \"The hub for editors\")\n- [Recent changes](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:RecentChanges \"A list of recent changes to Wikipedia [r]\")\n- [Upload file](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:File_upload_wizard \"Add images or other media for use on Wikipedia\")\n- [Special pages](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:SpecialPages \"A list of all special pages [q]\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/static\/images\/icons\/enwiki-25.svg) ![Wikipedia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/static\/images\/mobile\/copyright\/wikipedia-wordmark-en-25.svg) ![The Free Encyclopedia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/static\/images\/mobile\/copyright\/wikipedia-tagline-en-25.svg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Main_Page)\n\n[Search](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:Search \"Search Wikipedia [f]\")\n\nAppearance\n\n- [Donate](https:\/\/donate.wikimedia.org\/?wmf_source=donate&wmf_medium=sidebar&wmf_campaign=en.wikipedia.org&uselang=en)\n- [Create account](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Special:CreateAccount&returnto=Diwali \"You are encouraged to create an account and log in; however, it is not mandatory\")\n- [Log in](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Special:UserLogin&returnto=Diwali \"You're encouraged to log in; however, it's not mandatory. [o]\")\n\nPersonal tools\n\n- [Donate](https:\/\/donate.wikimedia.org\/?wmf_source=donate&wmf_medium=sidebar&wmf_campaign=en.wikipedia.org&uselang=en)\n- [Create account](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Special:CreateAccount&returnto=Diwali \"You are encouraged to create an account and log in; however, it is not mandatory\")\n- [Log in](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Special:UserLogin&returnto=Diwali \"You're encouraged to log in; however, it's not mandatory. [o]\")\n\n## Contents\nmove to sidebar\n\nhide\n\n- [(Top)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali)\n- [1 Etymology](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Etymology)\n- [2 Dates](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Dates)\n- [3 History](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#History)\n  Toggle History subsection\n  - [3\\.1 Epigraphy](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Epigraphy)\n- [4 Religious significance](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Religious_significance)\n  Toggle Religious significance subsection\n  - [4\\.1 Other religions](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Other_religions)\n    - [4\\.1.1 Jainism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Jainism)\n    - [4\\.1.2 Sikhism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Sikhism)\n    - [4\\.1.3 Buddhism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Buddhism)\n- [5 Celebrations](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Celebrations)\n  Toggle Celebrations subsection\n  - [5\\.1 Dhanteras and Yama Deepam (Day 1)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Dhanteras_and_Yama_Deepam_\$Day_1\$)\n  - [5\\.2 Naraka Chaturdashi, Kali Chaudas, Chhoti Diwali, Hanuman Puja, Roop Chaudas, Yama Deepam (Day 2)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Naraka_Chaturdashi,_Kali_Chaudas,_Chhoti_Diwali,_Hanuman_Puja,_Roop_Chaudas,_Yama_Deepam_\$Day_2\$)\n  - [5\\.3 Lakshmi Pujan, Kali Puja (Day 3)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Lakshmi_Pujan,_Kali_Puja_\$Day_3\$)\n  - [5\\.4 Annakut, Balipratipada (Padwa), New Year's Day, Govardhan Puja (Day 4)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Annakut,_Balipratipada_\$Padwa\$,_New_Year's_Day,_Govardhan_Puja_\$Day_4\$)\n  - [5\\.5 Bhai Duj, Bhau-Beej, Vishwakarma Puja (Day 5)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Bhai_Duj,_Bhau-Beej,_Vishwakarma_Puja_\$Day_5\$)\n- [6 Other traditions and significance](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Other_traditions_and_significance)\n  Toggle Other traditions and significance subsection\n  - [6\\.1 Economics](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Economics)\n  - [6\\.2 Politics](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Politics)\n- [7 Hazards](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Hazards)\n- [8 Guinness World Record](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Guinness_World_Record)\n- [9 UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#UNESCO%E2%80%99s_list_of_Intangible_Cultural_Heritage)\n- [10 See also](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#See_also)\n- [11 Notes](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Notes)\n- [12 References](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#References)\n  Toggle References subsection\n  - [12\\.1 Bibliography](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Bibliography)\n- [13 External links](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#External_links)\n\nToggle the table of contents\n\n# Diwali\n99 languages\n\n- [Afrikaans](https:\/\/af.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Divali \"Divali – Afrikaans\")\n- [अंगिका](https:\/\/anp.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%80%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%80 \"दीपावली – Angika\")\n- [العربية](https:\/\/ar.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D8%AF%D9%8A%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%8A \"ديوالي – Arabic\")\n- [مصرى](https:\/\/arz.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D8%AF%D9%8A%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%89 \"ديوالى – Egyptian Arabic\")\n- [অসমীয়া](https:\/\/as.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A6%A6%E0%A7%87%E0%A7%B1%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%B2%E0%A7%80 \"দেৱালী – Assamese\")\n- [Asturianu](https:\/\/ast.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Asturian\")\n- [अवधी](https:\/\/awa.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%80%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%80 \"दीपावली – Awadhi\")\n- [Azərbaycanca](https:\/\/az.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Divali \"Divali – Azerbaijani\")\n- [Bikol Central](https:\/\/bcl.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Central Bikol\")\n- [Български](https:\/\/bg.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D0%94%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BB%D0%B8 \"Дивали – Bulgarian\")\n- [भोजपुरी](https:\/\/bh.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%80 \"दिपावली – Bhojpuri\")\n- [বাংলা](https:\/\/bn.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A6%A6%E0%A7%80%E0%A6%AA%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%AC%E0%A6%B2%E0%A6%BF \"দীপাবলি – Bangla\")\n- [བོད་ཡིག](https:\/\/bo.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%BD%84%E0%BE%B7%E0%BD%B2%E0%BC%8B%E0%BD%9D%E0%BC%8B%E0%BD%A3%E0%BD%B2%E0%BC%8B \"ངྷི་ཝ་ལི་ – Tibetan\")\n- [Bosanski](https:\/\/bs.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Bosnian\")\n- [Català](https:\/\/ca.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Divali \"Divali – Catalan\")\n- [کوردی](https:\/\/ckb.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D8%AF%DB%8C%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%DB%8C \"دیوالی – Central Kurdish\")\n- [Čeština](https:\/\/cs.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/D%C3%ADv%C3%A1l%C3%AD \"Díválí – Czech\")\n- [Cymraeg](https:\/\/cy.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Divali \"Divali – Welsh\")\n- [Dansk](https:\/\/da.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Divali \"Divali – Danish\")\n- [Deutsch](https:\/\/de.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – German\")\n- [Kadazandusun](https:\/\/dtp.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tadau_Deepavali \"Tadau Deepavali – Central Dusun\")\n- [डोटेली](https:\/\/dty.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%80 \"दिवाली – Doteli\")\n- [Ελληνικά](https:\/\/el.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%CE%9D%CF%84%CE%B9%CE%B2%CE%AC%CE%BB%CE%B9 \"Ντιβάλι – Greek\")\n- [Esperanto](https:\/\/eo.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Divalo \"Divalo – Esperanto\")\n- [Español](https:\/\/es.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Spanish\")\n- [Euskara](https:\/\/eu.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Basque\")\n- [فارسی](https:\/\/fa.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D8%AF%DB%8C%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%DB%8C \"دیوالی – Persian\")\n- [Suomi](https:\/\/fi.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Finnish\")\n- [Français](https:\/\/fr.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Divali \"Divali – French\")\n- [Gaeilge](https:\/\/ga.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/D%C3%ADbhe%C3%A1la%C3%AD \"Díbheálaí – Irish\")\n- [गोंयची कोंकणी \/ Gõychi Konknni](https:\/\/gom.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Goan Konkani\")\n- [ગુજરાતી](https:\/\/gu.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%AA%A6%E0%AA%BF%E0%AA%B5%E0%AA%BE%E0%AA%B3%E0%AB%80 \"દિવાળી – Gujarati\")\n- [עברית](https:\/\/he.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D7%93%D7%99%D7%95%D7%95%D7%90%D7%9C%D7%99 \"דיוואלי – Hebrew\")\n- [हिन्दी](https:\/\/hi.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%80%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%80 \"दीपावली – Hindi\")\n- [Fiji Hindi](https:\/\/hif.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Fiji Hindi\")\n- [Magyar](https:\/\/hu.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/D%C3%ADv%C3%A1li \"Díváli – Hungarian\")\n- [Հայերեն](https:\/\/hy.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D4%B4%D5%AB%D5%BE%D5%A1%D5%AC%D5%AB \"Դիվալի – Armenian\")\n- [Արեւմտահայերէն](https:\/\/hyw.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D5%8F%D5%AB%D5%BE%D5%A1%D5%AC%D5%AB \"Տիվալի – Western Armenian\")\n- [Interlingua](https:\/\/ia.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Interlingua\")\n- [Jaku Iban](https:\/\/iba.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hari_Deepavali \"Hari Deepavali – Iban\")\n- [Bahasa Indonesia](https:\/\/id.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dipawali \"Dipawali – Indonesian\")\n- [Ido](https:\/\/io.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Ido\")\n- [Italiano](https:\/\/it.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/D%C4%ABp%C4%81val%C4%AB \"Dīpāvalī – Italian\")\n- [日本語](https:\/\/ja.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E3%83%87%E3%82%A3%E3%83%BC%E3%83%AF%E3%83%BC%E3%83%AA%E3%83%BC \"ディーワーリー – Japanese\")\n- [ქართული](https:\/\/ka.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E1%83%93%E1%83%98%E1%83%95%E1%83%90%E1%83%9A%E1%83%98 \"დივალი – Georgian\")\n- [Қазақша](https:\/\/kk.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D0%94%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BB%D0%B8 \"Дивали – Kazakh\")\n- [ಕನ್ನಡ](https:\/\/kn.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%B2%A6%E0%B3%80%E0%B2%AA%E0%B2%BE%E0%B2%B5%E0%B2%B3%E0%B2%BF \"ದೀಪಾವಳಿ – Kannada\")\n- [Yerwa Kanuri](https:\/\/knc.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Central Kanuri\")\n- [한국어](https:\/\/ko.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%EB%94%94%EC%99%88%EB%A6%AC \"디왈리 – Korean\")\n- [کٲشُر](https:\/\/ks.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D8%AF%DB%8C%D9%88%D8%A3%D9%84%DB%8C \"دیوألی – Kashmiri\")\n- [Latina](https:\/\/la.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Div%C4%81%E1%B8%B7%C4%AB \"Divāḷī – Latin\")\n- [Lietuvių](https:\/\/lt.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dyvalis \"Dyvalis – Lithuanian\")\n- [Latviešu](https:\/\/lv.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Divali \"Divali – Latvian\")\n- [मैथिली](https:\/\/mai.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%80%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%80 \"दीपावली – Maithili\")\n- [മലയാളം](https:\/\/ml.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%B4%A6%E0%B5%80%E0%B4%AA%E0%B4%BE%E0%B4%B5%E0%B4%B2%E0%B4%BF \"ദീപാവലി – Malayalam\")\n- [ꯃꯤꯇꯩ ꯂꯣꯟ](https:\/\/mni.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%EA%AF%97%EA%AF%A4%EA%AF%8B%EA%AF%A5%EA%AF%82%EA%AF%A4 \"ꯗꯤꯋꯥꯂꯤ – Manipuri\")\n- [ဘာသာမန်](https:\/\/mnw.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E1%80%92%E1%80%B3%E1%80%9D%E1%80%9C%E1%80%B3 \"ဒဳဝလဳ – Mon\")\n- [मराठी](https:\/\/mr.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B3%E0%A5%80 \"दिवाळी – Marathi\")\n- [Bahasa Melayu](https:\/\/ms.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Deepavali \"Deepavali – Malay\")\n- [မြန်မာဘာသာ](https:\/\/my.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E1%80%92%E1%80%AE%E1%80%95%E1%80%AB%E1%80%9D%E1%80%9C%E1%80%AE \"ဒီပါဝလီ – Burmese\")\n- [नेपाली](https:\/\/ne.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%80%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%80 \"दीपावली – Nepali\")\n- [Nederlands](https:\/\/nl.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Divali \"Divali – Dutch\")\n- [Norsk nynorsk](https:\/\/nn.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dipavali \"Dipavali – Norwegian Nynorsk\")\n- [Norsk bokmål](https:\/\/no.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Divali \"Divali – Norwegian Bokmål\")\n- [Occitan](https:\/\/oc.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Divali \"Divali – Occitan\")\n- [ଓଡ଼ିଆ](https:\/\/or.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%AC%A6%E0%AD%80%E0%AC%AA%E0%AC%BE%E0%AC%AC%E0%AC%B3%E0%AD%80 \"ଦୀପାବଳୀ – Odia\")\n- [ਪੰਜਾਬੀ](https:\/\/pa.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A8%A6%E0%A8%BF%E0%A8%B5%E0%A8%BE%E0%A8%B2%E0%A9%80 \"ਦਿਵਾਲੀ – Punjabi\")\n- [Polski](https:\/\/pl.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Polish\")\n- [پنجابی](https:\/\/pnb.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D8%AF%DB%8C%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%DB%8C \"دیوالی – Western Punjabi\")\n- [پښتو](https:\/\/ps.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D8%AF%DB%90%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%8A_\$%D9%87%D9%86%D8%AF%D9%8A_%D8%A7%D8%AE%D8%AA%D8%B1\$ \"دېوالي (هندي اختر) – Pashto\")\n- [Português](https:\/\/pt.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Portuguese\")\n- [Română](https:\/\/ro.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/D%C4%ABp%C4%81vali \"Dīpāvali – Romanian\")\n- [Русский](https:\/\/ru.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D0%94%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BB%D0%B8 \"Дивали – Russian\")\n- [संस्कृतम्](https:\/\/sa.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%80%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%83 \"दीपावलिः – Sanskrit\")\n- [ᱥᱟᱱᱛᱟᱲᱤ](https:\/\/sat.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E1%B1%AB%E1%B1%A4%E1%B1%AF%E1%B1%9F%E1%B1%A3%E1%B1%9F%E1%B1%9E%E1%B1%A4 \"ᱫᱤᱯᱟᱣᱟᱞᱤ – Santali\")\n- [Scots](https:\/\/sco.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Scots\")\n- [سنڌي](https:\/\/sd.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%DA%8F%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%B1%D9%8A \"ڏياري – Sindhi\")\n- [සිංහල](https:\/\/si.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%B6%AF%E0%B7%93%E0%B6%B4%E0%B7%8F%E0%B7%80%E0%B6%BD%E0%B7%92 \"දීපාවලි – Sinhala\")\n- [Simple English](https:\/\/simple.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Simple English\")\n- [Slovenčina](https:\/\/sk.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/D%C3%ADv%C3%A1l%C3%AD \"Díválí – Slovak\")\n- [سرائیکی](https:\/\/skr.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%DD%99%DB%8C%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%DB%8C \"ݙیوالی – Saraiki\")\n- [Anarâškielâ](https:\/\/smn.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Inari Sami\")\n- [Shqip](https:\/\/sq.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Albanian\")\n- [Српски \/ srpski](https:\/\/sr.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D0%94%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BB%D0%B8 \"Дивали – Serbian\")\n- [Svenska](https:\/\/sv.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Swedish\")\n- [தமிழ்](https:\/\/ta.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%AE%A4%E0%AF%80%E0%AE%AA%E0%AE%BE%E0%AE%B5%E0%AE%B3%E0%AE%BF \"தீபாவளி – Tamil\")\n- [ತುಳು](https:\/\/tcy.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%B2%A4%E0%B3%81%E0%B2%A1%E0%B2%B0_%E0%B2%AA%E0%B2%B0%E0%B3%8D%E0%B2%AC%E0%B3%8A \"ತುಡರ ಪರ್ಬೊ – Tulu\")\n- [తెలుగు](https:\/\/te.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%B0%A6%E0%B1%80%E0%B0%AA%E0%B0%BE%E0%B0%B5%E0%B0%B3%E0%B0%BF \"దీపావళి – Telugu\")\n- [ไทย](https:\/\/th.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%B8%97%E0%B8%B5%E0%B8%9B%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%A7%E0%B8%A5%E0%B8%B5 \"ทีปาวลี – Thai\")\n- [Tagalog](https:\/\/tl.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Tagalog\")\n- [Türkçe](https:\/\/tr.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Divali \"Divali – Turkish\")\n- [Українська](https:\/\/uk.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D0%94%D1%96%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BB%D1%96 \"Дівалі – Ukrainian\")\n- [اردو](https:\/\/ur.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D8%AF%DB%8C%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%DB%8C \"دیوالی – Urdu\")\n- [Oʻzbekcha \/ ўзбекча](https:\/\/uz.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Divali \"Divali – Uzbek\")\n- [Tiếng Việt](https:\/\/vi.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Vietnamese\")\n- [Winaray](https:\/\/war.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali – Waray\")\n- [吴语](https:\/\/wuu.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E6%8E%92%E7%81%AF%E8%8A%82 \"排灯节 – Wu\")\n- [粵語](https:\/\/zh-yue.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E6%8E%92%E7%87%88%E7%AF%80 \"排燈節 – Cantonese\")\n- [中文](https:\/\/zh.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E6%8E%92%E7%87%88%E7%AF%80 \"排燈節 – Chinese\")\n\n[Edit links](https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Special:EntityPage\/Q10244#sitelinks-wikipedia \"Edit interlanguage links\")\n\n- [Article](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"View the content page [c]\")\n- [Talk](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Talk:Diwali \"Discuss improvements to the content page [t]\")\n\nEnglish\n\n- [Read](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali)\n- [View source](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Diwali&action=edit \"This page is protected.\n  You can view its source [e]\")\n- [View history](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Diwali&action=history \"Past revisions of this page [h]\")\n\nTools\n\nTools\n\nmove to sidebar\n\nhide\n\nActions\n\n- [Read](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali)\n- [View source](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Diwali&action=edit)\n- [View history](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Diwali&action=history)\n\nGeneral\n\n- [What links here](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:WhatLinksHere\/Diwali \"List of all English Wikipedia pages containing links to this page [j]\")\n- [Related changes](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:RecentChangesLinked\/Diwali \"Recent changes in pages linked from this page [k]\")\n- [Upload file](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:File_Upload_Wizard \"Upload files [u]\")\n- [Permanent link](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Diwali&oldid=1345039690 \"Permanent link to this revision of this page\")\n- [Page information](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Diwali&action=info \"More information about this page\")\n- [Cite this page](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Special:CiteThisPage&page=Diwali&id=1345039690&wpFormIdentifier=titleform \"Information on how to cite this page\")\n- [Get shortened URL](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Special:UrlShortener&url=https%3A%2F%2Fen.wikipedia.org%2Fwiki%2FDiwali)\n\nPrint\/export\n\n- [Download as PDF](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Special:DownloadAsPdf&page=Diwali&action=show-download-screen \"Download this page as a PDF file\")\n- [Printable version](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Diwali&printable=yes \"Printable version of this page [p]\")\n\nIn other projects\n\n- [Wikimedia Commons](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Tudar_Parbo)\n- [Wikiquote](https:\/\/en.wikiquote.org\/wiki\/Diwali)\n- [Wikidata item](https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Special:EntityPage\/Q10244 \"Structured data on this page hosted by Wikidata [g]\")\n\nAppearance\n\nmove to sidebar\n\nhide\n\n[![Page semi-protected](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/1\/1b\/Semi-protection-shackle.svg\/20px-Semi-protection-shackle.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Protection_policy#semi \"This article is semi-protected.\")\n\nFrom Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia\n\nHindu festival of lights\n\n\"Deepawali\" and \"Dipawali\" redirect here. For other uses, see [Deepavali (disambiguation)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Deepavali_\$disambiguation\$ \"Deepavali (disambiguation)\").\n\n| Diwali |   |\n|---|---|\n| [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/9\/99\/The_Rangoli_of_Lights.jpg\/250px-The_Rangoli_of_Lights.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:The_Rangoli_of_Lights.jpg)[Rangoli](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rangoli \"Rangoli\") decorations, made using coloured fine powder or sand, are popular during Diwali. |   |\n| Official name | *Dīpāvalī* |\n| Also called | Deepavali, Deepawali |\n| Observed by | [Hindus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindus \"Hindus\"), [Jains](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jains \"Jains\"), [Sikhs](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sikhs \"Sikhs\"),[\\[1\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-1) some [Buddhists](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Buddhism \"Buddhism\") (notably [Newar Buddhists](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Newar_Buddhism \"Newar Buddhism\")[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2)) |\n| Type | Religious, cultural, seasonal |\n| Significance | *[See below](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Religious_significance)* |\n| Celebrations | [Diya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diya_\$light\$ \"Diya (light)\") lighting *[puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puja_\$Hinduism\$ \"Puja (Hinduism)\")* (worship and prayer) *[Hukka Paati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hukka_Paati \"Hukka Paati\")* in [Mithila region](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mithila_region \"Mithila region\") *[havan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Homa_\$ritual\$ \"Homa (ritual)\")* (fire offering) *[vrat](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vrata \"Vrata\")* (fasting) *[dāna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/D%C4%81na \"Dāna\")* (charity) *[melā](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mel%C4%81 \"Melā\")* (fairs\/shows) home cleansing and decoration fireworks gifts and partaking in a feast and [sweets](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sweets_from_the_Indian_subcontinent \"Sweets from the Indian subcontinent\") |\n| Begins | Ashwayuja 27 or Ashwayuja 28 ([amanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#amanta \"Hindu calendar\") tradition) Kartika 12 or Kartika 13 ([purnimanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#purnimanta \"Hindu calendar\") tradition) |\n| Ends | Kartika 2 ([amanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#amanta \"Hindu calendar\") tradition) Kartika 17 ([purnimanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#purnimanta \"Hindu calendar\") tradition) |\n| Date | Ashvin Krishna Trayodashi, Ashvin Krishna Chaturdashi, Ashvin Amavasya, Kartik Shukla Pratipada, Kartik Shukla Dwitiya |\n| 2025 date | October[\\[3\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-3) 18 ([Dhanteras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dhanteras \"Dhanteras\")\/Yama Deepam\/Kwah Puja\/Kaag Tihar) 19 ([Naraka Chaturdashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Naraka_Chaturdashi \"Naraka Chaturdashi\")\/Kali Chaudas\/Hanuman Puja\/Chhoti Diwali\/Khicha Puja\/[Kukur Tihar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kukur_Tihar \"Kukur Tihar\")) 20 ([Lakshmi Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi_Puja \"Lakshmi Puja\")\/[Kali Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali_Puja \"Kali Puja\")\/Sharda Puja\/Kedar Gauri Vrat\/Sa Puja\/Gai Tihar) 21 ([Govardhan Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Govardhan_Puja \"Govardhan Puja\")\/[Balipratipada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balipratipada \"Balipratipada\")\/[Mha Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mha_Puja \"Mha Puja\")\/Goru Puja) 22 ([Bhai Dooj](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhai_Dooj \"Bhai Dooj\")\/[Vishwakarma Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishwakarma_Puja \"Vishwakarma Puja\")\/[Gujarati New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_New_Year%27s_days \"Indian New Year's days\")\/Kija Puja) |\n| 2026 date | 8 November 2026 |\n| 2027 date | 29 October 2027 |\n| Duration | 5 or 6 days (regional variations) |\n| Frequency | Annual |\n| Related to | [Diwali (Jainism)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali_\$Jainism\$ \"Diwali (Jainism)\"), [Bandi Chhor Divas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bandi_Chhor_Divas \"Bandi Chhor Divas\"), [Tihar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tihar_\$festival\$ \"Tihar (festival)\"), [Swanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swanti_\$festival\$ \"Swanti (festival)\"), [Sohrai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sohrai \"Sohrai\"), [Bandna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bandna \"Bandna\") |\n\n| Explanatory note on Hindu festival dates |\n|---|\n| The [Hindu calendar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar \"Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar\") is lunisolar but most festival dates are specified using the lunar portion of the calendar. A lunar day is uniquely identified by three calendar elements: [*māsa*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#chandramasa \"Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar\") (lunar month), [*pakṣa*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#paksha \"Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar\") (lunar fortnight) and [*tithi*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#tithi \"Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar\") (lunar day). Furthermore, when specifying the masa, one of two traditions are applicable, viz. [*amānta*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#amanta \"Hindu calendar\") \/ [*pūrṇimānta*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#purnimanta \"Hindu calendar\"). If a festival falls in the waning phase of the moon, these two traditions identify the same lunar day as falling in two different (but successive) masa. A lunar year is shorter than a solar year by about eleven days. As a result, most Hindu festivals occur on different days in successive years on the Gregorian calendar. |\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Hindu_festival_date_info \"Template:Hindu festival date info\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Hindu_festival_date_info \"Template talk:Hindu festival date info\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Hindu_festival_date_info \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Hindu festival date info\") |\n\n|   |\n|---|\n| Part of [a series](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Hinduism \"Category:Hinduism\") on |\n| [Hinduism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism \"Hinduism\") |\n| [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/3\/30\/1_Om.svg\/120px-1_Om.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Om \"Om\") |\n| [Hindus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindus \"Hindus\") [Mythology](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_mythology \"Hindu mythology\") |\n| [Origin](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_synthesis \"Hindu synthesis\") and [history](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/History_of_Hinduism \"History of Hinduism\") [Dravidian folk religion](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dravidian_folk_religion \"Dravidian folk religion\") [Indus Valley Civilisation](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Religion_of_the_Indus_Valley_Civilization \"Religion of the Indus Valley Civilization\") [Itihasa-Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Itihasa-Purana \"Itihasa-Purana\") [Epic-Puranic royal genealogies](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Epic-Puranic_royal_genealogies \"Epic-Puranic royal genealogies\") [Epic-Puranic chronology](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Epic-Puranic_chronology \"Epic-Puranic chronology\") [Śramaṇa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C5%9Arama%E1%B9%87a \"Śramaṇa\") [Tribal religions](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tribal_religions_in_India \"Tribal religions in India\") [Vedic religion](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Historical_Vedic_religion \"Historical Vedic religion\") |\n| [Sampradaya (traditions)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sampradaya \"Sampradaya\") [Shaktism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaktism \"Shaktism\") [Shaivism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaivism \"Shaivism\") [Kapalika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kapalika \"Kapalika\") [Pashupata](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pashupata_Shaivism \"Pashupata Shaivism\") [Pratyabhijña](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pratyabhijna \"Pratyabhijna\") [Smartism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Smarta_tradition \"Smarta tradition\") [Vaishnavism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaishnavism \"Vaishnavism\") [Pancharatra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pancharatra \"Pancharatra\") [Other denominations](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_denominations \"Hindu denominations\") |\n| [Deities](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_deities \"Hindu deities\") [Trimurti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Trimurti \"Trimurti\") [Brahma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahma \"Brahma\") [Shiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva \"Shiva\") [Vishnu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishnu \"Vishnu\") [Tridevi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tridevi \"Tridevi\") [Lakshmi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi \"Lakshmi\") [Parvati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Parvati \"Parvati\") [Saraswati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saraswati \"Saraswati\") Others *[Vedic deities](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rigvedic_deities \"Rigvedic deities\"):* [Agni](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Agni \"Agni\") [Chandra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chandra \"Chandra\") [Indra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indra \"Indra\") [Tridasha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tridasha \"Tridasha\") [Adityas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Adityas \"Adityas\") [Ashvins](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ashvins \"Ashvins\") [Rudras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rudras \"Rudras\") [Vasus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vasus \"Vasus\") *Post-Vedic:* [Dashavatara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dashavatara \"Dashavatara\") [Krishna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna \"Krishna\") [Rama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rama \"Rama\") [Ganesha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesha \"Ganesha\") [Hanuman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman \"Hanuman\") [Kartikeya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kartikeya \"Kartikeya\") [Shakti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shakti \"Shakti\") [Amman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mariamman \"Mariamman\") [Durga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga \"Durga\") [Kali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali \"Kali\") [Radha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Radha \"Radha\") [Sita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sita \"Sita\") |\n| [Concepts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_philosophy \"Hindu philosophy\") [Cosmology](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_cosmology \"Hindu cosmology\") [Guṇa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gu%E1%B9%87a \"Guṇa\") [Mythology](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_mythology \"Hindu mythology\") [Pancha Bhuta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pancha_Bhuta \"Pancha Bhuta\") [Panchikarana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Panchikarana \"Panchikarana\") [Prakṛti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prak%E1%B9%9Bti \"Prakṛti\") [Pramana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pramana \"Pramana\") [Shabda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shabda \"Shabda\") [Purusha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Purusha \"Purusha\") [Tanmatras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tanmatras \"Tanmatras\") [Tattva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tattva \"Tattva\") [Supreme reality](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Para_Brahman \"Para Brahman\") [Brahman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahman \"Brahman\") [Nirguna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nirguna_brahman \"Nirguna brahman\") [Saguna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saguna_brahman \"Saguna brahman\") [Om](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Om \"Om\") [Saccidānanda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saccid%C4%81nanda \"Saccidānanda\") [God](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/God_in_Hinduism \"God in Hinduism\") [Deva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Deva_\$Hinduism\$ \"Deva (Hinduism)\") [Devata](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Devata \"Devata\") [Devi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Devi \"Devi\") [God and gender](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/God_and_gender_in_Hinduism \"God and gender in Hinduism\") [Ishvara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ishvara \"Ishvara\") [Puruṣārtha (meaning of life)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puru%E1%B9%A3%C4%81rtha \"Puruṣārtha\") [Artha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Artha \"Artha\") [Dharma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dharma \"Dharma\") [Kama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kama \"Kama\") [Moksha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Moksha \"Moksha\") [Āśrama (stages of life)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C4%80%C5%9Brama_\$stage\$ \"Āśrama (stage)\") [Brahmacharya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahmacharya \"Brahmacharya\") [Gṛhastha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/G%E1%B9%9Bhastha \"Gṛhastha\") [Sannyasa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sannyasa \"Sannyasa\") [Vānaprastha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/V%C4%81naprastha \"Vānaprastha\") [Saṃsāra (cycle of birth and death)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sa%E1%B9%83s%C4%81ra_\$Hinduism\$ \"Saṃsāra (Hinduism)\") [Karma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karma \"Karma\") [Maya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maya_\$religion\$ \"Maya (religion)\") [Pāpa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/P%C4%81pa \"Pāpa\") [Mahapataka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahapataka \"Mahapataka\") [Paramātman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Paramatman \"Paramatman\") [Prāyaścitta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pr%C4%81ya%C5%9Bcitta \"Prāyaścitta\") [Punya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Punya_\$Hinduism\$ \"Punya (Hinduism)\") Mind and Ethics [Achourya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Achourya \"Achourya\") [Ahamkara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ahamkara \"Ahamkara\") [Ahimsa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ahimsa \"Ahimsa\") [Akrodha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Akrodha \"Akrodha\") [Ānanda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C4%80nanda_\$Hindu_philosophy\$ \"Ānanda (Hindu philosophy)\") [Anātman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/An%C4%81tman_\$Hinduism\$ \"Anātman (Hinduism)\") [Antahkarana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Antahkarana \"Antahkarana\") [Arishadvargas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Arishadvargas \"Arishadvargas\") [Arjava](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Arjava \"Arjava\") [Ātman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C4%80tman_\$Hinduism\$ \"Ātman (Hinduism)\") [Dayā](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Compassion#Hinduism \"Compassion\") [Dāna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/D%C4%81na \"Dāna\") [Niti śastra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ethics_in_religion#Hindu_ethics \"Ethics in religion\") [Shraddha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Faith_in_Hinduism \"Faith in Hinduism\") [Mitahara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mitahara \"Mitahara\") [Niyama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Niyama \"Niyama\") [Aparigraha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Non-possession \"Non-possession\") [Prajña](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Praj%C3%B1%C4%81_\$Hinduism\$ \"Prajñā (Hinduism)\") [Samatva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samatva \"Samatva\") [Santosha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Santosha \"Santosha\") [Sastra pramanam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C5%9A%C4%81stra_pram%C4%81%E1%B9%87am_in_Hinduism \"Śāstra pramāṇam in Hinduism\") [Satya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Satya \"Satya\") [Shaucha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaucha \"Shaucha\") [Svādhyāya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sv%C4%81dhy%C4%81ya \"Svādhyāya\") [Dama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Temperance_\$virtue\$#Hinduism \"Temperance (virtue)\") [Sūkṣma śarīra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Three_bodies_doctrine \"Three bodies doctrine\") [Titiksha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Titiksha \"Titiksha\") [Vairagya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vairagya \"Vairagya\") [Viveka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Viveka \"Viveka\") [Yamas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yamas \"Yamas\") |\n| Practices [Worship](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Worship_in_Hinduism \"Worship in Hinduism\") [Arti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Arti_\$Hinduism\$ \"Arti (Hinduism)\") [Bhajan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhajan \"Bhajan\") [Bhakti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhakti \"Bhakti\") [Dāna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/D%C4%81na \"Dāna\") [Exorcism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Exorcism_in_Hinduism \"Exorcism in Hinduism\") [Homa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Homa_\$ritual\$ \"Homa (ritual)\") [Japa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Japa \"Japa\") [Kirtan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kirtan \"Kirtan\") [Murti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Murti \"Murti\") [Prarthana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prayer_in_Hinduism \"Prayer in Hinduism\") [Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puja_\$Hinduism\$ \"Puja (Hinduism)\") [Temple](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_temple \"Hindu temple\") [Matha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Matha \"Matha\") [Sevā](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sev%C4%81 \"Sevā\") [Śrauta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C5%9Arauta \"Śrauta\") [Tarpana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tarpana \"Tarpana\") [Tirtha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tirtha_\$Hinduism\$ \"Tirtha (Hinduism)\") [Tirthadana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_pilgrimage_sites_in_India \"Hindu pilgrimage sites in India\") [Vrata](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vrata \"Vrata\") [Yajna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yajna \"Yajna\") [Yatra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yatra \"Yatra\") Meditation [Dhyana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dhyana_in_Hinduism \"Dhyana in Hinduism\") [Nididhyāsana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nididhy%C4%81sana \"Nididhyāsana\") [Tapas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tapas_\$Indian_religions\$ \"Tapas (Indian religions)\") [Yoga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yoga \"Yoga\") [Asana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Asana \"Asana\") [Bhakti yoga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhakti_yoga \"Bhakti yoga\") [Hatha yoga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hatha_yoga \"Hatha yoga\") [Jnana yoga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jnana_yoga \"Jnana yoga\") [Karma yoga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karma_yoga \"Karma yoga\") [Kundalini yoga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kundalini_yoga \"Kundalini yoga\") [Rāja yoga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/R%C4%81ja_yoga \"Rāja yoga\") [Sādhanā](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/S%C4%81dhan%C4%81 \"Sādhanā\") [Sadhu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sadhu \"Sadhu\") [Yogi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yogi \"Yogi\") [Yogini](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yogini \"Yogini\") [Rites of passage](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samskara_\$rite_of_passage\$ \"Samskara (rite of passage)\") [Annaprashana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Annaprashana \"Annaprashana\") [Antyesti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Antyesti \"Antyesti\") [Chudakarana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chudakarana \"Chudakarana\") [Garbhadhana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Garbhadhana \"Garbhadhana\") [Jatakarma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jatakarma \"Jatakarma\") [Karnavedha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karnavedha \"Karnavedha\") [Keshanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Keshanta \"Keshanta\") [Nāmakaraṇa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/N%C4%81makara%E1%B9%87a \"Nāmakaraṇa\") [Nishkramana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nishkramana \"Nishkramana\") [Pumsavana Simantonayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pumsavana_Simantonayana \"Pumsavana Simantonayana\") [Pumsavana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pumsavana \"Pumsavana\") [Ritushuddhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ritu_Kala_Samskaram \"Ritu Kala Samskaram\") [Samavartanam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samavartanam \"Samavartanam\") [Simantonnayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Simantonnayana \"Simantonnayana\") [Upanayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Upanayana \"Upanayana\") [Vidyāraṃbhaṃ](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vidy%C4%81ra%E1%B9%83bha%E1%B9%83 \"Vidyāraṃbhaṃ\") [Vivaha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_wedding \"Hindu wedding\") [Festivals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Hindu_festivals \"List of Hindu festivals\") [Diwali]() [Ganesh Chaturthi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesh_Chaturthi \"Ganesh Chaturthi\") [Holi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Holi \"Holi\") [Janmashtami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Janmashtami \"Janmashtami\") [Kumbh Mela](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kumbh_Mela \"Kumbh Mela\") [Maha Shivaratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri \"Maha Shivaratri\") [Navaratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navaratri \"Navaratri\") [Durga Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga_Puja \"Durga Puja\") [Ramlila](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramlila \"Ramlila\") [Vijayadashami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vijayadashami \"Vijayadashami\") [Makar Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Makar_Sankranti \"Makar Sankranti\") New year [Bihu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bihu \"Bihu\") [Puthandu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puthandu \"Puthandu\") [Ugadi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ugadi \"Ugadi\") [Vaisakhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaisakhi \"Vaisakhi\") [Vishu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishu \"Vishu\") [Pongal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pongal_\$festival\$ \"Pongal (festival)\") [Onam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Onam \"Onam\") [Raksha Bandhan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Raksha_Bandhan \"Raksha Bandhan\") [Rama Navami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rama_Navami \"Rama Navami\") [Ratha Yatra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ratha_Yatra_\$Puri\$ \"Ratha Yatra (Puri)\") [Vasant Panchami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vasant_Panchami \"Vasant Panchami\") |\n| [Philosophical schools](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_philosophy \"Hindu philosophy\") [Six Astika schools](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Astika \"Astika\") [Samkhya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samkhya \"Samkhya\") [Yoga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yoga_\$philosophy\$ \"Yoga (philosophy)\") [Nyaya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nyaya \"Nyaya\") [Vaisheshika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaisheshika \"Vaisheshika\") [Mīmāṃsā](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/M%C4%ABm%C4%81%E1%B9%83s%C4%81 \"Mīmāṃsā\") [Vedanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vedanta \"Vedanta\") *[Advaita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Advaita_Vedanta \"Advaita Vedanta\")* *[Dvaita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dvaita_Vedanta \"Dvaita Vedanta\")* *[Vishishtadvaita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishishtadvaita \"Vishishtadvaita\")* *[Achintya Bheda Abheda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Achintya_Bheda_Abheda \"Achintya Bheda Abheda\")* *[Shuddhadvaita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shuddhadvaita \"Shuddhadvaita\")* *[Svabhavika Bhedabheda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Svabhavika_Bhedabheda \"Svabhavika Bhedabheda\")* *[Akshar Purushottam Darshan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Akshar_Purushottam_Darshan \"Akshar Purushottam Darshan\")* Other schools [Ājīvika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C4%80j%C4%ABvika \"Ājīvika\") [Buddhism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Buddhism \"Buddhism\") [Jainism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jainism \"Jainism\") [Charvaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Charvaka \"Charvaka\") |\n| [Gurus, Rishi, philosophers](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Hindu_gurus_and_sants \"List of Hindu gurus and sants\") [Ancient](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ancient_India \"Ancient India\") [Saptarshi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saptarshi \"Saptarshi\") [Vashistha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vashistha \"Vashistha\") [Kashyapa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kashyapa \"Kashyapa\") [Atri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Atri \"Atri\") [Jamadagni](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jamadagni \"Jamadagni\") [Gotama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nyaya_Sutras \"Nyaya Sutras\") [Vishvamitra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishvamitra \"Vishvamitra\") [Bharadwaja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bharadwaja \"Bharadwaja\") [Agastya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Agastya \"Agastya\") [Angiras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Angiras \"Angiras\") [Aruni](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aruni \"Aruni\") [Ashtavakra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ashtavakra \"Ashtavakra\") [Jaimini](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jaimini \"Jaimini\") [Kanada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kanada_\$philosopher\$ \"Kanada (philosopher)\") [Kapila](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kapila \"Kapila\") [Patanjali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Patanjali \"Patanjali\") [Pāṇini](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/P%C4%81%E1%B9%87ini \"Pāṇini\") [Prashastapada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prashastapada \"Prashastapada\") [Raikva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Raikva \"Raikva\") [Satyakama Jabala](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Satyakama_Jabala \"Satyakama Jabala\") [Valmiki](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Valmiki \"Valmiki\") [Vyasa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vyasa \"Vyasa\") [Yajnavalkya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yajnavalkya \"Yajnavalkya\") [Medieval](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Medieval_India \"Medieval India\") [Abhinavagupta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Abhinavagupta \"Abhinavagupta\") [Adi Shankara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Adi_Shankara \"Adi Shankara\") [Akka Mahadevi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Akka_Mahadevi \"Akka Mahadevi\") [Allama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Allama_Prabhu \"Allama Prabhu\") [Alvars](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Alvars \"Alvars\") [Basava](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Basava \"Basava\") [Chaitanya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chaitanya_Mahaprabhu \"Chaitanya Mahaprabhu\") [Ramdas Kathiababa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramdas_Kathiababa \"Ramdas Kathiababa\") [Chakradhara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chakradhar_Swami \"Chakradhar Swami\") [Changdev](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Changdev \"Changdev\") [Dadu Dayal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dadu_Dayal \"Dadu Dayal\") [Eknath](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eknath \"Eknath\") [Gangesha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gangesha_Upadhyaya \"Gangesha Upadhyaya\") [Gaudapada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gaudapada \"Gaudapada\") [Gorakshanath](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gorakshanath \"Gorakshanath\") [Haridasa Thakur](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Haridasa_Thakur \"Haridasa Thakur\") [Harivansh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hith_Harivansh_Mahaprabhu \"Hith Harivansh Mahaprabhu\") [Jagannatha Dasa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jagannatha_Dasa_\$Odia_poet\$ \"Jagannatha Dasa (Odia poet)\") [Jayanta Bhatta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jayanta_Bhatta \"Jayanta Bhatta\") [Jayatirtha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jayatirtha \"Jayatirtha\") [Jiva Goswami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jiva_Goswami \"Jiva Goswami\") [Jñāneśvar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/J%C3%B1%C4%81ne%C5%9Bvar \"Jñāneśvar\") [Kabir](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kabir \"Kabir\") [Kanaka Dasa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kanaka_Dasa \"Kanaka Dasa\") [Kumārila Bhaṭṭa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kum%C4%81rila_Bha%E1%B9%AD%E1%B9%ADa \"Kumārila Bhaṭṭa\") [Madhusūdana Sarasvatī](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Madhus%C5%ABdana_Sarasvat%C4%AB \"Madhusūdana Sarasvatī\") [Madhvacharya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Madhvacharya \"Madhvacharya\") [Matsyendranatha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Matsyendranath \"Matsyendranath\") [Morya Gosavi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Morya_Gosavi \"Morya Gosavi\") [Mukundraj](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mukundraj \"Mukundraj\") [Namdev](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Namdev \"Namdev\") [Narahari Tirtha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Narahari_Tirtha \"Narahari Tirtha\") [Narasimha Saraswati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Narasimha_Saraswati \"Narasimha Saraswati\") [Nayanars](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nayanars \"Nayanars\") [Nimbarkacharya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nimbarkacharya \"Nimbarkacharya\") [Srinivasacharya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Srinivasacharya \"Srinivasacharya\") [Prabhākara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prabh%C4%81kara \"Prabhākara\") [Purandara Dasa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Purandara_Dasa \"Purandara Dasa\") [Raghavendra Swami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Raghavendra_Swami \"Raghavendra Swami\") [Raghunatha Siromani](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Raghunatha_Siromani \"Raghunatha Siromani\") [Raghuttama Tirtha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Raghuttama_Tirtha \"Raghuttama Tirtha\") [Ram Charan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ram_Charan_\$guru\$ \"Ram Charan (guru)\") [Ramananda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramananda \"Ramananda\") [Ramanuja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramanuja \"Ramanuja\") [Ramprasad Sen](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramprasad_Sen \"Ramprasad Sen\") [Ravidas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ravidas \"Ravidas\") [Rupa Goswami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rupa_Goswami \"Rupa Goswami\") [Samarth Ramdas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samarth_Ramdas \"Samarth Ramdas\") [Sankardev](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sankardev \"Sankardev\") [Satyanatha Tirtha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Satyanatha_Tirtha \"Satyanatha Tirtha\") [Siddheshwar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Siddheshwar \"Siddheshwar\") [Sripada Srivallabha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sripada_Srivallabha \"Sripada Srivallabha\") [Sripadaraja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sripadaraja \"Sripadaraja\") [Surdas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Surdas \"Surdas\") [Swaminarayan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swaminarayan \"Swaminarayan\") [Syama Sastri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Syama_Sastri \"Syama Sastri\") [Thiruvalluvar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thiruvalluvar \"Thiruvalluvar\") [Tukaram](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tukaram \"Tukaram\") [Tulsidas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tulsidas \"Tulsidas\") [Tyagaraja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tyagaraja \"Tyagaraja\") [Vācaspati Miśra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/V%C4%81caspati_Mi%C5%9Bra \"Vācaspati Miśra\") [Vadiraja Tirtha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vadiraja_Tirtha \"Vadiraja Tirtha\") [Vallabha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vallabha \"Vallabha\") [Vedanta Desika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vedanta_Desika \"Vedanta Desika\") [Vidyaranya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vidyaranya \"Vidyaranya\") [Vyasaraja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vyasaraja \"Vyasaraja\") Modern [Aurobindo](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sri_Aurobindo \"Sri Aurobindo\") [Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhaktisiddhanta_Sarasvati \"Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati\") [Bhaktivinoda Thakur](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhaktivinoda_Thakur \"Bhaktivinoda Thakur\") [Chandrashekarendra Saraswati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chandrashekarendra_Saraswati \"Chandrashekarendra Saraswati\") [Chinmayananda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chinmayananda \"Chinmayananda\") [Dayananda Saraswati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dayananda_Saraswati \"Dayananda Saraswati\") [Jaggi Vasudev](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jaggi_Vasudev \"Jaggi Vasudev\") [Krishnananda Saraswati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishnananda_Saraswati \"Krishnananda Saraswati\") [Mahavatar Babaji](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahavatar_Babaji \"Mahavatar Babaji\") [Mahesh Yogi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maharishi_Mahesh_Yogi \"Maharishi Mahesh Yogi\") [Narayana Guru](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Narayana_Guru \"Narayana Guru\") [Nigamananda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nigamananda_Paramahansa \"Nigamananda Paramahansa\") [Nisargadatta Maharaj](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nisargadatta_Maharaj \"Nisargadatta Maharaj\") [Prabhupada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/A._C._Bhaktivedanta_Swami_Prabhupada \"A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada\") [Radhakrishnan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sarvepalli_Radhakrishnan \"Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan\") [R. D. Ranade](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramachandra_Dattatrya_Ranade \"Ramachandra Dattatrya Ranade\") [Ramakrishna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramakrishna \"Ramakrishna\") [Rama Tirtha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swami_Rama_Tirtha \"Swami Rama Tirtha\") [Ramana Maharshi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramana_Maharshi \"Ramana Maharshi\") [Ravi Shankar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ravi_Shankar_\$spiritual_leader\$ \"Ravi Shankar (spiritual leader)\") [Ramdas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swami_Ramdas \"Swami Ramdas\") [Samarth](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swami_Samarth \"Swami Samarth\") [Sathya Sai Baba](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sathya_Sai_Baba \"Sathya Sai Baba\") [Shirdi Sai Baba](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sai_Baba_of_Shirdi \"Sai Baba of Shirdi\") [Shraddhanand](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swami_Shraddhanand \"Swami Shraddhanand\") [Satyadhyana Tirtha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Satyadhyana_Tirtha \"Satyadhyana Tirtha\") [Siddharameshwar Maharaj](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Siddharameshwar_Maharaj \"Siddharameshwar Maharaj\") [Sivananda Saraswati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sivananda_Saraswati \"Sivananda Saraswati\") [Trailanga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Trailanga \"Trailanga\") [U. G. Krishnamurti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/U._G._Krishnamurti \"U. G. Krishnamurti\") [Upasni Maharaj](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Upasni_Maharaj \"Upasni Maharaj\") [Vethathiri Maharishi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vethathiri_Maharishi \"Vethathiri Maharishi\") [Vivekananda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swami_Vivekananda \"Swami Vivekananda\") [Yogananda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Paramahansa_Yogananda \"Paramahansa Yogananda\") |\n| [Texts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_texts \"Hindu texts\") [Sources and classification of scripture](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C5%9A%C4%81stra_pram%C4%81%E1%B9%87am_in_Hinduism \"Śāstra pramāṇam in Hinduism\") [Śruti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C5%9Aruti \"Śruti\") [Smṛti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sm%E1%B9%9Bti \"Smṛti\") [Ācāra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C4%80c%C4%81ra \"Ācāra\") [Ātmatuṣṭi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Atmatusti \"Atmatusti\") [Scriptures](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_texts \"Hindu texts\") [Timeline of Hindu texts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Timeline_of_Hindu_texts \"Timeline of Hindu texts\") [Vedas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vedas \"Vedas\") *[Rigveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rigveda \"Rigveda\")* *[Yajurveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yajurveda \"Yajurveda\")* *[Samaveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samaveda \"Samaveda\")* *[Atharvaveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Atharvaveda \"Atharvaveda\")* *Divisions* [Samhita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samhitapatha \"Samhitapatha\") [Brahmana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahmana \"Brahmana\") [Aranyaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aranyaka \"Aranyaka\") [Upanishads](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Upanishads \"Upanishads\") [Upanishads](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Upanishads \"Upanishads\") [Principal Upanishads](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Principal_Upanishads \"Principal Upanishads\") *Rigveda:* *[Aitareya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aitareya_Upanishad \"Aitareya Upanishad\")* *[Kaushitaki](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kaushitaki_Upanishad \"Kaushitaki Upanishad\")* *Yajurveda:* *[Brihadaranyaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brihadaranyaka_Upanishad \"Brihadaranyaka Upanishad\")* *[Isha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Isha_Upanishad \"Isha Upanishad\")* *[Taittiriya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Taittiriya_Upanishad \"Taittiriya Upanishad\")* *[Katha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Katha_Upanishad \"Katha Upanishad\")* *[Shvetashvatara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shvetashvatara_Upanishad \"Shvetashvatara Upanishad\")* *[Maitri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maitrayaniya_Upanishad \"Maitrayaniya Upanishad\")* *Samaveda:* *[Chandogya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chandogya_Upanishad \"Chandogya Upanishad\")* *[Kena](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kena_Upanishad \"Kena Upanishad\")* *Atharvaveda:* *[Mundaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mundaka_Upanishad \"Mundaka Upanishad\")* *[Mandukya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mandukya_Upanishad \"Mandukya Upanishad\")* *[Prashna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prashna_Upanishad \"Prashna Upanishad\")* [Vedangas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vedangas \"Vedangas\") [Shiksha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiksha \"Shiksha\") [Chandas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vedic_metre \"Vedic metre\") [Vyākaraṇa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vy%C4%81kara%E1%B9%87a \"Vyākaraṇa\") [Nirukta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nirukta \"Nirukta\") [Kalpa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kalpa_\$Vedanga\$ \"Kalpa (Vedanga)\") [Jyotisha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jyotisha \"Jyotisha\") [Other scriptures](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Hindu_scriptures \"List of Hindu scriptures\") *[Bhagavad Gita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhagavad_Gita \"Bhagavad Gita\")* [*Agama*s (Hinduism)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Agama_\$Hinduism\$ \"Agama (Hinduism)\") [Itihasas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Itihasa-Purana \"Itihasa-Purana\") *[Ramayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramayana \"Ramayana\")* *[Mahabharata](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahabharata \"Mahabharata\")* [Puranas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puranas \"Puranas\") *[Vishnu Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishnu_Purana \"Vishnu Purana\")* *[Bhagavata Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhagavata_Purana \"Bhagavata Purana\")* *[Devi Bhagavata Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Devi_Bhagavata_Purana \"Devi Bhagavata Purana\")* *[Naradiya Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Naradiya_Purana \"Naradiya Purana\")* *[Vāmana Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vamana_Purana \"Vamana Purana\")* *[Matsya Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Matsya_Purana \"Matsya Purana\")* *[Garuda Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Garuda_Purana \"Garuda Purana\")* *[Brahma Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahma_Purana \"Brahma Purana\")* *[Brahmanda Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahmanda_Purana \"Brahmanda Purana\")* *[Brahma Vaivarta Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahma_Vaivarta_Purana \"Brahma Vaivarta Purana\")* *[Bhavishya Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhavishya_Purana \"Bhavishya Purana\")* *[Padma Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Padma_Purana \"Padma Purana\")* *[Agni Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Agni_Purana \"Agni Purana\")* *[Shiva Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_Purana \"Shiva Purana\")* *[Linga Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Linga_Purana \"Linga Purana\")* *[Kūrma Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kurma_Purana \"Kurma Purana\")* *[Skanda Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Skanda_Purana \"Skanda Purana\")* *[Varaha Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Varaha_Purana \"Varaha Purana\")* *[Markandeya Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Markandeya_Purana \"Markandeya Purana\")* [Upavedas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vedas#Upaveda \"Vedas\") *[Ayurveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayurveda \"Ayurveda\")* *[Dhanurveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dhanurveda \"Dhanurveda\")* *[Gandharvaveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gandharvaveda \"Gandharvaveda\")* *[Sthapatyaveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sthapatyaveda \"Sthapatyaveda\")* [Shastras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shastra \"Shastra\"), [sutras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sutra \"Sutra\"), and [samhitas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samhita \"Samhita\") *[Arthashastra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Arthashastra \"Arthashastra\")* *[Brahma Sutras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahma_Sutras \"Brahma Sutras\")* *[Charaka Samhita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Charaka_Samhita \"Charaka Samhita\")* *[Dharma Shastra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dharma%C5%9B%C4%81stra \"Dharmaśāstra\")* *[Kama Sutra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kama_Sutra \"Kama Sutra\")* *[Natya Shastra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Natya_Shastra \"Natya Shastra\")* *[Nyāya Sūtras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ny%C4%81ya_S%C5%ABtras \"Nyāya Sūtras\")* *[Panchatantra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Panchatantra \"Panchatantra\")* *[Pramana Sutras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pramana \"Pramana\")* *[Purva Mimamsa Sutras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Purva_Mimamsa_Sutras \"Purva Mimamsa Sutras\")* *[Ramcharitmanas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramcharitmanas \"Ramcharitmanas\")* *[Samkhya Pravachana Sutra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samkhya_Pravachana_Sutra \"Samkhya Pravachana Sutra\")* *[Shilpa Shastras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shilpa_Shastras \"Shilpa Shastras\")* *[Shiva Swarodaya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_Swarodaya \"Shiva Swarodaya\")* *[Sushruta Samhita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sushruta_Samhita \"Sushruta Samhita\")* *[Vaiśeṣika Sūtra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vai%C5%9Be%E1%B9%A3ika_S%C5%ABtra \"Vaiśeṣika Sūtra\")* *[Yoga Sutras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yoga_Sutras_of_Patanjali \"Yoga Sutras of Patanjali\")* *[Yoga Vasistha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yoga_Vasistha \"Yoga Vasistha\")* [Stotras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Stotra \"Stotra\"), [stutis](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_suktas_and_stutis \"List of suktas and stutis\") and [Bhashya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhashya \"Bhashya\") *[Abirami Antati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Abirami_Antati \"Abirami Antati\")* *[Hanuman Chalisa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman_Chalisa \"Hanuman Chalisa\")* *[Kanakadhara Stotra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kanakadhara_Stotra \"Kanakadhara Stotra\")* *[Kanda Shasti Kavasam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kanda_Shasti_Kavasam \"Kanda Shasti Kavasam\")* *[Shiva Stuti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_Stuti \"Shiva Stuti\")* *[Vayu Stuti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vayu_Stuti \"Vayu Stuti\")* [Tamil literature](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tamil_literature \"Tamil literature\") *[Athichudi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Athichudi \"Athichudi\")* *[Eighteen Greater Texts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eighteen_Greater_Texts \"Eighteen Greater Texts\")* *[Eighteen Lesser Texts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eighteen_Lesser_Texts \"Eighteen Lesser Texts\")* *[Five Great Epics](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Five_Great_Epics \"Five Great Epics\")* *[Iraiyanar Akapporul](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Iraiyanar_Akapporul \"Iraiyanar Akapporul\")* *[Kamba Ramayanam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kamba_Ramayanam \"Kamba Ramayanam\")* *[Kural](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kural \"Kural\")* *[Naalayira Divya Prabandham](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Naalayira_Divya_Prabandham \"Naalayira Divya Prabandham\")* *[Thiruvilaiyadal Puranam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thiruvilaiyadal_Puranam \"Thiruvilaiyadal Puranam\")* *[Tirumurai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tirumurai \"Tirumurai\")* *[Tirumurukāṟṟuppaṭai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tirumuruk%C4%81%E1%B9%9F%E1%B9%9Fuppa%E1%B9%ADai \"Tirumurukāṟṟuppaṭai\")* *[Tiruppukal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tiruppukal \"Tiruppukal\")* *[Vinayagar Agaval](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vinayagar_Agaval \"Vinayagar Agaval\")* [Other texts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Hindu_texts \"List of Hindu texts\") |\n| Hindu culture and society Society [Dalit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dalit \"Dalit\") [Dasa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dasa \"Dasa\") [Dvija](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dvija \"Dvija\") [Gotra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gotra \"Gotra\") [Jāti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/J%C4%81ti \"Jāti\") [Kayastha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kayastha \"Kayastha\") 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\"Kalaripayattu\") [Kavadi Aattam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kavadi_Aattam \"Kavadi Aattam\") [Kathak](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kathak \"Kathak\") [Kathakali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kathakali \"Kathakali\") [Kolattam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kolattam \"Kolattam\") [Koothu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Koothu \"Koothu\") [Kuchipudi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kuchipudi \"Kuchipudi\") [Manipuri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Manipuri_dance \"Manipuri dance\") [Mayilattam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mayilattam \"Mayilattam\") [Mohiniyattam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mohiniyattam \"Mohiniyattam\") [Nritta-Nritya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_classical_dance \"Indian classical dance\") [Odissi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Odissi \"Odissi\") [Pandav Lila](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pandav_Lila \"Pandav Lila\") [Rasa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rasa_\$aesthetics\$ \"Rasa (aesthetics)\") 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[Tala](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tala_\$music\$ \"Tala (music)\") [Vadya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vadya \"Vadya\") [Food and diet](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diet_in_Hinduism \"Diet in Hinduism\") [Jhatka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jhatka \"Jhatka\") [Mitahara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mitahara \"Mitahara\") [Sattvic](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sattvic_diet \"Sattvic diet\") [Vrata](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vrata \"Vrata\") Time keeping practices [Calendar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar \"Hindu calendar\") [Panchangam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Panchangam \"Panchangam\") [Shaka era](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaka_era \"Shaka era\") [Units of Time](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_units_of_time \"Hindu units of time\") [Vikram Samvat](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vikram_Samvat \"Vikram Samvat\") Other society-related topics 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[Hinduism and Jainism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_and_Jainism \"Hinduism and Jainism\") \/ [and Buddhism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Buddhism_and_Hinduism \"Buddhism and Hinduism\") \/ [and Sikhism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_and_Sikhism \"Hinduism and Sikhism\") \/ [and Judaism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_and_Judaism \"Hinduism and Judaism\") \/ [and Christianity](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_and_Christianity \"Hinduism and Christianity\") \/ [and Islam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu%E2%80%93Islamic_relations \"Hindu–Islamic relations\") |\n| [Glossary](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Glossary_of_Hinduism_terms \"Glossary of Hinduism terms\") [Outline](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Outline_of_Hinduism \"Outline of Hinduism\") ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/6\/67\/Aum_Om_red.svg\/20px-Aum_Om_red.svg.png) [Hinduism portal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Hinduism \"Portal:Hinduism\") |\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Hinduism \"Template:Hinduism\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Hinduism \"Template talk:Hinduism\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Hinduism \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Hinduism\") |\n\n| Deepavali |   |\n|---|---|\n| **[UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/UNESCO_Intangible_Cultural_Heritage_Lists \"UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists\")** |   |\n| Country | [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India \"India\") |\n| Reference | [02312](https:\/\/ich.unesco.org\/en\/RL\/02312) |\n| Region | [Asia and the Pacific](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:UNESCO_Representative_List_of_the_Intangible_Cultural_Heritage_of_Humanity\/APA \"Template:UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity\/APA\") |\n| Inscription history |   |\n| Inscription | 2025 (20th session) |\n| [List](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/UNESCO_Intangible_Cultural_Heritage_Lists \"UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists\") | Representative |\n\n**Dipavali** ([IAST](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/IAST \"IAST\"): *Dīpāvalī*),[\\[a\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-4) commonly known as **Diwali** ([\/dɪˈwɑːliː\/](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Help:IPA\/English \"Help:IPA\/English\")),[\\[4\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Mead-2008a-5) is the [Hindu festival](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_festival \"Hindu festival\") of lights, with variations celebrated in other [Indian religions](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_religions \"Indian religions\") such as [Jainism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jainism \"Jainism\") and [Sikhism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sikhism \"Sikhism\").[\\[b\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-6) It symbolises the spiritual victory of *[Dharma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dharma \"Dharma\")* over *[Adharma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Adharma \"Adharma\")*, light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Heiligman31-7)[\\[6\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-htoday-8)[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Mead-2008b-9)\\[*[page needed](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Citing_sources \"Wikipedia:Citing sources\")*\\][\\[8\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-melton252-10) Diwali is celebrated during the [Hindu lunisolar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar \"Hindu calendar\") months of [Ashvin](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ashvin_\$month\$ \"Ashvin (month)\") (according to the [amanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#amanta \"Hindu calendar\") tradition) and [Kārtika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kartika_\$month\$ \"Kartika (month)\") – between around mid-October and mid-November.[\\[9\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-OED-Diwali-11)[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12)[\\[11\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-13)[\\[12\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-14)[\\[13\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-15) The celebrations generally last five or six days.[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16)[\\[15\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-17)\n\nDiwali is connected to various religious events, deities and personalities, such as being the day [Rama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rama \"Rama\") returned to his [kingdom](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kosala \"Kosala\") in [Ayodhya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayodhya_\$Ramayana\$ \"Ayodhya (Ramayana)\") with his wife [Sita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sita \"Sita\") and his brother [Lakshmana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmana \"Lakshmana\") after defeating the demon king [Ravana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ravana \"Ravana\").[\\[16\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-dhcd-18) It is also widely associated with [Lakshmi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi \"Lakshmi\"), the goddess of prosperity, and [Ganesha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesha \"Ganesha\"), the god of wisdom and the remover of obstacles.[\\[17\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Suzanne_Barchers_2013-19) Other regional traditions connect the holiday to [Vishnu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishnu \"Vishnu\"), [Krishna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna \"Krishna\"), [Durga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga \"Durga\"), [Shiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva \"Shiva\"), [Kali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali \"Kali\"), [Hanuman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman \"Hanuman\"), [Kubera](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kubera \"Kubera\"), [Yama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yama \"Yama\"), [Yami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yami \"Yami\"), [Dhanvantari](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dhanvantari \"Dhanvantari\"), or [Vishvakarman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishvakarman \"Vishvakarman\").\n\nPrimarily a [Hindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindus \"Hindus\") festival, variations of Diwali are also celebrated by adherents of other faiths.[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16) The [Jains](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jainism \"Jainism\") observe their [own Diwali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali_\$Jainism\$ \"Diwali (Jainism)\") which marks the final liberation of [Mahavira](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahavira \"Mahavira\").[\\[18\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Sharma2006-20)[\\[19\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-N._Upadhye,_Review_1982_pp._231%E2%80%93232-21) The [Sikhs](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sikhism \"Sikhism\") celebrate [Bandi Chhor Divas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bandi_Chhor_Divas \"Bandi Chhor Divas\") to mark the release of [Guru Hargobind](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Hargobind \"Guru Hargobind\") from a [Mughal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mughal_Empire \"Mughal Empire\") prison.[\\[20\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-22) [Newar Buddhists](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Newar_Buddhism \"Newar Buddhism\"), unlike other [Buddhists](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Buddhism \"Buddhism\"), celebrate Diwali by worshipping Lakshmi, while the Hindus of [Eastern India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eastern_India \"Eastern India\") and [Bangladesh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bangladesh \"Bangladesh\") generally, celebrate Diwali by worshipping the [goddess Kali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali \"Kali\").[\\[21\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-MK72-23)[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2)[\\[22\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Prem_Saran_2012_175-24)\n\nDuring the festival, the celebrants illuminate their homes, temples and workspaces with [*diyas*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diya_\$light\$ \"Diya (light)\") (oil lamps), candles and lanterns.[\\[8\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-melton252-10) Hindus, in particular, have a ritual oil bath at dawn on each day of the festival.[\\[23\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-YustJohnson2006-25) Diwali is also marked with fireworks as well as the decoration of floors with *[rangoli](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rangoli \"Rangoli\")* designs and other parts of the house with [*jhalars*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jhalar \"Jhalar\"). Food is a major focus with families partaking in feasts and sharing [*mithai*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mithai_\$confectionery\$ \"Mithai (confectionery)\").[\\[24\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-jgl-26) The festival is an annual homecoming and bonding period not only for families,[\\[16\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-dhcd-18)[\\[17\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Suzanne_Barchers_2013-19) but also for communities and associations, particularly those in urban areas, which will organise activities, events, and gatherings.[\\[25\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJohnsonTeuscherSabean2011300%E2%80%93301-27)[\\[26\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEShah199541%E2%80%9344-28) Many towns organise community parades and fairs with parades or music and dance performances in parks.[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16) Some Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs will send Diwali greeting cards to family near and far during the festive season, occasionally with boxes of Indian confectionery.[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16) Another aspect of the festival is remembering the ancestors.[\\[27\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-29)\n\nDiwali is also a major cultural event for the [Hindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindus \"Hindus\"), [Sikh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sikhs \"Sikhs\"), and [Jain](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jainism \"Jainism\") [diaspora](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diaspora \"Diaspora\").[\\[28\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-wsj-30)[\\[29\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJohnson200771%E2%80%9373-31)[\\[30\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKelly198840%E2%80%9355-32) The main day of the festival of Diwali (the day of Lakshmi Puja) is an official holiday in [Fiji](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fiji \"Fiji\"),[\\[31\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-33) [Guyana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guyana \"Guyana\"),[\\[32\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-34) [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India \"India\"), [Malaysia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Malaysia \"Malaysia\"),[\\[c\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-35)[\\[33\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-36) [Mauritius](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mauritius \"Mauritius\"), [Myanmar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Myanmar \"Myanmar\"),[\\[34\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-37) [Nepal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nepal \"Nepal\"),[\\[35\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-38) [Pakistan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pakistan \"Pakistan\"),[\\[36\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-39) [Singapore](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Singapore \"Singapore\"),[\\[37\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-40) [Sri Lanka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sri_Lanka \"Sri Lanka\"), [Suriname](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Suriname \"Suriname\"), and [Trinidad and Tobago](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Trinidad_and_Tobago \"Trinidad and Tobago\"),[\\[38\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-41) and the [US](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/United_States \"United States\") states of [Connecticut](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Connecticut \"Connecticut\"), [Pennsylvania](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pennsylvania \"Pennsylvania\"), and [California](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/California \"California\").[\\[39\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-42)[\\[40\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-43)[\\[41\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-44)\n\n## Etymology\n*Diwali*[\\[9\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-OED-Diwali-11)[\\[d\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-46) comes from *Dipavali* ([Sanskrit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sanskrit_language \"Sanskrit language\"): दीपावली, [romanized](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Romanization_of_Sanskrit \"Romanization of Sanskrit\"):*Dīpāvalī*), meaning 'a row or series of lights'.[\\[24\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-jgl-26)[\\[43\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFrazierFlood2011255-47) The term is a compound of the Sanskrit words दीप, *dīpa*, 'lamp, light, lantern, candle, that which glows, shines, illuminates or knowledge'[\\[44\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-48) and आवलि, *āvali*, 'a row, range, continuous line, series'.[\\[45\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-49)[\\[e\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-50)\n\n## Dates\nThe five-day celebration is observed every year sometime from the second half of October to the first half of November[\\[46\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253-51) coinciding with a new moon ([*amāvasyā*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Amavasya \"Amavasya\")) as per the [Hindu lunisolar calendar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar \"Hindu calendar\").[\\[47\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9362-52)\n\nThe festivities begin two days before *[amāvasyā](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Amavasya \"Amavasya\")*, on [Dhanteras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dhanteras \"Dhanteras\"), and extend two days after, until the second (or 17th) day of the month of Kartik.[\\[48\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561-53) (According to Indologist Constance Jones, this night ends the lunar month of Ashwin and starts the month of Kartik[\\[46\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253-51) – but see this note[\\[f\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-55) and [Amanta and Purnima systems](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#Amanta_and_Purnima_systems \"Hindu calendar\").) The darkest night is the apex of the celebration.\n\nThe festival climax is on the third day and is called the main Diwali. It is an official holiday in a dozen countries, while the other festive days are regionally observed as either public or optional restricted holidays in India.[\\[50\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-about-56) In Nepal, it is also a multiday festival, although the days and rituals are named differently, with the climax being called the *[Tihar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tihar_\$festival\$ \"Tihar (festival)\")* festival by Hindus and *[Swanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swanti_\$festival\$ \"Swanti (festival)\")* festival by Buddhists.[\\[51\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-57)[\\[52\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-58)\n\n## History\nThe five-day long festival originated in the [Indian subcontinent](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_subcontinent \"Indian subcontinent\") and is likely a fusion of harvest festivals in ancient [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India \"India\").[\\[46\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253-51) It is mentioned in early [Sanskrit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sanskrit_literature \"Sanskrit literature\") texts, such as the *[Padma Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Padma_Purana \"Padma Purana\")* and the *[Skanda Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Skanda_Purana \"Skanda Purana\"),* both of which were composed between the 7th and 10th centuries.[\\[53\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-l796-59)[\\[54\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-60) The *diyas* (lamps) are mentioned in *Skanda Kishore Purana* as symbolising parts of the sun, describing it as the cosmic giver of light and energy to all life and which seasonally transitions in the Hindu calendar month of Kartik.[\\[55\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61)[\\[56\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELochtefeld2002355-62)\n\nEmperor [Harsha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Harsha \"Harsha\") refers to Deepavali, in the 7th-century Sanskrit play *[Nagananda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nagananda \"Nagananda\")*, as *Dīpapratipadotsava* (*dīpa* = light, *pratipadā* = first day, *utsava* = festival), where lamps were lit and newly engaged brides and grooms received gifts.[\\[57\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-bnsharma-63)[\\[58\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-yaksha-64) [Rajasekhara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rajashekhara_\$Sanskrit_poet\$ \"Rajashekhara (Sanskrit poet)\") referred to Deepavali as *Dipamalika* in his 9th-century *Kavyamimamsa*, wherein he mentions the tradition of homes being whitewashed and oil lamps decorated homes, streets, and markets in the night.[\\[57\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-bnsharma-63)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/75\/Radha_and_Krishna_watching_fireworks_in_the_night_sky.jpg\/250px-Radha_and_Krishna_watching_fireworks_in_the_night_sky.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Radha_and_Krishna_watching_fireworks_in_the_night_sky.jpg)\n\n*Radha and Krishna celebrating Diwali* by Sitaram. [Kishangarh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kishangarh_State \"Kishangarh State\"), late 18th-century. [National Museum, New Delhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Museum,_New_Delhi \"National Museum, New Delhi\")\n\nDiwali was also described by numerous travellers from outside India. In his 11th-century memoir on India, the Persian traveller and historian [Al Biruni](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ab%C5%AB_Ray%E1%B8%A5%C4%81n_al-B%C4%ABr%C5%ABn%C4%AB \"Abū Rayḥān al-Bīrūnī\") wrote of Deepavali being celebrated by Hindus on the day of the New Moon in the month of Kartika.[\\[59\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-65) The Venetian merchant and traveller [Niccolò de' Conti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Niccol%C3%B2_de%27_Conti \"Niccolò de' Conti\") visited India in the early 15th century and wrote in his memoir, \"on another of these festivals they fix up within their temples, and on the outside of the roofs, an innumerable number of oil lamps ... which are kept burning day and night\" and that the families would gather, \"clothe themselves in new garments\", sing, dance, and feast.[\\[60\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEEraly2015315%E2%80%93316-66)[\\[61\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESewell200685%E2%80%9386-67) The 16th-century Portuguese traveller [Domingo Paes](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Domingo_Paes \"Domingo Paes\") wrote of his visit to the Hindu [Vijayanagara Empire](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vijayanagara_Empire \"Vijayanagara Empire\"), where *Dipavali* was celebrated in October with householders illuminating their homes, and their temples, with lamps.[\\[61\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESewell200685%E2%80%9386-67) It is mentioned in the *[Ramayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramayana \"Ramayana\")* that Diwali was celebrated for only 2 years in [Ayodhya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayodhya_\$Ramayana\$ \"Ayodhya (Ramayana)\").[\\[62\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-S_A_NEWS-2020-68)\n\nIslamic historians of the [Delhi Sultanate](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Delhi_Sultanate \"Delhi Sultanate\") and the [Mughal Empire](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mughal_Empire \"Mughal Empire\") era also mentioned Diwali and other Hindu festivals. A few, notably the [Mughal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mughal_Empire \"Mughal Empire\") emperor [Akbar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Akbar \"Akbar\"), welcomed and participated in the festivities,[\\[63\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEEaton1996159%E2%80%93160_with_footnotes-69)[\\[64\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMelville2012526-70) whereas others banned such festivals as Diwali and [Holi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Holi \"Holi\"), as [Aurangzeb](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aurangzeb \"Aurangzeb\") did in 1665.[\\[65\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOkita201428%E2%80%9329-71)[\\[66\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389-72)[\\[g\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-75)[\\[h\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-76)\n\nPublications from the time of the [British Raj](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/British_Raj \"British Raj\") also made mention of Diwali, such as the note on Hindu festivals published in 1799 by [Sir William Jones](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/William_Jones_\$philologist\$ \"William Jones (philologist)\"), a philologist known for his early observations on Sanskrit and [Indo-European languages](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indo-European_languages \"Indo-European languages\").[\\[69\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-jone1799p263-77) In his paper on *The Lunar Year of the Hindus*, Jones, then based in [Bengal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bengal \"Bengal\"), noted four of the five days of Diwali in the [autumn](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Autumn \"Autumn\") months of *Aswina-Cartica* \\[*[sic](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sic \"Sic\")*\\] as the following: *Bhutachaturdasi Yamaterpanam* (2nd day), *Lacshmipuja dipanwita* (the day of Diwali), *Dyuta pratipat Belipuja* (4th day), and *Bhratri dwitiya* (5th day). The *Lacshmipuja dipanwita*, remarked Jones, was a \"great festival at night, in honour of Lakshmi, with illuminations on trees and houses\".[\\[69\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-jone1799p263-77)[\\[i\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-78)\n\n### Epigraphy\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/8\/81\/1867_CE_chromolithograph%2C_Diwali%2C_feast_of_lamps%2C_by_William_Simpson.jpg\/250px-1867_CE_chromolithograph%2C_Diwali%2C_feast_of_lamps%2C_by_William_Simpson.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:1867_CE_chromolithograph,_Diwali,_feast_of_lamps,_by_William_Simpson.jpg)\n\nWilliam Simpson labelled his chromolithograph of 1867 as \"Dewali, feast of lamps\". It showed streets lit up at dusk, with a girl and her mother lighting a street corner lamp.[\\[70\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-79)\n\nSanskrit inscriptions in stone and copper mentioning Diwali, occasionally alongside terms such as *Dipotsava*, *[Dipavali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dipawali_\$Jainism\$ \"Dipawali (Jainism)\")*, *Divali* and *Divalige*, have been discovered at numerous sites across India.[\\[71\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-80)[\\[72\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-81)[\\[j\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-82) Examples include a 10th-century Rashtrakuta empire copper plate inscription of [Krishna III](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna_III \"Krishna III\") (939–967 CE) that mentions *Dipotsava*,[\\[73\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-83) and a 12th-century mixed Sanskrit-Kannada Sinda inscription discovered in the Isvara temple of [Dharwad](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dharwad \"Dharwad\") in Karnataka where the inscription refers to the festival as a \"sacred occasion\".[\\[74\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-84) According to [Lorenz Franz Kielhorn](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lorenz_Franz_Kielhorn \"Lorenz Franz Kielhorn\"), a German Indologist known for translating many Indic inscriptions, this festival is mentioned as *Dipotsavam* in verses 6 and 7 of the Ranganatha temple Sanskrit inscription of the 13th-century [Venad](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Venad_\$Kingdom\$ \"Venad (Kingdom)\") Hindu king [Ravivarman Samgramadhira](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ravivarman_Kula%C5%9B%C4%93khara \"Ravivarman Kulaśēkhara\"). Part of the inscription, as translated by Kielhorn, reads:\n\n> the auspicious festival of lights which disperses the most profound darkness, which in former days was celebrated by the kings Ila, Kartavirya and Sagara, (...) as Sakra (Indra) is of the gods, the universal monarch who knows the duties by the three Vedas, afterwards celebrated here at Ranga for Vishnu, resplendent with Lakshmi resting on his radiant lap.[\\[75\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-kielhorn1896-85)[\\[k\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-86)\n\nJain inscriptions, such as the 10th-century Saundatti inscription about a donation of oil to Jinendra worship for the Diwali rituals, speak of *Dipotsava*.[\\[76\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-87)[\\[77\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-88) Another early 13th-century Sanskrit stone inscription, written in the Devanagari script, has been found in the north end of a mosque pillar in [Jalore](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jalore \"Jalore\"), [Rajasthan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rajasthan \"Rajasthan\") evidently built using materials from a demolished Jain temple. The inscription states that Ramachandracharya built and dedicated a drama performance hall, with a golden cupola, on Diwali.[\\[78\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Hultzsch1268-89)[\\[79\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-90)[\\[l\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-91)\n\n## Religious significance\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/a\/a6\/Raja_Ravi_Varma%2C_Goddess_Lakshmi%2C_1896.jpg\/250px-Raja_Ravi_Varma%2C_Goddess_Lakshmi%2C_1896.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Raja_Ravi_Varma,_Goddess_Lakshmi,_1896.jpg)\n\nDiwali is commonly celebrated in the honour of [Lakshmi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi \"Lakshmi\"), the goddess of wealth.\n\nThe religious significance of Diwali varies regionally within India. One tradition links the festival to legends in the Hindu epic *[Ramayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramayana \"Ramayana\")*, where Diwali is the day Rama, Sita, [Lakshmana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshman \"Lakshman\"), and [Hanuman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman \"Hanuman\") reached [Ayodhya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayodhya_\$Ramayana\$ \"Ayodhya (Ramayana)\") after a period of 14 years in exile after Rama's army of good, defeated demon king [Ravana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ravana \"Ravana\")'s army of evil.[\\[80\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691-92) Throughout the epic, Rama's decisions were always in line with *[dharma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dharma \"Dharma\") (*duty*)* and the Diwali festival serves as a reminder for followers of Hinduism to maintain their dharma in day-to-day life.[\\[81\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-93)\n\nPer another popular tradition, in the [Dvapara Yuga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dvapara_Yuga \"Dvapara Yuga\") period, [Krishna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna \"Krishna\"), an [avatar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Avatar \"Avatar\") of [Vishnu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishnu \"Vishnu\"), killed the demon [Narakasura](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Narakasura \"Narakasura\"), who was the evil king of [Pragjyotishapura](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pragjyotishapura \"Pragjyotishapura\"), near present-day Assam, and released 16000 girls held captive by Narakasura. Diwali was celebrated as a signifier of triumph of good over evil after Krishna's Victory over Narakasura. The day before Diwali is remembered as Naraka Chaturdashi, the day on which Narakasura was killed by Krishna.[\\[82\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-94)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/2\/2a\/Diwali_Lakshmi_Poojan.jpg\/250px-Diwali_Lakshmi_Poojan.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diwali_Lakshmi_Poojan.jpg)\n\nA picture of Lakshmi and [Ganesha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesha \"Ganesha\") worship during Diwali\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/5\/57\/Diwali_Ganesh_Laxmi_Puja_001.jpg\/250px-Diwali_Ganesh_Laxmi_Puja_001.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diwali_Ganesh_Laxmi_Puja_001.jpg)\n\nDiwali Ganesh Laxmi Puja\n\nMany Hindus associate the festival with Goddess [Lakshmi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi \"Lakshmi\"), the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and wife of Vishnu. According to Pintchman, the start of the 5-day Diwali festival is stated in some popular contemporary sources as the day goddess Lakshmi was born from [Samudra Manthana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samudra_manthan \"Samudra manthan\"), the churning of the cosmic ocean of milk by the [Devas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Deva_\$Hinduism\$ \"Deva (Hinduism)\") (gods) and the [Asuras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Asuras \"Asuras\") (demons) – a Vedic legend that is also found in several [Puranas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puranas \"Puranas\") such as the *[Padma Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Padma_Purana \"Padma Purana\")*, while the night of Diwali is when Lakshmi chose and wed Vishnu.[\\[55\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61)[\\[83\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Karen_Pechilis_2007_pp_273-275-95) Along with Lakshmi, who is representative of [Vaishnavism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaishnavism \"Vaishnavism\"), [Ganesha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesha \"Ganesha\"), the elephant-headed son of [Parvati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Parvati \"Parvati\") and [Shiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva \"Shiva\") of [Shaivism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaivism \"Shaivism\") tradition, is remembered as one who symbolises ethical beginnings and the remover of obstacles.[\\[80\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691-92)\n\nHindus of eastern India associate the festival with the Goddess Kali, who symbolises the victory of good over evil.[\\[84\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEAmazzone2012-96)[\\[85\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-97)[\\[86\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-98) Hindus from the Braj region in northern India, parts of [Assam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Assam \"Assam\"), as well as southern Tamil and Telugu communities view Diwali as the day the god Krishna overcame and destroyed the evil demon king Narakasura, in yet another symbolic victory of knowledge and good over ignorance and evil.[\\[87\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECoogan2003152%E2%80%93153-99)[\\[88\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEVemsani2016190%E2%80%93191-100)\n\nTrade and merchant families and others also offer prayers to [Saraswati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saraswati \"Saraswati\"), who embodies music, literature and learning and [Kubera](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kubera \"Kubera\"), who symbolises book-keeping, treasury and wealth management.[\\[55\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61) In western states such as Gujarat, and certain northern Hindu communities of India, the festival of Diwali signifies the start of a new year.[\\[87\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECoogan2003152%E2%80%93153-99)\n\nMythical tales shared on Diwali vary widely depending on region and even within Hindu tradition,[\\[89\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-vasudha31-101) yet all share a common focus on righteousness, self-inquiry and the importance of knowledge,[\\[90\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-102)[\\[91\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-103) which, according to Lindsey Harlan, an Indologist and scholar of Religious Studies, is the path to overcoming the \"darkness of ignorance\".[\\[92\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESalamone2004112,_Article_on_Divali_by_Lindsey_Harlan-104) The telling of these myths is reminiscent of the Hindu belief that good ultimately triumphs over evil.[\\[93\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-105)[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12)\n\n### Other religions\nOriginally a Hindu festival, Diwali has transcended religious lines.[\\[94\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJohnson200771%E2%80%9379-106) Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Newar Buddhists,[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2) although for each faith it marks different historical events and stories, but nonetheless the festival represents the same symbolic victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Heiligman31-7)[\\[6\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-htoday-8)[\\[95\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-107)[\\[96\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-108)\n\n#### Jainism\nMain article: [Diwali (Jainism)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali_\$Jainism\$ \"Diwali (Jainism)\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/4\/47\/Mahavira_Nirvan_Kalyanak_Diwali.jpg\/330px-Mahavira_Nirvan_Kalyanak_Diwali.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Mahavira_Nirvan_Kalyanak_Diwali.jpg)\n\n[Lord Mahavir](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahavira \"Mahavira\") in meditation before attaining nirvana, the day is celebrated by [Jains](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jains \"Jains\") as *Dipalikaya*\n\nIn Jain religion, Diwali is celebrated in observance of \"Mahavira Nirvana Divas\", the physical death and final nirvana of [Mahavira](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahavira \"Mahavira\"), the 24th [Tirthankar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tirthankar \"Tirthankar\") of current time cycle. Nirvana is considered to be the state of a soul when it escapes from the cycle of birth and death, while experiencing its true nature of boundless bliss and infinite knowledge.[\\[97\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Jacobi_1895-109) The Jain Diwali celebrated in many parts of India has similar practices to the Hindu Diwali, such as the lighting of lamps. However, the focus of the Jain Diwali remains the dedication to Mahavira.[\\[98\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELong200926,_42-110) According to the Jain tradition, this practice of lighting lamps first began on the day of Mahavira's nirvana in 527 BCE,[\\[m\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-113) when 18 kings who had gathered for Mahavira's final teachings issued a proclamation that lamps be lit in remembrance of the \"great light, Mahavira\".[\\[101\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMelton2011255-114)[\\[102\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELong200942-115) This traditional belief of the origin of Diwali, and its significance to Jains, is reflected in their historic artworks such as paintings.[\\[103\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJainFischer197813-116)\n\n#### Sikhism\nMain article: [Bandi Chhor Divas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bandi_Chhor_Divas \"Bandi Chhor Divas\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/f\/f4\/A_hukamnama_from_the_tenth_Sikh_guru%2C_Guru_Gobind_Singh%2C_requesting_all_of_the_Sikh_congregation_to_convene_in_his_presence_on_the_occasion_of_Diwali.jpg\/250px-A_hukamnama_from_the_tenth_Sikh_guru%2C_Guru_Gobind_Singh%2C_requesting_all_of_the_Sikh_congregation_to_convene_in_his_presence_on_the_occasion_of_Diwali.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:A_hukamnama_from_the_tenth_Sikh_guru,_Guru_Gobind_Singh,_requesting_all_of_the_Sikh_congregation_to_convene_in_his_presence_on_the_occasion_of_Diwali.jpg)\n\nA [hukamnama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hukamnama \"Hukamnama\") from the tenth Sikh guru, [Guru Gobind Singh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Gobind_Singh \"Guru Gobind Singh\"), requesting all of the Sikh congregation to convene in his presence on the occasion of Diwali\n\nSikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas in remembrance of the release of [Guru Hargobind](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Hargobind \"Guru Hargobind\") from the [Gwalior Fort](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gwalior_Fort \"Gwalior Fort\") prison by the Mughal emperor [Jahangir](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jahangir \"Jahangir\") and the day he arrived at the Golden Temple in Amritsar.[\\[104\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-117) According to J.S. Grewal, a scholar of Sikhism and Sikh history, Diwali in the Sikh tradition is older than the sixth Guru Hargobind legend. [Guru Amar Das](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Amar_Das \"Guru Amar Das\"), the third Guru of the Sikhs, built a well in Goindwal with eighty-four steps and invited Sikhs to bathe in its [sacred waters](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sacred_waters \"Sacred waters\") on Baisakhi and Diwali as a form of community bonding. Over time, these spring and autumn festivals became the most important of Sikh festivals and holy sites such as Amritsar became focal points for annual pilgrimages.[\\[105\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGrewal199850%E2%80%9351,_60,_73%E2%80%9378,_93-118) The festival of Diwali, according to Ray Colledge, highlights three events in Sikh history: the founding of the city of Amritsar in 1577, the release of Guru Hargobind from the Mughal prison, and the day of Bhai Mani Singh's martyrdom in 1738 as a result of his failure to pay a fine for trying to celebrate Diwali and thereafter refusing to convert to Islam.[\\[106\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEColledge2017276%E2%80%93278-119)[\\[107\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESinghLouis_E._Fenech2014431%E2%80%93433-120)[\\[n\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-123)\n\n#### Buddhism\nDiwali is not a festival for most Buddhists, with the exception of the [Newar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Newar_people \"Newar people\") people of Nepal who revere various deities in [Vajrayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vajrayana \"Vajrayana\") Buddhism and celebrate Diwali by offering prayers to Lakshmi.[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2)[\\[22\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Prem_Saran_2012_175-24) Newar Buddhists in Nepalese valleys also celebrate the Diwali festival over five days, in much the same way, and on the same days, as the Nepalese Hindu Diwali-Tihar festival.[\\[110\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-124) According to some observers, this traditional celebration by Newar Buddhists in Nepal, through the worship of Lakshmi and Vishnu during Diwali, is not [syncretism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Syncretism \"Syncretism\") but rather a reflection of the freedom within [Mahayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahayana \"Mahayana\") Buddhist tradition to worship any deity for their worldly betterment.[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2)\n\n## Celebrations\n|   |   |\n|---|---|\n|   |   |\n| [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/5\/5c\/Diwali_Festival.jpg\/250px-Diwali_Festival.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diwali_Festival.jpg)Hindu girls lighting [diyas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diya_\$light\$ \"Diya (light)\") in Bangladesh | [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/4\/49\/Glowing_Swayambhu_%283005358416%29.jpg\/250px-Glowing_Swayambhu_%283005358416%29.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Glowing_Swayambhu_\$3005358416\$.jpg)Decorations in [Kathmandu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kathmandu \"Kathmandu\") for [Tihar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tihar_\$festival\$ \"Tihar (festival)\") (Diwali in Nepal) |\n| [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/73\/Diyas_Diwali_Decor_India.jpg\/250px-Diyas_Diwali_Decor_India.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diyas_Diwali_Decor_India.jpg)Diwali lamps arranged in the pattern of *[Om](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Om \"Om\")* | [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/2\/2f\/Fireworks_Diwali_Chennai_India_November_2013_b.jpg\/250px-Fireworks_Diwali_Chennai_India_November_2013_b.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Fireworks_Diwali_Chennai_India_November_2013_b.jpg)Deepavali night fireworks over [Chennai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chennai \"Chennai\") |\n| [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/7\/70\/Diwali_Pujan_at_Haridwar.jpg\/250px-Diwali_Pujan_at_Haridwar.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diwali_Pujan_at_Haridwar.jpg)Indoor Diwali decorations in front of an altar in [Haridwar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Haridwar \"Haridwar\") | [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/a\/ae\/United_States_Diwali_Dance_San_Antonio_2011_b.jpg\/250px-United_States_Diwali_Dance_San_Antonio_2011_b.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:United_States_Diwali_Dance_San_Antonio_2011_b.jpg)Dance event for Diwali in [Texas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Texas \"Texas\"), US |\n| [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/3\/38\/Divalinagar.jpg\/120px-Divalinagar.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Divalinagar.jpg)[Divali Nagar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Divali_Nagar \"Divali Nagar\") celebration in Trinidad and Tobago | [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/f\/f2\/Diwali_Festival._Jpg.jpg\/250px-Diwali_Festival._Jpg.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diwali_Festival._Jpg.jpg)Diyas lit for Diwali at [Golden Temple](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Harmandir_Sahib \"Harmandir Sahib\"), Punjab |\n| [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/7e\/Diwali_offerings_to_god_in_Tamil_Nadu_JEG2437.jpg\/250px-Diwali_offerings_to_god_in_Tamil_Nadu_JEG2437.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diwali_offerings_to_god_in_Tamil_Nadu_JEG2437.jpg)Diwali sweets and snacks | [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/0\/0b\/DiwaliKarnal.JPG\/250px-DiwaliKarnal.JPG)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:DiwaliKarnal.JPG)Decorative lights for Diwali on a house in Haryana |\n\nIn the lead-up to Diwali, celebrants prepare by cleaning, renovating, and decorating their homes and workplaces with *diyas* (oil lamps) and *[rangolis](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rangoli \"Rangoli\")* (colourful art circle patterns).[\\[112\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Raat-126) During Diwali, people wear their finest clothes, illuminate the interior and exterior of their homes with saaki (earthen lamp), *diyas* and *rangoli*, perform worship ceremonies of [Lakshmi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi \"Lakshmi\"), the goddess of prosperity and wealth,[\\[o\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-128) light fireworks, and partake in family feasts, where *mithai* ([sweets](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/South_Asian_sweets \"South Asian sweets\")) and [gifts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gift \"Gift\") are shared.\n\nThe height of Diwali is celebrated on the third day coinciding with the darkest night of Ashvin or Kartika.\n\nThe common celebratory practices are known as the festival of light, however there are minor differences from state to state in India. Diwali is usually celebrated twenty days after the [Vijayadashami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vijayadashami \"Vijayadashami\") festival, with [Dhanteras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dhanteras \"Dhanteras\"), or the regional equivalent, marking the first day of the festival when celebrants prepare by cleaning their homes and making decorations on the floor, such as *[rangolis](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rangoli \"Rangoli\")*.[\\[114\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-129) Some regions of [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India \"India\") start Diwali festivities the day before Dhanteras with [Govatsa Dwadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Govatsa_Dwadashi \"Govatsa Dwadashi\"). The second day is [Naraka Chaturdashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Naraka_Chaturdashi \"Naraka Chaturdashi\"). The third day is the day of [Lakshmi Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi_Puja \"Lakshmi Puja\") and the darkest [night](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Night \"Night\") of the [traditional month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/K%C4%81rtika_\$month\$ \"Kārtika (month)\"). In some parts of [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India \"India\"), the day after [Lakshmi Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi_Puja \"Lakshmi Puja\") is marked with the [Govardhan Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Govardhan_Puja \"Govardhan Puja\") and [Balipratipada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balipratipada \"Balipratipada\") (Padwa). Some [Hindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindus \"Hindus\") communities mark the last day as [Bhai Dooj](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhai_Dooj \"Bhai Dooj\") or the regional equivalent, which is dedicated to the bond between sister and brother,[\\[115\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-130) while other Hindu and Sikh craftsmen communities mark this day as [Vishvakarma Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishwakarma_Puja \"Vishwakarma Puja\") and observe it by performing maintenance in their work spaces and offering [prayers](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prayer \"Prayer\").[\\[116\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-haar2009-131)[\\[117\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-132)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/5\/5e\/Diwali_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg\/250px-Diwali_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diwali_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg)\n\nDiwali celebrations include [puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puja_\$Hinduism\$ \"Puja (Hinduism)\") (prayers) to Lakshmi and Ganesha. Lakshmi is of the Vaishnavism tradition, while Ganesha of the Shaivism tradition of Hinduism.[\\[118\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133)[\\[119\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKinsley198833%E2%80%9334-134)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/3\/3c\/%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%86_%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%9F%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A8%2C_%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%AD%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BF_%E0%A4%93%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AA_%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%97%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%AF.jpg\/250px-%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%86_%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%9F%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A8%2C_%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%AD%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BF_%E0%A4%93%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AA_%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%97%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%AF.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%86_%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%9F%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A8,_%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%AD%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BF_%E0%A4%93%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AA_%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%97%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%AF.jpg)\n\nChandua lanterns on display for Diwali.\n\nRituals and preparations for Diwali begin days or weeks in advance, typically after the festival of Dusshera that precedes Diwali by about 20 days.[\\[80\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691-92) The festival formally begins two days before the night of Diwali and ends two days thereafter. Each day has the following rituals and significance:[\\[55\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61) Diwali has become more popular in other countries. In [New York City](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/New_York_City \"New York City\") lawmakers have passed legislation to make holidays in school. But debates over the holiday push back. In the future Diwali will be a holiday.[\\[120\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-135)\n\n### Dhanteras and Yama Deepam (Day 1)\nMain article: [Dhanteras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dhanteras \"Dhanteras\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/1\/1c\/DiwaliOilLampCrop.JPG\/250px-DiwaliOilLampCrop.JPG)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:DiwaliOilLampCrop.JPG)\n\nDhanteras starts off the Diwali celebrations with the lighting of *[Diya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diya_\$lamp\$ \"Diya (lamp)\") or Panati* lamp rows, house cleaning and floor [rangoli](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rangoli \"Rangoli\")\n\n*Dhanteras*, also known as *Dhanatrayodashi,* is derived from *Dhan* meaning wealth and *teras* meaning thirteenth, marks the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Kartik and the beginning of Diwali in most parts of India.[\\[121\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136) On this day, many Hindus clean their homes and business premises. They install *diyas*, small earthen oil-filled lamps that they light up for the next five days, near Lakshmi and Ganesha iconography.[\\[121\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136)[\\[118\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133) Women and children decorate doorways within homes and offices with *rangolis*, colourful designs made from rice flour, flower petals, coloured rice or coloured sand,[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16) while the boys and men decorate the roofs and walls of family homes, markets, and temples and string up lights and lanterns. The day also marks a major shopping day for buying new utensils, home equipment, gold jewellery, firecrackers, and other items.[\\[118\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133)[\\[55\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61)[\\[83\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Karen_Pechilis_2007_pp_273-275-95)[\\[122\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-137) On the evening of Dhanteras, families offer prayers (*puja*) to Lakshmi and Ganesha, and lay offerings of puffed rice, candy toys, rice cakes and *batashas* (hollow sugar cakes).[\\[118\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133)\n\nAccording to Tracy Pintchman, Dhanteras is a symbol of annual renewal, cleansing and an auspicious beginning for the next year.[\\[121\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136) The term *Dhan* for this day also alludes to the [Ayurvedic](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayurvedic \"Ayurvedic\") icon [Dhanvantari](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dhanvantari \"Dhanvantari\"), the god of health and healing, who is believed to have emerged from the \"churning of cosmic ocean\" on the same day as Lakshmi.[\\[121\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136) Some communities, particularly those active in Ayurvedic and health-related professions, pray or perform [havan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Homa_\$ritual\$ \"Homa (ritual)\") rituals to Dhanvantari on Dhanteras.[\\[121\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136)\n\nOn Yama Deepam (also known as Yama Dipadana or Jam ke Diya), Hindus light a [diya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diya_\$lamp\$ \"Diya (lamp)\"), ideally made of wheat flour and filled with sesame oil, which faces south in the back of their homes. This is believed to please [Yama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yama_\$Hinduism\$ \"Yama (Hinduism)\"), the god of death, and to ward off untimely death.[\\[123\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-drikpanchang1-138) Some Hindus observe Yama Deepam on the second night before the main day of Diwali.[\\[124\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-swahainternational1-139)[\\[125\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-astroved1-140)\n\n### Naraka Chaturdashi, Kali Chaudas, Chhoti Diwali, Hanuman Puja, Roop Chaudas, Yama Deepam (Day 2)\nMain article: [Naraka Chaturdashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Naraka_Chaturdashi \"Naraka Chaturdashi\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/9\/96\/Diwali_Food_and_Celebrations_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg\/250px-Diwali_Food_and_Celebrations_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diwali_Food_and_Celebrations_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/d\/d1\/Hindu_diet%2C_meal_setting_at_festival.jpg\/250px-Hindu_diet%2C_meal_setting_at_festival.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Hindu_diet,_meal_setting_at_festival.jpg)\n\nChoti Diwali is the major shopping day for festive *mithai* (sweets)\n\n*Naraka Chaturdashi*, also known as Chhoti Diwali, is the second day of festivities coinciding with the fourteenth day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Kartik.[\\[126\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-141) The term \"chhoti\" means little, while \"Naraka\" means hell and \"Chaturdashi\" means \"fourteenth\".[\\[127\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361-142) The day and its rituals are interpreted as ways to liberate any soul from suffering in \"Naraka\", or hell, as well as a reminder of spiritual auspiciousness. For some Hindus, it is a day to pray for the peace to the manes, or defiled souls of one's ancestors and light their way for their journeys in the cyclic afterlife.[\\[128\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361,_63-143) A mythological interpretation of this festive day is the destruction of the asura (demon) [Narakasura](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Narakasura \"Narakasura\") by Krishna, a victory that frees 16,000 imprisoned princesses kidnapped by Narakasura.[\\[127\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361-142) It is also celebrated as Roop Chaudas in some North Indian households, where women bathe before sunrise, while lighting a [diya (lamp)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diya_\$lamp\$ \"Diya (lamp)\") in the bath area, they believe it helps enhance their beauty – it is a fun ritual that young girls enjoy as part of festivities. *Ubtan* is applied by the women which is made up of special gram flour mixed with herbs for cleansing and beautifying themselves.\n\nNaraka Chaturdashi is also a major day for purchasing festive foods, particularly sweets. A variety of sweets are prepared using flour, semolina, rice, chickpea flour, dry fruit pieces powders or paste, milk solids (*mawa* or *khoya*) and clarified butter (*ghee*).[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12) According to Goldstein, these are then shaped into various forms, such as [laddus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Laddu \"Laddu\"), [barfis](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Barfi \"Barfi\"), [halwa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Halwa \"Halwa\"), [kachoris](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kachori \"Kachori\"), [shrikhand](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shrikhand \"Shrikhand\"), and [sandesh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sandesh_\$confectionery\$ \"Sandesh (confectionery)\"), rolled and stuffed delicacies, such as karanji, [shankarpali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shankarpali \"Shankarpali\"), maladu, susiyam, pottukadalai. Sometimes these are wrapped with edible silver foil ([vark](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vark \"Vark\")). Confectioners and shops create Diwali-themed decorative displays, selling these in large quantities, which are stocked for home celebrations to welcome guests and as gifts.[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12)[\\[118\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133) Families also prepare homemade delicacies for Lakshmi Pujan, regarded as the main day of Diwali.[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12) Chhoti Diwali is also a day for visiting friends, business associates and relatives, and exchanging gifts.[\\[118\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133)\n\nOn the second day of Diwali, Hanuman Puja is performed in some parts of India especially in [Gujarat](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gujarat \"Gujarat\"). It coincides with the day of Kali Chaudas. It is believed that spirits roam around on the night of Kali Chaudas, and [Hanuman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman \"Hanuman\"), who is the deity of strength, power, and protection, is worshipped to seek protection from the spirits. Diwali is also celebrated to mark the return of [Rama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rama \"Rama\") to [Ayodhya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayodhya_\$Ramayana\$ \"Ayodhya (Ramayana)\") after defeating the demon-king Ravana[\\[129\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-144) and completing his fourteen years of exile. The devotion and dedication of Hanuman pleased Rama so much that he blessed Hanuman to be worshipped before him. Thus, people worship Hanuman the day before Diwali's main day.[\\[130\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-drikpanchang.com-145)\n\nThis day is commonly celebrated as Diwali in [Tamil Nadu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tamil_Nadu \"Tamil Nadu\"), [Goa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Goa \"Goa\"), and [Karnataka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karnataka \"Karnataka\").\\[*[citation needed](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Citation_needed \"Wikipedia:Citation needed\")*\\] Traditionally, [Marathi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Marathi_people \"Marathi people\") Hindus and South Indian Hindus receive an oil massage from the elders in the family on the day and then take a ritual bath, all before sunrise.[\\[131\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394-146) Many visit their favourite Hindu temple.[\\[132\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTERodrigues201629-147)\n\nSome Hindus observe Yama Deepam (also known as Yama Dipadana or Jam ke Diya) on the second day of Diwali, instead of the first day. A diya that is filled with sesame oil is lit at back of their homes facing in the southern direction. This is believed to please [Yama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yama_\$Hinduism\$ \"Yama (Hinduism)\"), the god of death, and to ward off untimely death.[\\[123\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-drikpanchang1-138)[\\[124\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-swahainternational1-139)[\\[125\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-astroved1-140)\n\n### Lakshmi Pujan, Kali Puja (Day 3)\nMain articles: [Lakshmi Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi_Puja \"Lakshmi Puja\") and [Kali Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali_Puja \"Kali Puja\")\n\nThe third day is the height of the festival[\\[133\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJacobs201026-148) and coincides with the last day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Kartik. This is the day when Hindu, Jain and Sikh temples and homes are aglow with lights, thereby making it the \"festival of lights\". The word Deepawali comes from the Sanskrit word *दीप* (dīpa, \"light\") and *आवलि* (āvali, \"series, line, row\"), where dīpa means an Indian lantern or lamp.[\\[47\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9362-52)[\\[134\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Mead2008-149)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/7c\/Kit_Kat_Firecracker.jpg\/250px-Kit_Kat_Firecracker.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Kit_Kat_Firecracker.jpg)\n\nA sparkling firecracker, commonly known as 'Kit Kat' in India\n\nThe youngest members in the family visit their elders, such as grandparents and other senior members of the community, on this day. Small business owners give gifts or special bonus payments to their employees between Dhanteras and Lakshmi Pujan.[\\[131\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394-146)[\\[135\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011254-150) Shops either do not open or close early on this day allowing employees to enjoy family time. Shopkeepers and small operations perform *puja* rituals in their office premises. Unlike some other festivals, the Hindus typically do not fast during the five-day long Diwali including Lakshmi Pujan, rather they feast and share the bounties of the season at their workplaces, community centres, temples, and homes.[\\[131\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394-146)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/7d\/Woman_lighting_the_candles_for_the_Festival_of_Lights_in_India_%28cropped%29.jpg\/250px-Woman_lighting_the_candles_for_the_Festival_of_Lights_in_India_%28cropped%29.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Woman_lighting_the_candles_for_the_Festival_of_Lights_in_India_\$cropped\$.jpg)\n\nWoman lighting candles for Diwali. People light candles and clay lamps in their houses and at temples during Diwali night\n\nAs the evening approaches, celebrants will wear new clothes or their best outfits, teenage girls and women, in particular, wear saris and jewellery.[\\[136\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9395-151) At dusk, family members gather for the Lakshmi Pujan,[\\[136\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9395-151) although prayers will also be offered to other deities, such as Ganesha, Saraswati, Rama, Lakshmana, Sita, Hanuman, or Kubera.[\\[55\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61) The lamps from the puja ceremony are then used to light more earthenware lamps, which are placed in rows along the parapets of temples and houses,[\\[137\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200697%E2%80%9398-152) while some *diyas* are set adrift on rivers and streams.[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Mead-2008b-9)[\\[138\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-153)[\\[139\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKlostermaier201459,_69-154) After the *puja*, people go outside and celebrate by lighting up *patakhe* (fireworks) together, and then share a family feast and *[mithai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mithai_\$confectionery\$ \"Mithai (confectionery)\")* (sweets, desserts).[\\[55\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61)\n\nThe *puja* and rituals in the [Bengali Hindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bengali_Hindu \"Bengali Hindu\") community focus on Kali, the goddess of war, instead of Lakshmi.[\\[113\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127)[\\[140\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTERhodes20101%E2%80%932-155) According to Rachel Fell McDermott, a scholar of South Asian, particular Bengali, studies, in Bengal during Navaratri (Dussehra elsewhere in India) the *[Durga puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga_puja \"Durga puja\")* is the main focus, although in the eastern and northeastern states the two are synonymous, but on Diwali the focus is on the puja dedicated to Kali. These two festivals likely developed in tandem over their recent histories, states McDermott.[\\[113\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127) Textual evidence suggests that Bengali Hindus worshipped Lakshmi before the colonial era, and that the Kali puja is a more recent phenomenon.[\\[p\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-156) Contemporary Bengali celebrations mirror those found elsewhere, with teenage boys playing with fireworks and the sharing of festive food with family, but with the [Shakti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaktism \"Shaktism\") goddess Kali as the focus.[\\[141\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDaniel2004253%E2%80%93255-157)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/1\/18\/Sparkles_phuljhari_fireworks_on_DIWALI%2C_festival_of_lights.jpg\/250px-Sparkles_phuljhari_fireworks_on_DIWALI%2C_festival_of_lights.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Sparkles_phuljhari_fireworks_on_DIWALI,_festival_of_lights.jpg)\n\nA child playing with [(fuljhadi) sparklers](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sparkler \"Sparkler\") during Diwali\n\nOn the night of Diwali, rituals across much of India are dedicated to Lakshmi to welcome her into their cleaned homes and bring prosperity and happiness for the coming year.[\\[142\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363-158)[\\[62\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-S_A_NEWS-2020-68) While the cleaning, or painting, of the home is in part for goddess Lakshmi, it also signifies the ritual \"reenactment of the cleansing, purifying action of the monsoon rains\" that would have concluded in most of the Indian subcontinent.[\\[142\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363-158) Vaishnava families recite Hindu legends of the victory of good over evil and the return of hope after despair on the Diwali night, where the main characters may include Rama, Krishna, Vamana or one of the avatars of Vishnu, the divine husband of Lakshmi.[\\[142\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363-158)[\\[143\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9397-159) At dusk, lamps placed earlier in the inside and outside of the home are lit up to welcome Lakshmi.[\\[133\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJacobs201026-148) Family members light up firecrackers, which some interpret as a way to ward off all evil spirits and the inauspicious, as well as add to the festive mood.[\\[144\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Firecracker2-160)[\\[145\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Firecracker3-161) According to Pintchman, who quotes Raghavan, this ritual may also be linked to the tradition in some communities of paying respect to ancestors. Earlier in the season's fortnight, some welcome the souls of their ancestors to join the family for the festivities with the *Mahalaya*. The Diwali night's lights and firecrackers, in this interpretation, represent a celebratory and symbolic farewell to the departed ancestral souls.[\\[146\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563-162)\n\nThe celebrations and rituals of the Jains and the Sikhs are similar to those of the Hindus where social and community bonds are renewed. Major temples and homes are decorated with lights, festive foods shared with all, friends and relatives remembered and visited with gifts.[\\[135\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011254-150)[\\[98\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELong200926,_42-110)\n\n### Annakut, Balipratipada (Padwa), New Year's Day, Govardhan Puja (Day 4)\nMain articles: [Balipratipada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balipratipada \"Balipratipada\") and [Govardhan Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Govardhan_Puja \"Govardhan Puja\")\n\nThe day after Diwali is the first day of the bright fortnight of Kartik.[\\[147\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364-163) It is regionally called Annakut (heap of grain), Padwa, Goverdhan puja, Bali Pratipada, Bali Padyami, Kartik Shukla Pratipada and other names.[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16)[\\[147\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364-163) According to one tradition, the day is associated with the story of Bali's defeat at the hands of Vishnu.[\\[148\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-NarayananKurup1976-164)[\\[149\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-165) In another interpretation, it is thought to reference the legend of Parvati and her husband Shiva playing a game of *dyuta* (dice) on a board of twelve squares and thirty pieces, Parvati wins. Shiva surrenders his shirt and adornments to her, rendering him naked.[\\[147\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364-163) According to Handelman and Shulman, as quoted by Pintchman, this legend is a Hindu metaphor for the cosmic process for creation and dissolution of the world through the masculine destructive power, as represented by Shiva, and the feminine procreative power, represented by Parvati, where twelve reflects the number of months in the cyclic year, while thirty are the number of days in its lunisolar month.[\\[147\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364-163)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/3\/3a\/Annakut.jpg\/330px-Annakut.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Annakut.jpg)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/78\/Lord_Krishna_and_Goverdhan_parwat_in_his_left_hand%27s_finger.jpg\/250px-Lord_Krishna_and_Goverdhan_parwat_in_his_left_hand%27s_finger.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Lord_Krishna_and_Goverdhan_parwat_in_his_left_hand%27s_finger.jpg)\n\nAnnakut community meals (left), Krishna holding [Govardhan Hill](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Govardhan_Hill \"Govardhan Hill\") ritually made from cow dung, rice and flowers (right).\n\nThis day ritually celebrates the bond between the wife and husband,[\\[150\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) and in some Hindu communities, husbands will celebrate this with gifts to their wives. In other regions, parents invite a newly married daughter, or son, together with their spouses to a festive meal and give them gifts.[\\[150\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166)\n\nIn some rural communities of the north, west and central regions, the fourth day is celebrated as Govardhan puja, honouring the legend of the Hindu god Krishna saving the cowherd and farming communities from incessant rains and floods triggered by Indra's anger,[\\[150\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) which he accomplished by lifting the Govardhan mountain. This legend is remembered through the ritual of building small mountain-like miniatures from cow dung.[\\[150\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) According to Kinsley, the ritual use of cow dung, a common fertiliser, is an agricultural motif and a celebration of its significance to annual crop cycles.[\\[119\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKinsley198833%E2%80%9334-134)[\\[151\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200564%E2%80%9365-167)[\\[152\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELodrick1987-168)\n\nThe agricultural symbolism is also observed on this day by many Hindus as Annakut, literally \"mountain of food\". Communities prepare over one hundred dishes from a variety of ingredients, which is then dedicated to Krishna before being shared among the community. Hindu temples on this day prepare and present \"mountains of sweets\" to the faithful who have gathered for *darshan* (visit).[\\[150\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) In Gujarat, Annakut is the first day of the new year and celebrated through the purchase of essentials, or *sabras* (literally, \"good things in life\"), such as salt, offering prayers to Krishna and visiting temples.[\\[150\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) In Gujarat [New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_New_Year%27s_days \"Indian New Year's days\") is celebrated after the day of Diwali. In the early morning people take showers, do prayer at home, visit temples for worship and children in the evening visit neighbour's houses to say happy new year, shake hands, get mukhvas for dessert, and chocolate.\n\n### Bhai Duj, Bhau-Beej, Vishwakarma Puja (Day 5)\nMain articles: [Bhai Dooj](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhai_Dooj \"Bhai Dooj\") and [Vishwakarma Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishwakarma_Puja \"Vishwakarma Puja\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/8\/82\/Diwali_%28Bhaiya_Dweej_%29.JPG\/250px-Diwali_%28Bhaiya_Dweej_%29.JPG)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diwali_\$Bhaiya_Dweej_\$.JPG)\n\nA sister ritually feeding her brother on Bhai Duj-Diwali\n\nThe last day of the festival, the second day of the bright fortnight of Kartik, is called *Bhai Duj* (literally \"brother's day\"[\\[153\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-169)), *Bhau Beej*, *Bhai Tilak* or *Bhai Phonta*. It celebrates the sister-brother bond, similar in spirit to [Raksha Bandhan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Raksha_Bandhan \"Raksha Bandhan\") but it is the brother that travels to meet the sister and her family. This festive day is interpreted by some to symbolise Yama's sister [Yamuna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yamuna_in_Hinduism \"Yamuna in Hinduism\") welcoming Yama with a *tilaka*, while others interpret it as the arrival of Krishna at his sister [Subhadra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Subhadra \"Subhadra\")'s place after defeating Narakasura. Subhadra welcomes him with a *tilaka* on his forehead.[\\[150\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166)[\\[154\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200566%E2%80%9369-170)\n\nThe day celebrates the sibling bond between brother and sister.[\\[155\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-171) On this day the womenfolk of the family gather, perform a puja with prayers for the well-being of their brothers, then return to a ritual of feeding their brothers with their hands and receiving gifts. According to Pintchman, in some Hindu traditions the women recite tales where sisters protect their brothers from enemies that seek to cause him either bodily or spiritual harm.[\\[154\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200566%E2%80%9369-170) In historic times, this was a day in autumn when brothers would travel to meet their sisters or invite their sister's family to their village to celebrate their sister-brother bond with the bounty of seasonal harvests.[\\[55\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61)\n\nThe artisan Hindu and Sikh community celebrates the fourth day as the Vishwakarma puja day.[\\[q\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-173) Vishwakarma is the presiding Hindu deity for those in architecture, building, manufacturing, textile work and crafts trades.[\\[116\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-haar2009-131)[\\[r\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-175) The looms, tools of trade, machines and workplaces are cleaned and prayers offered to these livelihood means.[\\[158\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-176)\n\n## Other traditions and significance\nDuring the season of Diwali, numerous rural townships and villages host *[melas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mela_Festival \"Mela Festival\")*,[\\[159\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Kadowala1998-177) or fairs, where local producers and artisans trade produce and goods. A variety of entertainments are usually available for inhabitants of the local community to enjoy. The women, in particular, adorn themselves in colourful attire and [decorate](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mehndi \"Mehndi\") their hands with [henna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Henna \"Henna\"). Such events are also mentioned in Sikh historical records.[\\[160\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994188%E2%80%93190_with_footnote_96-178)[\\[s\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-179) In the modern day, *Diwali mela* are held at college, or university, campuses or as community events by members of the Indian diaspora. At such events a variety of music, dance and arts performances, food, crafts, and cultural celebrations are featured.[\\[161\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-180)[\\[162\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-181)[\\[92\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESalamone2004112,_Article_on_Divali_by_Lindsey_Harlan-104)\n\nIn October 2025, the state of California made Diwali an official state holiday.[\\[163\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-182)\n\n### Economics\nDiwali marks a major shopping period in India,[\\[28\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-wsj-30) and is comparable to the Christmas period in terms of consumer purchases and economic activity.[\\[164\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKlostermaier201459-183) It is traditionally a time when households purchase new clothing, home refurbishments, gifts, gold, jewelry,[\\[165\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-184)[\\[166\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-185) and other large purchases particularly as the festival is dedicated to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and such purchases are considered auspicious.[\\[167\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-186)[\\[168\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-187) According to Rao, Diwali is one of the major festivals where rural Indians spend a significant portion of their annual income, and is a means for them to renew their relationships and social networks.[\\[169\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTERao200171%E2%80%9395-188)\n\nOther goods that are bought in substantial quantities during Diwali include confectionery and fireworks. In 2013, about ₹25 billion (US\\$300 million) of fireworks were sold to merchants for the Diwali season, an equivalent retail value of about ₹50 billion (US\\$590 million) according to *The Times of India*.[\\[170\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-189)[\\[t\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-192) [ASSOCHAM](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ASSOCHAM \"ASSOCHAM\"), a trade organisation in India, forecasted that online shopping alone to be over ₹300 billion (US\\$3.5 billion) over the 2017 Diwali season.[\\[173\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-193) About two-thirds of Indian households, according to the ASSOCHAM forecast, would spend between ₹5,000 (US\\$59) and ₹10,000 (US\\$120) to celebrate Diwali in 2017.[\\[174\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-194) Stock markets like NSE and BSE in India are typically closed during Diwali, with the exception of a Diwali Muhurat trading session for an hour in the evening to coincide with the beginning of the new year.[\\[175\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-195) In 2020, the INDF ETF was launched to mark the start of Diwali.[\\[176\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-196)\n\n### Politics\nDiwali has increasingly attracted cultural exchanges, becoming occasions for politicians and religious leaders worldwide to meet Hindu or Indian origin citizens, diplomatic staff or neighbours. Many participate in other socio-political events as a symbol of support for diversity and inclusiveness. The Catholic dicastery [Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pontifical_Council_for_Interreligious_Dialogue \"Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue\"), founded as Secretariat for non-Christians by Pope Paul VI, began sending official greetings and the Pope's message to the Hindus on Diwali in the mid-1990s.[\\[177\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBarbato201793%E2%80%9397-197)[\\[u\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-198)\n\nMany governments encourage or sponsor Diwali-related festivities in their territories. For example, the Singaporean government, in association with the [Hindu Endowments Board](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_Endowments_Board \"Hindu Endowments Board\") of Singapore, organizes many cultural events during Diwali every year.[\\[178\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-199) National and civic leaders such as [the former Prince Charles](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Charles_III \"Charles III\") have attended Diwali celebrations at prominent Hindu temples in the UK, such as the [Swaminarayan Temple in Neasden](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Neasden_Temple \"Neasden Temple\"), using the occasion to highlight contributions of the Hindu community to British society.[\\[179\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-200)[\\[180\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-201) Additionally, cities across the UK show support of the celebrations through Diwali lights, decorations, and cultural festivities such as dance performances, food stalls and workshops.[\\[181\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-202) Since 2009, Diwali has been celebrated every year at [10 Downing Street](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/10_Downing_Street \"10 Downing Street\"), the residence of the British Prime Minister.[\\[182\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-203)\n\nDiwali was first celebrated in the [White House](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/White_House \"White House\") by [George W. Bush](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/George_W._Bush \"George W. Bush\") in 2003, and its religious and historical significance was officially recognized by the [United States Congress](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/United_States_Congress \"United States Congress\") in 2007.[\\[183\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-204)[\\[184\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-205) [Barack Obama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Barack_Obama \"Barack Obama\") became the first president to personally attend Diwali at the White House in 2009. On the eve of his first visit to India as President of the United States, Obama released an official statement sharing his best wishes with \"those celebrating Diwali\".[\\[185\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-206)\n\nPresident [Donald J. Trump](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Donald_Trump \"Donald Trump\") posted an official statement celebrating Diwali in October 2025.[\\[186\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-207)[\\[187\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-208) A similar message posted online by Trump administration [FBI](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Federal_Bureau_of_Investigation \"Federal Bureau of Investigation\") [Director](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Director_of_the_Federal_Bureau_of_Investigation \"Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation\") [Kash Patel](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kash_Patel \"Kash Patel\") was met with a flood of [racist](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Racism \"Racism\") and [xenophobic](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Xenophobia \"Xenophobia\") invective from [Christian nationalists](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Christian_nationalism \"Christian nationalism\") and other [MAGA](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Make_America_Great_Again \"Make America Great Again\")\\-aligned individuals.[\\[188\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-209)[\\[189\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-210)\n\nAs of October 2025, Diwali was an official holiday in three U.S. states: [California](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/California \"California\"), [Connecticut](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Connecticut \"Connecticut\"), and [Pennsylvania](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pennsylvania \"Pennsylvania\").[\\[190\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-211)[\\[191\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-212)\n\nEvery year during Diwali, Indian forces approach their [Pakistani](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pakistani \"Pakistani\") counterparts at the border bearing gifts of traditional Indian confectionery, a gesture that is returned in kind by the Pakistani soldiers who give Pakistani sweets to the Indian soldiers.[\\[192\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-213)[\\[v\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-217)[\\[196\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-218)\n\n## Hazards\nSee also: [Firecrackers in India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Firecrackers_in_India \"Firecrackers in India\") and [Fireworks safety](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fireworks_safety \"Fireworks safety\")\n\nThe use of [firecrackers](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Firecracker \"Firecracker\") on Diwali increases the concentration of [dust](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dust \"Dust\") and [pollutants](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pollutant \"Pollutant\") in the air. After firing, the fine dust particles get settled on the surrounding surfaces which are packed with chemicals like [copper](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Copper \"Copper\"), [zinc](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Zinc \"Zinc\"), [sodium](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sodium \"Sodium\"), [lead](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lead \"Lead\"), [magnesium](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Magnesium \"Magnesium\"), [cadmium](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Cadmium \"Cadmium\") and pollutants like [oxides of sulfur](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sulfur_oxide \"Sulfur oxide\") and [nitrogen](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nitrogen_oxide \"Nitrogen oxide\").[\\[197\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-219) These invisible yet harmful particles affect the environment and in turn, put people's health at stake.[\\[198\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-220) The smoke created by firecrackers lit up on Diwali causes smog which sometimes takes days to clear.[\\[199\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-221)\n\nDuring Diwali, the levels of suspended particulate matter increase. When people are exposed to these pollutant particles, they may suffer from eye, nose, and throat-related problems. To produce colours when crackers are burst, [carcinogenic](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Carcinogen \"Carcinogen\") and poisonous elements are used.[\\[200\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-222)\n\nDuring the 2023 celebration, [New Delhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/New_Delhi \"New Delhi\") briefly took the top spot in the world for [air pollution](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Air_pollution \"Air pollution\") with an [air quality index](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Air_quality_index \"Air quality index\") of 680 on one night.[\\[201\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-223)\n\nThe use of fireworks during Diwali can also lead to burn injuries. One particular firework called *anar* (fountain) has been found to be responsible for 65% of such injuries, with adults being the typical victims. Most of the injuries sustained are Group I type burns (minor) requiring only outpatient care. Experts urge precaution around candles and fires and ask for children to be kept a safe distance from flames and to enjoy the festivity of Diwali.[\\[202\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-224)[\\[203\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-225)\n\n## Guinness World Record\nIn October 2025, a Diwali celebration in [Ayodhya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayodhya \"Ayodhya\"), Uttar Pradesh, India, broke the [Guinness World Record](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guinness_World_Records \"Guinness World Records\") for the largest display of oil lamps with 2,617,615 displayed on the eve of Diwali.[\\[204\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-r576-226)\n\n## UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage\nDiwali has been inscribed on [UNESCO’s](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/UNESCO \"UNESCO\") List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, becoming the 16th Indian tradition to receive global honour joining the ranks of [Durga Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga_Puja \"Durga Puja\") and [Yoga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yoga \"Yoga\") in international recognition.[\\[205\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-227)\n\n## See also\n- [Bandna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bandna \"Bandna\") – Agrarian festival that coincides with Diwali\n- [Bandi Chhor Divas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bandi_Chhor_Divas \"Bandi Chhor Divas\") – Sikh festival that coincides with Diwali\n- [Candlemas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Candlemas \"Candlemas\") – the [Christian](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Christian \"Christian\") celebration involving candles, celebrating the [Presentation of Jesus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Presentation_of_Jesus \"Presentation of Jesus\")\n- [Chinese New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chinese_New_Year \"Chinese New Year\") - Chinese celebration, one of the most important holidays in Chinese culture\n- [Day of the Little Candles](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Day_of_the_Little_Candles \"Day of the Little Candles\") – the Colombian Catholic festival of candles\n- [Diwali (Jainism)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali_\$Jainism\$ \"Diwali (Jainism)\") – Diwali's significance in Jainism\n- [Guy Fawkes Night](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guy_Fawkes_Night \"Guy Fawkes Night\") – the British festival of bonfires and fireworks held on the fifth of November. In towns with a large [British Asian](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/British_Asians \"British Asians\") community, Diwali and Guy Fawkes festivities are often combined.\n- [Hanukkah](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanukkah \"Hanukkah\") – the Jewish festival of lights\n- [Jashn-e-Chiragah](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jashn-e-Chiragah \"Jashn-e-Chiragah\") - the Mughal celebration of Diwali\n- [Kali Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali_Puja \"Kali Puja\") – Diwali is most commonly known as Kali Puja in West Bengal or in Bengali dominated areas\n- [Karthika Deepam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karthika_Deepam \"Karthika Deepam\") – the festival of lights observed by [Tamils](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tamils \"Tamils\") of [Tamil Nadu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tamil_Nadu \"Tamil Nadu\"), [Puducherry](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puducherry_\$union_territory\$ \"Puducherry (union territory)\"), [Kerala](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kerala \"Kerala\"), [Sri Lanka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sri_Lanka \"Sri Lanka\") and elsewhere\n- [Lehyam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lehyam \"Lehyam\"), often prepared on the occasion of Deepavali to aid the digestion\n- [Lantern Festival](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lantern_Festival \"Lantern Festival\") – the Chinese festival of lanterns\n- [Loy Krathong](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Loy_Krathong \"Loy Krathong\") – the Thai festival of lights\n- [Nowruz](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nowruz \"Nowruz\") – the Persian new year and festival of lights\n- [Saint Lucy's Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saint_Lucy%27s_Day \"Saint Lucy's Day\") – the Christian festival of lights\n- [Swanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swanti_\$festival\$ \"Swanti (festival)\") – Newar version of Diwali\n- [Tihar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tihar_\$festival\$ \"Tihar (festival)\") – Nepali version of Diwali\n- [Walpurgis Night](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Walpurgis_Night \"Walpurgis Night\") – the German festival of bonfires\n## Notes\n1. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-4)** Also spelled as **Dipawali**, **Deepavali**, or **Deepawali**.\n2. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-6)** Related to **[Jain Diwali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali_\$Jainism\$ \"Diwali (Jainism)\")**, **[Bandi Chhor Divas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bandi_Chhor_Divas \"Bandi Chhor Divas\")**, **[Tihar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tihar_\$festival\$ \"Tihar (festival)\")**, **[Swanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swanti_\$festival\$ \"Swanti (festival)\")**, **[Sohrai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sohrai \"Sohrai\")** and **[Bandna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bandna \"Bandna\")**\n3. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-35)** except [Sarawak](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sarawak \"Sarawak\")\n4. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-46)** Also spelled as **Divali** or **Dewali**.[\\[4\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Mead-2008a-5)[\\[42\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEShattuck199951,_124-45)\n5. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-50)** The holiday is known as *dipawoli* in [Assamese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Assamese_language \"Assamese language\"): দীপাৱলী, *dīpabolī* or *dipali* in [Bengali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bengali_language \"Bengali language\"): দীপাবলি\/দীপালি, *dīvāḷi* in [Gujarati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gujarati_language \"Gujarati language\"): દિવાળી, *divālī* in [Hindi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindi_language \"Hindi language\"): दिवाली, *dīpavaḷi* in [Kannada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kannada_language \"Kannada language\"): ದೀಪಾವಳಿ, [Konkani](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Konkani_language \"Konkani language\"): दिवाळी, *dīpāvalī* in [Maithili](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maithili_language \"Maithili language\"): दीपावली, [Malayalam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Malayalam_language \"Malayalam language\"): ദീപാവലി, [Marathi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Marathi_language \"Marathi language\"): दिवाळी, *dīpābali* in [Odia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Odia_language \"Odia language\"): ଦୀପାବଳି, *dīvālī* in [Punjabi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Punjabi_language \"Punjabi language\"): ਦੀਵਾਲੀ, *diyārī* in [Sindhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sindhi_language \"Sindhi language\"): दियारी, *tīpāvaḷi* in [Tamil](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tamil_language \"Tamil language\"): தீபாவளி, and [Telugu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Telugu_language \"Telugu language\"): దీపావళి, [Galungan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Galungan \"Galungan\") in [Balinese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balinese_language \"Balinese language\") and [Swanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swanti_\$festival\$ \"Swanti (festival)\") in [Nepali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nepali_language \"Nepali language\"): स्वन्ति or *[tihar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tihar_\$festival\$ \"Tihar (festival)\")* in [Nepali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nepali_language \"Nepali language\"): तिहार and Thudar Parba in [Tulu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tulu_language \"Tulu language\"): ತುಡರ್ ಪರ್ಬ.\n6. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-55)** Historical records appear inconsistent about the name of the lunar month in which Diwali is observed. One of the earliest reports on this variation was by Wilson in 1847. He explained that though the actual Hindu festival day is the same, it is identified differently in regional calendars because there are two traditions in the Hindu calendar. One tradition starts a new month from the new moon, while the other starts it from the full moon.[\\[49\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-54)\n7. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-75)** According to Audrey Truschke, the Sunni Muslim emperor Aurangzeb did limit \"public observation\" of many religious holidays such as Hindu Diwali and Holi, but also of Shia observance of Muharram and the Persian holiday of Nauruz. According to Truschke, Aurangzeb did so because he found the festivals \"distasteful\" and also from \"concerns with public safety\" lurking in the background.[\\[67\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTETruschke201774%E2%80%9375-73) According to Stephen Blake, a part of the reason that led Aurangzeb to ban Diwali was the practice of gambling and drunken celebrations.[\\[66\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389-72) Truschke states that Aurangzeb did not ban private practices altogether and instead \"rescinded taxes previously levied on Hindu festivals\" by his Mughal predecessors.[\\[67\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTETruschke201774%E2%80%9375-73) John Richards disagrees and states Aurangzeb, in his zeal to revive Islam and introduce strict [Sharia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sharia \"Sharia\") in his empire, issued a series of edicts against Hindu festivals and shrines.[\\[68\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Richards1995p175-74) According to Richards, it was Akbar who abolished the discriminatory taxes on Hindu festivals and pilgrims, and it was Aurangzeb who reinstated the Mughal era discriminatory taxes on festivals and increased other religion-based taxes.[\\[68\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Richards1995p175-74)\n8. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-76)** Some Muslims joined the Hindu community in celebrating Diwali in the Mughal era. Illustrative Islamic records, states Stephen Blake, include those of 16th-century Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi who wrote, \"during Diwali.... the ignorant ones amongst Muslims, particularly women, perform the ceremonies... they celebrate it like their own Id and send presents to their daughters and sisters,.... they attach much importance and weight to this season \\[of Diwali\\].\"[\\[66\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389-72)\n9. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-78)** Williams Jones stated that the *Bhutachaturdasi Yamaterpanam* is dedicated to Yama and ancestral spirits, the *Lacshmipuja dipanwita* to goddess Lakshmi with invocations to Kubera, the *Dyuta pratipat Belipuja* to Shiva-Parvati and Bali legends, and the *Bhratri dwitiya* to Yama-Yamuna legend and the Hindus celebrate the brother-sister relationship on this day.[\\[69\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-jone1799p263-77) Jones also noted that on the Diwali day, the Hindus had a mock cremation ceremony with \"torches and flaming brands\" called *Ulcadanam*, where they said goodbye to their colleagues who had died in war or in a foreign country and had never returned home. The ceremony lit the path of the missing to the mansion of Yama.[\\[69\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-jone1799p263-77)\n10. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-82)** Some inscriptions mention the festival of lights in Prakrit terms such as *tipa-malai*, *sara-vilakku* and others.\n11. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-86)** The Sanskrit inscription is in the Grantha script. It is well preserved on the north wall of the second *prakara* in the [Ranganatha temple](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ranganathaswamy_Temple,_Srirangam \"Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam\"), Srirangam island, Tamil Nadu.[\\[75\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-kielhorn1896-85)\n12. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-91)** The Diwali-related inscription is the 4th inscription and it includes the year Vikrama Era 1268 (c. 1211 CE).[\\[78\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Hultzsch1268-89)\n13. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-113)** Scholars contest the 527 BCE date and consider Mahavira's biographical details as uncertain. Some suggest he lived in the 5th-century BCE contemporaneously with the Buddha.[\\[99\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPotter200735%E2%80%9336-111)[\\[100\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEDundas200222-112)\n14. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-123)** Sikhs historically referred to this festival as Diwali. It was in early 20th-century, states Harjot Oberoi, a scholar of Sikh history, when the Khalsa Tract Society triggered by the [Singh Sabha Movement](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Singh_Sabha_Movement \"Singh Sabha Movement\") sought to establish a Sikh identity distinct from the Hindus and the Muslims.[\\[108\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994346%E2%80%93349-121) They launched a sustained campaign to discourage Sikhs from participating in Holi and Diwali, renaming the festivals, publishing the seasonal greeting cards in the Gurmukhi language and relinking their religious significance to Sikh historical events.[\\[109\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994347%E2%80%93349-122) While some of these efforts have had a lasting impact for the Sikh community, the lighting, feasting together, social bonding, sharing and other ritual grammar of Sikh celebrations during the Diwali season are similar to those of the Hindus and Jains.[\\[109\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994347%E2%80%93349-122)\n15. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-128)** Hindus of eastern and northeastern states of India associate the festival with the goddess [Durga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga \"Durga\"), or her fierce avatar [Kali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali \"Kali\") ([Shaktism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaktism \"Shaktism\")).[\\[84\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEAmazzone2012-96) According to McDermott, this region also celebrated the Lakshmi puja historically, while the Kali puja tradition started during the British Raj and was particularly prominent from the 1920s.[\\[113\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127)\n16. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-156)** According to McDermott, while the Durga Puja is the largest Bengali festival and it can be traced to the 16th-century or earlier, the start of Kali puja tradition on Diwali is traceable to no earlier than about the mid-18th-century during the reign of Raja Krishnacandra Ray.[\\[113\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127) McDermott further writes that the older historic documents of the Bengal confirm that the Bengali Hindus have long celebrated the night of Diwali with illuminations, firecrackers, foods, new account books, Lakshmi (not Kali), inviting their friends (including Europeans during the colonial era) and gambling.[\\[113\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127) The Kali *sarbajanin* tradition on Diwali, with tantric elements in some locations, grew slowly into a popular Bengali tradition after the mid-1920s.[\\[113\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127)\n17. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-173)** According to a Government of Himachal Pradesh and India publication, the Vishvakarma puja is observed on the fourth day of Diwali in the Himalayan state.[\\[156\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-172)\n18. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-175)** The Vishwakarma puja day is alternatively observed in other Hindu communities in accordance with the Hindu solar calendar, and this falls in September.[\\[157\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMelton2011908%E2%80%93909-174)\n19. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-179)** [Max Macauliffe](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Max_Arthur_Macauliffe \"Max Arthur Macauliffe\"), who lived in northwest Punjab area during the colonial era and is known for his work on Sikh literature and history, wrote about Diwali *melas* to which people visited to buy horses, seek pleasure, pray in nearby Amritsar temples for the prosperity of their children and their souls, and some on \"errands, more or less worthy or unworthy character\".[\\[160\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994188%E2%80%93190_with_footnote_96-178)\n20. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-192)** A 2017 estimate states 50,000 tons (100 million pounds) of fireworks are exploded annually in India over the Diwali festival.[\\[171\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-190) As a comparison, Americans explode 134,000 tons (268 million pounds) of fireworks for 4 July celebrations in the United States.[\\[172\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-191)\n21. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-198)** The Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue was founded as Secretariat for non-Christians by Pope Paul VI. It began sending official greetings and message to Muslims in 1967 on *Id al-Fitr*. About 30 years later, in the mid-1990s the Catholic authorities began sending two additional annual official greetings and message, one to the Hindus on Diwali and the other to the Buddhists on Buddha's birthday.[\\[177\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBarbato201793%E2%80%9397-197)\n22. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-217)** Diwali was not a public holiday in Pakistan from 1947 to 2016. Diwali along with Holi for Hindus, and Easter for Christians, was adopted as public holiday resolution by Pakistan's parliament in 2016, giving the local governments and public institutions the right to declare Holi as a holiday and grant leave for its minority communities, for the first time.[\\[193\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-214)[\\[194\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-215) Diwali celebrations have been relatively rare in contemporary Pakistan, but observed across religious lines, including by Muslims in cities such as Peshawar.[\\[195\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-216)\n## References\n1. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-1)**\n   Townsend, Charles M (2014). *The Oxford Handbook of Sikh Studies*. Oxford University Press. p. 440. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-0-19-969930-8](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-969930-8 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-969930-8\")\n   \n   .\n2. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-3) [***e***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-4)\n   Todd T. Lewis (7 September 2000). [*Popular Buddhist Texts from Nepal: Narratives and Rituals of Newar Buddhism*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=whZ5kAPSwl8C&pg=PA118). State University of New York Press. pp. 118–119\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-0-7914-9243-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7914-9243-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7914-9243-7\")\n   \n   . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170102030235\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=whZ5kAPSwl8C&pg=PA118) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016.\n3. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-3)**\n   [\"Diwali 2025 Date: When is Diwali? All About the 5 Days Festival of Lights\"](https:\/\/www.indiatimes.com\/events\/diwali-2024-date-when-is-diwali-5-days-long-diwali-holidays-620859.html). 16 November 2023.\n4. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead-2008a_5-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead-2008a_5-1)\n   Mead, Jean (February 2008). [*How and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=QJyZKOtHWg4C&dq=deepavali+hinduism&pg=PA5). Evans Brothers. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-0-237-53412-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-53412-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-53412-7\")\n   \n   . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20231111150755\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=QJyZKOtHWg4C&dq=deepavali+hinduism&pg=PA5#v=onepage&q=deepavali%20hinduism&f=false) from the original on 11 November 2023. Retrieved 5 August 2022.\n5. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Heiligman31_7-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Heiligman31_7-1)\n   Vasudha Narayanan; Deborah Heiligman (2008). [*Celebrate Diwali*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=rdTJJEQsDHoC&pg=PA31). National Geographic Society. p. 31. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-1-4263-0291-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-4263-0291-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-4263-0291-6\")\n   \n   . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170102023011\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=rdTJJEQsDHoC&pg=PA31) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016. \"All the stories associated with Deepavali, however, speak of the joy connected with the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.\"\n6. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-htoday_8-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-htoday_8-1)\n   Tina K Ramnarine (2013). [*Musical Performance in the Diaspora*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=yTiPAQAAQBAJ&pg=PA78). Routledge. p. 78. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-1-317-96956-3](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-317-96956-3 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-317-96956-3\")\n   \n   . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170102013829\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=yTiPAQAAQBAJ&pg=PA78) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016. \"Light, in the form of candles and lamps, is a crucial part of Diwali, representing the triumph of light over darkness, goodness over evil and hope for the future.\"\n7. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead-2008b_9-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead-2008b_9-1)\n   Mead, Jean (February 2008). *How and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?*. Evans Brothers. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-0-237-53412-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-53412-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-53412-7\")\n   \n   .\n8. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-melton252_10-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-melton252_10-1) [Jones 2011](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFJones2011), pp. 252–255\n9. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-OED-Diwali_11-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-OED-Diwali_11-1)\n   *The New Oxford Dictionary of English* (1998)\n   \n   [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-0-19-861263-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-861263-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-861263-6\")\n   \n   – p. 540 \"**Diwali** \/dɪwɑːli\/ (also **Diwali**) **noun** a Hindu festival with lights...\".\n10. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-3) [***e***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-4) [Goldstein 2015](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFGoldstein2015), pp. 222–223.\n11. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-13)** [Diwali](https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/EBchecked\/topic\/166786\/Diwali) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20150501153023\/https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/EBchecked\/topic\/166786\/Diwali) 1 May 2015 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\") *Encyclopædia Britannica* (2009)\n12. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-14)**\n    [\"Diwali 2020 Date in India: When is Diwali in 2020?\"](https:\/\/indianexpress.com\/article\/lifestyle\/life-style\/diwali-2020-date-in-india-when-is-diwali-in-2020-7013223\/). *The Indian Express*. 11 November 2020. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20201116074618\/https:\/\/indianexpress.com\/article\/lifestyle\/life-style\/diwali-2020-date-in-india-when-is-diwali-in-2020-7013223\/) from the original on 16 November 2020. Retrieved 13 November 2020.\n13. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-15)**\n    [\"Diwali 2024: When is Diwali in 2024? All you need to know its Significations - Global Times 18\"](https:\/\/globaltimes18.com\/when-is-diwali\/). *Global Times 18*. 23 October 2024. Retrieved 24 October 2024.\n14. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-3) [***e***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-4) [***f***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-5) [Fieldhouse 2017](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFFieldhouse2017), pp. 150–151.\n15. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-17)**\n    Stent, David (22 October 2013). *Religious Studies: Made Simple*. Elsevier. p. 137. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-1-4831-8320-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-4831-8320-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-4831-8320-6\")\n    \n    .\n16. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-dhcd_18-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-dhcd_18-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-dhcd_18-2)\n    Deborah Heiligman, *Celebrate Diwali*,\n    \n    [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-7922-5923-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7922-5923-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7922-5923-7\")\n    \n    , National Geographic Society, Washington, D.C.\n17. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Suzanne_Barchers_2013_19-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Suzanne_Barchers_2013_19-1)\n    Suzanne Barchers (2013). *The Big Book of Holidays and Cultural Celebrations*, Shell Education,\n    \n    [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-1-4258-1048-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-4258-1048-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-4258-1048-1\")\n18. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Sharma2006_20-0)**\n    Sharma, S.P.; Gupta, Seema (2006). [*Fairs and Festivals of India*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=wPPr9HdmnHcC&q=diwali+mahavira+527&pg=PA79). Pustak Mahal. p. 79. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-223-0951-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-223-0951-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-223-0951-5\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210126200725\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=wPPr9HdmnHcC&q=diwali+mahavira+527&pg=PA79) from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 10 November 2020.\n19. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-N._Upadhye,_Review_1982_pp._231%E2%80%93232_21-0)**\n    Upadhye, A.N. (January–March 1982). Cohen, Richard J. (ed.). \"Mahavira and His Teachings\". *Journal of the American Oriental Society*. **102** (1): 231–232\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\$identifier\$ \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.2307\/601199](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2307%2F601199). [ISSN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISSN_\$identifier\$ \"ISSN (identifier)\") [0003-0279](https:\/\/search.worldcat.org\/issn\/0003-0279). [JSTOR](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/JSTOR_\$identifier\$ \"JSTOR (identifier)\") [601199](https:\/\/www.jstor.org\/stable\/601199).\n20. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-22)**\n    Geoff Teece (2005). [*Sikhism*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=kJO1WIABhPQC&pg=PA23). Smart Apple Media. p. 23. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-1-58340-469-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-58340-469-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-58340-469-0\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170102024403\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=kJO1WIABhPQC&pg=PA23) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016.\n21. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-MK72_23-0)** McDermott and Kripal p.72\n22. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Prem_Saran_2012_175_24-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Prem_Saran_2012_175_24-1)\n    Prem Saran (2012). [*Yoga, Bhoga and Ardhanariswara: Individuality, Wellbeing and Gender in Tantra*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=5-DfCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA175). [Routledge](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Routledge \"Routledge\"). p. 175. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-1-136-51648-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-136-51648-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-136-51648-1\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170102021020\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=5-DfCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA175) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016.\n23. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-YustJohnson2006_25-0)**\n    Karen-Marie Yust; Aostre N. Johnson; Sandy Eisenberg Sasso (2006). [*Nurturing Child and Adolescent Spirituality: Perspectives from the World's Religious Traditions*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=_dWh0l-iXHUC&pg=PA223). Rowman & Littlefield. pp. 232–233\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-7425-4463-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7425-4463-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7425-4463-5\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120611\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=_dWh0l-iXHUC&pg=PA223) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 29 August 2018.\n24. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-jgl_26-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-jgl_26-1) [Lochtefeld 2002](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFLochtefeld2002), pp. 200–201\n25. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJohnsonTeuscherSabean2011300%E2%80%93301_27-0)** [Johnson, Teuscher & Sabean 2011](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFJohnsonTeuscherSabean2011), pp. 300–301.\n26. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEShah199541%E2%80%9344_28-0)** [Shah 1995](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFShah1995), pp. 41–44.\n27. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-29)**\n    Diane P. Mines; Sarah E. Lamb (2010). [*Everyday Life in South Asia, Second Edition*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=iczwAAAAQBAJ). Indiana University Press. p. 243. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-253-01357-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-253-01357-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-253-01357-6\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210702103809\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=iczwAAAAQBAJ) from the original on 2 July 2021. Retrieved 25 September 2018.\n28. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-wsj_30-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-wsj_30-1) [India Journal: ‘Tis the Season to be Shopping](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20130421024513\/http:\/\/blogs.wsj.com\/indiarealtime\/2010\/08\/23\/india-journal-tis-the-season-to-be-shopping\/) Devita Saraf, The Wall Street Journal (August 2010)\n29. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJohnson200771%E2%80%9373_31-0)** [Johnson 2007](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFJohnson2007), pp. 71–73.\n30. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKelly198840%E2%80%9355_32-0)** [Kelly 1988](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFKelly1988), pp. 40–55.\n31. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-33)** [Public Holidays](http:\/\/www.fiji.gov.fj\/Events\/2016-FIJI-PUBLIC-HOLIDAYS.aspx) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180916055429\/http:\/\/www.fiji.gov.fj\/Events\/2016-FIJI-PUBLIC-HOLIDAYS.aspx) 16 September 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Government of Fiji\n32. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-34)** [Public Holidays](https:\/\/publicholidays.gy\/) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20171019163247\/https:\/\/publicholidays.gy\/) 19 October 2017 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Guyana\n33. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-36)** [Public Holidays](http:\/\/www.hrdf.com.my\/wps\/portal\/PSMB\/MainEN\/Resources\/Public-Holiday) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20190305093432\/http:\/\/www.hrdf.com.my\/wps\/portal\/PSMB\/MainEN\/Resources\/Public-Holiday) 5 March 2019 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Government of Malaysia\n34. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-37)** [Public Holidays](https:\/\/evisa.moip.gov.mm\/public_holiday.aspx) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180817060609\/https:\/\/evisa.moip.gov.mm\/public_holiday.aspx) 17 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Government of Myanmar\n35. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-38)** [Public Holidays](http:\/\/www.mos.com.np\/holidaylist.php) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20171019163545\/http:\/\/www.mos.com.np\/holidaylist.php) 19 October 2017 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Government of Nepal\n36. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-39)** [Pakistan parliament adopts resolution for Holi, Diwali, Easter holidays](http:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/world\/pakistan\/Pakistan-parliament-adopts-resolution-for-Holi-Diwali-Easter-holidays\/articleshow\/51423609.cms) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180306175436\/https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/world\/pakistan\/Pakistan-parliament-adopts-resolution-for-Holi-Diwali-Easter-holidays\/articleshow\/51423609.cms) 6 March 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), The Times of India (16 March 2016)\n37. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-40)** [Public Gazetted Holidays](http:\/\/www.mom.gov.sg\/newsroom\/press-releases\/2016\/0405-singapore-public-holidays-2017) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20171019215719\/http:\/\/www.mom.gov.sg\/newsroom\/press-releases\/2016\/0405-singapore-public-holidays-2017) 19 October 2017 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Government of Singapore\n38. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-41)** [Official Public Holidays](https:\/\/www.ttconnect.gov.tt\/gortt\/portal\/ttconnect\/!ut\/p\/a1\/jdDBDoIwDAbgp-FKC8tUvHFARUwMGBV2MWjmwCAjY4KPL3ozKNpbm-9P_hQYxMDKtMlFqnNZpsVzZ6NDENpIfYfgOkQH7ci3PKQBmY9JB5I3EM1nHfCotQh2BBH_y-OXcX_mN7yEPbBBtqQ90K_5AgM9lsBEIY-vnyRueSQTAUzxM1dcmTfVnTOtq3pqoIFt25pCSlFw8ySvBn6KZLLWEL9LqK7b-O5faNGs3AdjOzzp\/dl5\/d5\/L2dBISEvZ0FBIS9nQSEh\/?WCM_GLOBAL_CONTEXT=\/gortt\/wcm\/connect\/gortt+web+content\/ttconnect\/non-national\/role\/anationalabroad\/generalinformation\/official+public+holidays) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210303062241\/https:\/\/www.ttconnect.gov.tt\/gortt\/portal\/ttconnect\/!ut\/p\/a1\/jdDBDoIwDAbgp-FKC8tUvHFARUwMGBV2MWjmwCAjY4KPL3ozKNpbm-9P_hQYxMDKtMlFqnNZpsVzZ6NDENpIfYfgOkQH7ci3PKQBmY9JB5I3EM1nHfCotQh2BBH_y-OXcX_mN7yEPbBBtqQ90K_5AgM9lsBEIY-vnyRueSQTAUzxM1dcmTfVnTOtq3pqoIFt25pCSlFw8ySvBn6KZLLWEL9LqK7b-O5faNGs3AdjOzzp\/dl5\/d5\/L2dBISEvZ0FBIS9nQSEh\/?WCM_GLOBAL_CONTEXT=%2Fgortt%2Fwcm%2Fconnect%2Fgortt+web+content%2Fttconnect%2Fnon-national%2Frole%2Fanationalabroad%2Fgeneralinformation%2Fofficial+public+holidays) 3 March 2021 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Government of Trinidad & Tobago\n39. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-42)** [Cal. Government Code § 6700 subd. (a)(9)](https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=GOV&sectionNum=6700)\n40. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-43)**\n    [\"Full list of USA states that recognise Diwali as a state holiday\"](https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/world\/us\/full-list-of-usa-states-that-recognise-diwali-as-a-state-holiday\/articleshow\/114586236.cms). *The Times of India*. 25 October 2024. [ISSN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISSN_\$identifier\$ \"ISSN (identifier)\") [0971-8257](https:\/\/search.worldcat.org\/issn\/0971-8257). Retrieved 25 October 2024.\n41. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-44)**\n    Karmarkar, Richa (10 October 2025). [\"Three US states now recognize Diwali as a holiday\"](https:\/\/religionnews.com\/2025\/10\/10\/three-states-now-recognize-diwali-as-a-holiday\/). *Religion News Sercice*. Retrieved 19 October 2025.\n42. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEShattuck199951,_124_45-0)** [Shattuck 1999](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFShattuck1999), pp. 51, 124.\n43. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFrazierFlood2011255_47-0)** [Frazier & Flood 2011](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFFrazierFlood2011), p. 255.\n44. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-48)** Monier Monier Williams (2008 updated, Harvard University), Sanskrit English dictionary, दीप, [p. 481](http:\/\/www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de\/scans\/MWScan\/2014\/web\/webtc\/servepdf.php?page=481) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180817230340\/http:\/\/www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de\/scans\/MWScan\/2014\/web\/webtc\/servepdf.php?page=481) 17 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\")\n45. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-49)** Monier Monier Williams (2008 updated, Harvard University), Sanskrit English dictionary, आवलि, [p. 155](http:\/\/www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de\/cgi-bin\/monier\/serveimg.pl?file=\/scans\/MWScan\/MWScanjpg\/mw0155-Avarjaka.jpg) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20190327103005\/https:\/\/www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de\/cgi-bin\/monier\/serveimg.pl?file=%2Fscans%2FMWScan%2FMWScanjpg%2Fmw0155-Avarjaka.jpg) 27 March 2019 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\")\n46. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253_51-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253_51-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253_51-2) [Jones 2011](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFJones2011), pp. 252–253.\n47. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9362_52-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9362_52-1) [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 61–62.\n48. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561_53-0)** [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), p. 61.\n49. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-54)**\n    H.H. Wilson (1847). \"Religious festivals of the Hindus\". *Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland*. **9**: 61.\n50. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-about_56-0)**\n    [\"Indian Government Holiday Calendar\"](http:\/\/india.gov.in\/calendar\/calendar.php). National Portal of India. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20181225122630\/https:\/\/www.india.gov.in\/calendar\/calendar.php) from the original on 25 December 2018. Retrieved 16 November 2016.\n51. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-57)**\n    Robert Isaac Levy; Kedar Raj Rajopadhyaya (1990). [*Mesocosm: Hinduism and the Organization of a Traditional Newar City in Nepal*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=ngacsMPGJPcC). University of California Press. pp. 411–417\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-520-06911-4](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-520-06911-4 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-520-06911-4\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210112124529\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=ngacsMPGJPcC) from the original on 12 January 2021. Retrieved 20 August 2018.\n52. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-58)**\n    Shrestha, Bal Gopal (July 2006). [\"The Svanti Festival: Victory over Death and the Renewal of the Ritual Cycle in Nepal\"](http:\/\/himalaya.socanth.cam.ac.uk\/collections\/journals\/contributions\/pdf\/CNAS_33_02_03.pdf) (PDF). *Contributions to Nepalese Studies*. **33** (2): 206–221\\. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20131213034438\/http:\/\/himalaya.socanth.cam.ac.uk\/collections\/journals\/contributions\/pdf\/CNAS_33_02_03.pdf) (PDF) from the original on 13 December 2013. Retrieved 20 August 2018.\n53. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-l796_59-0)**\n    Doniger, W. (2010). [*The Hindus: An Alternative History*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=nNsXZkdHvXUC). OUP Oxford. p. 370. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-19-959334-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-959334-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-959334-7\")\n    \n    . Retrieved 29 October 2024.\n54. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-60)**\n    Clothey, F.W. (1978). [*The Many Faces of Murukan̲: The History and Meaning of a South Indian God*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=0AevljBmCRQC&pg=PA224). Religion and society. Mouton. p. 224. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-90-279-7632-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-90-279-7632-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-90-279-7632-1\")\n    \n    . Retrieved 29 October 2024.\n55. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-3) [***e***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-4) [***f***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-5) [***g***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-6) [***h***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-7) [***i***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-8) [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 59–65\n56. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELochtefeld2002355_62-0)** [Lochtefeld 2002](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFLochtefeld2002), p. 355.\n57. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-bnsharma_63-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-bnsharma_63-1)\n    BN Sharma, *Festivals of India*, South Asia Books,\n    \n    [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-8364-0283-4](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-8364-0283-4 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-8364-0283-4\")\n    \n    , pp. 9–35\n58. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-yaksha_64-0)**\n    Varadpande, Manohar Laxman (1987). *History of Indian Theatre, Volume 1*. Abhinav Publications. p. 159. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-7017-221-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-7017-221-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-7017-221-5\")\n    \n    .\n59. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-65)**\n    R.N. Nandi (2009), in *A Social History of Early India* (Editor: B. Chattopadhyaya), Volume 2, Part 5, Pearson Education,\n    \n    [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-317-1958-9](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-317-1958-9 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-317-1958-9\")\n    \n    , pp. 183–184\n60. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEEraly2015315%E2%80%93316_66-0)** [Eraly 2015](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFEraly2015), pp. 315–316.\n61. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESewell200685%E2%80%9386_67-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESewell200685%E2%80%9386_67-1) [Sewell 2006](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFSewell2006), pp. 85–86.\n62. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-S_A_NEWS-2020_68-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-S_A_NEWS-2020_68-1)\n    [\"Diwali Festival 2020 India:Date,Story,Celebration,Diwali Special Gift\"](https:\/\/news.jagatgururampalji.org\/diwali-festival-2020-special-gift\/). *S A NEWS*. 12 November 2020. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20201114053744\/https:\/\/news.jagatgururampalji.org\/diwali-festival-2020-special-gift\/) from the original on 14 November 2020. Retrieved 14 November 2020.\n63. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEEaton1996159%E2%80%93160_with_footnotes_69-0)** [Eaton 1996](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFEaton1996), pp. 159–160 with footnotes.\n64. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMelville2012526_70-0)** [Melville 2012](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFMelville2012), p. 526: \"He \\[Mahmud b. Amir Vali\\] gives a very detailed account of the celebration of the ten days of Moharram, which he witnessed in Lahore in 1965, as well as Hindu festivals such as Diwali (...).\"\n65. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOkita201428%E2%80%9329_71-0)** [Okita 2014](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFOkita2014), pp. 28–29.\n66. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389_72-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389_72-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389_72-2) [Blake 2013](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFBlake2013), pp. 87–89.\n67. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTETruschke201774%E2%80%9375_73-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTETruschke201774%E2%80%9375_73-1) [Truschke 2017](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFTruschke2017), pp. 74–75.\n68. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Richards1995p175_74-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Richards1995p175_74-1)\n    John F. Richards (1995). [*The Mughal Empire*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=HHyVh29gy4QC). Cambridge University Press. pp. 38–40, 175–176\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-521-56603-2](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-521-56603-2 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-521-56603-2\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20160529043831\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=HHyVh29gy4QC) from the original on 29 May 2016. Retrieved 23 August 2018.\n69. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-jone1799p263_77-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-jone1799p263_77-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-jone1799p263_77-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-jone1799p263_77-3)\n    [Sir William Jones](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/William_Jones_\$philologist\$ \"William Jones (philologist)\") (1799). \"The Lunar Year of the Hindus\". *Asiatic Researches*. **3**: 263–267, context: 257–293, note the mention of Brahmaputra and Ganges rivers, immersion ceremony on Durga puja.\n70. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-79)**\n    John William Kaye; William Simpson (1867). *India ancient and modern: a series of illustrations of the Country and people of India and adjacent territories. Executed in chromolithography from drawings by William Simpson*. London Day and Son. p. 50. [OCLC](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/OCLC_\$identifier\$ \"OCLC (identifier)\") [162249047](https:\/\/search.worldcat.org\/oclc\/162249047).\n71. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-80)**\n    Dineschandra Sircar (1966). [*Indian Epigraphical Glossary*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=pySCGvdyYLIC). Motilal Banarsidass. p. 98. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-208-0562-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-208-0562-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-208-0562-0\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210126200729\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=pySCGvdyYLIC) from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 21 August 2018.\n72. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-81)**\n    E. Hultzsch (1899). [*Epigraphia Indica and Record of the Archæological Survey of India, Volume V*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=TcIUAAAAYAAJ). Office of the Superintendent of Government Printing, India. p. 13. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120608\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=TcIUAAAAYAAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018.\n73. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-83)**\n    Dineschandra Sircar (1971). [*Studies in the Religious Life of Ancient and Medieval India*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=mh1y1eMgGBMC). Motilal Banarsidass. pp. 128–129\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-208-2790-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-208-2790-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-208-2790-5\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210815132825\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=mh1y1eMgGBMC) from the original on 15 August 2021. Retrieved 21 August 2018.\n74. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-84)**\n    R.S. Panchamukhi (1933). Hirananda Sastri (ed.). [*Epigraphia Indica, Volume XX*](https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/in.ernet.dli.2015.69982). Archaeological Society of India. pp. [117](https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/in.ernet.dli.2015.69982\/page\/n151), 121, see Lines 44–52.\n75. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-kielhorn1896_85-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-kielhorn1896_85-1)\n    F. Kielhorn (1896). E. Hultzsch (ed.). [*Epigraphia Indica, Volume IV*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=vqZCAAAAYAAJ). Archaeological Society of India. pp. 148–151\\. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120611\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=vqZCAAAAYAAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018.\n76. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-87)**\n    Ramendra Nath Nandi (1973). [*Religious Institutions and Cults in the Deccan, c. A.D. 600–A.D. 1000*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=7HRgstuWe6EC). Motilal Banarsidass. p. 38. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-8426-0564-9](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-8426-0564-9 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-8426-0564-9\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120609\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=7HRgstuWe6EC) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018.\n77. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-88)**\n    Madhusudan A. Dhaky; Michael W. Meister (1996). [*Encyclopaedia of Indian temple architecture, Volume 1, Part 3*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=TXIYAQAAMAAJ). American Institute of Indian Studies. pp. 255–257\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-86526-00-2](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-86526-00-2 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-86526-00-2\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120610\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=TXIYAQAAMAAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018.\n78. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Hultzsch1268_89-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Hultzsch1268_89-1)\n    E. Hultzsch (1980). [*Epigraphia Indica, Volume XI*](https:\/\/archive.org\/stream\/EpigraphiaIndicaXI\/Epigraphia%20Indica%20XI#page\/n71). Archaeological Society of India. pp. 52–55\\.\n79. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-90)**\n    Manohar Laxman Varadpande (1983). [*Religion and Theatre*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=SISkCN6L0nUC&pg=PA23). Abhinav Publications. p. 23. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-391-02794-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-391-02794-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-391-02794-7\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120611\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=SISkCN6L0nUC&pg=PA23) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018. \"The most important reference is to the setting up of the golden cupola in the newly built central hall for dramatic performances on the occasion of Dipotsava Dana in v.s. 1268. The inscription written in Sanskrit clearly points out a tradition, in the Jain Viharas of performing plays on festive occasions before the idol of Mahavira.\"\n80. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691_92-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691_92-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691_92-2) [Bahadur 2006](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), p. 91.\n81. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-93)**\n    Campbell, Mason (2022). *Diwali and Its Origins*. OUACHITA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY. p. 2.\n82. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-94)**\n    [\"Krishna Killed Narakasur – The Narakasur Legend of Diwali – Diwali Legend\"](http:\/\/www.diwalicelebrations.net\/diwali-legends\/krisna-narakasur.html). *diwalicelebrations.net*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20190227121743\/http:\/\/www.diwalicelebrations.net\/diwali-legends\/krisna-narakasur.html) from the original on 27 February 2019. Retrieved 17 December 2018.\n83. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Karen_Pechilis_2007_pp_273-275_95-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Karen_Pechilis_2007_pp_273-275_95-1)\n    Pechilis, Karen (2007). \"Guests at God's Wedding: Celebrating Kartik among the Women of Benares\". *The Journal of Asian Studies*. **66** (1): 273–275\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\$identifier\$ \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.1017\/S0021911807000460](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1017%2FS0021911807000460).\n84. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEAmazzone2012_96-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEAmazzone2012_96-1) [Amazzone 2012](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFAmazzone2012).\n85. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-97)**\n    Buck, C. (2008). *Hindu Festivals*, Festivals in Indian Society (2 Vols. Set), Vol 1,\n    \n    [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-8324-113-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-8324-113-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-8324-113-7\")\n86. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-98)**\n    Holm, Jean (2006). \"Growing Up in Hinduism\". *British Journal of Religious Education*. **6** (3): 116–120\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\$identifier\$ \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.1080\/0141620840060303](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080%2F0141620840060303).\n87. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECoogan2003152%E2%80%93153_99-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECoogan2003152%E2%80%93153_99-1) [Coogan 2003](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFCoogan2003), pp. 152–153.\n88. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEVemsani2016190%E2%80%93191_100-0)** [Vemsani 2016](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFVemsani2016), pp. 190–191.\n89. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-vasudha31_101-0)**\n    Vasudha Narayanan; Deborah Heiligman (2008). [*Celebrate Diwali*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=rdTJJEQsDHoC). National Geographic. p. 31. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-1-4263-0291-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-4263-0291-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-4263-0291-6\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170102030400\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=rdTJJEQsDHoC) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016.\n90. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-102)** [Hindu Festivals](http:\/\/www.hinduismtoday.com\/modules\/wfchannel\/index.php?wfc_cid=39) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20151011182204\/http:\/\/www.hinduismtoday.com\/modules\/wfchannel\/index.php?wfc_cid=39) 11 October 2015 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\") Hinduism Today (2010)\n91. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-103)**\n    Carol Plum-Ucci (2007). *Celebrate Diwali*, Enslow Publishers,\n    \n    [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-7660-2778-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7660-2778-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7660-2778-7\")\n    \n    , pp. 39–57\n92. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESalamone2004112,_Article_on_Divali_by_Lindsey_Harlan_104-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESalamone2004112,_Article_on_Divali_by_Lindsey_Harlan_104-1) [Salamone 2004](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFSalamone2004), p. 112, Article on Divali by Lindsey Harlan.\n93. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-105)**\n    [Bridget Brereton](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bridget_Brereton \"Bridget Brereton\") (1996). [*An Introduction to the History of Trinidad and Tobago*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=uNrUU360mzsC&pg=PA113). Heinemann. p. 113. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-435-98474-8](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-435-98474-8 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-435-98474-8\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120611\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=uNrUU360mzsC&pg=PA113) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 19 August 2018.\n94. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJohnson200771%E2%80%9379_106-0)** [Johnson 2007](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFJohnson2007), pp. 71–79.\n95. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-107)** [Diwali – Celebrating the triumph of goodness](http:\/\/www.hinduismtoday.com\/pdf_downloads\/pagers\/Hindu-Festival_Diwali_broadsheet-color.pdf) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20150924041444\/http:\/\/www.hinduismtoday.com\/pdf_downloads\/pagers\/Hindu-Festival_Diwali_broadsheet-color.pdf) 24 September 2015 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\") Hinduism Today (2012)\n96. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-108)**\n    Jean Mead, How and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?,\n    \n    [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-237-53412-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-53412-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-53412-7\")\n    \n    , pp. 8–12\n97. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Jacobi_1895_109-0)**\n    Jacobi, Hermann; Ed. F. Max Müller (1895). [*Uttaradhyayana Sutra, Jain Sutras Part II, Sacred Books of the East, Vol. 45*](http:\/\/www.sacred-texts.com\/jai\/sbe45\/index.htm). Oxford: The Clarendon Press. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20090704214930\/http:\/\/www.sacred-texts.com\/jai\/sbe45\/index.htm) from the original on 4 July 2009. Retrieved 19 December 2007.\n98. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELong200926,_42_110-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELong200926,_42_110-1) [Long 2009](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFLong2009), pp. 26, 42.\n99. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPotter200735%E2%80%9336_111-0)** [Potter 2007](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPotter2007), pp. 35–36.\n100. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEDundas200222_112-0)** [Dundas 2002](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFDundas2002), p. 22.\n101. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMelton2011255_114-0)** [Melton 2011](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFMelton2011), p. 255.\n102. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELong200942_115-0)** [Long 2009](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFLong2009), p. 42.\n103. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJainFischer197813_116-0)** [Jain & Fischer 1978](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFJainFischer1978), p. 13.\n104. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-117)**\n     H.S. Singha (2000). [*The Encyclopedia of Sikhism (over 1000 Entries)*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=gqIbJz7vMn0C&pg=PA62). Hemkunt Press. p. 62. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-81-7010-301-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-7010-301-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-7010-301-1\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170102024429\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=gqIbJz7vMn0C&pg=PA62) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 6 April 2016.\n105. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGrewal199850%E2%80%9351,_60,_73%E2%80%9378,_93_118-0)** [Grewal 1998](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFGrewal1998), pp. 50–51, 60, 73–78, 93.\n106. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEColledge2017276%E2%80%93278_119-0)** [Colledge 2017](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFColledge2017), pp. 276–278.\n107. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESinghLouis_E._Fenech2014431%E2%80%93433_120-0)** [Singh & Louis E. Fenech 2014](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFSinghLouis_E._Fenech2014), pp. 431–433.\n108. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994346%E2%80%93349_121-0)** [Oberoi 1994](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFOberoi1994), pp. 346–349.\n109. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994347%E2%80%93349_122-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994347%E2%80%93349_122-1) [Oberoi 1994](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFOberoi1994), pp. 347–349.\n110. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-124)**\n     Jon Burbank (2002). [*Nepal*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=EaWLU6Blh_sC&pg=PA111). Marshall Cavendish. pp. 111–112\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-0-7614-1476-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7614-1476-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7614-1476-6\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170102013443\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=EaWLU6Blh_sC&pg=PA111) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016.\n111. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-fs_125-0)**\n     Frank Salamone (2004). *Encyclopedia of Religious Rites, Rituals and Festivals*,\n     \n     [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-0-415-88091-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-415-88091-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-415-88091-6\")\n     \n     , Routledge, pp. 112–113, 174, 252\n112. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Raat_126-0)**\n     Pramodkumar (2008). [*Meri Khoj Ek Bharat Ki*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=6A9EZRQIT9kC&pg=PA109). Lulu.com. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-1-4357-1240-9](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-4357-1240-9 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-4357-1240-9\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120623\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=6A9EZRQIT9kC&pg=PA109) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 26 October 2011. \"It is extremely important to keep the house spotlessly clean and pure on Diwali. The goddess [Lakshmi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi \"Lakshmi\") likes cleanliness, and it is believed that she will visit the cleanest house first. Lamps are lit in the evening to welcome the goddess. They are believed to light up her path.\"\n113. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-3) [***e***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-4) [***f***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-5) [McDermott 2011](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFMcDermott2011), pp. 183–188.\n114. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-129)**\n     Karen Bellenir (1997). *Religious Holidays and Calendars: An Encyclopedic Handbook*, 2nd Edition,\n     \n     [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-0-7808-0258-2](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7808-0258-2 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7808-0258-2\")\n     \n     , Omnigraphics\n115. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-130)**\n     Rajat Gupta; Nishant Singh; Ishita Kirar. [*Hospitality & Tourism Management*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=DatDDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA84). Vikas. p. 84. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-93-259-8244-4](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-93-259-8244-4 \"Special:BookSources\/978-93-259-8244-4\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120612\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=DatDDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA84) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 13 August 2018.\n116. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-haar2009_131-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-haar2009_131-1)\n     Kristen Haar; Sewa Singh Kalsi (2009). [*Sikhism*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=YOI1nB_zTyAC). Infobase Publishing. pp. 98–99\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-1-4381-0647-2](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-4381-0647-2 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-4381-0647-2\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20200208123615\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=YOI1nB_zTyAC) from the original on 8 February 2020. Retrieved 13 August 2018.\n117. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-132)**\n     Shobhna Gupta (2002). [*Festivals of India*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=g4TtrdejbTEC&pg=PA84). Har-Anand. p. 84. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-81-241-0869-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-241-0869-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-241-0869-7\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120607\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=g4TtrdejbTEC&pg=PA84) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 13 August 2018.\n118. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-3) [***e***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-4) [***f***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-5) [Bahadur 2006](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 92–93.\n119. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKinsley198833%E2%80%9334_134-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKinsley198833%E2%80%9334_134-1) [Kinsley 1988](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFKinsley1988), pp. 33–34.\n120. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-135)**\n     Closson, Troy (26 June 2023). [\"Diwali Is Set to Become a School Holiday in New York City\"](https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2023\/06\/26\/nyregion\/diwali-school-holiday-nyc.html). *The New York Times*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20230804020242\/https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2023\/06\/26\/nyregion\/diwali-school-holiday-nyc.html) from the original on 4 August 2023. Retrieved 2 August 2023.\n121. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-3) [***e***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-4) [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 59–60.\n122. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-137)**\n     [\"Diwali \\| Definition & Facts \\| Britannica\"](https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/topic\/Diwali-Hindu-festival). *Encyclopædia Britannica*. 14 July 2023. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20150501153023\/https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/EBchecked\/topic\/166786\/Diwali) from the original on 1 May 2015. Retrieved 27 July 2023.\n123. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-drikpanchang1_138-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-drikpanchang1_138-1)\n     LLP, Adarsh Mobile Applications. [\"2020 Yama Deepam date and timings for New Delhi, NCT, India\"](http:\/\/www.drikpanchang.com\/diwali\/yama-deepam\/yama-deepam-date-time.html). *Drikpanchang*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20171223185715\/http:\/\/www.drikpanchang.com\/diwali\/yama-deepam\/yama-deepam-date-time.html) from the original on 23 December 2017. Retrieved 28 August 2021.\n124. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-swahainternational1_139-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-swahainternational1_139-1)\n     [\"The 'Yam-deep' or 'Jam ke Deeya' – SWAHA International\"](http:\/\/www.swahainternational.org\/the-yam-deep-or-jam-ke-deeya\/). [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120618\/http:\/\/www.swahainternational.org\/the-yam-deep-or-jam-ke-deeya\/) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 11 November 2020.\n125. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-astroved1_140-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-astroved1_140-1)\n     [\"Significance of Yama Deepam on Diwali Eve\"](https:\/\/www.astroved.com\/blogs\/significance-yama-deepam-diwali-eve). AstroVed.com. 29 December 2021. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210419040402\/https:\/\/www.astroved.com\/blogs\/significance-yama-deepam-diwali-eve) from the original on 19 April 2021. Retrieved 10 January 2022.\n126. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-141)**\n     [\"Choti Diwali 2020 date: Kali Chaudas significance, when and how to celebrate\"](https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/astrology\/rituals-puja\/choti-diwali-2020-date-kali-chaudas-significance-when-and-how-to-celebrate\/articleshow\/79203502.cms). *The Times of India*. 13 November 2020. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20201114134308\/https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/astrology\/rituals-puja\/choti-diwali-2020-date-kali-chaudas-significance-when-and-how-to-celebrate\/articleshow\/79203502.cms) from the original on 14 November 2020. Retrieved 14 November 2020.\n127. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361_142-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361_142-1) [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 60–61.\n128. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361,_63_143-0)** [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 60–61, 63.\n129. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-144)**\n     [\"Ravana \\| King of Lanka, Demon King, Ten-Headed \\| Britannica\"](https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/topic\/Ravana). *Encyclopædia Britannica*. 24 June 2023. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20230602165102\/https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/topic\/Ravana) from the original on 2 June 2023. Retrieved 28 July 2023.\n130. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-drikpanchang.com_145-0)**\n     [\"2020 Hanuman Puja date and time during Diwali for New Delhi, NCT, India\"](https:\/\/www.drikpanchang.com\/diwali\/hanuman-puja\/hanuman-puja-date-time.html?year=2020). [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20211103035611\/https:\/\/www.drikpanchang.com\/diwali\/hanuman-puja\/hanuman-puja-date-time.html?year=2020) from the original on 3 November 2021. Retrieved 6 November 2020.\n131. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394_146-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394_146-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394_146-2) [Bahadur 2006](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 93–94.\n132. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTERodrigues201629_147-0)** [Rodrigues 2016](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFRodrigues2016), p. 29.\n133. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJacobs201026_148-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJacobs201026_148-1) [Jacobs 2010](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFJacobs2010), p. 26.\n134. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead2008_149-0)**\n     Jean Mead (February 2008). [*How and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=QJyZKOtHWg4C&pg=PA4). Evans Brothers. pp. 4–. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-0-237-53412-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-53412-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-53412-7\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120611\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=QJyZKOtHWg4C&pg=PA4) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 25 March 2019.\n135. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011254_150-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011254_150-1) [Jones 2011](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFJones2011), p. 254.\n136. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9395_151-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9395_151-1) [Bahadur 2006](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 94–95.\n137. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200697%E2%80%9398_152-0)** [Bahadur 2006](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 97–98.\n138. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-153)** John Bowker, ed., Oxford Concise Dictionary of World Religions (Oxford UP, 2000), See Festivals\n139. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKlostermaier201459,_69_154-0)** [Klostermaier 2014](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFKlostermaier2014), pp. 59, 69.\n140. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTERhodes20101%E2%80%932_155-0)** [Rhodes 2010](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFRhodes2010), pp. 1–2.\n141. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDaniel2004253%E2%80%93255_157-0)** [McDaniel 2004](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFMcDaniel2004), pp. 253–255.\n142. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363_158-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363_158-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363_158-2) [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 61–63.\n143. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9397_159-0)** [Bahadur 2006](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 94–97.\n144. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Firecracker2_160-0)**\n     Petrillo, Valerie (28 May 2007). [*Asian American History*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=GErOyV7FBNUC&pg=PA175). Chicago Review Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-1-55652-634-3](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-55652-634-3 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-55652-634-3\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120612\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=GErOyV7FBNUC&pg=PA175) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 26 October 2011. \"There are firecrackers everywhere to scare off evil spirits and contribute to the festive atmosphere.\"\n145. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Firecracker3_161-0)**\n     DeRocco, David; Dundas, Joan; Ian Zimmerman (1996). [*The International Holiday & Festival Primer*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=TRyb8XqB7dEC&pg=SA9-PA1). Full Blast Productions. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-1-895451-24-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-895451-24-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-895451-24-5\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20231111153321\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=TRyb8XqB7dEC&pg=SA9-PA1#v=onepage&q&f=false) from the original on 11 November 2023. Retrieved 26 October 2011. \"But as well as delighting the spectators, the fireworks are believed to chase away evil spirits.\"\n146. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563_162-0)** [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), p. 63.\n147. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364_163-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364_163-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364_163-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364_163-3) [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 63–64.\n148. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-NarayananKurup1976_164-0)**\n     M.G.S. Narayanan; K.K.N. Kurup (1976). [*Historical Studies in Kerala*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=mvELAAAAIAAJ). Department of History, University of Calicut. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20140103135407\/http:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=mvELAAAAIAAJ) from the original on 3 January 2014. Retrieved 12 October 2014.\n149. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-165)**\n     Deborah Heiligman, *Celebrate Diwali*,\n     \n     [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-1-4263-0291-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-4263-0291-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-4263-0291-6\")\n     \n     , National Geographic, p. 31\n150. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113_166-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113_166-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113_166-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113_166-3) [***e***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113_166-4) [***f***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113_166-5) [***g***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113_166-6) [Crump 2014](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFCrump2014), pp. 112–113.\n151. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200564%E2%80%9365_167-0)** [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 64–65.\n152. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELodrick1987_168-0)** [Lodrick 1987](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFLodrick1987).\n153. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-169)**\n     David L. Haberman (2006). [*River of Love in an Age of Pollution: The Yamuna River of Northern India*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=63uDsPPr48gC&pg=PA129). University of California Press. p. 129. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-0-520-24789-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-520-24789-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-520-24789-5\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20231111153322\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=63uDsPPr48gC&pg=PA129#v=onepage&q&f=false) from the original on 11 November 2023. Retrieved 19 August 2018.\n154. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200566%E2%80%9369_170-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200566%E2%80%9369_170-1) [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 66–69.\n155. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-171)**\n     [\"Bhai Bij in India in 2020\"](https:\/\/www.officeholidays.com\/holidays\/bhai-bij). *Office Holidays*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20201116022133\/https:\/\/www.officeholidays.com\/holidays\/bhai-bij) from the original on 16 November 2020. Retrieved 14 November 2020.\n156. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-172)**\n     Government of India & Himachal Pradesh (1982). [*Census of India, 1981: Himachal Pradesh*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=0EqykjrjNPYC). Controller of Publications. p. 46. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20231111153324\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=0EqykjrjNPYC) from the original on 11 November 2023. Retrieved 20 August 2018.\n157. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMelton2011908%E2%80%93909_174-0)** [Melton 2011](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFMelton2011), pp. 908–909.\n158. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-176)**\n     Narayan, Kirin; George, Kenneth M. (2017). \"Tools and world-making in the worship of Vishwakarma\". *South Asian History and Culture*. **8** (4): 478–492\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\$identifier\$ \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.1080\/19472498.2017.1371506](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080%2F19472498.2017.1371506). [S2CID](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/S2CID_\$identifier\$ \"S2CID (identifier)\") [149325687](https:\/\/api.semanticscholar.org\/CorpusID:149325687).\n159. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Kadowala1998_177-0)**\n     Kadowala, Dilip (1998). *Diwali*. London: Evans Brothers Limited. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-0-237-51801-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-51801-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-51801-1\")\n     \n     .\n160. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994188%E2%80%93190_with_footnote_96_178-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994188%E2%80%93190_with_footnote_96_178-1) [Oberoi 1994](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFOberoi1994), pp. 188–190 with footnote 96.\n161. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-180)** Priya Krishna (2017), [If You Missed Diwali in India, Dallas Is the Place to Be](https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2017\/10\/31\/dining\/diwali-mela-dallas-food.html) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180820005814\/https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2017\/10\/31\/dining\/diwali-mela-dallas-food.html) 20 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), *The New York Times*, 31 October 2017\n162. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-181)** [Manchester Dashehra and Diwali Mela plans announced](http:\/\/www.asianimage.co.uk\/news\/15570042.Manchester_Dashehra_and_Diwali_Mela_plans_announced\/) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180820005747\/http:\/\/www.asianimage.co.uk\/news\/15570042.Manchester_Dashehra_and_Diwali_Mela_plans_announced\/) 20 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Asian Image (2 October 2017), United Kingdom\n163. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-182)**\n     Bharath, Deepa (7 October 2025). [\"California makes Diwali an official statewide holiday\"](https:\/\/apnews.com\/article\/diwali-state-holiday-california-hindus-sikhs-buddhists-f7ddd73c14e212a698d2c559c12a8a4e). *AP News*. Retrieved 9 October 2025.\n164. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKlostermaier201459_183-0)** [Klostermaier 2014](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFKlostermaier2014), p. 59.\n165. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-184)** [Festive season to boost India gold buying](http:\/\/www.bullionstreet.com\/news\/festive-season-to-boost-india-gold-buying\/145) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20131207104526\/http:\/\/www.bullionstreet.com\/news\/festive-season-to-boost-india-gold-buying\/145) 7 December 2013 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\") Bullion Street (15 October 2013)\n166. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-185)** [Gold, Key markets: India](http:\/\/www.gold.org\/jewellery\/markets\/india\/) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20131207084755\/http:\/\/www.gold.org\/jewellery\/markets\/india\/) 7 December 2013 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\") World Gold Council (2013)\n167. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-186)** [India's banks face pre-Diwali cash crunch](https:\/\/www.ft.com\/intl\/cms\/s\/0\/937525dc-e33f-11df-97db-00144feabdc0.html) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110121010\/https:\/\/www.ft.com\/content\/937525dc-e33f-11df-97db-00144feabdc0) 10 January 2022 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\") James Lamont, *The Financial Times* (29 October 2010)\n168. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-187)** [Diwali lights up consumer spending, festive spirit beats inflation](https:\/\/www.indiatoday.in\/business\/story\/festive-season-consumer-spending-slowing-economy-inflation-retailers-216207-2013-10-31) M.G. Arun, India Today (1 November 2013)\n169. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTERao200171%E2%80%9395_188-0)** [Rao 2001](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFRao2001), pp. 71–95.\n170. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-189)** [Firecrackers to cost a bomb this Diwali](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20131028060716\/http:\/\/articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/2013-10-24\/india\/43361997_1_firecrackers-tamil-nadu-fireworks-diwali) *The Times of India* (24 October 2013)\n171. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-190)** [Fear Of Toxic Smog Leads India To Limit Diwali Fireworks](https:\/\/www.npr.org\/sections\/goatsandsoda\/2017\/10\/17\/558067395\/fear-of-toxic-smog-leads-india-to-limit-diwali-fireworks) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180822113355\/https:\/\/www.npr.org\/sections\/goatsandsoda\/2017\/10\/17\/558067395\/fear-of-toxic-smog-leads-india-to-limit-diwali-fireworks) 22 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), NPR (17 October 2017)\n172. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-191)** [Firework Facts: Americans Incinerate \\$1 Billion in July Fourth Fireworks Every Year](http:\/\/fortune.com\/2018\/06\/29\/july-4th-fireworks-billion-dollar-burn-injuries\/) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180822113406\/http:\/\/fortune.com\/2018\/06\/29\/july-4th-fireworks-billion-dollar-burn-injuries\/) 22 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Fortune (29 June 2018)\n173. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-193)** [Oneline sales may surpass Rs 30000 crores in festive months](https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/business\/india-business\/online-sales-may-surpass-rs-30000-crore-in-festive-month-assocham\/articleshow\/61035441.cms) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180828055348\/https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/business\/india-business\/online-sales-may-surpass-rs-30000-crore-in-festive-month-assocham\/articleshow\/61035441.cms) 28 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\") The Times of India (11 October 2017)\n174. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-194)** [Average family to spend Rs. 10,000 on this Diwali: ASSOCHAM survey](http:\/\/www.assocham.org\/newsdetail.php?id=6536) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180820005805\/http:\/\/www.assocham.org\/newsdetail.php?id=6536) 20 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), ASSOCHAM (17 October 2017); Tarandip Kaur (2017), [\"Festival of Lights: All You Need to Know About Diwali\"](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/tarandipkaur\/2017\/10\/18\/festival-of-lights-all-you-need-to-know-about-diwali\/) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180819214317\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/tarandipkaur\/2017\/10\/18\/festival-of-lights-all-you-need-to-know-about-diwali\/) 19 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), *Forbes* (18 October 2017)\n175. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-195)**\n     [\"DNA Explainer: What is Diwali Muhurat Trading and why it is best time to invest in stocks\"](https:\/\/www.dnaindia.com\/business\/report-dna-explainer-what-is-diwali-muhurat-trading-and-why-it-is-best-time-to-invest-in-stocks-2918360). *DNA India*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20211105092714\/https:\/\/www.dnaindia.com\/business\/report-dna-explainer-what-is-diwali-muhurat-trading-and-why-it-is-best-time-to-invest-in-stocks-2918360) from the original on 5 November 2021. Retrieved 5 November 2021.\n176. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-196)**\n     [\"NextFins Celebrates Diwali With the Launch of INDF\"](https:\/\/www.businesswire.com\/news\/home\/20201112005141\/en\/NextFins-Celebrates-Diwali-With-the-Launch-of-INDF). *businesswire.com*. 12 November 2020. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20201112204731\/https:\/\/www.businesswire.com\/news\/home\/20201112005141\/en\/NextFins-Celebrates-Diwali-With-the-Launch-of-INDF) from the original on 12 November 2020. Retrieved 12 November 2020.\n177. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBarbato201793%E2%80%9397_197-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBarbato201793%E2%80%9397_197-1) [Barbato 2017](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFBarbato2017), pp. 93–97.\n178. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-199)** Little India, Singapore (2013), [Deepavali in Singapore](http:\/\/www.littleindia.com.sg\/Diwali_in_Singapore.aspx) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20131203010347\/http:\/\/www.littleindia.com.sg\/Diwali_in_Singapore.aspx) 3 December 2013 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\")\n179. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-200)**\n     PTI (10 November 2007). [\"Prince Charles, Camilla celebrate Diwali in UK\"](https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/world\/uk\/Prince-Charles-Camilla-celebrate-Diwali-in-UK\/articleshow\/2532035.cms). *[The Times of India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/The_Times_of_India \"The Times of India\")*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20131104183044\/http:\/\/articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/2007-11-10\/uk\/27962079_1_royal-couple-diwali-celebrations-temple) from the original on 4 November 2013. Retrieved 3 November 2013.\n180. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-201)**\n     [\"Their Royal Highnesses The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall Celebrate Diwali at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London\"](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20121114112622\/http:\/\/www.mandir.org\/news%26events\/2007\/11\/trhvisit\/index.htm). *mandir.org*. BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. Archived from [the original](http:\/\/www.mandir.org\/news&events\/2007\/11\/trhvisit\/index.htm) on 14 November 2012. Retrieved 3 November 2013.\n181. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-202)**\n     [\"Mayor announces the capital's Diwali in the Square celebrations \\| London City Hall\"](https:\/\/www.london.gov.uk\/media-centre\/mayors-press-release\/Diwali-2023). *www.london.gov.uk*. Retrieved 13 November 2023.\n182. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-203)**\n     PTI (17 October 2009). [\"Brown celebrates Diwali at 10, Downing Street, in a 'historic' first\"](https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/world\/uk\/Brown-celebrates-Diwali-at-10-Downing-Street-in-a-historic-first\/articleshow\/5134278.cms). *[The Times of India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/The_Times_of_India \"The Times of India\")*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20131104183112\/http:\/\/articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/2009-10-17\/uk\/28096259_1_diwali-downing-street-joginder-sangar) from the original on 4 November 2013. Retrieved 3 November 2013.\n183. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-204)**\n     Sanchez, Aurelio (2 November 2007). \"Fest celebrates triumph of light over dark\". *The Albuquerque Journal*. p. 10. \"According to a resolution passed recently by the Foreign Affairs Committee of the House of Representatives, the festival is celebrated by almost 2 million in the United States and many millions more around the world. The bill, H.R. 747, calls for the U.S. Congress to acknowledge 'the religious and historical significance of the festival of Diwali.'\"\n184. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-205)**\n     \"US House passes resolution on significance of Diwali\". *Hindustan Times*. 30 October 2007.\n185. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-206)**\n     [\"Statement by the President on Diwali\"](https:\/\/obamawhitehouse.archives.gov\/the-press-office\/2010\/11\/04\/statement-president-diwali). *[whitehouse.gov](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Whitehouse.gov \"Whitehouse.gov\")*. 4 November 2010. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170118112828\/https:\/\/www.whitehouse.gov\/the-press-office\/2010\/11\/04\/statement-president-diwali) from the original on 18 January 2017. Retrieved 1 March 2021 – via [National Archives](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/NARA \"NARA\").\n186. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-207)**\n     House, The White (20 October 2025). [\"Presidential Message on Diwali\"](https:\/\/www.whitehouse.gov\/briefings-statements\/2025\/10\/presidential-message-on-diwali\/). *The White House*. Retrieved 21 October 2025.\n187. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-208)**\n     [\"'To every American…': Trump extends Diwali greetings with message of 'hope and peace' amid US-India tariff tension\"](https:\/\/www.hindustantimes.com\/world-news\/us-news\/to-every-american-trump-extends-diwali-greetings-with-message-of-hope-and-peace-amid-us-india-tariff-tension-101760975790509.html). *Hindustan Times*. 20 October 2025. Retrieved 21 October 2025.\n188. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-209)**\n     [\"\"Go Back\": MAGA Floods Kash Patel's Diwali Post With Racism\"](https:\/\/www.yahoo.com\/news\/articles\/back-maga-floods-kash-patel-142849202.html). *The New Republic via Yahoo News*. 21 October 2025. Retrieved 21 October 2025.\n189. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-210)**\n     Our Web Desk (21 October 2025). [\"Kash Patel makes a Diwali post, gets MAGA lessons and Valhalla reminders\"](https:\/\/www.telegraphindia.com\/world\/kash-patel-makes-a-diwali-post-gets-maga-lessons-and-valhalla-reminders\/cid\/2128845#goog_rewarded). *The Telegraph Online*.\n190. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-211)**\n     [\"Diwali is now an official holiday in 3 states\"](https:\/\/www.deseret.com\/faith\/2025\/10\/20\/diwali-is-an-official-holiday-in-three-states-here-s-how-to-celebrate-it\/). *Deseret News*. 20 October 2025. Retrieved 21 October 2025.\n191. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-212)**\n     Hindmon, Jade; Rusch, Ashley. [\"Diwali becomes an official California state holiday\"](https:\/\/www.kpbs.org\/podcasts\/kpbs-midday-edition\/diwali-becomes-an-official-california-state-holiday). *KPBS Public Media*. Retrieved 21 October 2025.\n192. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-213)** [Diwali Lights up India](https:\/\/www.indiatoday.in\/india\/story\/diwali-manmohan-singh-amritsar-pranab-mukherjee-hamid-ansari-india-pakistan-216340-2013-11-02) India Today (3 November 2013)\n193. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-214)**\n     [\"Pakistan parliament adopts resolution for Holi, Diwali, Easter holidays\"](http:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/world\/pakistan\/Pakistan-parliament-adopts-resolution-for-Holi-Diwali-Easter-holidays\/articleshow\/51423609.cms). *The Times of India*. 16 March 2016. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180306175436\/https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/world\/pakistan\/Pakistan-parliament-adopts-resolution-for-Holi-Diwali-Easter-holidays\/articleshow\/51423609.cms) from the original on 6 March 2018. Retrieved 13 March 2017.\n194. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-215)**\n     Sridharan, Vasudevan (2016). [\"Muslim-majority Pakistan set to declare Holi, Diwali and Easter as public holidays\"](http:\/\/www.ibtimes.co.uk\/muslim-majority-pakistan-set-declare-holi-diwali-easter-public-holidays-1550003). *International Business Times*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20160318105641\/http:\/\/www.ibtimes.co.uk\/muslim-majority-pakistan-set-declare-holi-diwali-easter-public-holidays-1550003) from the original on 18 March 2016. Retrieved 19 March 2016.\n195. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-216)**\n     [\"Muslims join Hindus in Diwali celebrations in Pakistan's Peshawar\"](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20151211212853\/http:\/\/articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com\/2015-11-17\/news\/68356366_1_diwali-celebrations-pakistan-hindu-peshawar). *The Economic Times*. 17 November 2015. Archived from [the original](http:\/\/articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com\/2015-11-17\/news\/68356366_1_diwali-celebrations-pakistan-hindu-peshawar) on 11 December 2015. Retrieved 19 March 2016.\n196. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-218)**\n     [\"India-Pakistan border troops exchange Diwali sweets near Jaisalmer\"](https:\/\/english.mathrubhumi.com\/news\/india\/india-pakistan-border-troops-exchange-diwali-sweets-near-jaisalmer-1.10038937). Mathrubhumi. November 2024.\n197. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-219)**\n     [\"Air Pollution: Delhi's air quality enters 'Red Zone' ahead of Diwali\"](https:\/\/www.dnaindia.com\/india\/video-air-pollution-delhi-s-air-quality-enters-red-zone-ahead-of-diwali-2918268). *DNA India*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20211106202325\/https:\/\/www.dnaindia.com\/india\/video-air-pollution-delhi-s-air-quality-enters-red-zone-ahead-of-diwali-2918268) from the original on 6 November 2021. Retrieved 4 November 2021.\n198. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-220)**\n     [\"Diwali may bring 'severe' air pollution to Delhi, despite fireworks ban\"](https:\/\/www.washingtonpost.com\/world\/2021\/11\/03\/delhi-fireworks-ban-green-diwali\/). *The Washington Post*. [ISSN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISSN_\$identifier\$ \"ISSN (identifier)\") [0190-8286](https:\/\/search.worldcat.org\/issn\/0190-8286). [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20211105121643\/https:\/\/www.washingtonpost.com\/world\/2021\/11\/03\/delhi-fireworks-ban-green-diwali\/) from the original on 5 November 2021. Retrieved 4 November 2021.\n199. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-221)**\n     [\"Residents across India celebrate Diwali with festivities and dazzling lights\"](https:\/\/www.npr.org\/2022\/10\/24\/1130942026\/residents-across-india-celebrate-diwali-with-festivities-and-dazzling-lights). *[AP](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Associated_Press \"Associated Press\")*. [NPR](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/NPR \"NPR\"). 24 October 2022. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20230727194915\/https:\/\/www.npr.org\/2022\/10\/24\/1130942026\/residents-across-india-celebrate-diwali-with-festivities-and-dazzling-lights) from the original on 27 July 2023. Retrieved 10 November 2023.\n200. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-222)**\n     [\"Firecrackers Not Only Pollute The Environment But Also Carry Cancer Causing Chemicals\"](https:\/\/www.news18.com\/news\/india\/a-look-at-how-firecrackers-pollute-the-environment-and-carry-carcinogenic-agents-1916801.html). *News18*. 23 October 2018. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20211106193152\/https:\/\/www.news18.com\/news\/india\/a-look-at-how-firecrackers-pollute-the-environment-and-carry-carcinogenic-agents-1916801.html) from the original on 6 November 2021. Retrieved 4 November 2021.\n201. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-223)**\n     Mehta, Tanvi (13 November 2023). [\"Three Indian cities among world's 10 most polluted after Diwali\"](https:\/\/www.reuters.com\/markets\/commodities\/three-indian-cities-amongst-worlds-10-most-polluted-after-diwali-2023-11-13\/). *Reuters*. Retrieved 22 November 2023.\n202. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-224)**\n     Mohan, D.; Varghese, M. (1990). \"Fireworks cast a shadow on India's festival of lights\". *World Health Forum*. **11** (3): 323–326\\. [PMID](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/PMID_\$identifier\$ \"PMID (identifier)\") [2291800](https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/2291800).\n203. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-225)**\n     Ahuja, R.B.; Bhattacharya, S. (August 2004). [\"Burns in the developing world and burn disasters\"](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC514214). *The BMJ*. **329** (7463): 447–449\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\$identifier\$ \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.1136\/bmj.329.7463.447](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1136%2Fbmj.329.7463.447). [PMC](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/PMC_\$identifier\$ \"PMC (identifier)\") [514214](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC514214). [PMID](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/PMID_\$identifier\$ \"PMID (identifier)\") [15321905](https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/15321905).\n204. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-r576_226-0)**\n     Addow, Amina (17 November 2023). [\"Largest display of oil lamps illuminate Indian city to celebrate Diwali\"](https:\/\/www.guinnessworldrecords.com\/news\/commercial\/2023\/11\/largest-display-of-oil-lamps-illuminate-indian-city-to-celebrate-diwali-761303). *Guinness World Records*. Retrieved 20 July 2024.\n205. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-227)**\n     [\"Historic moment as Diwali makes it to Unesco list: Deepavali joins Yoga, Durga Puja among intangible cultural heritage — full list\"](https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/india\/historic-moment-as-diwali-makes-it-to-unesco-list-deepavali-joins-yoga-durga-puja-among-intangible-cultural-heritage-full-list\/articleshow\/125883637.cms). *The Times of India*. 10 December 2025. [ISSN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISSN_\$identifier\$ \"ISSN (identifier)\") [0971-8257](https:\/\/search.worldcat.org\/issn\/0971-8257). Retrieved 10 December 2025.\n### Bibliography\n- Amazzone, Laura (2012). [*Goddess Durga and Sacred Female Power*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=PM_TNDu8NHUC). University Press of America. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-7618-5314-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7618-5314-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7618-5314-5\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20200317121233\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=PM_TNDu8NHUC) from the original on 17 March 2020. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Bahadur, Om Lata (2006). \"Diwali: The Festival of Lights\". In John Stratton Hawley; Vasudha Narayanan (eds.). *The Life of Hinduism*. University of California Press. 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[*Time in Early Modern Islam: Calendar, Ceremony, and Chronology in the Safavid, Mughal and Ottoman Empires*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=p7ogAwAAQBAJ). Cambridge University Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-139-62032-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-139-62032-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-139-62032-1\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210126093824\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=p7ogAwAAQBAJ) from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Colledge, Ray (2017). [*Mastering World Religions*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=yDpdDwAAQBAJ). Macmillan. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-349-14329-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-349-14329-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-349-14329-0\")\n  \n  . 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[Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110121002\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=a5732hIV03kC) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Jain, Jyotindra; Fischer, Eberhard (1978). [*Jaina Iconography*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=gFZ7vQ2jwlEC). BRILL Academic. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-90-04-05259-8](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-90-04-05259-8 \"Special:BookSources\/978-90-04-05259-8\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170426074648\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=gFZ7vQ2jwlEC) from the original on 26 April 2017. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Johnson, Christopher H.; Teuscher, Simon; Sabean, David Warren (2011). [*Transregional and Transnational Families in Europe and Beyond: Experiences Since the Middle Ages*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=Snz3E3p_HaUC). Berghahn. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-85745-183-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-85745-183-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-85745-183-5\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110121028\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=Snz3E3p_HaUC) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 19 August 2018.\n- Johnson, Henry (June 2007). \"'Happy Diwali!' Performance, Multicultural Soundscapes and Intervention in Aotearoa\/New Zealand\". *Ethnomusicology Forum*. **16** (1): 71–94\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\$identifier\$ \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.1080\/17411910701276526](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080%2F17411910701276526). [JSTOR](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/JSTOR_\$identifier\$ \"JSTOR (identifier)\") [20184577](https:\/\/www.jstor.org\/stable\/20184577). [S2CID](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/S2CID_\$identifier\$ \"S2CID (identifier)\") [191322269](https:\/\/api.semanticscholar.org\/CorpusID:191322269).\n- Kelly, John D. (March 1988). \"From Holi to Diwali in Fiji: An Essay on Ritual and History\". *Man*. **23** (1): 40–55\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\$identifier\$ \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.2307\/2803032](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2307%2F2803032). [JSTOR](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/JSTOR_\$identifier\$ \"JSTOR (identifier)\") [2803032](https:\/\/www.jstor.org\/stable\/2803032).\n- Kinsley, David (1988). [*Hindu Goddesses: Visions of the Divine Feminine in the Hindu Religious Tradition*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=HzldwMHeS6IC). University of California Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-520-90883-3](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-520-90883-3 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-520-90883-3\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20190401015448\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=HzldwMHeS6IC) from the original on 1 April 2019. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Klostermaier, Klaus K. (2014). [*A Concise Encyclopedia of Hinduism*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=v1UQBwAAQBAJ). Oxford: Oneworld Publications. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-78074-672-2](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-78074-672-2 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-78074-672-2\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20201229174254\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=v1UQBwAAQBAJ) from the original on 29 December 2020. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Lochtefeld, James G. (2002). [*The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Hinduism: A–M, Volume 1*](https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/illustratedencyc0000loch). Rosen Publishing. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-8239-3179-8](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-8239-3179-8 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-8239-3179-8\")\n  \n  .\n- McDermott, Rachel Fell (2011). *Revelry, Rivalry, and Longing for the Goddesses of Bengal*. Columbia University Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-231-52787-3](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-231-52787-3 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-231-52787-3\")\n  \n  .\n- Lodrick, Deryck O. (1987). \"Gopashtami and Govardhan Puja: Two Krishna Festivals of India\". *Journal of Cultural Geography*. **7** (2): 101–116\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\$identifier\$ \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.1080\/08873638709478510](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080%2F08873638709478510).\n- [Long, Jeffery D.](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jeffery_D._Long \"Jeffery D. Long\") (2009). [*Jainism: An Introduction*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=JmRlAgAAQBAJ). I. B. Tauris. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-84511-625-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-84511-625-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-84511-625-5\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170423084645\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=JmRlAgAAQBAJ) from the original on 23 April 2017. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- McDaniel, June (2004). [*Offering Flowers, Feeding Skulls: Popular Goddess Worship in West Bengal*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=rHs8DwAAQBAJ). Oxford University Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-19-516790-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-516790-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-516790-0\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210126200722\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=rHs8DwAAQBAJ) from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 19 August 2018.\n- Melton, J. Gordon, ed. (2011). [*Religious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays Festivals Solemn Observances and Spiritual Commemorations*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=Pk7eEAAAQBAJ). ABC-CLIO. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-59884-205-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-59884-205-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-59884-205-0\")\n  \n  .\n- Jones, Constance (2011). Melton, J. Gordon (ed.). [*Religious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays Festivals Solemn Observances and Spiritual Commemorations*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=Pk7eEAAAQBAJ). ABC-CLIO. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-59884-205-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-59884-205-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-59884-205-0\")\n  \n  .\n- Melville, Charles (2012). [*A History of Persian Literature*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=aFPvAwAAQBAJ). Vol. X: *Persian Historiography*. I. B. Tauris. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-85773-657-4](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-85773-657-4 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-85773-657-4\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20200926132311\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=aFPvAwAAQBAJ) from the original on 26 September 2020. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Oberoi, Harjot (1994). [*The Construction of Religious Boundaries: Culture, Identity, and Diversity in the Sikh Tradition*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=dKl84EYFkTsC). University of Chicago Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-226-61593-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-226-61593-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-226-61593-6\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20200819031846\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=dKl84EYFkTsC) from the original on 19 August 2020. Retrieved 19 August 2018.\n- Okita, Kiyokazu (2014). [*Hindu Theology in Early Modern South Asia: The Rise of Devotionalism and the Politics of Genealogy*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=a9X1AwAAQBAJ). Oxford University Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-19-870926-8](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-870926-8 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-870926-8\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110121011\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=a9X1AwAAQBAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 18 August 2018.\n- Pintchman, Tracy (2005). [*Guests at God's Wedding: Celebrating Kartik among the Women of Benares*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=W-9Hq-DOXnEC). State University of New York Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-7914-8256-8](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7914-8256-8 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7914-8256-8\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20181226115243\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=W-9Hq-DOXnEC) from the original on 26 December 2018. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- [Potter, Karl H.](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karl_H._Potter \"Karl H. Potter\") (2007). Malvania, Dalsukh; Soni, Jayendra (eds.). [*Encyclopedia of Indian Philosophies*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=5WHHJ6O7b-IC). Vol. X: *Jain Philosophy*. Motilal Banarsidass. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-81-208-3169-8](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-208-3169-8 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-208-3169-8\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170412065216\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=5WHHJ6O7b-IC) from the original on 12 April 2017. Retrieved 25 September 2018.\n- Rao, V. (October 2001). \"Celebrations as Social Investments: Festival Expenditures, Unit Price Variation and Social Status in Rural India\". *Journal of Development Studies*. **38** (1): 71–97\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\$identifier\$ \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.1080\/713601102](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080%2F713601102). [S2CID](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/S2CID_\$identifier\$ \"S2CID (identifier)\") [59148993](https:\/\/api.semanticscholar.org\/CorpusID:59148993).\n- Rhodes, Constantina (2010). [*Invoking Lakshmi: The Goddess of Wealth in Song and Ceremony*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=RC0Mr3E1tqAC). State University of New York Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-4384-3322-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-4384-3322-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-4384-3322-6\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110121029\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=RC0Mr3E1tqAC) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Rodrigues, Hillary (2016). [*Introducing Hinduism*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=t86ykgEACAAJ). Routledge. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-415-54966-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-415-54966-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-415-54966-0\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110121029\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=t86ykgEACAAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Salamone, Frank (2004). [*Encyclopedia of Religious Rites, Rituals and Festivals*](https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/encyclopediaofre00sala). Routledge. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-415-88091-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-415-88091-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-415-88091-6\")\n  \n  .\n- Shah, Manju N. (Winter–Fall 1995). \"Celebrating Diwali in America\". *Journal of South Asian Literature*. **30** (1–2\\): 41–44\\. [JSTOR](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/JSTOR_\$identifier\$ \"JSTOR (identifier)\") [40873556](https:\/\/www.jstor.org\/stable\/40873556).\n- Shattuck, Cybelle T. (1999). [*Hinduism*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=Z2ARAQAAIAAJ). Prentice Hall. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-13-266255-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-13-266255-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-13-266255-0\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210126200724\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=Z2ARAQAAIAAJ) from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Sewell, Robert (2006). [*A Forgotten Empire (Vijayanagar): A Contribution to the History of India*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=TDOZ6A4HRz0C). Echo. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0716521372](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0716521372 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0716521372\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110121003\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=TDOZ6A4HRz0C) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Singh, Pashaura; Louis E. Fenech (2014). [*The Oxford Handbook of Sikh Studies*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=8I0NAwAAQBAJ). Oxford University Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-19-969930-8](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-969930-8 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-969930-8\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20190504190932\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=8I0NAwAAQBAJ) from the original on 4 May 2019. Retrieved 18 August 2018.\n- Truschke, Audrey (2017). [*Aurangzeb: The Life and Legacy of India's Most Controversial King*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=oUUkDwAAQBAJ). Stanford University Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-5036-0259-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-5036-0259-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-5036-0259-5\")\n  \n  .\n- Vemsani, Lavanya (2016). [*Krishna in History, Thought, and Culture: An Encyclopedia of the Hindu Lord of Many Names: An Encyclopedia of the Hindu Lord of Many Names*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=4fw2DAAAQBAJ). ABC-CLIO. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-61069-211-3](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-61069-211-3 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-61069-211-3\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20171206083031\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=4fw2DAAAQBAJ) from the original on 6 December 2017. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n## External links\n**Diwali** at Wikipedia's [sister projects](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Wikimedia_sister_projects \"Wikipedia:Wikimedia sister projects\")\n\n- [![Wiktionary logo](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/9\/99\/Wiktionary-logo-en-v2.svg\/40px-Wiktionary-logo-en-v2.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Wiktionary-logo-en-v2.svg)[Definitions](https:\/\/en.wiktionary.org\/wiki\/Special:Search\/Diwali \"wikt:Special:Search\/Diwali\") from Wiktionary\n- ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/f\/fa\/Wikiquote-logo.svg\/40px-Wikiquote-logo.svg.png)[Quotations](https:\/\/en.wikiquote.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"q:Diwali\") from Wikiquote\n\n- [The Ancient Origins of Diwali, India's Biggest Holiday](https:\/\/www.history.com\/news\/the-ancient-origins-of-indias-biggest-holiday)—Becky Little (2017)\n- [Deepawali](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170910153209\/http:\/\/knowindia.gov.in\/culture-and-heritage\/festivals\/deepawali.php) at Know India (archived)\n- [Winter air pollution around Diwali and Asthma](https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/life-style\/health-fitness\/health-news\/winter-air-pollution-around-diwali-and-asthma-what-you-need-to-know\/articleshow\/104929975.cms?from=mdr)\n\n| Diwali |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Hindudharma \"Template:Hindudharma\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Hindudharma \"Template talk:Hindudharma\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Hindudharma \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Hindudharma\")[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/6\/67\/Aum_Om_red.svg\/20px-Aum_Om_red.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aum \"Aum\") [Hinduism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism \"Hinduism\") [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/6\/63\/HinduSwastika.svg\/20px-HinduSwastika.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:HinduSwastika.svg) topics |   |   |\n| [Glossary](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Glossary_of_Hinduism_terms \"Glossary of Hinduism terms\") Index [Timeline](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Timeline_of_Hinduism \"Timeline of Hinduism\") |   |   |\n| [Philosophy](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_philosophy \"Hindu philosophy\") |   | ![Hindu \"Om\" symbol](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/6\/69\/Aum_Om_navy_blue_circle_hollow_coral.svg\/120px-Aum_Om_navy_blue_circle_hollow_coral.svg.png) |\n|   |   |   |\n| [Concepts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Glossary_of_Hinduism_terms \"Glossary of Hinduism terms\") | [Brahman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahman \"Brahman\") [Om](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Om \"Om\") [Ishvara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ishvara \"Ishvara\") [Atman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C4%80tman_\$Hinduism\$ \"Ātman (Hinduism)\") [Maya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maya_\$religion\$ \"Maya (religion)\") [Karma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karma \"Karma\") [Saṃsāra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sa%E1%B9%83s%C4%81ra \"Saṃsāra\") [Puruṣārthas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puru%E1%B9%A3%C4%81rtha \"Puruṣārtha\") [Dharma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dharma \"Dharma\") [Artha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Artha \"Artha\") [Kama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kama \"Kama\") [Moksha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Moksha \"Moksha\") [Niti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ethics_in_religion#Hindu_ethics \"Ethics in religion\") [Ahimsa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ahimsa \"Ahimsa\") [Asteya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Achourya \"Achourya\") [Aparigraha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aparigraha \"Aparigraha\") [Brahmacharya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahmacarya \"Brahmacarya\") [Satya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Satya \"Satya\") [Dāna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/D%C4%81na \"Dāna\") [Damah](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Temperance_\$virtue\$#Hinduism \"Temperance (virtue)\") [Dayā](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Compassion#Hinduism \"Compassion\") [Akrodha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Akrodha \"Akrodha\") |   |\n| [Schools](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_philosophy \"Hindu philosophy\") | [Āstika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C4%80stika_and_n%C4%81stika \"Āstika and nāstika\"): [Samkhya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samkhya \"Samkhya\") [Yoga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yoga \"Yoga\") [Nyaya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nyaya \"Nyaya\") [Vaisheshika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaisheshika \"Vaisheshika\") [Mīmāṃsā](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/M%C4%ABm%C4%81%E1%B9%83s%C4%81 \"Mīmāṃsā\") [Vedanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vedanta \"Vedanta\") *[Svābhāvika Bhedābheda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sv%C4%81bh%C4%81vika_Bhed%C4%81bheda \"Svābhāvika Bhedābheda\")* *[Dvaita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dvaita_Vedanta \"Dvaita Vedanta\")* *[Advaita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Advaita_Vedanta \"Advaita Vedanta\")* *[Vishishtadvaita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishishtadvaita \"Vishishtadvaita\")* [Nāstika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C4%80stika_and_n%C4%81stika \"Āstika and nāstika\"): [Charvaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Charvaka \"Charvaka\") |   |\n| [Texts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_texts \"Hindu texts\") |   |   |\n|   |   |   |\n| Classification | [Śruti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C5%9Aruti \"Śruti\") [Smṛti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sm%E1%B9%9Bti \"Smṛti\") |   |\n| [Vedas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vedas \"Vedas\") |   |   |\n|   |   |   |\n| [Rigveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rigveda \"Rigveda\") [Yajurveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yajurveda \"Yajurveda\") [Samaveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samaveda \"Samaveda\") [Atharvaveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Atharvaveda \"Atharvaveda\") |   |   |\n| Divisions | [Samhita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vedic_chant \"Vedic chant\") [Brahmana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahmana \"Brahmana\") [Aranyaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aranyaka \"Aranyaka\") |   |\n| [Upanishads](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Upanishads \"Upanishads\") | [Aitareya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aitareya_Upanishad \"Aitareya Upanishad\") [Kaushitaki](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kaushitaki_Upanishad \"Kaushitaki Upanishad\") [Brihadaranyaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brihadaranyaka_Upanishad \"Brihadaranyaka Upanishad\") [Isha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Isha_Upanishad \"Isha Upanishad\") [Taittiriya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Taittiriya_Upanishad \"Taittiriya Upanishad\") [Katha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Katha_Upanishad \"Katha Upanishad\") [Maitrayaniya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maitrayaniya_Upanishad \"Maitrayaniya Upanishad\") [Shvetashvatara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shvetashvatara_Upanishad \"Shvetashvatara Upanishad\") [Chandogya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chandogya_Upanishad \"Chandogya Upanishad\") [Kena](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kena_Upanishad \"Kena Upanishad\") [Mundaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mundaka_Upanishad \"Mundaka Upanishad\") [Mandukya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mandukya_Upanishad \"Mandukya Upanishad\") [Prashna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prashna_Upanishad \"Prashna Upanishad\") |   |\n| [Upavedas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Upaveda \"Upaveda\") | [Ayurveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayurveda \"Ayurveda\") [Dhanurveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_martial_arts \"Indian martial arts\") [Natyaveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Natya_Shastra \"Natya Shastra\") [Sthapatyaveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_temple_architecture \"Hindu temple architecture\") |   |\n| [Vedanga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vedanga \"Vedanga\") | [Shiksha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiksha \"Shiksha\") [Chandas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sanskrit_prosody \"Sanskrit prosody\") [Vyākaraṇa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vy%C4%81kara%E1%B9%87a \"Vyākaraṇa\") [Nirukta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nirukta \"Nirukta\") [Kalpa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kalpa_\$Vedanga\$ \"Kalpa (Vedanga)\") [Jyotisha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jyotisha \"Jyotisha\") |   |\n| [Other](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Hindu_texts \"List of Hindu texts\") | [Bhagavad Gita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhagavad_Gita \"Bhagavad Gita\") [Agamas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Agama_\$Hinduism\$ \"Agama (Hinduism)\") [Itihasas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Itihasa-Purana \"Itihasa-Purana\") [Ramayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramayana \"Ramayana\") [Mahabharata](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahabharata \"Mahabharata\") [Puranas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puranas \"Puranas\") [Minor Upanishads](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Upanishads#Classification \"Upanishads\") [Arthashastra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Arthashastra \"Arthashastra\") [Nitisara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nitisara \"Nitisara\") [Dharmaśāstra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dharma%C5%9B%C4%81stra \"Dharmaśāstra\") [Manusmriti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Manusmriti \"Manusmriti\") [Nāradasmṛti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/N%C4%81radasm%E1%B9%9Bti \"Nāradasmṛti\") [Yājñavalkya Smṛti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Y%C4%81j%C3%B1avalkya_Sm%E1%B9%9Bti \"Yājñavalkya Smṛti\") [Sutras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sutra \"Sutra\") [Stotras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Stotra \"Stotra\") [Subhashita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Subhashita \"Subhashita\") [Tantras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tantras_\$Hinduism\$ \"Tantras (Hinduism)\") [Yoga Vasistha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yoga_Vasistha \"Yoga Vasistha\") *[Yoga Sutras of Patanjali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yoga_Sutras_of_Patanjali \"Yoga Sutras of Patanjali\")* |   |\n| [Sangam literature](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sangam_literature \"Sangam literature\") | [Tirumurai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tirumurai \"Tirumurai\") [Divya Prabandham](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Divya_Prabandham \"Divya Prabandham\") [Tirumurukāṟṟuppaṭai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tirumuruk%C4%81%E1%B9%9F%E1%B9%9Fuppa%E1%B9%ADai \"Tirumurukāṟṟuppaṭai\") [Thiruppugal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thiruppugal \"Thiruppugal\") [Thirukkural](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thirukkural \"Thirukkural\") [Kamba Ramayanam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kamba_Ramayanam \"Kamba Ramayanam\") [Five Great Epics](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Five_Great_Epics \"Five Great Epics\") [Eighteen Greater Texts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eighteen_Greater_Texts \"Eighteen Greater Texts\") [Eighteen Lesser Texts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eighteen_Lesser_Texts \"Eighteen Lesser Texts\") [Athichudi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Athichudi \"Athichudi\") [Iraiyanar Akapporul](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Iraiyanar_Akapporul \"Iraiyanar Akapporul\") [Abhirami Antati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Abhirami_Antati \"Abhirami Antati\") [Thiruvilaiyadal Puranam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thiruvilaiyadal_Puranam \"Thiruvilaiyadal Puranam\") [Vinayagar Agaval](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vinayagar_Agaval \"Vinayagar Agaval\") [Vedarthasamgraha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vedarthasamgraha \"Vedarthasamgraha\") |   |\n| [Deities](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_deities \"Hindu deities\") |   |   |\n|   |   |   |\n| [Gods](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Deva_\$Hinduism\$ \"Deva (Hinduism)\") | [Trimurti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Trimurti \"Trimurti\") [Brahma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahma \"Brahma\") [Vishnu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishnu \"Vishnu\") [Shiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva \"Shiva\") [Agni](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Agni \"Agni\") [Dattatreya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dattatreya \"Dattatreya\") [Ganesha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesha \"Ganesha\") [Hanuman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman \"Hanuman\") [Indra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indra \"Indra\") [Kartikeya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kartikeya \"Kartikeya\") [Krishna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna \"Krishna\") [Rama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rama \"Rama\") [Surya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Surya \"Surya\") [Varuna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Varuna \"Varuna\") [Vayu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vayu \"Vayu\") [*more*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Hindu_gods \"Category:Hindu gods\") |   |\n| [Goddesses](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Devi \"Devi\") | [Tridevi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tridevi \"Tridevi\") [Saraswati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saraswati \"Saraswati\") [Lakshmi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi \"Lakshmi\") [Parvati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Parvati \"Parvati\") [Bhumi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhumi_\$goddess\$ \"Bhumi (goddess)\") [Durga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga \"Durga\") [Kali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali \"Kali\") [Mahavidya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahavidya \"Mahavidya\") [Matrika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Matrika \"Matrika\") [Radha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Radha \"Radha\") [Rukmini](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rukmini \"Rukmini\") [Sati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sati_\$Hindu_goddess\$ \"Sati (Hindu goddess)\") [Shakti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shakti \"Shakti\") [Shashthi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shashthi \"Shashthi\") [Sita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sita \"Sita\") [*more*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Hindu_goddesses \"Category:Hindu goddesses\") |   |\n| Practices |   |   |\n|   |   |   |\n| [Worship](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Worship_in_Hinduism \"Worship in Hinduism\") | [Temple](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_temple \"Hindu temple\") [Murti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Murti \"Murti\") [Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puja_\$Hinduism\$ \"Puja (Hinduism)\") [Bhakti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhakti \"Bhakti\") [Japa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Japa \"Japa\") [Bhajan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhajan \"Bhajan\") [Naivedhya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Naivedhya \"Naivedhya\") [Yajna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yajna \"Yajna\") [Homa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Homa_\$ritual\$ \"Homa (ritual)\") [Tapas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tapas_\$Indian_religions\$ \"Tapas (Indian religions)\") [Dhyāna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dhy%C4%81na_in_Hinduism \"Dhyāna in Hinduism\") [Tirthatana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_pilgrimage_sites_in_India \"Hindu pilgrimage sites in India\") |   |\n| [Sanskaras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sanskara_\$rite_of_passage\$ \"Sanskara (rite of passage)\") | [Garbhadhana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Garbhadhana \"Garbhadhana\") [Pumsavana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pumsavana \"Pumsavana\") [Simantonayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pumsavana_Simantonayana \"Pumsavana Simantonayana\") [Jatakarma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jatakarma \"Jatakarma\") [Namakarana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/N%C4%81makara%E1%B9%87a \"Nāmakaraṇa\") [Nishkramana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nishkramana \"Nishkramana\") [Annaprashana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Annaprashana \"Annaprashana\") [Chudakarana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chudakarana \"Chudakarana\") [Karnavedha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karnavedha \"Karnavedha\") [Vidyarambha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vidy%C4%81ra%E1%B9%83bha%E1%B9%83 \"Vidyāraṃbhaṃ\") [Upanayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Upanayana \"Upanayana\") [Keshanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Keshanta \"Keshanta\") [Ritushuddhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ritu_Kala_Samskaram \"Ritu Kala Samskaram\") [Samavartanam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samavartanam \"Samavartanam\") [Vivaha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vivaah \"Vivaah\") [Antyeshti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Antyesti \"Antyesti\") |   |\n| Varnashrama | [Varna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Varna_\$Hinduism\$ \"Varna (Hinduism)\") [Brahmin](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahmin \"Brahmin\") [Kshatriya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kshatriya \"Kshatriya\") [Vaishya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaishya \"Vaishya\") [Shudra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shudra \"Shudra\") [Ashrama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ashrama_\$stage\$ \"Ashrama (stage)\") [Brahmacharya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahmacarya \"Brahmacarya\") [Grihastha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Grihastha \"Grihastha\") [Vanaprastha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vanaprastha \"Vanaprastha\") [Sannyasa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sannyasa \"Sannyasa\") |   |\n| [Festivals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Hindu_festivals \"List of Hindu festivals\") | [Diwali]() [Holi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Holi \"Holi\") [Shivaratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri \"Maha Shivaratri\") [Raksha Bandhan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Raksha_Bandhan \"Raksha Bandhan\") [Navaratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navaratri \"Navaratri\") [Durga Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga_Puja \"Durga Puja\") [Ramlila](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramlila \"Ramlila\") [Vijayadashami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vijayadashami \"Vijayadashami\") [Ganesh Chaturthi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesh_Chaturthi \"Ganesh Chaturthi\") [Rama Navami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rama_Navami \"Rama Navami\") [Janmashtami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna_Janmashtami \"Krishna Janmashtami\") [Onam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Onam \"Onam\") [Pongal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pongal_\$festival\$ \"Pongal (festival)\") [Makar Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Makar_Sankranti \"Makar Sankranti\") New Year [Bihu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bihu \"Bihu\") [Gudi Padwa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gudi_Padwa \"Gudi Padwa\") [Pahela Baishakh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pahela_Baishakh \"Pahela Baishakh\") [Puthandu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puthandu \"Puthandu\") [Vaisakhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaisakhi \"Vaisakhi\") [Vishu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishu \"Vishu\") [Ugadi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ugadi \"Ugadi\") [Kumbh Mela](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kumbh_Mela \"Kumbh Mela\") [Haridwar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Haridwar_Kumbh_Mela \"Haridwar Kumbh Mela\") [Nashik](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nashik-Trimbakeshwar_Simhastha \"Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha\") [Prayag](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prayag_Kumbh_Mela \"Prayag Kumbh Mela\") [Ujjain](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ujjain_Simhastha \"Ujjain Simhastha\") [Ratha Yatra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ratha_Yatra_\$Puri\$ \"Ratha Yatra (Puri)\") [Teej](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Teej \"Teej\") [Vasant Panchami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vasant_Panchami \"Vasant Panchami\") [Others](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Hindu_festivals \"Template:Hindu festivals\") |   |\n| Other | [Svādhyāya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sv%C4%81dhy%C4%81ya \"Svādhyāya\") [Namaste](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Namaste \"Namaste\") [Bindi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi_\$decoration\$ \"Bindi (decoration)\") [Tilaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tilaka \"Tilaka\") |   |\n| [Related](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Hinduism \"Portal:Hinduism\") | [Hindus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindus \"Hindus\") [Etymology](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindus#Etymology \"Hindus\") [List](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lists_of_Hindus \"Lists of Hindus\") [Denominations](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_denominations \"Hindu denominations\") [Law](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_law \"Hindu law\") [Calendar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar \"Hindu calendar\") [Anti-Hindu sentiment](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Anti-Hindu_sentiment \"Anti-Hindu sentiment\") [Criticism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Criticism_of_Hinduism \"Criticism of Hinduism\") [Hindu gurus and sants](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Hindu_gurus_and_sants \"List of Hindu gurus and sants\") [Hindu studies](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_studies \"Hindu studies\") [Iconography](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_iconography \"Hindu iconography\") [Mythology](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_mythology \"Hindu mythology\") [Nationalism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_nationalism \"Hindu nationalism\") [Hindutva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindutva \"Hindutva\") [Persecution](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Persecution_of_Hindus \"Persecution of Hindus\") [Pilgrimage sites](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_pilgrimage_sites \"Hindu pilgrimage sites\") [Bahi registers](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bahi_genealogy_registers \"Bahi genealogy registers\") [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_pilgrimage_sites_in_India \"Hindu pilgrimage sites in India\") [Relations with other religions](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_and_other_religions \"Hinduism and other religions\") [Baháʼí](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bah%C3%A1%CA%BC%C3%AD_Faith_and_Hinduism \"Baháʼí Faith and Hinduism\") [Buddhism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Buddhism_and_Hinduism \"Buddhism and Hinduism\") [Islam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu%E2%80%93Islamic_relations \"Hindu–Islamic relations\") [Jainism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jainism_and_Hinduism \"Jainism and Hinduism\") [Judaism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_and_Judaism \"Hinduism and Judaism\") [Sikhism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_and_Sikhism \"Hinduism and Sikhism\") [Theosophy](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_and_Theosophy \"Hinduism and Theosophy\") [Glossary](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Glossary_of_Hinduism_terms \"Glossary of Hinduism terms\") [Hinduism by country](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_by_country \"Hinduism by country\") [Hindu temples](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_temples \"Hindu temples\") [Lists](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lists_of_Hindu_temples \"Lists of Hindu temples\") [Architecture](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_temple_architecture \"Hindu temple architecture\") |   |\n| ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/4\/41\/Global_thinking.svg\/20px-Global_thinking.svg.png) [Outline](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Outline_of_Hinduism \"Outline of Hinduism\") ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/9\/96\/Symbol_category_class.svg\/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Category](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Hinduism \"Category:Hinduism\") [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/e\/e2\/Symbol_portal_class.svg\/20px-Symbol_portal_class.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Symbol_portal_class.svg \"Portal\") [Portal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Hinduism \"Portal:Hinduism\") ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/3\/37\/People_icon.svg\/20px-People_icon.svg.png) [WikiProject](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:WikiProject_Hinduism \"Wikipedia:WikiProject Hinduism\") |   |   |\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Hindu_festivals \"Template:Hindu festivals\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Hindu_festivals \"Template talk:Hindu festivals\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Hindu_festivals \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Hindu festivals\")[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/b\/b7\/Om_symbol.svg\/20px-Om_symbol.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism \"Hinduism\") [Festivals in the Hindu calendar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Hindu_festivals \"List of Hindu festivals\") |   |   |\n| Major festivals | [Ayudha Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayudha_Puja \"Ayudha Puja\") [Chhath](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chhath \"Chhath\") [Diwali]() [Durga Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga_Puja \"Durga Puja\") [Ganesh Chaturthi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesh_Chaturthi \"Ganesh Chaturthi\") [Holi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Holi \"Holi\") [Krishna Janmashtami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna_Janmashtami \"Krishna Janmashtami\") [Maha Shivaratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri \"Maha Shivaratri\") [Navaratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navaratri \"Navaratri\") [Rama Navami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rama_Navami \"Rama Navami\") [Thaipusam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thaipusam \"Thaipusam\") [Vijayadashami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vijayadashami \"Vijayadashami\") |   |\n| [Harvest festivals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Harvest_festival \"Harvest festival\") | [Bandna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bandna \"Bandna\") [Bhogi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhogi \"Bhogi\") [Lohri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lohri \"Lohri\") [Maghi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maghi \"Maghi\") [Maghe Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maghe_Sankranti \"Maghe Sankranti\") [Makar Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Makar_Sankranti \"Makar Sankranti\") [Onam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Onam \"Onam\") [Pongal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pongal_\$festival\$ \"Pongal (festival)\") [Kaanum Pongal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kaanum_Pongal \"Kaanum Pongal\") [Mattu Pongal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mattu_Pongal \"Mattu Pongal\") [Pusnâ](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pusn%C3%A2 \"Pusnâ\") [Sohrai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sohrai \"Sohrai\") |   |\n| [New year's days](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_New_Year%27s_days \"Indian New Year's days\") | [Balipratipada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balipratipada \"Balipratipada\") [Bohag Bihu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bohag_Bihu \"Bohag Bihu\") [Bisu Parba](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bisu_Parba \"Bisu Parba\") [Chaitra Navaratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navaratri#Chaitra_Navaratri \"Navaratri\") [Cheti Chand](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Cheti_Chand \"Cheti Chand\") [Gudi Padwa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gudi_Padwa \"Gudi Padwa\") [Mesha Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mesha_Sankranti \"Mesha Sankranti\") [Mha Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mha_Puja \"Mha Puja\") [Jur Sital](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jur_Sital \"Jur Sital\") [Navreh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navreh \"Navreh\") [Nyepi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nyepi \"Nyepi\") [Maha Bishuba Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Bishuba_Sankranti \"Maha Bishuba Sankranti\") [Pahela Baishakh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pahela_Baishakh \"Pahela Baishakh\") [Puthandu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puthandu \"Puthandu\") [Sajibu Nongma Panba](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sajibu_Nongma_Panba \"Sajibu Nongma Panba\") [Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sankranti \"Sankranti\") [Ugadi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ugadi \"Ugadi\") [Vaisakhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaisakhi \"Vaisakhi\") [Vishu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishu \"Vishu\") |   |\n| Other festivals | [Aadi Perukku](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aadi_Perukku \"Aadi Perukku\") [Balipratipada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balipratipada \"Balipratipada\") [Bhai Dooj](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhai_Dooj \"Bhai Dooj\") [Datta Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Datta_Jayanti \"Datta Jayanti\") [Dhanteras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dhanteras \"Dhanteras\") [Gaura Parva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gaura_\$festival\$ \"Gaura (festival)\") [Govardhan Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Govardhan_Puja \"Govardhan Puja\") [Gowri Habba](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gowri_Habba \"Gowri Habba\") [Hanuman Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman_Jayanti \"Hanuman Jayanti\") [Kali Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali_Puja \"Kali Puja\") [Karthika Deepam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karthika_Deepam \"Karthika Deepam\") [Karva Chauth](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karva_Chauth \"Karva Chauth\") [Kashmiri Hindu festivals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kashmiri_Hindu_festivals \"Kashmiri Hindu festivals\") [Lakshmi Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi_Puja \"Lakshmi Puja\") [Kumbh Mela](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kumbh_Mela \"Kumbh Mela\") [Mahalakshmi Vrata](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahalakshmi_Vrata \"Mahalakshmi Vrata\") [Mahamaham](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahamaham \"Mahamaham\") [Mha Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mha_Puja \"Mha Puja\") [Panguni Uthiram](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Panguni_Uthiram \"Panguni Uthiram\") [Pargat Diwas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pargat_Diwas \"Pargat Diwas\") [Raksha Bandhan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Raksha_Bandhan \"Raksha Bandhan\") [Ratha-Yatra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ratha-Yatra \"Ratha-Yatra\") [Savitri Vrata](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Savitri_Vrata \"Savitri Vrata\") [Surasamharam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Surasamharam \"Surasamharam\") [Swanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swanti_\$festival\$ \"Swanti (festival)\") [Teej](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Teej \"Teej\") [Tihar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tihar_\$festival\$ \"Tihar (festival)\") [Kukur Tihar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kukur_Tihar \"Kukur Tihar\") [Thiruvathira](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thiruvathira \"Thiruvathira\") [Tulasi Vivaha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tulasi_Vivaha \"Tulasi Vivaha\") [Vaikasi Visakam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaikasi_Visakam \"Vaikasi Visakam\") [Vishwakarma Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishwakarma_Puja \"Vishwakarma Puja\") |   |\n| Holy days | [Akshaya Tritiya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Akshaya_Tritiya \"Akshaya Tritiya\") [Amalaka Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Amalaka_Ekadashi \"Amalaka Ekadashi\") [Amavasya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Amavasya \"Amavasya\") [Ananta Chaturdashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ananta_Chaturdashi \"Ananta Chaturdashi\") [Ashadhi Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ashadhi_Ekadashi \"Ashadhi Ekadashi\") [Guru Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Purnima \"Guru Purnima\") [Kamada Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kamada_Ekadashi \"Kamada Ekadashi\") [Kartik Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kartik_Purnima \"Kartik Purnima\") [Naga Panchami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Naga_Panchami \"Naga Panchami\") [Naraka Chaturdashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Naraka_Chaturdashi \"Naraka Chaturdashi\") [Narali Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Narali_Purnima \"Narali Purnima\") [Nirjala Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nirjala_Ekadashi \"Nirjala Ekadashi\") [Pausha Putrada Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pausha_Putrada_Ekadashi \"Pausha Putrada Ekadashi\") [Prabodhini Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prabodhini_Ekadashi \"Prabodhini Ekadashi\") [Pradosha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pradosha \"Pradosha\") [Rishi Panchami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rishi_Panchami \"Rishi Panchami\") [Sankashti Chaturthi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sankashti_Chaturthi \"Sankashti Chaturthi\") [Sharad Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sharad_Purnima \"Sharad Purnima\") [Shayani Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shayani_Ekadashi \"Shayani Ekadashi\") [Shravana Putrada Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shravana_Putrada_Ekadashi \"Shravana Putrada Ekadashi\") [Vaikuntha Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaikuntha_Ekadashi \"Vaikuntha Ekadashi\") [Varuthini Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Varuthini_Ekadashi \"Varuthini Ekadashi\") [Vasant Panchami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vasant_Panchami \"Vasant Panchami\") [Vat Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vat_Purnima \"Vat Purnima\") |   |\n| [Balinese festivals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balinese_people \"Balinese people\") | [Galungan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Galungan \"Galungan\") [Nyepi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nyepi \"Nyepi\") |   |\n| Holy periods | [Chaturmasya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chaturmasya \"Chaturmasya\") [Dakshinayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dakshinayana \"Dakshinayana\") [Pitru Paksha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pitru_Paksha \"Pitru Paksha\") [Uttarayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Uttarayana \"Uttarayana\") |   |\n| ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/9\/96\/Symbol_category_class.svg\/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) **[Hindu festivals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Hindu_festivals \"Category:Hindu festivals\")** |   |   |\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Sindhi_festivals \"Template:Sindhi festivals\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Sindhi_festivals \"Template talk:Sindhi festivals\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Sindhi_festivals \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Sindhi festivals\")[Festivals in the Sindhi calendar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Sindhi_festivals \"List of Sindhi festivals\") |   |   |\n| Major festivals | [Sindhi Cultural Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sindhi_Cultural_Day \"Sindhi Cultural Day\") [Lal Loi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lal_Loi \"Lal Loi\") [Makar Sankrant](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Makar_Sankranti \"Makar Sankranti\") [Basant Panchmi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vasant_Panchami \"Vasant Panchami\") [Shivratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri \"Maha Shivaratri\") [Holi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Holi \"Holi\") Dhudiyo Ram Navami Akhan Teej Chaliho Starts [Guru Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Purnima \"Guru Purnima\") Guru Purnima Gogio - Nag Panchmi Chaliho Ends Rakhadi Teejadi Thadadi [Krishna Janmashtami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna_Janmashtami \"Krishna Janmashtami\") Janmashtami [Ganesh Chaturthi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesh_Chaturthi \"Ganesh Chaturthi\") Shradh Starts Mahalaxmi \\[Sagido Chhodinin\\] Shradh Ends [Navratra Starts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navratri \"Navratri\") [Navratra Ends](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navratri \"Navratri\") Dashero Dhan Teras Diyari - Laxmi Pooja Gop Ashtami Guru Nanak Jayanti Geeta Jayanti [Diyarri]() [Krishna Janmashtami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna_Janmashtami \"Krishna Janmashtami\") [Maha Shivaratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri \"Maha Shivaratri\") [Makar Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Makar_Sankranti \"Makar Sankranti\") [Navratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navratri \"Navratri\") [Hanuman Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman_Jayanti \"Hanuman Jayanti\") |   |\n| [Sindhi New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_New_Year%27s_days \"Indian New Year's days\") | [Chetri Chand](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Cheti_Chand \"Cheti Chand\") |   |\n| Literary Events | [Sindh Literature Festival](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sindh_Literature_Festival \"Sindh Literature Festival\") [Hyderabad Literary Festival](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hyderabad_Literature_Festival,_Pakistan \"Hyderabad Literature Festival, Pakistan\") |   |\n| Holy days | Sindhi Muslims Holidays [Eid al-Fitr](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Fitr \"Eid al-Fitr\") [Eid al-Adha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Adha \"Eid al-Adha\") |   |\n| Lists | [List of Sindhi festivals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Sindhi_festivals \"List of Sindhi festivals\") |   |\n| ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/9\/96\/Symbol_category_class.svg\/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Sindhi Culture](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Sindhi_culture \"Category:Sindhi culture\") ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/9\/96\/Symbol_category_class.svg\/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Sindhi festivals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Sindhi_festivals \"Category:Sindhi festivals\") ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/9\/96\/Symbol_category_class.svg\/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Sindhi Hindu festivals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Hindu_festivals \"Category:Hindu festivals\") |   |   |\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Asia_topic \"Template:Asia topic\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Asia_topic \"Template talk:Asia topic\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Asia_topic \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Asia topic\")Public holidays in Asia |   |   |\n| [Sovereign states](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_sovereign_states \"List of sovereign states\") | [Afghanistan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Afghanistan \"Public holidays in Afghanistan\") [Armenia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Armenia \"Public holidays in Armenia\") [Azerbaijan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Azerbaijan \"Public holidays in Azerbaijan\") [Bahrain](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Bahrain \"Public holidays in Bahrain\") [Bangladesh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Bangladesh \"Public holidays in Bangladesh\") [Bhutan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Bhutan \"Public holidays in Bhutan\") [Brunei](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Brunei \"Public holidays in Brunei\") [Cambodia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Cambodia \"Public holidays in Cambodia\") [China](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_China \"Public holidays in China\") [Cyprus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Cyprus \"Public holidays in Cyprus\") [Egypt](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Egypt \"Public holidays in Egypt\") [Georgia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Georgia_\$country\$ \"Public holidays in Georgia (country)\") [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_India \"Public holidays in India\") [Indonesia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Indonesia \"Public holidays in Indonesia\") [Iran](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Iran \"Public holidays in Iran\") [Iraq](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Iraq \"Public holidays in Iraq\") [Israel](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Israel \"Public holidays in Israel\") [Japan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Japan \"Public holidays in Japan\") [Jordan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Jordan \"Public holidays in Jordan\") [Kazakhstan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Kazakhstan \"Public holidays in Kazakhstan\") [North Korea](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_North_Korea \"Public holidays in North Korea\") [South Korea](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_South_Korea \"Public holidays in South Korea\") [Kuwait](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Kuwait \"Public holidays in Kuwait\") [Kyrgyzstan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Kyrgyzstan \"Public holidays in Kyrgyzstan\") [Laos](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Laos \"Public holidays in Laos\") [Lebanon](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Lebanon \"Public holidays in Lebanon\") [Malaysia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Malaysia \"Public holidays in Malaysia\") [Maldives](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_the_Maldives \"Public holidays in the Maldives\") [Mongolia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Mongolia \"Public holidays in Mongolia\") [Myanmar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Myanmar \"Public holidays in Myanmar\") [Nepal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Nepal \"Public holidays in Nepal\") [Oman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Oman \"Public holidays in Oman\") [Palestine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Palestine \"Public holidays in Palestine\") [Pakistan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Pakistan \"Public holidays in Pakistan\") [Philippines](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_the_Philippines \"Public holidays in the Philippines\") [Qatar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Qatar \"Public holidays in Qatar\") [Russia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Russia \"Public holidays in Russia\") [Saudi Arabia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Saudi_Arabia \"Public holidays in Saudi Arabia\") [Singapore](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Singapore \"Public holidays in Singapore\") [Sri Lanka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Sri_Lanka \"Public holidays in Sri Lanka\") [Syria](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Syria \"Public holidays in Syria\") [Tajikistan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Tajikistan \"Public holidays in Tajikistan\") [Thailand](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Thailand \"Public holidays in Thailand\") [Timor-Leste (East Timor)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Timor-Leste \"Public holidays in Timor-Leste\") [Turkey](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Turkey \"Public holidays in Turkey\") [Turkmenistan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Turkmenistan \"Public holidays in Turkmenistan\") [United Arab Emirates](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_the_United_Arab_Emirates \"Public holidays in the United Arab Emirates\") [Uzbekistan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Uzbekistan \"Public holidays in Uzbekistan\") [Vietnam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Vietnam \"Public holidays in Vietnam\") [Yemen](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Yemen \"Public holidays in Yemen\") |   |\n| [States with limited recognition](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_states_with_limited_recognition \"List of states with limited recognition\") | [Abkhazia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Abkhazia \"Public holidays in Abkhazia\") [Northern Cyprus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Northern_Cyprus \"Public holidays in Northern Cyprus\") [South Ossetia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_South_Ossetia \"Public holidays in South Ossetia\") [Taiwan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Taiwan \"Public holidays in Taiwan\") |   |\n| [Dependencies](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dependent_territory \"Dependent territory\") and other territories | [British Indian Ocean Territory](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_the_British_Indian_Ocean_Territory \"Public holidays in the British Indian Ocean Territory\") [Christmas Island](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Christmas_Island \"Public holidays in Christmas Island\") [Cocos (Keeling) Islands](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_the_Cocos_\$Keeling\$_Islands \"Public holidays in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands\") [Hong Kong](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Hong_Kong \"Public holidays in Hong Kong\") [Macau](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Macau \"Public holidays in Macau\") |   |\n| ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/9\/96\/Symbol_category_class.svg\/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Category](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Asia \"Category:Asia\") [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/e\/e2\/Symbol_portal_class.svg\/20px-Symbol_portal_class.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Symbol_portal_class.svg \"Portal\") [Asia portal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Asia \"Portal:Asia\") |   |   |\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Public_holidays_in_India \"Template:Public holidays in India\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Public_holidays_in_India \"Template talk:Public holidays in India\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Public_holidays_in_India \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Public holidays in India\")[![India](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/4\/41\/Flag_of_India.svg\/40px-Flag_of_India.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India \"India\") [Public holidays in India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_India \"Public holidays in India\") |   |   |\n| National holidays | [Republic Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Republic_Day_\$India\$ \"Republic Day (India)\") [Independence Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Independence_Day_\$India\$ \"Independence Day (India)\") [Gandhi Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gandhi_Jayanti \"Gandhi Jayanti\") |   |\n| Central holidays | [Buddha Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Buddha%27s_Birthday \"Buddha's Birthday\") [Christmas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Christmas \"Christmas\") [Dussehra (Vijayadashami)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vijayadashami \"Vijayadashami\") [Diwali]() [Good Friday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Good_Friday \"Good Friday\") [Guru Nanak's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Nanak_Gurpurab \"Guru Nanak Gurpurab\") [Eid ul-Fitr](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_ul-Fitr \"Eid ul-Fitr\") [Eid-ul Zuha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Adha \"Eid al-Adha\") [Mahavir Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahavir_Janma_Kalyanak \"Mahavir Janma Kalyanak\") [Muharram](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ashura \"Ashura\") [Prophet Mohammad's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mawlid \"Mawlid\") |   |\n| State holidays (differ by states) |   |   |\n|   |   |   |\n| [Harvest festival](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Harvest_festival \"Harvest festival\") | [Bhogi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhogi \"Bhogi\") [Chapchar Kut](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chapchar_Kut \"Chapchar Kut\") [Kati Bihu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bihu \"Bihu\") [Lohri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lohri \"Lohri\") [Magh Bihu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Magh_Bihu \"Magh Bihu\") [Maghi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maghi \"Maghi\") [Makar Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Makar_Sankranti \"Makar Sankranti\") [Onam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Onam \"Onam\") [Pongal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pongal_\$festival\$ \"Pongal (festival)\") [Kaanum Pongal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kaanum_Pongal \"Kaanum Pongal\") [Mattu Pongal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mattu_Pongal \"Mattu Pongal\") [Thiruvonam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Onam \"Onam\") [Wangala](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wangala \"Wangala\") |   |\n| [New year's days](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/New_Year%27s_Day \"New Year's Day\") | [Bohag Bihu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bohag_Bihu \"Bohag Bihu\") [Cheiraoba](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Cheiraoba \"Cheiraoba\") [Gudi Padwa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gudi_Padwa \"Gudi Padwa\") [Losoong](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Losoong_Festival \"Losoong Festival\") [Losar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Losar \"Losar\") [Nauroz](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nauroz \"Nauroz\") [New Year's Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/New_Year%27s_Day \"New Year's Day\") [New Year's Eve](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/New_Year%27s_Eve \"New Year's Eve\") [Pana Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pana_Sankranti \"Pana Sankranti\") [Parsi New Year Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pateti \"Pateti\") [Pohela Boishakh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pohela_Boishakh \"Pohela Boishakh\") [Puthandu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puthandu \"Puthandu\") [Sajibu Nongma Panba](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sajibu_Nongma_Panba \"Sajibu Nongma Panba\") [Sarhul](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sarhul \"Sarhul\") [Ugadi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ugadi \"Ugadi\") [Vaisakhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaisakhi \"Vaisakhi\") [Vishu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishu \"Vishu\") [Vikram Samvant](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vikram_Samvant \"Vikram Samvant\") |   |\n| [State days](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Indian_state_days \"List of Indian state days\") | [Arunachal Pradesh Statehood Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Arunachal_Pradesh_Statehood_Day \"Arunachal Pradesh Statehood Day\") [Asom Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sukaphaa \"Sukaphaa\") [Bihar Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bihar_Day \"Bihar Day\") [Chhattisgarh Rajyotsava](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chhattisgarh_Rajyotsava \"Chhattisgarh Rajyotsava\") [Goa Liberation Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Goa_Liberation_Day \"Goa Liberation Day\") [Gujarat Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gujarat_Day \"Gujarat Day\") [Haryana Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Haryana_Day \"Haryana Day\") [Himachal Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Indian_state_days \"List of Indian state days\") [Jammu and Kashmir Accession day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Accession_Day_\$Jammu_and_Kashmir\$ \"Accession Day (Jammu and Kashmir)\") [Kannada Rajyothsava](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kannada_Rajyothsava \"Kannada Rajyothsava\") [Maharashtra Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maharashtra_Day \"Maharashtra Day\") [Mizoram State Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Indian_state_days \"List of Indian state days\") [Nagaland State Inauguration Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Indian_state_days \"List of Indian state days\") [Odisha Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Odisha_Day \"Odisha Day\") [Puducherry De Jure Transfer Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Indian_state_days \"List of Indian state days\") [Puducherry Liberation Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Indian_state_days \"List of Indian state days\") [Sikkim State Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sikkim_State_Day \"Sikkim State Day\") [Telangana Formation Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Telangana_Formation_Day \"Telangana Formation Day\") |   |\n| Birth and anniversary days | [Ambedkar Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ambedkar_Jayanti \"Ambedkar Jayanti\") [Babu Jag Jivan Ram's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jagjivan_Ram \"Jagjivan Ram\") [Basava Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Basava \"Basava\") [Bhanu Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhanu_Jayanti \"Bhanu Jayanti\") [Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiv_Jayanti \"Shiv Jayanti\") [Guru Ghasidas Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Ghasidas \"Guru Ghasidas\") [Guru Ravidass Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Ravidass_Jayanti \"Guru Ravidass Jayanti\") [Heroes' Martyrdom Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Martyrs%27_Day_\$India\$ \"Martyrs' Day (India)\") [Janmotsav](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sankardev \"Sankardev\") [Kabir Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kabir_Jayanti \"Kabir Jayanti\") [Kanakadasa Jayanthi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kanakadasa_Jayanthi \"Kanakadasa Jayanthi\") [Kazi Nazrul Islam Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nazrul_Jayanti \"Nazrul Jayanti\") [Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Agrasen \"Agrasen\") [Maharaja Hari Singh Ji's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hari_Singh \"Hari Singh\") [Maharana Pratap Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pratap_Jayanti \"Pratap Jayanti\") [Martyrs' Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Martyrs%27_Day_\$India\$ \"Martyrs' Day (India)\") [Netaji's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Netaji \"Netaji\") [Pa Togan Sangma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pa_Togan_Sangma \"Pa Togan Sangma\") [Rabindranath Tagore's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rabindranath_Tagore \"Rabindranath Tagore\") [Ramdev Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramdev_Pir \"Ramdev Pir\") [Shaheed Udham Singh Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Udham_Singh \"Udham Singh\") [Shaheedi Diwas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Martyrs%27_Day_\$India\$ \"Martyrs' Day (India)\") [Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vallabhbhai_Patel \"Vallabhbhai Patel\") [Sree Narayana Guru Jayanthi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sree_Narayana_Guru_Jayanthi \"Sree Narayana Guru Jayanthi\") [Sree Narayana Guru Samadhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sree_Narayana_Guru_Samadhi \"Sree Narayana Guru Samadhi\") [Swami Vivekananda's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swami_Vivekananda \"Swami Vivekananda\") [Thiruvalluvar Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thiruvalluvar_Day \"Thiruvalluvar Day\") [U Soso Tham Death Anniversary](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Khasi_language \"Khasi language\") [U Kiang Nangbah](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/U_Kiang_Nangbah \"U Kiang Nangbah\") [U Tirot Sing Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/U_Tirot_Sing \"U Tirot Sing\") |   |\n| Religious festivals |   |   |\n|   |   |   |\n| [Hindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Hindu_festivals \"List of Hindu festivals\") | [Akshaya Tritiya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Akshaya_Tritiya \"Akshaya Tritiya\") [Ayudha Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayudha_Puja \"Ayudha Puja\") [Bathukamma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bathukamma \"Bathukamma\") [Bhai Dooj](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhai_Dooj \"Bhai Dooj\") [Bonalu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bonalu \"Bonalu\") [Chhath](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chhath \"Chhath\") [Egas Bagwal]() [Dol Jatra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dol_Jatra \"Dol Jatra\") [Durga Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga_Puja \"Durga Puja\") [Ganesh Chaturthi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesh_Chaturthi \"Ganesh Chaturthi\") [Garia Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Garia_puja \"Garia puja\") [Ghatasthapana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navratri \"Navratri\") [Govardhan Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Govardhan_Puja \"Govardhan Puja\") [Hanuman Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman_Jayanti \"Hanuman Jayanti\") [Hartalika Teej](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Teej \"Teej\") [Haryali Teej](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Teej \"Teej\") [Holi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Holi \"Holi\") [Holika Dahan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Holika_Dahan \"Holika Dahan\") [Jhulan Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jhulan_Purnima \"Jhulan Purnima\") [Kali Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali_Puja \"Kali Puja\") [Kartika Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kartika_Purnima \"Kartika Purnima\") [Ker Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ker_puja \"Ker puja\") [Kharchi Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kharchi_puja \"Kharchi puja\") [Krishna Janmashtami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna_Janmashtami \"Krishna Janmashtami\") [Lakshmi Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi_Puja \"Lakshmi Puja\") [Maha Ashtami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ashtami \"Ashtami\") [Maha Navami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_navami \"Maha navami\") [Maha Saptami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saptami \"Saptami\") [Maha Shivaratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri \"Maha Shivaratri\") [Mahalaya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahalaya \"Mahalaya\") [Maharshi Parasuram Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Parashurama \"Parashurama\") [Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sharad_Purnima#Valmiki_Jayanti \"Sharad Purnima\") [Nag Panchami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nag_Panchami \"Nag Panchami\") [Navratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navaratri#Chaitra_Navaratri \"Navaratri\") [Raja Parba](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Raja_Parba \"Raja Parba\") [Raksha Bandhan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Raksha_Bandhan \"Raksha Bandhan\") [Ram Navami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ram_Navami \"Ram Navami\") [Rath Jatra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rath_Jatra \"Rath Jatra\") [Ratha Saptami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ratha_Saptami \"Ratha Saptami\") [Rahasa Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sharad_Purnima \"Sharad Purnima\") [Teja Dashmi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dashami \"Dashami\") [Thaipusam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thaipusam \"Thaipusam\") [Vasant Panchami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vasant_Panchami \"Vasant Panchami\") [Vishwakarma day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishwakarma_day \"Vishwakarma day\") |   |\n| [Buddhist](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Buddhist_festivals \"List of Buddhist festivals\") | [Dosmoche](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dosmoche \"Dosmoche\") [Drupka Teshi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Drupka_Teshi \"Drupka Teshi\") [Lhabab Duchen](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lhabab_Duchen \"Lhabab Duchen\") [Pang-Lhabsol](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kagyed \"Kagyed\") |   |\n| [Muslim](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Muslim_festivals \"Muslim festivals\") | [Chehlum](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chehlum \"Chehlum\") [Jumat-ul-Vida](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jumu%27atul-Wida \"Jumu'atul-Wida\") [Mohm Hajarat Ali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ali \"Ali\") [Shab-I-Qadr](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Night_of_Power \"Night of Power\") |   |\n| [Christian](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Christian_festivals \"Christian festivals\") | [Easter](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Easter \"Easter\") [Feast of St. Francis Xavier](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Culture_of_Goa \"Culture of Goa\") [Missionary Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/History_of_Christianity_in_Mizoram \"History of Christianity in Mizoram\") |   |\n| [Sikh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sikhism \"Sikhism\") | [Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Gobind_Singh \"Guru Gobind Singh\") [Guru Hargobind Ji's birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Hargobind \"Guru Hargobind\") [Parkash Utsav Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Granth_Sahib \"Guru Granth Sahib\") [Sri Guru Arjun Dev Ji's Martyrdom Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Arjun_Dev \"Guru Arjun Dev\") [Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji's Martyrdom Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Teg_Bahadur \"Guru Teg Bahadur\") |   |\n| [Jain](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jain_festivals \"Jain festivals\") | [Samvatsari](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samvatsari \"Samvatsari\") |   |\n| [Indigeneous](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indigenous_people_of_India \"Indigenous people of India\") | [Behdienkhlam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Behdienkhlam \"Behdienkhlam\") [Indigenous Faith Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Donyi-Polo \"Donyi-Polo\") [Gaan-Ngai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gaan-Ngai \"Gaan-Ngai\") [Imoinu Iratpa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Imoinu_Iratpa \"Imoinu Iratpa\") [Indrajatra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indrajatra \"Indrajatra\") [Lui Ngai Ni](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lui_Ngai_Ni \"Lui Ngai Ni\") [Me-Dam-Me-Phi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Me-Dam-Me-Phi \"Me-Dam-Me-Phi\") [Ningol Chakouba](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ningol_Chakouba \"Ningol Chakouba\") [Nuakhai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nuakhai \"Nuakhai\") [Tendong Lho Rumfaat](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tendong_Lho_Rumfaat \"Tendong Lho Rumfaat\") [Yaosang](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yaosang \"Yaosang\") |   |\n| Others | [May Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/International_Workers%27_Day \"International Workers' Day\") [MHIP day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mizo_Hmeichhe_Insuihkhawm_Pawl \"Mizo Hmeichhe Insuihkhawm Pawl\") [Remna Ni](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mizoram_Peace_Accord \"Mizoram Peace Accord\") [Panchayatiraj Divas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Panchayati_Raj_Day \"National Panchayati Raj Day\") [Patriot's day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Anglo-Manipur_War#Legacy \"Anglo-Manipur War\") [Seng Kut Snem](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Seng_Khasi_Movement \"Seng Khasi Movement\") [YMA Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Young_Mizo_Association \"Young Mizo Association\") |   |\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Public_holidays_in_Malaysia \"Template:Public holidays in Malaysia\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Public_holidays_in_Malaysia \"Template talk:Public holidays in Malaysia\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Public_holidays_in_Malaysia \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Public holidays in Malaysia\")[![Malaysia](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/6\/66\/Flag_of_Malaysia.svg\/40px-Flag_of_Malaysia.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Malaysia \"Malaysia\") [Public holidays in Malaysia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Malaysia \"Public holidays in Malaysia\") |   |   |\n| National holidays | [Chinese New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chinese_New_Year \"Chinese New Year\") [Labour Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Labour_Day \"Labour Day\") [Wesak Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vesak \"Vesak\") [Eid al-Fitr](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Fitr \"Eid al-Fitr\") [Eid al-Adha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Adha \"Eid al-Adha\") [Islamic New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Islamic_New_Year \"Islamic New Year\") [Merdeka Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Independence_Day_\$Malaysia\$ \"Independence Day (Malaysia)\") [Muharram](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Muharram \"Muharram\") [Agong's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yang_di-Pertuan_Agong \"Yang di-Pertuan Agong\") [Malaysia Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Malaysia_Day \"Malaysia Day\") [Muhammad's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Muhammad \"Muhammad\") [Christmas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Christmas \"Christmas\") |   |\n| State holidays (differ by states) | [New Year's Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/New_Year%27s_Day \"New Year's Day\") [Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sembilan's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yang_di-Pertuan_Besar_of_Negeri_Sembilan \"Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan\") [Sultan of Kedah's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sultan_of_Kedah \"Sultan of Kedah\") [Thaipusam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thaipusam \"Thaipusam\") [Federal Territory Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Federal_Territory_Day \"Federal Territory Day\") [Anniversary of Installation of the Sultan of Terengganu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sultan_of_Terengganu \"Sultan of Terengganu\") [Sultan of Johor's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sultan_of_Johor \"Sultan of Johor\") [Isra and Mi'raj](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Isra_and_Mi%27raj \"Isra and Mi'raj\") [Declaration of Malacca City as Historical City](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Malacca_City \"Malacca City\") [Good Friday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Good_Friday \"Good Friday\") [Sultan of Terengganu's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sultan_of_Terengganu \"Sultan of Terengganu\") [First Day of Ramadan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramadan \"Ramadan\") [Day of Nuzul Al-Quran](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/History_of_the_Quran \"History of the Quran\") [Tadau Kaamatan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kaamatan \"Kaamatan\") [Gawai Dayak](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gawai_Dayak \"Gawai Dayak\") [Declaration of George Town as World Heritage Site](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/George_Town,_Penang#History \"George Town, Penang\") [Penang State Governor's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Governor_of_Penang \"Governor of Penang\") [Raja of Perlis's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Raja_of_Perlis \"Raja of Perlis\") [Sarawak Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sarawak_Day \"Sarawak Day\") [Hol Day of Sultan Iskandar of Johor](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sultan_Iskandar_of_Johor \"Sultan Iskandar of Johor\") [Sabah State Governor's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Governor_of_Sabah \"Governor of Sabah\") [Malacca State Governor's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Governor_of_Malacca \"Governor of Malacca\") [Sarawak State Governor's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Yang_di-Pertua_Negeri_of_Sarawak \"List of Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak\") [Sultan of Pahang's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sultan_of_Pahang \"Sultan of Pahang\") [Deepavali]() [Sultan of Perak's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sultan_of_Perak \"Sultan of Perak\") [Sultan of Kelantan's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sultan_of_Kelantan \"Sultan of Kelantan\") [Sultan of Selangor's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sultan_of_Selangor \"Sultan of Selangor\") [Christmas Eve](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Christmas_Eve \"Christmas Eve\") |   |\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Public_holidays_in_Myanmar \"Template:Public holidays in Myanmar\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Public_holidays_in_Myanmar \"Template talk:Public holidays in Myanmar\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Public_holidays_in_Myanmar \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Public holidays in Myanmar\")![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/8\/8c\/Flag_of_Myanmar.svg\/40px-Flag_of_Myanmar.svg.png) [Public holidays in Myanmar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Myanmar \"Public holidays in Myanmar\") |   |   |\n| National holidays | [New Year's Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/New_Year%27s_Day \"New Year's Day\") [Independence Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Independence_Day_\$Myanmar\$ \"Independence Day (Myanmar)\") [Union Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Union_Day_\$Myanmar\$ \"Union Day (Myanmar)\") [Peasants' Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Peasants%27_Day \"Peasants' Day\") [Full Moon Day of Tabaung](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/M%C4%81gha_P%C5%ABj%C4%81 \"Māgha Pūjā\") [Armed Forces Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Armed_Forces_Day_\$Myanmar\$ \"Armed Forces Day (Myanmar)\") [Thingyan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thingyan \"Thingyan\") [Labour Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Labour_Day \"Labour Day\") [Full Moon Day of Kason](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vesak \"Vesak\") [Martyrs' Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Martyrs%27_Day_\$Myanmar\$ \"Martyrs' Day (Myanmar)\") [Full Moon Day of Kason](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vassa \"Vassa\") [Full Moon Day of Thadingyut](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thadingyut \"Thadingyut\") [Full Moon Day of Tazaungmon](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tazaungmon \"Tazaungmon\") [National Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Day_\$Myanmar\$ \"National Day (Myanmar)\") [Christmas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Christmas \"Christmas\") [Eid al-Adha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Adha \"Eid al-Adha\") [Diwali]() |   |\n| **![flag](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/8\/8c\/Flag_of_Myanmar.svg\/20px-Flag_of_Myanmar.svg.png) [Myanmar portal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Myanmar \"Portal:Myanmar\")** |   |   |\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Nepal_Holidays \"Template:Nepal Holidays\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Nepal_Holidays \"Template talk:Nepal Holidays\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Nepal_Holidays \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Nepal Holidays\")[![Nepal](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/9\/9b\/Flag_of_Nepal.svg\/20px-Flag_of_Nepal.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nepal \"Nepal\") [Public holidays in Nepal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Nepal \"Public holidays in Nepal\") |   |   |\n| [Maghe Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maghe_Sankranti \"Maghe Sankranti\") [Nepal Sambat](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nepal_Sambat \"Nepal Sambat\") [Shahid Diwas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Shahid_Diwas&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Shahid Diwas (page does not exist)\") [Sonam Lhosar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sonam_Lhosar \"Sonam Lhosar\") [Saraswati Puja (Vasant Panchami)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vasant_Panchami \"Vasant Panchami\") [Prajatantra Diwas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Prajatantra_Diwas&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Prajatantra Diwas (page does not exist)\") [Gyalpo Lhosar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gyalpo_Lhosar \"Gyalpo Lhosar\") [Maha Shivaratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri \"Maha Shivaratri\") [Nari Diwas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Nari_Diwas&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Nari Diwas (page does not exist)\") [Fagu Purnima (Holi)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Holi \"Holi\") [Ghode Jatra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ghode_Jatra \"Ghode Jatra\") [Ram Nawami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ram_Nawami \"Ram Nawami\") [Nepali New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nepali_New_Year \"Nepali New Year\") [Majdur Diwas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Majdur_Diwas&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Majdur Diwas (page does not exist)\") [Buddha Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Buddha_Jayanti \"Buddha Jayanti\") [Ganatantra Diwas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Ganatantra_Diwas&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Ganatantra Diwas (page does not exist)\") [Ramadan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramadan \"Ramadan\") [Janai Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Janai_Purnima \"Janai Purnima\") and [Raksha Bandhan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Raksha_Bandhan \"Raksha Bandhan\") [Gaijatra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gaijatra \"Gaijatra\") [Gaura Parwa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Gaura_Parwa&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Gaura Parwa (page does not exist)\") [Krishna Janmashtami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna_Janmashtami \"Krishna Janmashtami\") [Baqri Id](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Baqri_Id \"Baqri Id\") [Teej](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Teej \"Teej\") [Rishi Panchami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rishi_Panchami \"Rishi Panchami\") [Indra Jatra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indra_Jatra \"Indra Jatra\") [Sambidhaan Diwas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Sambidhaan_Diwas&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Sambidhaan Diwas (page does not exist)\") [Ghatasthapana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Ghatasthapana&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Ghatasthapana (page does not exist)\") [Fulpati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Fulpati&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Fulpati (page does not exist)\") [Maha Asthami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Asthami&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Maha Asthami (page does not exist)\") [Maha Navami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Navami&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Maha Navami (page does not exist)\") [Bijaya Dashami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bijaya_Dashami \"Bijaya Dashami\") [Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ekadashi \"Ekadashi\") [Duwadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Duwadashi&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Duwadashi (page does not exist)\") [Kojagrat Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Kojagrat_Purnima&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Kojagrat Purnima (page does not exist)\") [Laxmi Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Laxmi_Puja&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Laxmi Puja (page does not exist)\") [Mha Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mha_Puja \"Mha Puja\") and [Govardhan Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Govardhan_Puja \"Govardhan Puja\") [Bhaitika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bhaitika&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Bhaitika (page does not exist)\") [Chhath Parwa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Chhath_Parwa&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Chhath Parwa (page does not exist)\") [Yomari Punhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yomari_Punhi \"Yomari Punhi\") and [Jyapu Diwas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Jyapu_Diwas&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Jyapu Diwas (page does not exist)\") [Christmas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Christmas \"Christmas\") [Tamu Lhosar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tamu_Lhosar \"Tamu Lhosar\") |   |   |\n| ![flag](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/9\/9b\/Flag_of_Nepal.svg\/20px-Flag_of_Nepal.svg.png) [Nepal portal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Nepal \"Portal:Nepal\") |   |   |\n| [![Singapore](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/4\/48\/Flag_of_Singapore.svg\/40px-Flag_of_Singapore.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Singapore \"Singapore\") [Public holidays in Singapore](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Singapore \"Public holidays in Singapore\") |   |   |\n| National holidays (fixed) | [New Year's Day (1 January)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/New_Year%27s_Day \"New Year's Day\") [Labour Day (1 May)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Labour_Day \"Labour Day\") [National Day (9 August)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Day_\$Singapore\$ \"National Day (Singapore)\") [Christmas Day (25 December)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Christmas \"Christmas\") | [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/9\/99\/Flag_map_of_Singapore.svg\/250px-Flag_map_of_Singapore.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Singapore \"Singapore\") |\n| National holidays (moveable) | [Chinese New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chinese_New_Year \"Chinese New Year\") (2 days) [Good Friday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Good_Friday \"Good Friday\") [Vesak Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vesak \"Vesak\") [Hari Raya Puasa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Fitr \"Eid al-Fitr\") [Hari Raya Haji](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Adha \"Eid al-Adha\") [Deepavali]() |   |\n| Removed holidays | [Thaipusam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thaipusam \"Thaipusam\") [Easter Monday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Easter_Monday \"Easter Monday\") [Holy Saturday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Holy_Saturday \"Holy Saturday\") [Boxing Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Boxing_Day \"Boxing Day\") [Birthday of Prophet Mohamed](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Birthday_of_Prophet_Mohamed \"Birthday of Prophet Mohamed\") [Second day of Hari Raya Puasa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Fitr \"Eid al-Fitr\") |   |\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Public_holidays_in_Sri_Lanka \"Template:Public holidays in Sri Lanka\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Public_holidays_in_Sri_Lanka \"Template talk:Public holidays in Sri Lanka\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Public_holidays_in_Sri_Lanka \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Public holidays in Sri Lanka\")![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/1\/11\/Flag_of_Sri_Lanka.svg\/40px-Flag_of_Sri_Lanka.svg.png) [Public holidays in Sri Lanka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Sri_Lanka \"Public holidays in Sri Lanka\") |   |   |\n| Jan–Mar | [Thai Pongal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thai_Pongal \"Thai Pongal\") [Duruthu Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Duruthu_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Duruthu Poya Day (page does not exist)\") [Independence Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Independence_Day_\$Sri_Lanka\$ \"Independence Day (Sri Lanka)\") [Navam Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navam_Poya_Day \"Navam Poya Day\") [Maha Shivratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivratri \"Maha Shivratri\") [Madin Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Madin_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Madin Poya Day (page does not exist)\") |   |\n| Apr–Jun | Sinhala and Tamil New Year Day eve [Sinhalese New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sinhalese_New_Year \"Sinhalese New Year\")\/[Tamil New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tamil_New_Year \"Tamil New Year\") [Bak Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bak_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Bak Poya Day (page does not exist)\") [Good Friday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Good_Friday \"Good Friday\") [May Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/International_Workers%27_Day \"International Workers' Day\") [Vesak Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vesak \"Vesak\") Day following Vesak Poya Day [Id-Ul-Fitr (Ramazan Festival Day)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Fitr \"Eid al-Fitr\") [Poson](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Poson \"Poson\") |   |\n| Jul–Sep | [Esala Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Esala_Poya_Day \"Esala Poya Day\") [Id-Ul-Alha (Hadji Festival Day)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Adha \"Eid al-Adha\") [Nikini Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Nikini_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Nikini Poya Day (page does not exist)\") [Binara Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Binara_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Binara Poya Day (page does not exist)\") |   |\n| Oct–Dec | [Vap Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Vap_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Vap Poya Day (page does not exist)\") [Deepavali Festival Day]() [Milad-Un-Nabi (Holy Prophet’s Birthday)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mawlid \"Mawlid\") [Ill Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Ill_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Ill Poya Day (page does not exist)\") [Unduvap Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Unduvap_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Unduvap Poya Day (page does not exist)\") [Christmas Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Christmas \"Christmas\") |   |\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Public_holidays_in_Trinidad_and_Tobago \"Template:Public holidays in Trinidad and Tobago\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Public_holidays_in_Trinidad_and_Tobago \"Template talk:Public holidays in Trinidad and Tobago\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Public_holidays_in_Trinidad_and_Tobago \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Public holidays in Trinidad and Tobago\")[![Trinidad and Tobago](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/6\/64\/Flag_of_Trinidad_and_Tobago.svg\/40px-Flag_of_Trinidad_and_Tobago.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Trinidad_and_Tobago \"Trinidad and Tobago\") [Public holidays in Trinidad and Tobago](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Trinidad_and_Tobago \"Public holidays in Trinidad and Tobago\") |   |   |\n| Official holidays | [New Year's Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/New_Year%27s_Day \"New Year's Day\") [Spiritual Baptist\/Shouter Liberation Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Spiritual_Baptist\/Shouter_Liberation_Day \"Spiritual Baptist\/Shouter Liberation Day\") [Good Friday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Good_Friday \"Good Friday\") [Easter](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Easter \"Easter\") [Easter Monday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Easter_Monday \"Easter Monday\") [Indian Arrival Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_Arrival_Day \"Indian Arrival Day\") [Corpus Christi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Corpus_Christi_\$feast\$ \"Corpus Christi (feast)\") [Labour Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Labour_Day \"Labour Day\") [Emancipation Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Emancipation_Day \"Emancipation Day\") [Independence Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Independence_Day \"Independence Day\") [Republic Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Republic_Day \"Republic Day\") [Diwali]() [Christmas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Christmas \"Christmas\") [Boxing Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Boxing_Day \"Boxing Day\") [Eid al-Fitr](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Fitr \"Eid al-Fitr\") | [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/8\/8b\/Flag-map_of_Trinidad_and_Tobago.svg\/250px-Flag-map_of_Trinidad_and_Tobago.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Trinidad_and_Tobago \"Trinidad and Tobago\") |\n| Other holidays | [All Hallows' Eve](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/All_Hallows%27_Eve \"All Hallows' Eve\") [All Saints' Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/All_Saints%27_Day \"All Saints' Day\") [All Souls' Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/All_Souls%27_Day \"All Souls' Day\") [Ash Wednesday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ash_Wednesday \"Ash Wednesday\") [Ashura](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ashura \"Ashura\")\/[Hosay](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hosay \"Hosay\") [Carnival](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Trinidad_and_Tobago_Carnival \"Trinidad and Tobago Carnival\") [Chinese New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chinese_New_Year \"Chinese New Year\") [Chhath](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chhath \"Chhath\") [Dashahara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dashahara \"Dashahara\") [Eid al-Adha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Adha \"Eid al-Adha\") [Epiphany (Three Kings' Day)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Epiphany_\$holiday\$ \"Epiphany (holiday)\") [Ganesh Chaturthi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesh_Chaturthi \"Ganesh Chaturthi\") [Good Friday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Good_Friday \"Good Friday\") [Guru Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Purnima \"Guru Purnima\") [Hanuman Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman_Jayanti \"Hanuman Jayanti\") [Holy Saturday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Holy_Saturday \"Holy Saturday\") [Islamic New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Islamic_New_Year \"Islamic New Year\") [Kartik Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kartik_Purnima \"Kartik Purnima\") [Kali Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali_Puja \"Kali Puja\") [Krishna Janmashtami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna_Janmashtami \"Krishna Janmashtami\") [Maha Shivaratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri \"Maha Shivaratri\") [Makar Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Makar_Sankranti \"Makar Sankranti\") [Maundy Thursday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maundy_Thursday \"Maundy Thursday\") [Mawlid](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mawlid \"Mawlid\") [Mesha Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mesha_Sankranti \"Mesha Sankranti\") (Hindu New Year) [Naga Panchami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Naga_Panchami \"Naga Panchami\") [Navratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navratri \"Navratri\") [Palm Sunday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Palm_Sunday \"Palm Sunday\") [Phagwah](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Holi \"Holi\") [Rama Navami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rama_Navami \"Rama Navami\") [Raksha Bandhan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Raksha_Bandhan \"Raksha Bandhan\") [Ratha-Yatra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ratha-Yatra \"Ratha-Yatra\") [Shrove Tuesday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shrove_Tuesday \"Shrove Tuesday\") [Vasant Panchami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vasant_Panchami \"Vasant Panchami\") [Whit Monday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Whit_Monday \"Whit Monday\") [Whitsun](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Whitsun \"Whitsun\") |   |\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Public_holidays_in_the_United_States \"Template:Public holidays in the United States\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Public_holidays_in_the_United_States \"Template talk:Public holidays in the United States\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Public_holidays_in_the_United_States \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Public holidays in the United States\")Holidays, observances, and celebrations in the United States |   |   |\n| January | [New Year's Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/New_Year%27s_Day \"New Year's Day\") (federal) [Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Martin_Luther_King_Jr._Day \"Martin Luther King Jr. Day\") (federal) [Birthday of Eugenio María de Hostos](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eugenio_Mar%C3%ADa_de_Hostos \"Eugenio María de Hostos\") (PR) [Confederate Heroes Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Confederate_Memorial_Day \"Confederate Memorial Day\") (TX) [Eve of Three Kings' Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Epiphany_\$holiday\$ \"Epiphany (holiday)\") (PR, religious) [Feast of Epiphany \/ Feast of Theophany](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Epiphany_\$holiday\$ \"Epiphany (holiday)\") (religious) [Fred Korematsu Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fred_Korematsu_Day \"Fred Korematsu Day\") (AZ, CA, FL, HI, VA) [Idaho Human Rights Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Idaho_Human_Rights_Day \"Idaho Human Rights Day\") (ID) [Inauguration Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/United_States_presidential_inauguration \"United States presidential inauguration\") (federal quadrennial) [Kansas Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kansas_Day \"Kansas Day\") (KS) [Makar Sankranti \/ Pongal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Makar_Sankranti \"Makar Sankranti\") (religious) [Robert E. Lee Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Robert_E._Lee_Day \"Robert E. Lee Day\") (FL) [Stephen Foster Memorial Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Stephen_Foster_Memorial_Day \"Stephen Foster Memorial Day\") (36) [National Religious Freedom Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Religious_Freedom_Day \"National Religious Freedom Day\") [The Eighth](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/The_Eighth_\$United_States\$ \"The Eighth (United States)\") (LA) [Three Kings' Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Epiphany_\$holiday\$ \"Epiphany (holiday)\") (PR, VI, religious) [World Religion Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/World_Religion_Day \"World Religion Day\") (religious) |   |\n| January–February | [Chinese New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chinese_New_Year \"Chinese New Year\") \/ [Lunar New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lunar_New_Year \"Lunar New Year\") (NY, cultural, religious) [Vasant Panchami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vasant_Panchami \"Vasant Panchami\") (religious) |   |\n| February [American Heart Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/American_Heart_Month \"American Heart Month\") [Black History Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Black_History_Month \"Black History Month\") | [Washington's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Presidents%27_Day \"Presidents' Day\") (federal) [Valentine's Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Valentine%27s_Day \"Valentine's Day\") [Birthday of Luis Muñoz Marín](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Luis_Mu%C3%B1oz_Mar%C3%ADn \"Luis Muñoz Marín\") (PR) [Candlemas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Candlemas \"Candlemas\") (religious) [Charles Darwin Day \/ Darwin Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Darwin_Day \"Darwin Day\") (CA, DE) [Day of Remembrance](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Day_of_Remembrance_\$Japanese_Americans\$ \"Day of Remembrance (Japanese Americans)\") (CA, OR, WA, cultural) [Georgia Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Georgia_Day \"Georgia Day\") (GA) [Groundhog Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Groundhog_Day \"Groundhog Day\") [Imbolc](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Imbolc \"Imbolc\") (religious) [Lincoln's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lincoln%27s_Birthday \"Lincoln's Birthday\") (CA, CT, IL, IN, MO, NY, WV) [National Girls and Women in Sports Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Girls_and_Women_in_Sports_Day \"National Girls and Women in Sports Day\") [National Freedom Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Freedom_Day \"National Freedom Day\") (36) [Nirvana Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Parinirvana_Day \"Parinirvana Day\") (religious) [Presentation of Our Lord to the Temple](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Presentation_of_Jesus_at_the_Temple \"Presentation of Jesus at the Temple\") (religious) [Promised Reformer Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Promised_Reformer_Day \"Promised Reformer Day\") (religious) [Ronald Reagan Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ronald_Reagan_Day \"Ronald Reagan Day\") (CA) [Rosa Parks Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rosa_Parks_Day \"Rosa Parks Day\") (CA, MO) [Saviours' Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saviours%27_Day \"Saviours' Day\") (religious) [Susan B. Anthony Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Susan_B._Anthony_Day \"Susan B. Anthony Day\") (CA, FL, NY, WI, WV, proposed federal) [Tu B’shvat](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tu_BiShvat \"Tu BiShvat\") (religious) |   |\n| February–March | [Mardi Gras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mardi_Gras \"Mardi Gras\") [Ash Wednesday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ash_Wednesday \"Ash Wednesday\") (PR, religious) [Carnival](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Carnival \"Carnival\") (PR, VI, religious) [Clean Monday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Clean_Monday \"Clean Monday\") (religious) [Courir de Mardi Gras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Courir_de_Mardi_Gras \"Courir de Mardi Gras\") (religious) [Intercalary Days](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayy%C3%A1m-i-H%C3%A1 \"Ayyám-i-Há\") (religious) [Mahashivaratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri \"Maha Shivaratri\") (religious) [Purim](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Purim \"Purim\") (religious) [Shrove Tuesday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shrove_Tuesday \"Shrove Tuesday\") (religious) [Super Tuesday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Super_Tuesday \"Super Tuesday\") |   |\n| March [Irish-American Heritage Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Irish-American_Heritage_Month \"Irish-American Heritage Month\") [Colon Cancer Awareness Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Colon_Cancer_Awareness_Month \"National Colon Cancer Awareness Month\") [Women's History Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Women%27s_History_Month \"Women's History Month\") | [Saint Patrick's Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saint_Patrick%27s_Day \"Saint Patrick's Day\") (ethnic) [Spring break](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Spring_break \"Spring break\") (week) [Annunciation of the Virgin Mary \/ Annunciation of the Theotokos](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Annunciation \"Annunciation\") (religious) [Casimir Pulaski Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Casimir_Pulaski_Day \"Casimir Pulaski Day\") (IL) [Cesar Chavez Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Cesar_Chavez_Day \"Cesar Chavez Day\") (CA, CO, TX, proposed federal) [Emancipation Day in Puerto Rico](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Emancipation_Day#Puerto_Rico \"Emancipation Day\") (PR, cultural) [Evacuation Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Evacuation_Day_\$Massachusetts\$ \"Evacuation Day (Massachusetts)\") (Suffolk County, MA) [Harriet Tubman Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Harriet_Tubman_Day \"Harriet Tubman Day\") (NY) [Hola Mohalla](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hola_Mohalla \"Hola Mohalla\") (religious) [Holi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Holi \"Holi\") (NY, religious) [Lailat al-Mi'raj](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Isra_and_Mi%27raj#Modern_Muslim_observance \"Isra and Mi'raj\") (religious) [Liberation and Freedom Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Liberation_and_Freedom_Day \"Liberation and Freedom Day\") (Charlottesville, VA, cultural) [Mardi Gras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mardi_Gras_in_the_United_States \"Mardi Gras in the United States\") (AL (in two counties), LA) [Maryland Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maryland_Day \"Maryland Day\") (MD) [Medal of Honor Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Medal_of_Honor_Day \"Medal of Honor Day\") [National Poison Prevention Week](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Poison_Prevention_Week \"National Poison Prevention Week\") (week) [Nowruz](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nowruz \"Nowruz\") (cultural, religious) [Ostara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C4%92ostre \"Ēostre\") (religious) [Pi Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pi_Day \"Pi Day\") [Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prince_K%C5%ABhi%C5%8D_Day \"Prince Kūhiō Day\") (HI) [Promised Messiah Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Promised_Messiah_Day \"Promised Messiah Day\") (religious) [Saint Joseph's Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saint_Joseph%27s_Day \"Saint Joseph's Day\") (religious) [Seward's Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Seward%27s_Day \"Seward's Day\") (AK) [Texas Independence Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Texas_Independence_Day \"Texas Independence Day\") (TX) [Town Meeting Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Town_meeting#Vermont \"Town meeting\") (VT) [Transfer Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Transfer_Day \"Transfer Day\") (VI) [U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/U.S._Hostage_and_Wrongful_Detainee_Day \"U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day\") (36) [Trans Day of Visibility](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/International_Transgender_Day_of_Visibility \"International Transgender Day of Visibility\") (cultural) |   |\n| March–April | [Easter](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Easter \"Easter\") (religious) [Good Friday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Good_Friday \"Good Friday\") (CT, NC, PR, NJ, VI, religious) [Hanuman Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman_Jayanti \"Hanuman Jayanti\") (religious) [Holy Thursday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maundy_Thursday \"Maundy Thursday\") (PR, VI, religious) [Holy Week](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Holy_Week \"Holy Week\") (PR, religious, week) [Lazarus Saturday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lazarus_Saturday \"Lazarus Saturday\") (religious) [Mahavir Janma Kalyanak](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahavir_Janma_Kalyanak \"Mahavir Janma Kalyanak\") (religious) [Mesha Sankranti \/ Hindu New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mesha_Sankranti \"Mesha Sankranti\") (religious) [Palm Sunday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Palm_Sunday \"Palm Sunday\") (PR, religious) [Passover](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Passover \"Passover\") (religious, week) [Easter Monday \/ Bright Monday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Easter_Monday \"Easter Monday\") (VI, religious) [Ramnavami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rama_Navami \"Rama Navami\") (religious) [Chandramana Uugadi \/ Souramana Uugadi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ugadi \"Ugadi\") (religious) |   |\n| April [Arab American Heritage Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Arab_American_Heritage_Month \"National Arab American Heritage Month\") [Confederate History Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Confederate_History_Month \"Confederate History Month\") | [420](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/420_\$cannabis_culture\$ \"420 (cannabis culture)\") [April Fools' Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/April_Fools%27_Day \"April Fools' Day\") [Arbor Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Arbor_Day \"Arbor Day\") [Birthday of José de Diego](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jos%C3%A9_de_Diego \"José de Diego\") (PR) [Confederate Memorial Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Confederate_Memorial_Day \"Confederate Memorial Day\") (AL, MS) [Days of Remembrance of the Victims of the Holocaust](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Days_of_Remembrance_of_the_Victims_of_the_Holocaust \"Days of Remembrance of the Victims of the Holocaust\") (week) [DNA Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/DNA_Day \"DNA Day\") [Earth Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Earth_Day \"Earth Day\") [Emancipation Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Emancipation_Day \"Emancipation Day\") (cultural) [Thomas Jefferson's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jefferson%27s_Birthday \"Jefferson's Birthday\") (AL) [Lag B’Omer](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lag_BaOmer \"Lag BaOmer\") (religious) [Last Friday of Great Lent](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Great_Lent \"Great Lent\") (religious) [National First Ladies Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_First_Ladies_Day \"National First Ladies Day\") [Pascua Florida](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pascua_Florida \"Pascua Florida\") (FL) [Patriots' Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Patriots%27_Day \"Patriots' Day\") (MA, ME) [Ridván](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ridv%C3%A1n \"Ridván\") (religious) [San Jacinto Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/San_Jacinto_Day \"San Jacinto Day\") (TX) [Siblings Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Siblings_Day \"Siblings Day\") [Walpurgis Night](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Walpurgis_Night \"Walpurgis Night\") (religious) [Yom Ha'atzmaut](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Independence_Day_\$Israel\$ \"Independence Day (Israel)\") (cultural, religious) |   |\n| May [Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Asian_American_and_Pacific_Islander_Heritage_Month \"Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month\") [Jewish American Heritage Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jewish_American_Heritage_Month \"Jewish American Heritage Month\") [Military Appreciation Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Military_Appreciation_Month \"National Military Appreciation Month\") | [Memorial Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Memorial_Day \"Memorial Day\") (federal) [Mother's Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mother%27s_Day_\$United_States\$ \"Mother's Day (United States)\") (36) [Cinco de Mayo](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Cinco_de_Mayo \"Cinco de Mayo\") [Ascension of Baháʼu'lláh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bah%C3%A1%CA%BC%C3%AD_Holy_Days \"Baháʼí Holy Days\") (religious) [Ascension of Our Lord](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ascension_Day \"Ascension Day\") (religious) [Caliphate Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Caliphate_Day \"Caliphate Day\") (religious) [Declaration of the Bab](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bah%C3%A1%CA%BC%C3%AD_Holy_Days \"Baháʼí Holy Days\") (religious) [Harvey Milk Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Harvey_Milk_Day \"Harvey Milk Day\") (CA) [International Workers' Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/International_Workers%27_Day \"International Workers' Day\") \/ [May Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/May_Day \"May Day\") (CA, unofficial, proposed state) [Law Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Law_Day_\$United_States\$ \"Law Day (United States)\") (36) [Loyalty Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Loyalty_Day \"Loyalty Day\") (36) [Malcolm X Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Malcolm_X_Day \"Malcolm X Day\") (CA, IL, proposed federal) [Military Spouse Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Military_Spouse_Day \"Military Spouse Day\") [National Day of Prayer](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Day_of_Prayer \"National Day of Prayer\") (36) [National Day of Reason](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Day_of_Reason \"National Day of Reason\") [National Defense Transportation Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Defense_Transportation_Day \"National Defense Transportation Day\") (36) [National Maritime Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/United_States_National_Maritime_Day \"United States National Maritime Day\") (36) [Peace Officers Memorial Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Peace_Officers_Memorial_Day \"Peace Officers Memorial Day\") (36) [Pentecost](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pentecost \"Pentecost\") (religious) [Shavuot](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shavuot \"Shavuot\") (religious) [Truman Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Truman_Day \"Truman Day\") (MO) [Vesak](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vesak \"Vesak\") \/ [Buddha's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Buddha%27s_Birthday \"Buddha's Birthday\") (religious) |   |\n| June [Pride Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pride_Month \"Pride Month\") | [Juneteenth](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Juneteenth \"Juneteenth\") (federal, cultural) [Father's Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Father%27s_Day_\$United_States\$ \"Father's Day (United States)\") (36) [Bunker Hill Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bunker_Hill_Day \"Bunker Hill Day\") (Suffolk County, MA) [Carolina Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Carolina_Day \"Carolina Day\") (SC) [Don Young Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Don_Young_Day \"Don Young Day\") (AK) [Fast of the Holy Apostles](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Apostles%27_Fast \"Apostles' Fast\") (religious) [Flag Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Flag_Day_\$United_States\$ \"Flag Day (United States)\") (36, proposed federal) [Helen Keller Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Helen_Keller_Day \"Helen Keller Day\") (PA) [Honor America Days](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Honor_America_Days \"Honor America Days\") (3 weeks) [Jefferson Davis Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jefferson_Davis_Day \"Jefferson Davis Day\") (AL, FL) [Kamehameha Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kamehameha_Day \"Kamehameha Day\") (HI) [Litha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Midsummer \"Midsummer\") (religious) [Martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Sahib](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Arjan \"Guru Arjan\") (religious) [Odunde Festival](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Odunde_Festival \"Odunde Festival\") (Philadelphia, PA, cultural) [Senior Week](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Senior_Week \"Senior Week\") (week) [Saint John's Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nativity_of_Saint_John_the_Baptist#Celebration \"Nativity of Saint John the Baptist\") (PR, religious) [West Virginia Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/West_Virginia_Day \"West Virginia Day\") (WV) [Women Veterans Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Women_Veterans_Day \"Women Veterans Day\") |   |\n| July | [Independence Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Independence_Day_\$United_States\$ \"Independence Day (United States)\") (federal) [Asalha Puja Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Asalha_Puja \"Asalha Puja\") (religious) [Birthday of Don Luis Muñoz Rivera](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Luis_Mu%C3%B1oz_Rivera \"Luis Muñoz Rivera\") (PR) [Birthday of Dr. José Celso Barbosa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jos%C3%A9_Celso_Barbosa \"José Celso Barbosa\") (PR) [Emancipation Day in the U.S. Virgin Islands](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Emancipation_Day#United_States_Virgin_Islands \"Emancipation Day\") (VI, cultural) [Guru Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Purnima \"Guru Purnima\") (religious) [Khordad Sal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Khordad_Sal \"Khordad Sal\") (religious) [Lā Hoʻihoʻi Ea](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sovereignty_Restoration_Day \"Sovereignty Restoration Day\") (HI, unofficial, cultural) [Martyrdom of the Báb](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Execution_of_the_B%C3%A1b \"Execution of the Báb\") (religious) [Parents' Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Parents%27_Day \"Parents' Day\") (36) [Pioneer Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pioneer_Day \"Pioneer Day\") (UT) [Puerto Rico Constitution Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puerto_Rico_Constitution_Day \"Puerto Rico Constitution Day\") (PR) |   |\n| July–August | [Summer vacation](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Summer_vacation \"Summer vacation\") [Tisha B'Av](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tisha_B%27Av \"Tisha B'Av\") (religious) |   |\n| August | [American Family Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/American_Family_Day \"American Family Day\") (AZ) [Barack Obama Day in Illinois](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Barack_Obama_Day \"Barack Obama Day\") (IL) [Bennington Battle Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bennington_Battle_Day \"Bennington Battle Day\") (VT) [Dormition of the Theotokos](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dormition_of_the_Mother_of_God#Dormition_versus_Assumption \"Dormition of the Mother of God\") (religious) [Eid-e-Ghadeer](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Ghadir \"Eid al-Ghadir\") (religious) [Fast in Honor of the Holy Mother of Lord Jesus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dormition_of_the_Mother_of_God#Dormition_fast \"Dormition of the Mother of God\") (religious) [Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Assumption_of_Mary#Feasts \"Assumption of Mary\") (religious) [Hawaii Admission Day \/ Statehood Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Statehood_Day_\$Hawaii\$ \"Statehood Day (Hawaii)\") (HI) [Krishna Janmashtami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna_Janmashtami \"Krishna Janmashtami\") (religious) [Lammas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lammas \"Lammas\") (religious) [Lyndon Baines Johnson Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lyndon_Baines_Johnson_Day \"Lyndon Baines Johnson Day\") (TX) [Naga Panchami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Naga_Panchami \"Naga Panchami\") (religious) [National Aviation Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Aviation_Day \"National Aviation Day\") (36) [Paryushana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Paryushana \"Paryushana\") (religious) [Raksha Bandhan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Raksha_Bandhan \"Raksha Bandhan\") (religious) [Transfiguration of the Lord](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Feast_of_the_Transfiguration \"Feast of the Transfiguration\") (religious) [Victory Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Victory_Day_\$United_States\$ \"Victory Day (United States)\") (RI) [Women's Equality Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Women%27s_Equality_Day \"Women's Equality Day\") (36) |   |\n| September [Prostate Cancer Awareness Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Prostate_Cancer_Awareness_Month \"National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month\") [Childhood Cancer Awareness Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Childhood_Cancer_Awareness_Month \"National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month\") [Gospel Music Heritage Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gospel_Music_Heritage_Month \"Gospel Music Heritage Month\") | [Labor Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Labor_Day \"Labor Day\") (federal) [Brazilian Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brazilian_Day \"Brazilian Day\") (NY, cultural) [California Admission Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/California_Admission_Day \"California Admission Day\") (CA) [Carl Garner Federal Lands Cleanup Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Carl_Garner_Federal_Lands_Cleanup_Day \"Carl Garner Federal Lands Cleanup Day\") (36) [Constitution Day and Citizenship Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Constitution_Day_and_Citizenship_Day \"Constitution Day and Citizenship Day\") (36) [Constitution Week](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Constitution_Week \"Constitution Week\") [Defenders Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Defenders_Day_\$Maryland\$ \"Defenders Day (Maryland)\") (MD) [Elevation of the Holy Cross](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Elevation_of_the_Holy_Cross \"Elevation of the Holy Cross\") (religious) [Feast of San Gennaro](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Feast_of_San_Gennaro \"Feast of San Gennaro\") (NY, cultural, religious) [Ganesh Chaturthi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesh_Chaturthi \"Ganesh Chaturthi\") (religious) [Gold Star Mother's Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gold_Star_Mother%27s_Day \"Gold Star Mother's Day\") (36) [His Holiness Sakya Trizin's Birthday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sakya_Trizin_Ngawang_Kunga \"Sakya Trizin Ngawang Kunga\") (religious) [Mabon](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/September_equinox \"September equinox\") (religious) [National Grandparents Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Grandparents%27_Day \"Grandparents' Day\") (36) [National Payroll Week](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Payroll_Week \"National Payroll Week\") (week) [Nativity of Mary \/ Nativity of the Theotokos](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nativity_of_Mary \"Nativity of Mary\") (religious) [Native American Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Native_American_Day \"Native American Day\") (proposed federal) [Patriot Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Patriot_Day \"Patriot Day\") (36) [Von Steuben Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Von_Steuben_Day \"Von Steuben Day\") |   |\n| September–October [Hispanic Heritage Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Hispanic_Heritage_Month \"National Hispanic Heritage Month\") | [Chehlum Imam Hussain](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Arba%27een \"Arba'een\") (religious) [Oktoberfest](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Oktoberfest_celebrations \"Oktoberfest celebrations\") [Pitri Paksha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pitri_Paksha \"Pitri Paksha\") (religious) [Rosh Hashanah \/ Feast of Trumpets](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rosh_Hashanah \"Rosh Hashanah\") (TX, NY, religious) [Shemini Atzeret](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shemini_Atzeret \"Shemini Atzeret\") (religious) [Simchat Torah](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Simchat_Torah \"Simchat Torah\") (religious) [Vijaya Dashami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vijayadashami \"Vijayadashami\") (religious) [Yom Kippur \/ Day of Atonement](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yom_Kippur \"Yom Kippur\") (TX, NY, religious) |   |\n| October [Breast Cancer Awareness Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Breast_Cancer_Awareness_Month \"National Breast Cancer Awareness Month\") [Disability Employment Awareness Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Disability_Employment_Awareness_Month \"National Disability Employment Awareness Month\")  [Italian-American Heritage and Culture Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Italian-American_Heritage_and_Culture_Month \"Italian-American Heritage and Culture Month\")   [Filipino American History Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Filipino_American_History_Month \"Filipino American History Month\") [LGBT History Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/LGBT_History_Month \"LGBT History Month\") | [Columbus Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Columbus_Day \"Columbus Day\") (federal) [Halloween](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Halloween \"Halloween\") [Alaska Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Alaska_Day \"Alaska Day\") (AK) [Child Health Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Child_Health_Day \"Child Health Day\") (36) [General Pulaski Memorial Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/General_Pulaski_Memorial_Day \"General Pulaski Memorial Day\") [German-American Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/German-American_Day \"German-American Day\") [Indigenous Peoples' Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indigenous_Peoples%27_Day_\$United_States\$ \"Indigenous Peoples' Day (United States)\") [International Day of Non-Violence](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/International_Day_of_Non-Violence \"International Day of Non-Violence\") [Leif Erikson Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Leif_Erikson_Day \"Leif Erikson Day\") (36) [Missouri Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Missouri_Day \"Missouri Day\") (MO) [Nanomonestotse](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nanomonestotse \"Nanomonestotse\") (cultural) [National School Lunch Week](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_School_Lunch_Week \"National School Lunch Week\") (week) [Native American Day in South Dakota](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Native_American_Day \"Native American Day\") (SD) [Nevada Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nevada_Day \"Nevada Day\") (NV) [Spirit Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Spirit_Day \"Spirit Day\") (cultural) [Sweetest Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sweetest_Day \"Sweetest Day\") [Sukkot \/ Feast of Tabernacles](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sukkot \"Sukkot\") (religious, week) [Virgin Islands–Puerto Rico Friendship Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Virgin_Islands%E2%80%93Puerto_Rico_Friendship_Day \"Virgin Islands–Puerto Rico Friendship Day\") (PR, VI) [White Cane Safety Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/White_Cane_Safety_Day \"White Cane Safety Day\") (36) |   |\n| October–November | [Birth of the Báb](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Twin_Holy_Birthdays \"Twin Holy Birthdays\") (religious) [Birth of Baháʼu'lláh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Birth_of_Bah%C3%A1%CA%BCu%27ll%C3%A1h \"Birth of Baháʼu'lláh\") (religious) [Day of the Dead](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Day_of_the_Dead \"Day of the Dead\") (VI) [Diwali]() (NY, religious) [Mawlid al-Nabi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mawlid \"Mawlid\") (religious) |   |\n| November  [Native American Indian Heritage Month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Native_American_Indian_Heritage_Month \"Native American Indian Heritage Month\") | [Veterans Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Veterans_Day \"Veterans Day\") (federal) [Thanksgiving](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thanksgiving_\$United_States\$ \"Thanksgiving (United States)\") (federal) [Ascension of ‘Abdu’l Baha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%CA%BBAbdu%27l-Bah%C3%A1 \"ʻAbdu'l-Bahá\") (religious) [All Saints' Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/All_Saints%27_Day \"All Saints' Day\") (religious) [Beginning of the Nativity Fast](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nativity_Fast \"Nativity Fast\") (religious) [Beltane](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Beltane \"Beltane\") \/ [Samhain](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samhain \"Samhain\") (religious) [Barack Obama Day in Alabama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Barack_Obama_Day \"Barack Obama Day\") (Perry County, AL) [D. Hamilton Jackson Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/D._Hamilton_Jackson \"D. Hamilton Jackson\") (VI) [Day after Thanksgiving](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Black_Friday_\$shopping\$ \"Black Friday (shopping)\") (24) [Day of the Covenant](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Day_of_the_Covenant_\$Bah%C3%A1%CA%BC%C3%AD\$ \"Day of the Covenant (Baháʼí)\") (religious) [Discovery of Puerto Rico Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Discovery_of_Puerto_Rico \"Discovery of Puerto Rico\") (PR) [Election Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Election_Day_\$United_States\$ \"Election Day (United States)\") (CA, DE, HI, KY, MT, NJ, NY, OH, PR, VA, WV, proposed federal) [Family Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Family_Day \"Family Day\") (NV) [Friendsgiving](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Friendsgiving \"Friendsgiving\") [Guru Nanak Gurpurab](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Nanak_Gurpurab \"Guru Nanak Gurpurab\") (religious) [Hanukkah](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanukkah \"Hanukkah\") (religious) [Lā Kūʻokoʻa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Independence_Day_\$Hawaii\$ \"Independence Day (Hawaii)\") (HI, unofficial, cultural) [Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Tegh_Bahadur \"Guru Tegh Bahadur\") (religious) [Native American Heritage Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Native_American_Heritage_Day \"Native American Heritage Day\") (MD, WA, cultural) [Presentation of the Theotokos to the Temple](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Presentation_of_Mary \"Presentation of Mary\") (religious) [Trans Day of Remembrance](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Transgender_Day_of_Remembrance \"Transgender Day of Remembrance\") (cultural) [Unthanksgiving Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Unthanksgiving_Day \"Unthanksgiving Day\") (cultural) |   |\n| December | [Christmas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Christmas \"Christmas\") (religious, federal) [New Year's Eve](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/New_Year%27s_Eve \"New Year's Eve\") [Advent Sunday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Advent_Sunday \"Advent Sunday\") (religious) [Alabama Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Alabama_Day \"Alabama Day\") (AL) [Birthday of Guru Gobind Singh Sahib](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Gobind_Singh \"Guru Gobind Singh\") (religious) [Bodhi Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bodhi_Day \"Bodhi Day\") (religious) [Chalica](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chalica \"Chalica\") (religious) [Christmas Eve](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Christmas_Eve \"Christmas Eve\") (KY, NC, SC, PR, VI) [Day after Christmas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Boxing_Day \"Boxing Day\") (KY, NC, SC, TX, VI) [Festivus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Festivus \"Festivus\") [HumanLight](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/HumanLight \"HumanLight\") [Hanukkah](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanukkah \"Hanukkah\") (religious, week) [Immaculate Conception](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Immaculate_Conception \"Immaculate Conception\") (religious) [Indiana Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indiana_Day \"Indiana Day\") (IN) [Kwanzaa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kwanzaa \"Kwanzaa\") (cultural, week) [Milad Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mohammed_Burhanuddin \"Mohammed Burhanuddin\") (religious) [National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Pearl_Harbor_Remembrance_Day \"National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day\") (36) [Nativity of Jesus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nativity_of_Jesus \"Nativity of Jesus\") (religious) [Old Year's Night](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/New_Year%27s_Eve \"New Year's Eve\") (VI) [Pan American Aviation Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pan_American_Aviation_Day \"Pan American Aviation Day\") (36) [Pancha Ganapati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sivaya_Subramuniyaswami \"Sivaya Subramuniyaswami\") (religious, week) [Rosa Parks Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rosa_Parks_Day \"Rosa Parks Day\") (OH, OR) [Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Solemnity_of_Mary,_Mother_of_God \"Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God\") (religious) [Wright Brothers Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wright_Brothers_Day \"Wright Brothers Day\") (36) [Yule](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yule \"Yule\") (religious) [Zartosht No-Diso](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Zartosht_No-Diso \"Zartosht No-Diso\") (religious) |   |\n| Varies (year round) | [Eid al-Adha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Adha \"Eid al-Adha\") (NY, religious) [Eid al-Fitr](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Fitr \"Eid al-Fitr\") (NY, religious) [Islamic New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Islamic_New_Year \"Islamic New Year\") (religious) [Yawm al-Arafa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Day_of_Arafah \"Day of Arafah\") (religious) [Laylat al-Qadr](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Laylat_al-Qadr \"Laylat al-Qadr\") (religious) [Navaratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navaratri \"Navaratri\") (religious, four times a year) [Obon](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bon_Festival \"Bon Festival\") (religious) [Onam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Onam \"Onam\") (religious) [Ramadan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramadan \"Ramadan\") (religious, month) [Ghost Festival](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ghost_Festival \"Ghost Festival\") (religious) [Yawm Aashura](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ashura \"Ashura\") (religious) |   |\n| Legend: (federal) = federal holidays, (abbreviation) = state\/territorial holidays, (religious) = religious holidays, (cultural) = holiday related to a specific [racial\/ethnic group](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Race_and_ethnicity_in_the_United_States_census \"Race and ethnicity in the United States census\") or [sexual minority](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sexual_minority \"Sexual minority\"), (week) = week-long holidays, (month) = month-long holidays, (36) = [Title 36 Observances and Ceremonies](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Title_36_of_the_United_States_Code \"Title 36 of the United States Code\") See also: [Lists of holidays](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lists_of_holidays \"Lists of holidays\"), [Hallmark holidays](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hallmark_holiday \"Hallmark holiday\"), [Public holidays in the United States](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_the_United_States \"Public holidays in the United States\"), [Puerto Rico](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Puerto_Rico \"Public holidays in Puerto Rico\") and the [United States Virgin Islands](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_the_United_States_Virgin_Islands \"Public holidays in the United States Virgin Islands\"). |   |   |\n\n[Portals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Contents\/Portals \"Wikipedia:Contents\/Portals\"):\n\n- ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/6\/67\/Aum_Om_red.svg\/20px-Aum_Om_red.svg.png) [Hinduism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Hinduism \"Portal:Hinduism\")\n- [![icon](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/d\/dd\/Calendar_icon.svg\/20px-Calendar_icon.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Calendar_icon.svg) [Holidays](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Holidays \"Portal:Holidays\")\n- ![flag](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/4\/41\/Flag_of_India.svg\/40px-Flag_of_India.svg.png) [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:India \"Portal:India\")\n- ![flag](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/9\/9b\/Flag_of_Nepal.svg\/20px-Flag_of_Nepal.svg.png) [Nepal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Nepal \"Portal:Nepal\")\n- ![flag](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/3\/32\/Flag_of_Pakistan.svg\/40px-Flag_of_Pakistan.svg.png) [Pakistan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Pakistan \"Portal:Pakistan\")\n- ![flag](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/4\/48\/Flag_of_Singapore.svg\/40px-Flag_of_Singapore.svg.png) [Singapore](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Singapore \"Portal:Singapore\")\n- [![icon](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/2\/28\/P_religion_world.svg\/40px-P_religion_world.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:P_religion_world.svg) [Religion](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Religion \"Portal:Religion\")\n\n| [Authority control databases](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Help:Authority_control \"Help:Authority control\") [![Edit this at Wikidata](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/8\/8a\/OOjs_UI_icon_edit-ltr-progressive.svg\/20px-OOjs_UI_icon_edit-ltr-progressive.svg.png)](https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Q10244#identifiers \"Edit this at Wikidata\") |   |\n|---|---|\n| International | [GND](https:\/\/d-nb.info\/gnd\/5105778-5) [FAST](https:\/\/id.worldcat.org\/fast\/895678) |\n| National | [United States](https:\/\/id.loc.gov\/authorities\/sh85038571) [France](https:\/\/catalogue.bnf.fr\/ark:\/12148\/cb17071956x) [BnF data](https:\/\/data.bnf.fr\/ark:\/12148\/cb17071956x) [Israel](https:\/\/www.nli.org.il\/en\/authorities\/987007557951305171) |\n| Other | [IdRef](https:\/\/www.idref.fr\/195306414) [Yale LUX](https:\/\/lux.collections.yale.edu\/view\/group\/560d75ae-bf66-4bdf-814b-f16e29ba0049) |\n\n![](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:CentralAutoLogin\/start?useformat=desktop&type=1x1&usesul3=1)\n\nRetrieved from \"<https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Diwali&oldid=1345039690>\"\n\n[Categories](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Help:Category \"Help:Category\"):\n\n- [Diwali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Diwali \"Category:Diwali\")\n- [Autumn festivals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Autumn_festivals \"Category:Autumn 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Wikipedia® is a registered trademark of the [Wikimedia Foundation, Inc.](https:\/\/wikimediafoundation.org\/), a non-profit organization.\n\n- [Privacy policy](https:\/\/foundation.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Special:MyLanguage\/Policy:Privacy_policy)\n- [About Wikipedia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:About)\n- [Disclaimers](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:General_disclaimer)\n- [Contact Wikipedia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Contact_us)\n- [Legal & safety contacts](https:\/\/foundation.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Special:MyLanguage\/Legal:Wikimedia_Foundation_Legal_and_Safety_Contact_Information)\n- [Code of Conduct](https:\/\/foundation.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Special:MyLanguage\/Policy:Universal_Code_of_Conduct)\n- [Developers](https:\/\/developer.wikimedia.org\/)\n- [Statistics](https:\/\/stats.wikimedia.org\/#\/en.wikipedia.org)\n- [Cookie statement](https:\/\/foundation.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Special:MyLanguage\/Policy:Cookie_statement)\n- [Mobile 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[Hindus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindus \"Hindus\"), [Jains](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jains \"Jains\"), [Sikhs](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sikhs \"Sikhs\"),[\\[1\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-1) some [Buddhists](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Buddhism \"Buddhism\") (notably [Newar Buddhists](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Newar_Buddhism \"Newar Buddhism\")[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2)) |\n| Type | Religious, cultural, seasonal |\n| Significance | *[See below](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#Religious_significance)* |\n| Celebrations | [Diya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diya_\$light\$ \"Diya (light)\") lighting *[puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puja_\$Hinduism\$ \"Puja (Hinduism)\")* (worship and prayer) *[Hukka Paati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hukka_Paati \"Hukka Paati\")* in [Mithila region](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mithila_region \"Mithila region\") *[havan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Homa_\$ritual\$ \"Homa (ritual)\")* (fire offering) *[vrat](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vrata \"Vrata\")* (fasting) *[dāna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/D%C4%81na \"Dāna\")* (charity) *[melā](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mel%C4%81 \"Melā\")* (fairs\/shows) home cleansing and decoration fireworks gifts and partaking in a feast and [sweets](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sweets_from_the_Indian_subcontinent \"Sweets from the Indian subcontinent\") |\n| Begins | Ashwayuja 27 or Ashwayuja 28 ([amanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#amanta \"Hindu calendar\") tradition) Kartika 12 or Kartika 13 ([purnimanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#purnimanta \"Hindu calendar\") tradition) |\n| Ends | Kartika 2 ([amanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#amanta \"Hindu calendar\") tradition) Kartika 17 ([purnimanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#purnimanta \"Hindu calendar\") tradition) |\n| Date | Ashvin Krishna Trayodashi, Ashvin Krishna Chaturdashi, Ashvin Amavasya, Kartik Shukla Pratipada, Kartik Shukla Dwitiya |\n| 2025 date | October[\\[3\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-3) 18 ([Dhanteras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dhanteras \"Dhanteras\")\/Yama Deepam\/Kwah Puja\/Kaag Tihar) 19 ([Naraka Chaturdashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Naraka_Chaturdashi \"Naraka Chaturdashi\")\/Kali Chaudas\/Hanuman Puja\/Chhoti Diwali\/Khicha Puja\/[Kukur Tihar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kukur_Tihar \"Kukur Tihar\")) 20 ([Lakshmi Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi_Puja \"Lakshmi Puja\")\/[Kali Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali_Puja \"Kali Puja\")\/Sharda Puja\/Kedar Gauri Vrat\/Sa Puja\/Gai Tihar) 21 ([Govardhan Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Govardhan_Puja \"Govardhan Puja\")\/[Balipratipada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balipratipada \"Balipratipada\")\/[Mha Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mha_Puja \"Mha Puja\")\/Goru Puja) 22 ([Bhai Dooj](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhai_Dooj \"Bhai Dooj\")\/[Vishwakarma Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishwakarma_Puja \"Vishwakarma Puja\")\/[Gujarati New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_New_Year%27s_days \"Indian New Year's days\")\/Kija Puja) |\n| 2026 date | 8 November 2026 |\n| 2027 date | 29 October 2027 |\n| Duration | 5 or 6 days (regional variations) |\n| Frequency | Annual |\n| Related to | [Diwali (Jainism)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali_\$Jainism\$ \"Diwali (Jainism)\"), [Bandi Chhor Divas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bandi_Chhor_Divas \"Bandi Chhor Divas\"), [Tihar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tihar_\$festival\$ \"Tihar (festival)\"), [Swanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swanti_\$festival\$ \"Swanti (festival)\"), [Sohrai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sohrai \"Sohrai\"), [Bandna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bandna \"Bandna\") |\n\n| Explanatory note on Hindu festival dates |\n|---|\n| The [Hindu calendar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar \"Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar\") is lunisolar but most festival dates are specified using the lunar portion of the calendar. A lunar day is uniquely identified by three calendar elements: [*māsa*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#chandramasa \"Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar\") (lunar month), [*pakṣa*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#paksha \"Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar\") (lunar fortnight) and [*tithi*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#tithi \"Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar\") (lunar day). Furthermore, when specifying the masa, one of two traditions are applicable, viz. [*amānta*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#amanta \"Hindu calendar\") \/ [*pūrṇimānta*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#purnimanta \"Hindu calendar\"). If a festival falls in the waning phase of the moon, these two traditions identify the same lunar day as falling in two different (but successive) masa. A lunar year is shorter than a solar year by about eleven days. As a result, most Hindu festivals occur on different days in successive years on the Gregorian calendar. |\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Hindu_festival_date_info \"Template:Hindu festival date info\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Hindu_festival_date_info \"Template talk:Hindu festival date info\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Hindu_festival_date_info \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Hindu festival date info\") |\n\n| Deepavali |   |\n|---|---|\n| **[UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/UNESCO_Intangible_Cultural_Heritage_Lists \"UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists\")** |   |\n| Country | [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India \"India\") |\n| Reference | [02312](https:\/\/ich.unesco.org\/en\/RL\/02312) |\n| Region | [Asia and the Pacific](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:UNESCO_Representative_List_of_the_Intangible_Cultural_Heritage_of_Humanity\/APA \"Template:UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity\/APA\") |\n| Inscription history |   |\n| Inscription | 2025 (20th session) |\n| [List](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/UNESCO_Intangible_Cultural_Heritage_Lists \"UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists\") | Representative |\n\n**Dipavali** ([IAST](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/IAST \"IAST\"): *Dīpāvalī*),[\\[a\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-4) commonly known as **Diwali** (),[\\[4\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Mead-2008a-5) is the [Hindu festival](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_festival \"Hindu festival\") of lights, with variations celebrated in other [Indian religions](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_religions \"Indian religions\") such as [Jainism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jainism \"Jainism\") and [Sikhism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sikhism \"Sikhism\").[\\[b\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-6) It symbolises the spiritual victory of *[Dharma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dharma \"Dharma\")* over *[Adharma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Adharma \"Adharma\")*, light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Heiligman31-7)[\\[6\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-htoday-8)[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Mead-2008b-9)\\[*[page needed](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Citing_sources \"Wikipedia:Citing sources\")*\\][\\[8\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-melton252-10) Diwali is celebrated during the [Hindu lunisolar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar \"Hindu calendar\") months of [Ashvin](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ashvin_\$month\$ \"Ashvin (month)\") (according to the [amanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#amanta \"Hindu calendar\") tradition) and [Kārtika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kartika_\$month\$ \"Kartika (month)\") – between around mid-October and mid-November.[\\[9\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-OED-Diwali-11)[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12)[\\[11\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-13)[\\[12\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-14)[\\[13\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-15) The celebrations generally last five or six days.[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16)[\\[15\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-17)\n\nDiwali is connected to various religious events, deities and personalities, such as being the day [Rama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rama \"Rama\") returned to his [kingdom](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kosala \"Kosala\") in [Ayodhya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayodhya_\$Ramayana\$ \"Ayodhya (Ramayana)\") with his wife [Sita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sita \"Sita\") and his brother [Lakshmana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmana \"Lakshmana\") after defeating the demon king [Ravana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ravana \"Ravana\").[\\[16\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-dhcd-18) It is also widely associated with [Lakshmi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi \"Lakshmi\"), the goddess of prosperity, and [Ganesha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesha \"Ganesha\"), the god of wisdom and the remover of obstacles.[\\[17\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Suzanne_Barchers_2013-19) Other regional traditions connect the holiday to [Vishnu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishnu \"Vishnu\"), [Krishna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna \"Krishna\"), [Durga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga \"Durga\"), [Shiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva \"Shiva\"), [Kali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali \"Kali\"), [Hanuman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman \"Hanuman\"), [Kubera](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kubera \"Kubera\"), [Yama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yama \"Yama\"), [Yami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yami \"Yami\"), [Dhanvantari](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dhanvantari \"Dhanvantari\"), or [Vishvakarman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishvakarman \"Vishvakarman\").\n\nPrimarily a [Hindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindus \"Hindus\") festival, variations of Diwali are also celebrated by adherents of other faiths.[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16) The [Jains](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jainism \"Jainism\") observe their [own Diwali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali_\$Jainism\$ \"Diwali (Jainism)\") which marks the final liberation of [Mahavira](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahavira \"Mahavira\").[\\[18\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Sharma2006-20)[\\[19\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-N._Upadhye,_Review_1982_pp._231%E2%80%93232-21) The [Sikhs](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sikhism \"Sikhism\") celebrate [Bandi Chhor Divas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bandi_Chhor_Divas \"Bandi Chhor Divas\") to mark the release of [Guru Hargobind](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Hargobind \"Guru Hargobind\") from a [Mughal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mughal_Empire \"Mughal Empire\") prison.[\\[20\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-22) [Newar Buddhists](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Newar_Buddhism \"Newar Buddhism\"), unlike other [Buddhists](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Buddhism \"Buddhism\"), celebrate Diwali by worshipping Lakshmi, while the Hindus of [Eastern India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eastern_India \"Eastern India\") and [Bangladesh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bangladesh \"Bangladesh\") generally, celebrate Diwali by worshipping the [goddess Kali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali \"Kali\").[\\[21\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-MK72-23)[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2)[\\[22\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Prem_Saran_2012_175-24)\n\nDuring the festival, the celebrants illuminate their homes, temples and workspaces with [*diyas*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diya_\$light\$ \"Diya (light)\") (oil lamps), candles and lanterns.[\\[8\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-melton252-10) Hindus, in particular, have a ritual oil bath at dawn on each day of the festival.[\\[23\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-YustJohnson2006-25) Diwali is also marked with fireworks as well as the decoration of floors with *[rangoli](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rangoli \"Rangoli\")* designs and other parts of the house with [*jhalars*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jhalar \"Jhalar\"). Food is a major focus with families partaking in feasts and sharing [*mithai*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mithai_\$confectionery\$ \"Mithai (confectionery)\").[\\[24\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-jgl-26) The festival is an annual homecoming and bonding period not only for families,[\\[16\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-dhcd-18)[\\[17\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Suzanne_Barchers_2013-19) but also for communities and associations, particularly those in urban areas, which will organise activities, events, and gatherings.[\\[25\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJohnsonTeuscherSabean2011300%E2%80%93301-27)[\\[26\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEShah199541%E2%80%9344-28) Many towns organise community parades and fairs with parades or music and dance performances in parks.[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16) Some Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs will send Diwali greeting cards to family near and far during the festive season, occasionally with boxes of Indian confectionery.[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16) Another aspect of the festival is remembering the ancestors.[\\[27\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-29)\n\nDiwali is also a major cultural event for the [Hindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindus \"Hindus\"), [Sikh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sikhs \"Sikhs\"), and [Jain](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jainism \"Jainism\") [diaspora](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diaspora \"Diaspora\").[\\[28\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-wsj-30)[\\[29\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJohnson200771%E2%80%9373-31)[\\[30\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKelly198840%E2%80%9355-32) The main day of the festival of Diwali (the day of Lakshmi Puja) is an official holiday in [Fiji](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fiji \"Fiji\"),[\\[31\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-33) [Guyana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guyana \"Guyana\"),[\\[32\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-34) [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India \"India\"), [Malaysia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Malaysia \"Malaysia\"),[\\[c\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-35)[\\[33\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-36) [Mauritius](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mauritius \"Mauritius\"), [Myanmar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Myanmar \"Myanmar\"),[\\[34\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-37) [Nepal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nepal \"Nepal\"),[\\[35\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-38) [Pakistan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pakistan \"Pakistan\"),[\\[36\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-39) [Singapore](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Singapore \"Singapore\"),[\\[37\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-40) [Sri Lanka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sri_Lanka \"Sri Lanka\"), [Suriname](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Suriname \"Suriname\"), and [Trinidad and Tobago](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Trinidad_and_Tobago \"Trinidad and Tobago\"),[\\[38\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-41) and the [US](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/United_States \"United States\") states of [Connecticut](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Connecticut \"Connecticut\"), [Pennsylvania](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pennsylvania \"Pennsylvania\"), and [California](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/California \"California\").[\\[39\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-42)[\\[40\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-43)[\\[41\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-44)\n\nEtymology\n\n*Diwali*[\\[9\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-OED-Diwali-11)[\\[d\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-46) comes from *Dipavali* ([Sanskrit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sanskrit_language \"Sanskrit language\"): दीपावली, [romanized](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Romanization_of_Sanskrit \"Romanization of Sanskrit\"):*Dīpāvalī*), meaning 'a row or series of lights'.[\\[24\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-jgl-26)[\\[43\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFrazierFlood2011255-47) The term is a compound of the Sanskrit words दीप, *dīpa*, 'lamp, light, lantern, candle, that which glows, shines, illuminates or knowledge'[\\[44\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-48) and आवलि, *āvali*, 'a row, range, continuous line, series'.[\\[45\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-49)[\\[e\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-50)\n\nDates\n\nThe five-day celebration is observed every year sometime from the second half of October to the first half of November[\\[46\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253-51) coinciding with a new moon ([*amāvasyā*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Amavasya \"Amavasya\")) as per the [Hindu lunisolar calendar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar \"Hindu calendar\").[\\[47\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9362-52)\n\nThe festivities begin two days before *[amāvasyā](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Amavasya \"Amavasya\")*, on [Dhanteras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dhanteras \"Dhanteras\"), and extend two days after, until the second (or 17th) day of the month of Kartik.[\\[48\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561-53) (According to Indologist Constance Jones, this night ends the lunar month of Ashwin and starts the month of Kartik[\\[46\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253-51) – but see this note[\\[f\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-55) and [Amanta and Purnima systems](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#Amanta_and_Purnima_systems \"Hindu calendar\").) The darkest night is the apex of the celebration.\n\nThe festival climax is on the third day and is called the main Diwali. It is an official holiday in a dozen countries, while the other festive days are regionally observed as either public or optional restricted holidays in India.[\\[50\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-about-56) In Nepal, it is also a multiday festival, although the days and rituals are named differently, with the climax being called the *[Tihar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tihar_\$festival\$ \"Tihar (festival)\")* festival by Hindus and *[Swanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swanti_\$festival\$ \"Swanti (festival)\")* festival by Buddhists.[\\[51\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-57)[\\[52\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-58)\n\nHistory\n\nThe five-day long festival originated in the [Indian subcontinent](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_subcontinent \"Indian subcontinent\") and is likely a fusion of harvest festivals in ancient [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India \"India\").[\\[46\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253-51) It is mentioned in early [Sanskrit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sanskrit_literature \"Sanskrit literature\") texts, such as the *[Padma Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Padma_Purana \"Padma Purana\")* and the *[Skanda Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Skanda_Purana \"Skanda Purana\"),* both of which were composed between the 7th and 10th centuries.[\\[53\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-l796-59)[\\[54\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-60) The *diyas* (lamps) are mentioned in *Skanda Kishore Purana* as symbolising parts of the sun, describing it as the cosmic giver of light and energy to all life and which seasonally transitions in the Hindu calendar month of Kartik.[\\[55\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61)[\\[56\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELochtefeld2002355-62)\n\nEmperor [Harsha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Harsha \"Harsha\") refers to Deepavali, in the 7th-century Sanskrit play *[Nagananda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nagananda \"Nagananda\")*, as *Dīpapratipadotsava* (*dīpa* = light, *pratipadā* = first day, *utsava* = festival), where lamps were lit and newly engaged brides and grooms received gifts.[\\[57\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-bnsharma-63)[\\[58\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-yaksha-64) [Rajasekhara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rajashekhara_\$Sanskrit_poet\$ \"Rajashekhara (Sanskrit poet)\") referred to Deepavali as *Dipamalika* in his 9th-century *Kavyamimamsa*, wherein he mentions the tradition of homes being whitewashed and oil lamps decorated homes, streets, and markets in the night.[\\[57\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-bnsharma-63)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/75\/Radha_and_Krishna_watching_fireworks_in_the_night_sky.jpg\/250px-Radha_and_Krishna_watching_fireworks_in_the_night_sky.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Radha_and_Krishna_watching_fireworks_in_the_night_sky.jpg)\n\n*Radha and Krishna celebrating Diwali* by Sitaram. [Kishangarh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kishangarh_State \"Kishangarh State\"), late 18th-century. [National Museum, New Delhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Museum,_New_Delhi \"National Museum, New Delhi\")\n\nDiwali was also described by numerous travellers from outside India. In his 11th-century memoir on India, the Persian traveller and historian [Al Biruni](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ab%C5%AB_Ray%E1%B8%A5%C4%81n_al-B%C4%ABr%C5%ABn%C4%AB \"Abū Rayḥān al-Bīrūnī\") wrote of Deepavali being celebrated by Hindus on the day of the New Moon in the month of Kartika.[\\[59\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-65) The Venetian merchant and traveller [Niccolò de' Conti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Niccol%C3%B2_de%27_Conti \"Niccolò de' Conti\") visited India in the early 15th century and wrote in his memoir, \"on another of these festivals they fix up within their temples, and on the outside of the roofs, an innumerable number of oil lamps ... which are kept burning day and night\" and that the families would gather, \"clothe themselves in new garments\", sing, dance, and feast.[\\[60\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEEraly2015315%E2%80%93316-66)[\\[61\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESewell200685%E2%80%9386-67) The 16th-century Portuguese traveller [Domingo Paes](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Domingo_Paes \"Domingo Paes\") wrote of his visit to the Hindu [Vijayanagara Empire](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vijayanagara_Empire \"Vijayanagara Empire\"), where *Dipavali* was celebrated in October with householders illuminating their homes, and their temples, with lamps.[\\[61\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESewell200685%E2%80%9386-67) It is mentioned in the *[Ramayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramayana \"Ramayana\")* that Diwali was celebrated for only 2 years in [Ayodhya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayodhya_\$Ramayana\$ \"Ayodhya (Ramayana)\").[\\[62\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-S_A_NEWS-2020-68)\n\nIslamic historians of the [Delhi Sultanate](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Delhi_Sultanate \"Delhi Sultanate\") and the [Mughal Empire](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mughal_Empire \"Mughal Empire\") era also mentioned Diwali and other Hindu festivals. A few, notably the [Mughal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mughal_Empire \"Mughal Empire\") emperor [Akbar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Akbar \"Akbar\"), welcomed and participated in the festivities,[\\[63\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEEaton1996159%E2%80%93160_with_footnotes-69)[\\[64\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMelville2012526-70) whereas others banned such festivals as Diwali and [Holi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Holi \"Holi\"), as [Aurangzeb](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aurangzeb \"Aurangzeb\") did in 1665.[\\[65\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOkita201428%E2%80%9329-71)[\\[66\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389-72)[\\[g\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-75)[\\[h\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-76)\n\nPublications from the time of the [British Raj](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/British_Raj \"British Raj\") also made mention of Diwali, such as the note on Hindu festivals published in 1799 by [Sir William Jones](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/William_Jones_\$philologist\$ \"William Jones (philologist)\"), a philologist known for his early observations on Sanskrit and [Indo-European languages](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indo-European_languages \"Indo-European languages\").[\\[69\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-jone1799p263-77) In his paper on *The Lunar Year of the Hindus*, Jones, then based in [Bengal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bengal \"Bengal\"), noted four of the five days of Diwali in the [autumn](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Autumn \"Autumn\") months of *Aswina-Cartica* \\[*[sic](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sic \"Sic\")*\\] as the following: *Bhutachaturdasi Yamaterpanam* (2nd day), *Lacshmipuja dipanwita* (the day of Diwali), *Dyuta pratipat Belipuja* (4th day), and *Bhratri dwitiya* (5th day). The *Lacshmipuja dipanwita*, remarked Jones, was a \"great festival at night, in honour of Lakshmi, with illuminations on trees and houses\".[\\[69\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-jone1799p263-77)[\\[i\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-78)\n\nEpigraphy\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/8\/81\/1867_CE_chromolithograph%2C_Diwali%2C_feast_of_lamps%2C_by_William_Simpson.jpg\/250px-1867_CE_chromolithograph%2C_Diwali%2C_feast_of_lamps%2C_by_William_Simpson.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:1867_CE_chromolithograph,_Diwali,_feast_of_lamps,_by_William_Simpson.jpg)\n\nWilliam Simpson labelled his chromolithograph of 1867 as \"Dewali, feast of lamps\". It showed streets lit up at dusk, with a girl and her mother lighting a street corner lamp.[\\[70\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-79)\n\nSanskrit inscriptions in stone and copper mentioning Diwali, occasionally alongside terms such as *Dipotsava*, *[Dipavali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dipawali_\$Jainism\$ \"Dipawali (Jainism)\")*, *Divali* and *Divalige*, have been discovered at numerous sites across India.[\\[71\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-80)[\\[72\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-81)[\\[j\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-82) Examples include a 10th-century Rashtrakuta empire copper plate inscription of [Krishna III](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna_III \"Krishna III\") (939–967 CE) that mentions *Dipotsava*,[\\[73\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-83) and a 12th-century mixed Sanskrit-Kannada Sinda inscription discovered in the Isvara temple of [Dharwad](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dharwad \"Dharwad\") in Karnataka where the inscription refers to the festival as a \"sacred occasion\".[\\[74\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-84) According to [Lorenz Franz Kielhorn](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lorenz_Franz_Kielhorn \"Lorenz Franz Kielhorn\"), a German Indologist known for translating many Indic inscriptions, this festival is mentioned as *Dipotsavam* in verses 6 and 7 of the Ranganatha temple Sanskrit inscription of the 13th-century [Venad](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Venad_\$Kingdom\$ \"Venad (Kingdom)\") Hindu king [Ravivarman Samgramadhira](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ravivarman_Kula%C5%9B%C4%93khara \"Ravivarman Kulaśēkhara\"). Part of the inscription, as translated by Kielhorn, reads:\n\n> the auspicious festival of lights which disperses the most profound darkness, which in former days was celebrated by the kings Ila, Kartavirya and Sagara, (...) as Sakra (Indra) is of the gods, the universal monarch who knows the duties by the three Vedas, afterwards celebrated here at Ranga for Vishnu, resplendent with Lakshmi resting on his radiant lap.[\\[75\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-kielhorn1896-85)[\\[k\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-86)\n\nJain inscriptions, such as the 10th-century Saundatti inscription about a donation of oil to Jinendra worship for the Diwali rituals, speak of *Dipotsava*.[\\[76\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-87)[\\[77\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-88) Another early 13th-century Sanskrit stone inscription, written in the Devanagari script, has been found in the north end of a mosque pillar in [Jalore](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jalore \"Jalore\"), [Rajasthan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rajasthan \"Rajasthan\") evidently built using materials from a demolished Jain temple. The inscription states that Ramachandracharya built and dedicated a drama performance hall, with a golden cupola, on Diwali.[\\[78\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Hultzsch1268-89)[\\[79\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-90)[\\[l\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-91)\n\nReligious significance\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/a\/a6\/Raja_Ravi_Varma%2C_Goddess_Lakshmi%2C_1896.jpg\/250px-Raja_Ravi_Varma%2C_Goddess_Lakshmi%2C_1896.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Raja_Ravi_Varma,_Goddess_Lakshmi,_1896.jpg)\n\nDiwali is commonly celebrated in the honour of [Lakshmi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi \"Lakshmi\"), the goddess of wealth.\n\nThe religious significance of Diwali varies regionally within India. One tradition links the festival to legends in the Hindu epic *[Ramayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramayana \"Ramayana\")*, where Diwali is the day Rama, Sita, [Lakshmana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshman \"Lakshman\"), and [Hanuman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman \"Hanuman\") reached [Ayodhya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayodhya_\$Ramayana\$ \"Ayodhya (Ramayana)\") after a period of 14 years in exile after Rama's army of good, defeated demon king [Ravana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ravana \"Ravana\")'s army of evil.[\\[80\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691-92) Throughout the epic, Rama's decisions were always in line with *[dharma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dharma \"Dharma\") (*duty*)* and the Diwali festival serves as a reminder for followers of Hinduism to maintain their dharma in day-to-day life.[\\[81\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-93)\n\nPer another popular tradition, in the [Dvapara Yuga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dvapara_Yuga \"Dvapara Yuga\") period, [Krishna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna \"Krishna\"), an [avatar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Avatar \"Avatar\") of [Vishnu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishnu \"Vishnu\"), killed the demon [Narakasura](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Narakasura \"Narakasura\"), who was the evil king of [Pragjyotishapura](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pragjyotishapura \"Pragjyotishapura\"), near present-day Assam, and released 16000 girls held captive by Narakasura. Diwali was celebrated as a signifier of triumph of good over evil after Krishna's Victory over Narakasura. The day before Diwali is remembered as Naraka Chaturdashi, the day on which Narakasura was killed by Krishna.[\\[82\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-94)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/2\/2a\/Diwali_Lakshmi_Poojan.jpg\/250px-Diwali_Lakshmi_Poojan.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diwali_Lakshmi_Poojan.jpg)\n\nA picture of Lakshmi and [Ganesha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesha \"Ganesha\") worship during Diwali\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/5\/57\/Diwali_Ganesh_Laxmi_Puja_001.jpg\/250px-Diwali_Ganesh_Laxmi_Puja_001.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diwali_Ganesh_Laxmi_Puja_001.jpg)\n\nDiwali Ganesh Laxmi Puja\n\nMany Hindus associate the festival with Goddess [Lakshmi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi \"Lakshmi\"), the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and wife of Vishnu. According to Pintchman, the start of the 5-day Diwali festival is stated in some popular contemporary sources as the day goddess Lakshmi was born from [Samudra Manthana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samudra_manthan \"Samudra manthan\"), the churning of the cosmic ocean of milk by the [Devas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Deva_\$Hinduism\$ \"Deva (Hinduism)\") (gods) and the [Asuras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Asuras \"Asuras\") (demons) – a Vedic legend that is also found in several [Puranas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puranas \"Puranas\") such as the *[Padma Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Padma_Purana \"Padma Purana\")*, while the night of Diwali is when Lakshmi chose and wed Vishnu.[\\[55\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61)[\\[83\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Karen_Pechilis_2007_pp_273-275-95) Along with Lakshmi, who is representative of [Vaishnavism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaishnavism \"Vaishnavism\"), [Ganesha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesha \"Ganesha\"), the elephant-headed son of [Parvati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Parvati \"Parvati\") and [Shiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva \"Shiva\") of [Shaivism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaivism \"Shaivism\") tradition, is remembered as one who symbolises ethical beginnings and the remover of obstacles.[\\[80\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691-92)\n\nHindus of eastern India associate the festival with the Goddess Kali, who symbolises the victory of good over evil.[\\[84\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEAmazzone2012-96)[\\[85\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-97)[\\[86\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-98) Hindus from the Braj region in northern India, parts of [Assam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Assam \"Assam\"), as well as southern Tamil and Telugu communities view Diwali as the day the god Krishna overcame and destroyed the evil demon king Narakasura, in yet another symbolic victory of knowledge and good over ignorance and evil.[\\[87\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECoogan2003152%E2%80%93153-99)[\\[88\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEVemsani2016190%E2%80%93191-100)\n\nTrade and merchant families and others also offer prayers to [Saraswati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saraswati \"Saraswati\"), who embodies music, literature and learning and [Kubera](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kubera \"Kubera\"), who symbolises book-keeping, treasury and wealth management.[\\[55\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61) In western states such as Gujarat, and certain northern Hindu communities of India, the festival of Diwali signifies the start of a new year.[\\[87\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECoogan2003152%E2%80%93153-99)\n\nMythical tales shared on Diwali vary widely depending on region and even within Hindu tradition,[\\[89\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-vasudha31-101) yet all share a common focus on righteousness, self-inquiry and the importance of knowledge,[\\[90\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-102)[\\[91\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-103) which, according to Lindsey Harlan, an Indologist and scholar of Religious Studies, is the path to overcoming the \"darkness of ignorance\".[\\[92\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESalamone2004112,_Article_on_Divali_by_Lindsey_Harlan-104) The telling of these myths is reminiscent of the Hindu belief that good ultimately triumphs over evil.[\\[93\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-105)[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12)\n\nOther religions\n\nOriginally a Hindu festival, Diwali has transcended religious lines.[\\[94\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJohnson200771%E2%80%9379-106) Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Newar Buddhists,[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2) although for each faith it marks different historical events and stories, but nonetheless the festival represents the same symbolic victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Heiligman31-7)[\\[6\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-htoday-8)[\\[95\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-107)[\\[96\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-108)\n\nJainism\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/4\/47\/Mahavira_Nirvan_Kalyanak_Diwali.jpg\/330px-Mahavira_Nirvan_Kalyanak_Diwali.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Mahavira_Nirvan_Kalyanak_Diwali.jpg)\n\n[Lord Mahavir](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahavira \"Mahavira\") in meditation before attaining nirvana, the day is celebrated by [Jains](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jains \"Jains\") as *Dipalikaya*\n\nIn Jain religion, Diwali is celebrated in observance of \"Mahavira Nirvana Divas\", the physical death and final nirvana of [Mahavira](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahavira \"Mahavira\"), the 24th [Tirthankar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tirthankar \"Tirthankar\") of current time cycle. Nirvana is considered to be the state of a soul when it escapes from the cycle of birth and death, while experiencing its true nature of boundless bliss and infinite knowledge.[\\[97\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Jacobi_1895-109) The Jain Diwali celebrated in many parts of India has similar practices to the Hindu Diwali, such as the lighting of lamps. However, the focus of the Jain Diwali remains the dedication to Mahavira.[\\[98\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELong200926,_42-110) According to the Jain tradition, this practice of lighting lamps first began on the day of Mahavira's nirvana in 527 BCE,[\\[m\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-113) when 18 kings who had gathered for Mahavira's final teachings issued a proclamation that lamps be lit in remembrance of the \"great light, Mahavira\".[\\[101\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMelton2011255-114)[\\[102\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELong200942-115) This traditional belief of the origin of Diwali, and its significance to Jains, is reflected in their historic artworks such as paintings.[\\[103\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJainFischer197813-116)\n\nSikhism\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/f\/f4\/A_hukamnama_from_the_tenth_Sikh_guru%2C_Guru_Gobind_Singh%2C_requesting_all_of_the_Sikh_congregation_to_convene_in_his_presence_on_the_occasion_of_Diwali.jpg\/250px-A_hukamnama_from_the_tenth_Sikh_guru%2C_Guru_Gobind_Singh%2C_requesting_all_of_the_Sikh_congregation_to_convene_in_his_presence_on_the_occasion_of_Diwali.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:A_hukamnama_from_the_tenth_Sikh_guru,_Guru_Gobind_Singh,_requesting_all_of_the_Sikh_congregation_to_convene_in_his_presence_on_the_occasion_of_Diwali.jpg)\n\nA [hukamnama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hukamnama \"Hukamnama\") from the tenth Sikh guru, [Guru Gobind Singh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Gobind_Singh \"Guru Gobind Singh\"), requesting all of the Sikh congregation to convene in his presence on the occasion of Diwali\n\nSikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas in remembrance of the release of [Guru Hargobind](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Hargobind \"Guru Hargobind\") from the [Gwalior Fort](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gwalior_Fort \"Gwalior Fort\") prison by the Mughal emperor [Jahangir](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jahangir \"Jahangir\") and the day he arrived at the Golden Temple in Amritsar.[\\[104\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-117) According to J.S. Grewal, a scholar of Sikhism and Sikh history, Diwali in the Sikh tradition is older than the sixth Guru Hargobind legend. [Guru Amar Das](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Amar_Das \"Guru Amar Das\"), the third Guru of the Sikhs, built a well in Goindwal with eighty-four steps and invited Sikhs to bathe in its [sacred waters](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sacred_waters \"Sacred waters\") on Baisakhi and Diwali as a form of community bonding. Over time, these spring and autumn festivals became the most important of Sikh festivals and holy sites such as Amritsar became focal points for annual pilgrimages.[\\[105\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGrewal199850%E2%80%9351,_60,_73%E2%80%9378,_93-118) The festival of Diwali, according to Ray Colledge, highlights three events in Sikh history: the founding of the city of Amritsar in 1577, the release of Guru Hargobind from the Mughal prison, and the day of Bhai Mani Singh's martyrdom in 1738 as a result of his failure to pay a fine for trying to celebrate Diwali and thereafter refusing to convert to Islam.[\\[106\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEColledge2017276%E2%80%93278-119)[\\[107\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESinghLouis_E._Fenech2014431%E2%80%93433-120)[\\[n\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-123)\n\nBuddhism\n\nDiwali is not a festival for most Buddhists, with the exception of the [Newar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Newar_people \"Newar people\") people of Nepal who revere various deities in [Vajrayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vajrayana \"Vajrayana\") Buddhism and celebrate Diwali by offering prayers to Lakshmi.[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2)[\\[22\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Prem_Saran_2012_175-24) Newar Buddhists in Nepalese valleys also celebrate the Diwali festival over five days, in much the same way, and on the same days, as the Nepalese Hindu Diwali-Tihar festival.[\\[110\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-124) According to some observers, this traditional celebration by Newar Buddhists in Nepal, through the worship of Lakshmi and Vishnu during Diwali, is not [syncretism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Syncretism \"Syncretism\") but rather a reflection of the freedom within [Mahayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahayana \"Mahayana\") Buddhist tradition to worship any deity for their worldly betterment.[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2)\n\nCelebrations\n\n|   |   |\n|---|---|\n|   |   |\n| [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/5\/5c\/Diwali_Festival.jpg\/250px-Diwali_Festival.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diwali_Festival.jpg)Hindu girls lighting [diyas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diya_\$light\$ \"Diya (light)\") in Bangladesh | [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/4\/49\/Glowing_Swayambhu_%283005358416%29.jpg\/250px-Glowing_Swayambhu_%283005358416%29.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Glowing_Swayambhu_\$3005358416\$.jpg)Decorations in [Kathmandu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kathmandu \"Kathmandu\") for [Tihar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tihar_\$festival\$ \"Tihar (festival)\") (Diwali in Nepal) |\n| [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/73\/Diyas_Diwali_Decor_India.jpg\/250px-Diyas_Diwali_Decor_India.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diyas_Diwali_Decor_India.jpg)Diwali lamps arranged in the pattern of *[Om](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Om \"Om\")* | [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/2\/2f\/Fireworks_Diwali_Chennai_India_November_2013_b.jpg\/250px-Fireworks_Diwali_Chennai_India_November_2013_b.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Fireworks_Diwali_Chennai_India_November_2013_b.jpg)Deepavali night fireworks over [Chennai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chennai \"Chennai\") |\n| [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/7\/70\/Diwali_Pujan_at_Haridwar.jpg\/250px-Diwali_Pujan_at_Haridwar.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diwali_Pujan_at_Haridwar.jpg)Indoor Diwali decorations in front of an altar in [Haridwar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Haridwar \"Haridwar\") | [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/a\/ae\/United_States_Diwali_Dance_San_Antonio_2011_b.jpg\/250px-United_States_Diwali_Dance_San_Antonio_2011_b.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:United_States_Diwali_Dance_San_Antonio_2011_b.jpg)Dance event for Diwali in [Texas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Texas \"Texas\"), US |\n| [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/3\/38\/Divalinagar.jpg\/120px-Divalinagar.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Divalinagar.jpg)[Divali Nagar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Divali_Nagar \"Divali Nagar\") celebration in Trinidad and Tobago | [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/f\/f2\/Diwali_Festival._Jpg.jpg\/250px-Diwali_Festival._Jpg.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diwali_Festival._Jpg.jpg)Diyas lit for Diwali at [Golden Temple](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Harmandir_Sahib \"Harmandir Sahib\"), Punjab |\n| [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/7e\/Diwali_offerings_to_god_in_Tamil_Nadu_JEG2437.jpg\/250px-Diwali_offerings_to_god_in_Tamil_Nadu_JEG2437.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diwali_offerings_to_god_in_Tamil_Nadu_JEG2437.jpg)Diwali sweets and snacks | [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/0\/0b\/DiwaliKarnal.JPG\/250px-DiwaliKarnal.JPG)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:DiwaliKarnal.JPG)Decorative lights for Diwali on a house in Haryana |\n\nIn the lead-up to Diwali, celebrants prepare by cleaning, renovating, and decorating their homes and workplaces with *diyas* (oil lamps) and *[rangolis](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rangoli \"Rangoli\")* (colourful art circle patterns).[\\[112\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Raat-126) During Diwali, people wear their finest clothes, illuminate the interior and exterior of their homes with saaki (earthen lamp), *diyas* and *rangoli*, perform worship ceremonies of [Lakshmi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi \"Lakshmi\"), the goddess of prosperity and wealth,[\\[o\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-128) light fireworks, and partake in family feasts, where *mithai* ([sweets](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/South_Asian_sweets \"South Asian sweets\")) and [gifts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gift \"Gift\") are shared.\n\nThe height of Diwali is celebrated on the third day coinciding with the darkest night of Ashvin or Kartika.\n\nThe common celebratory practices are known as the festival of light, however there are minor differences from state to state in India. Diwali is usually celebrated twenty days after the [Vijayadashami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vijayadashami \"Vijayadashami\") festival, with [Dhanteras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dhanteras \"Dhanteras\"), or the regional equivalent, marking the first day of the festival when celebrants prepare by cleaning their homes and making decorations on the floor, such as *[rangolis](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rangoli \"Rangoli\")*.[\\[114\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-129) Some regions of [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India \"India\") start Diwali festivities the day before Dhanteras with [Govatsa Dwadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Govatsa_Dwadashi \"Govatsa Dwadashi\"). The second day is [Naraka Chaturdashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Naraka_Chaturdashi \"Naraka Chaturdashi\"). The third day is the day of [Lakshmi Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi_Puja \"Lakshmi Puja\") and the darkest [night](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Night \"Night\") of the [traditional month](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/K%C4%81rtika_\$month\$ \"Kārtika (month)\"). In some parts of [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India \"India\"), the day after [Lakshmi Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi_Puja \"Lakshmi Puja\") is marked with the [Govardhan Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Govardhan_Puja \"Govardhan Puja\") and [Balipratipada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balipratipada \"Balipratipada\") (Padwa). Some [Hindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindus \"Hindus\") communities mark the last day as [Bhai Dooj](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhai_Dooj \"Bhai Dooj\") or the regional equivalent, which is dedicated to the bond between sister and brother,[\\[115\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-130) while other Hindu and Sikh craftsmen communities mark this day as [Vishvakarma Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishwakarma_Puja \"Vishwakarma Puja\") and observe it by performing maintenance in their work spaces and offering [prayers](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prayer \"Prayer\").[\\[116\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-haar2009-131)[\\[117\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-132)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/5\/5e\/Diwali_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg\/250px-Diwali_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diwali_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg)\n\nDiwali celebrations include [puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puja_\$Hinduism\$ \"Puja (Hinduism)\") (prayers) to Lakshmi and Ganesha. Lakshmi is of the Vaishnavism tradition, while Ganesha of the Shaivism tradition of Hinduism.[\\[118\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133)[\\[119\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKinsley198833%E2%80%9334-134)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/3\/3c\/%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%86_%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%9F%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A8%2C_%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%AD%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BF_%E0%A4%93%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AA_%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%97%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%AF.jpg\/250px-%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%86_%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%9F%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A8%2C_%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%AD%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BF_%E0%A4%93%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AA_%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%97%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%AF.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%86_%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%9F%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A8,_%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%AD%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BF_%E0%A4%93%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AA_%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%97%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%AF.jpg)\n\nChandua lanterns on display for Diwali.\n\nRituals and preparations for Diwali begin days or weeks in advance, typically after the festival of Dusshera that precedes Diwali by about 20 days.[\\[80\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691-92) The festival formally begins two days before the night of Diwali and ends two days thereafter. Each day has the following rituals and significance:[\\[55\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61) Diwali has become more popular in other countries. In [New York City](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/New_York_City \"New York City\") lawmakers have passed legislation to make holidays in school. But debates over the holiday push back. In the future Diwali will be a holiday.[\\[120\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-135)\n\nDhanteras and Yama Deepam (Day 1)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/1\/1c\/DiwaliOilLampCrop.JPG\/250px-DiwaliOilLampCrop.JPG)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:DiwaliOilLampCrop.JPG)\n\nDhanteras starts off the Diwali celebrations with the lighting of *[Diya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diya_\$lamp\$ \"Diya (lamp)\") or Panati* lamp rows, house cleaning and floor [rangoli](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rangoli \"Rangoli\")\n\n*Dhanteras*, also known as *Dhanatrayodashi,* is derived from *Dhan* meaning wealth and *teras* meaning thirteenth, marks the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Kartik and the beginning of Diwali in most parts of India.[\\[121\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136) On this day, many Hindus clean their homes and business premises. They install *diyas*, small earthen oil-filled lamps that they light up for the next five days, near Lakshmi and Ganesha iconography.[\\[121\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136)[\\[118\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133) Women and children decorate doorways within homes and offices with *rangolis*, colourful designs made from rice flour, flower petals, coloured rice or coloured sand,[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16) while the boys and men decorate the roofs and walls of family homes, markets, and temples and string up lights and lanterns. The day also marks a major shopping day for buying new utensils, home equipment, gold jewellery, firecrackers, and other items.[\\[118\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133)[\\[55\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61)[\\[83\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Karen_Pechilis_2007_pp_273-275-95)[\\[122\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-137) On the evening of Dhanteras, families offer prayers (*puja*) to Lakshmi and Ganesha, and lay offerings of puffed rice, candy toys, rice cakes and *batashas* (hollow sugar cakes).[\\[118\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133)\n\nAccording to Tracy Pintchman, Dhanteras is a symbol of annual renewal, cleansing and an auspicious beginning for the next year.[\\[121\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136) The term *Dhan* for this day also alludes to the [Ayurvedic](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayurvedic \"Ayurvedic\") icon [Dhanvantari](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dhanvantari \"Dhanvantari\"), the god of health and healing, who is believed to have emerged from the \"churning of cosmic ocean\" on the same day as Lakshmi.[\\[121\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136) Some communities, particularly those active in Ayurvedic and health-related professions, pray or perform [havan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Homa_\$ritual\$ \"Homa (ritual)\") rituals to Dhanvantari on Dhanteras.[\\[121\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136)\n\nOn Yama Deepam (also known as Yama Dipadana or Jam ke Diya), Hindus light a [diya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diya_\$lamp\$ \"Diya (lamp)\"), ideally made of wheat flour and filled with sesame oil, which faces south in the back of their homes. This is believed to please [Yama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yama_\$Hinduism\$ \"Yama (Hinduism)\"), the god of death, and to ward off untimely death.[\\[123\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-drikpanchang1-138) Some Hindus observe Yama Deepam on the second night before the main day of Diwali.[\\[124\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-swahainternational1-139)[\\[125\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-astroved1-140)\n\nNaraka Chaturdashi, Kali Chaudas, Chhoti Diwali, Hanuman Puja, Roop Chaudas, Yama Deepam (Day 2)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/9\/96\/Diwali_Food_and_Celebrations_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg\/250px-Diwali_Food_and_Celebrations_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diwali_Food_and_Celebrations_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/d\/d1\/Hindu_diet%2C_meal_setting_at_festival.jpg\/250px-Hindu_diet%2C_meal_setting_at_festival.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Hindu_diet,_meal_setting_at_festival.jpg)\n\nChoti Diwali is the major shopping day for festive *mithai* (sweets)\n\n*Naraka Chaturdashi*, also known as Chhoti Diwali, is the second day of festivities coinciding with the fourteenth day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Kartik.[\\[126\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-141) The term \"chhoti\" means little, while \"Naraka\" means hell and \"Chaturdashi\" means \"fourteenth\".[\\[127\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361-142) The day and its rituals are interpreted as ways to liberate any soul from suffering in \"Naraka\", or hell, as well as a reminder of spiritual auspiciousness. For some Hindus, it is a day to pray for the peace to the manes, or defiled souls of one's ancestors and light their way for their journeys in the cyclic afterlife.[\\[128\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361,_63-143) A mythological interpretation of this festive day is the destruction of the asura (demon) [Narakasura](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Narakasura \"Narakasura\") by Krishna, a victory that frees 16,000 imprisoned princesses kidnapped by Narakasura.[\\[127\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361-142) It is also celebrated as Roop Chaudas in some North Indian households, where women bathe before sunrise, while lighting a [diya (lamp)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diya_\$lamp\$ \"Diya (lamp)\") in the bath area, they believe it helps enhance their beauty – it is a fun ritual that young girls enjoy as part of festivities. *Ubtan* is applied by the women which is made up of special gram flour mixed with herbs for cleansing and beautifying themselves.\n\nNaraka Chaturdashi is also a major day for purchasing festive foods, particularly sweets. A variety of sweets are prepared using flour, semolina, rice, chickpea flour, dry fruit pieces powders or paste, milk solids (*mawa* or *khoya*) and clarified butter (*ghee*).[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12) According to Goldstein, these are then shaped into various forms, such as [laddus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Laddu \"Laddu\"), [barfis](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Barfi \"Barfi\"), [halwa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Halwa \"Halwa\"), [kachoris](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kachori \"Kachori\"), [shrikhand](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shrikhand \"Shrikhand\"), and [sandesh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sandesh_\$confectionery\$ \"Sandesh (confectionery)\"), rolled and stuffed delicacies, such as karanji, [shankarpali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shankarpali \"Shankarpali\"), maladu, susiyam, pottukadalai. Sometimes these are wrapped with edible silver foil ([vark](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vark \"Vark\")). Confectioners and shops create Diwali-themed decorative displays, selling these in large quantities, which are stocked for home celebrations to welcome guests and as gifts.[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12)[\\[118\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133) Families also prepare homemade delicacies for Lakshmi Pujan, regarded as the main day of Diwali.[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12) Chhoti Diwali is also a day for visiting friends, business associates and relatives, and exchanging gifts.[\\[118\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133)\n\nOn the second day of Diwali, Hanuman Puja is performed in some parts of India especially in [Gujarat](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gujarat \"Gujarat\"). It coincides with the day of Kali Chaudas. It is believed that spirits roam around on the night of Kali Chaudas, and [Hanuman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman \"Hanuman\"), who is the deity of strength, power, and protection, is worshipped to seek protection from the spirits. Diwali is also celebrated to mark the return of [Rama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rama \"Rama\") to [Ayodhya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayodhya_\$Ramayana\$ \"Ayodhya (Ramayana)\") after defeating the demon-king Ravana[\\[129\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-144) and completing his fourteen years of exile. The devotion and dedication of Hanuman pleased Rama so much that he blessed Hanuman to be worshipped before him. Thus, people worship Hanuman the day before Diwali's main day.[\\[130\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-drikpanchang.com-145)\n\nThis day is commonly celebrated as Diwali in [Tamil Nadu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tamil_Nadu \"Tamil Nadu\"), [Goa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Goa \"Goa\"), and [Karnataka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karnataka \"Karnataka\").\\[*[citation needed](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Citation_needed \"Wikipedia:Citation needed\")*\\] Traditionally, [Marathi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Marathi_people \"Marathi people\") Hindus and South Indian Hindus receive an oil massage from the elders in the family on the day and then take a ritual bath, all before sunrise.[\\[131\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394-146) Many visit their favourite Hindu temple.[\\[132\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTERodrigues201629-147)\n\nSome Hindus observe Yama Deepam (also known as Yama Dipadana or Jam ke Diya) on the second day of Diwali, instead of the first day. A diya that is filled with sesame oil is lit at back of their homes facing in the southern direction. This is believed to please [Yama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yama_\$Hinduism\$ \"Yama (Hinduism)\"), the god of death, and to ward off untimely death.[\\[123\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-drikpanchang1-138)[\\[124\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-swahainternational1-139)[\\[125\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-astroved1-140)\n\nLakshmi Pujan, Kali Puja (Day 3)\n\nThe third day is the height of the festival[\\[133\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJacobs201026-148) and coincides with the last day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Kartik. This is the day when Hindu, Jain and Sikh temples and homes are aglow with lights, thereby making it the \"festival of lights\". The word Deepawali comes from the Sanskrit word *दीप* (dīpa, \"light\") and *आवलि* (āvali, \"series, line, row\"), where dīpa means an Indian lantern or lamp.[\\[47\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9362-52)[\\[134\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Mead2008-149)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/7c\/Kit_Kat_Firecracker.jpg\/250px-Kit_Kat_Firecracker.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Kit_Kat_Firecracker.jpg)\n\nA sparkling firecracker, commonly known as 'Kit Kat' in India\n\nThe youngest members in the family visit their elders, such as grandparents and other senior members of the community, on this day. Small business owners give gifts or special bonus payments to their employees between Dhanteras and Lakshmi Pujan.[\\[131\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394-146)[\\[135\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011254-150) Shops either do not open or close early on this day allowing employees to enjoy family time. Shopkeepers and small operations perform *puja* rituals in their office premises. Unlike some other festivals, the Hindus typically do not fast during the five-day long Diwali including Lakshmi Pujan, rather they feast and share the bounties of the season at their workplaces, community centres, temples, and homes.[\\[131\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394-146)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/7d\/Woman_lighting_the_candles_for_the_Festival_of_Lights_in_India_%28cropped%29.jpg\/250px-Woman_lighting_the_candles_for_the_Festival_of_Lights_in_India_%28cropped%29.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Woman_lighting_the_candles_for_the_Festival_of_Lights_in_India_\$cropped\$.jpg)\n\nWoman lighting candles for Diwali. People light candles and clay lamps in their houses and at temples during Diwali night\n\nAs the evening approaches, celebrants will wear new clothes or their best outfits, teenage girls and women, in particular, wear saris and jewellery.[\\[136\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9395-151) At dusk, family members gather for the Lakshmi Pujan,[\\[136\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9395-151) although prayers will also be offered to other deities, such as Ganesha, Saraswati, Rama, Lakshmana, Sita, Hanuman, or Kubera.[\\[55\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61) The lamps from the puja ceremony are then used to light more earthenware lamps, which are placed in rows along the parapets of temples and houses,[\\[137\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200697%E2%80%9398-152) while some *diyas* are set adrift on rivers and streams.[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Mead-2008b-9)[\\[138\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-153)[\\[139\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKlostermaier201459,_69-154) After the *puja*, people go outside and celebrate by lighting up *patakhe* (fireworks) together, and then share a family feast and *[mithai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mithai_\$confectionery\$ \"Mithai (confectionery)\")* (sweets, desserts).[\\[55\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61)\n\nThe *puja* and rituals in the [Bengali Hindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bengali_Hindu \"Bengali Hindu\") community focus on Kali, the goddess of war, instead of Lakshmi.[\\[113\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127)[\\[140\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTERhodes20101%E2%80%932-155) According to Rachel Fell McDermott, a scholar of South Asian, particular Bengali, studies, in Bengal during Navaratri (Dussehra elsewhere in India) the *[Durga puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga_puja \"Durga puja\")* is the main focus, although in the eastern and northeastern states the two are synonymous, but on Diwali the focus is on the puja dedicated to Kali. These two festivals likely developed in tandem over their recent histories, states McDermott.[\\[113\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127) Textual evidence suggests that Bengali Hindus worshipped Lakshmi before the colonial era, and that the Kali puja is a more recent phenomenon.[\\[p\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-156) Contemporary Bengali celebrations mirror those found elsewhere, with teenage boys playing with fireworks and the sharing of festive food with family, but with the [Shakti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaktism \"Shaktism\") goddess Kali as the focus.[\\[141\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDaniel2004253%E2%80%93255-157)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/1\/18\/Sparkles_phuljhari_fireworks_on_DIWALI%2C_festival_of_lights.jpg\/250px-Sparkles_phuljhari_fireworks_on_DIWALI%2C_festival_of_lights.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Sparkles_phuljhari_fireworks_on_DIWALI,_festival_of_lights.jpg)\n\nA child playing with [(fuljhadi) sparklers](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sparkler \"Sparkler\") during Diwali\n\nOn the night of Diwali, rituals across much of India are dedicated to Lakshmi to welcome her into their cleaned homes and bring prosperity and happiness for the coming year.[\\[142\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363-158)[\\[62\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-S_A_NEWS-2020-68) While the cleaning, or painting, of the home is in part for goddess Lakshmi, it also signifies the ritual \"reenactment of the cleansing, purifying action of the monsoon rains\" that would have concluded in most of the Indian subcontinent.[\\[142\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363-158) Vaishnava families recite Hindu legends of the victory of good over evil and the return of hope after despair on the Diwali night, where the main characters may include Rama, Krishna, Vamana or one of the avatars of Vishnu, the divine husband of Lakshmi.[\\[142\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363-158)[\\[143\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9397-159) At dusk, lamps placed earlier in the inside and outside of the home are lit up to welcome Lakshmi.[\\[133\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJacobs201026-148) Family members light up firecrackers, which some interpret as a way to ward off all evil spirits and the inauspicious, as well as add to the festive mood.[\\[144\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Firecracker2-160)[\\[145\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Firecracker3-161) According to Pintchman, who quotes Raghavan, this ritual may also be linked to the tradition in some communities of paying respect to ancestors. Earlier in the season's fortnight, some welcome the souls of their ancestors to join the family for the festivities with the *Mahalaya*. The Diwali night's lights and firecrackers, in this interpretation, represent a celebratory and symbolic farewell to the departed ancestral souls.[\\[146\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563-162)\n\nThe celebrations and rituals of the Jains and the Sikhs are similar to those of the Hindus where social and community bonds are renewed. Major temples and homes are decorated with lights, festive foods shared with all, friends and relatives remembered and visited with gifts.[\\[135\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011254-150)[\\[98\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELong200926,_42-110)\n\nAnnakut, Balipratipada (Padwa), New Year's Day, Govardhan Puja (Day 4)\n\nThe day after Diwali is the first day of the bright fortnight of Kartik.[\\[147\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364-163) It is regionally called Annakut (heap of grain), Padwa, Goverdhan puja, Bali Pratipada, Bali Padyami, Kartik Shukla Pratipada and other names.[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16)[\\[147\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364-163) According to one tradition, the day is associated with the story of Bali's defeat at the hands of Vishnu.[\\[148\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-NarayananKurup1976-164)[\\[149\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-165) In another interpretation, it is thought to reference the legend of Parvati and her husband Shiva playing a game of *dyuta* (dice) on a board of twelve squares and thirty pieces, Parvati wins. Shiva surrenders his shirt and adornments to her, rendering him naked.[\\[147\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364-163) According to Handelman and Shulman, as quoted by Pintchman, this legend is a Hindu metaphor for the cosmic process for creation and dissolution of the world through the masculine destructive power, as represented by Shiva, and the feminine procreative power, represented by Parvati, where twelve reflects the number of months in the cyclic year, while thirty are the number of days in its lunisolar month.[\\[147\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364-163)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/3\/3a\/Annakut.jpg\/330px-Annakut.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Annakut.jpg)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/78\/Lord_Krishna_and_Goverdhan_parwat_in_his_left_hand%27s_finger.jpg\/250px-Lord_Krishna_and_Goverdhan_parwat_in_his_left_hand%27s_finger.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Lord_Krishna_and_Goverdhan_parwat_in_his_left_hand%27s_finger.jpg)\n\nAnnakut community meals (left), Krishna holding [Govardhan Hill](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Govardhan_Hill \"Govardhan Hill\") ritually made from cow dung, rice and flowers (right).\n\nThis day ritually celebrates the bond between the wife and husband,[\\[150\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) and in some Hindu communities, husbands will celebrate this with gifts to their wives. In other regions, parents invite a newly married daughter, or son, together with their spouses to a festive meal and give them gifts.[\\[150\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166)\n\nIn some rural communities of the north, west and central regions, the fourth day is celebrated as Govardhan puja, honouring the legend of the Hindu god Krishna saving the cowherd and farming communities from incessant rains and floods triggered by Indra's anger,[\\[150\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) which he accomplished by lifting the Govardhan mountain. This legend is remembered through the ritual of building small mountain-like miniatures from cow dung.[\\[150\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) According to Kinsley, the ritual use of cow dung, a common fertiliser, is an agricultural motif and a celebration of its significance to annual crop cycles.[\\[119\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKinsley198833%E2%80%9334-134)[\\[151\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200564%E2%80%9365-167)[\\[152\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELodrick1987-168)\n\nThe agricultural symbolism is also observed on this day by many Hindus as Annakut, literally \"mountain of food\". Communities prepare over one hundred dishes from a variety of ingredients, which is then dedicated to Krishna before being shared among the community. Hindu temples on this day prepare and present \"mountains of sweets\" to the faithful who have gathered for *darshan* (visit).[\\[150\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) In Gujarat, Annakut is the first day of the new year and celebrated through the purchase of essentials, or *sabras* (literally, \"good things in life\"), such as salt, offering prayers to Krishna and visiting temples.[\\[150\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) In Gujarat [New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_New_Year%27s_days \"Indian New Year's days\") is celebrated after the day of Diwali. In the early morning people take showers, do prayer at home, visit temples for worship and children in the evening visit neighbour's houses to say happy new year, shake hands, get mukhvas for dessert, and chocolate.\n\nBhai Duj, Bhau-Beej, Vishwakarma Puja (Day 5)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/8\/82\/Diwali_%28Bhaiya_Dweej_%29.JPG\/250px-Diwali_%28Bhaiya_Dweej_%29.JPG)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Diwali_\$Bhaiya_Dweej_\$.JPG)\n\nA sister ritually feeding her brother on Bhai Duj-Diwali\n\nThe last day of the festival, the second day of the bright fortnight of Kartik, is called *Bhai Duj* (literally \"brother's day\"[\\[153\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-169)), *Bhau Beej*, *Bhai Tilak* or *Bhai Phonta*. It celebrates the sister-brother bond, similar in spirit to [Raksha Bandhan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Raksha_Bandhan \"Raksha Bandhan\") but it is the brother that travels to meet the sister and her family. This festive day is interpreted by some to symbolise Yama's sister [Yamuna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yamuna_in_Hinduism \"Yamuna in Hinduism\") welcoming Yama with a *tilaka*, while others interpret it as the arrival of Krishna at his sister [Subhadra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Subhadra \"Subhadra\")'s place after defeating Narakasura. Subhadra welcomes him with a *tilaka* on his forehead.[\\[150\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166)[\\[154\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200566%E2%80%9369-170)\n\nThe day celebrates the sibling bond between brother and sister.[\\[155\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-171) On this day the womenfolk of the family gather, perform a puja with prayers for the well-being of their brothers, then return to a ritual of feeding their brothers with their hands and receiving gifts. According to Pintchman, in some Hindu traditions the women recite tales where sisters protect their brothers from enemies that seek to cause him either bodily or spiritual harm.[\\[154\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200566%E2%80%9369-170) In historic times, this was a day in autumn when brothers would travel to meet their sisters or invite their sister's family to their village to celebrate their sister-brother bond with the bounty of seasonal harvests.[\\[55\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61)\n\nThe artisan Hindu and Sikh community celebrates the fourth day as the Vishwakarma puja day.[\\[q\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-173) Vishwakarma is the presiding Hindu deity for those in architecture, building, manufacturing, textile work and crafts trades.[\\[116\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-haar2009-131)[\\[r\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-175) The looms, tools of trade, machines and workplaces are cleaned and prayers offered to these livelihood means.[\\[158\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-176)\n\nOther traditions and significance\n\nDuring the season of Diwali, numerous rural townships and villages host *[melas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mela_Festival \"Mela Festival\")*,[\\[159\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Kadowala1998-177) or fairs, where local producers and artisans trade produce and goods. A variety of entertainments are usually available for inhabitants of the local community to enjoy. The women, in particular, adorn themselves in colourful attire and [decorate](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mehndi \"Mehndi\") their hands with [henna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Henna \"Henna\"). Such events are also mentioned in Sikh historical records.[\\[160\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994188%E2%80%93190_with_footnote_96-178)[\\[s\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-179) In the modern day, *Diwali mela* are held at college, or university, campuses or as community events by members of the Indian diaspora. At such events a variety of music, dance and arts performances, food, crafts, and cultural celebrations are featured.[\\[161\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-180)[\\[162\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-181)[\\[92\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESalamone2004112,_Article_on_Divali_by_Lindsey_Harlan-104)\n\nIn October 2025, the state of California made Diwali an official state holiday.[\\[163\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-182)\n\nEconomics\n\nDiwali marks a major shopping period in India,[\\[28\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-wsj-30) and is comparable to the Christmas period in terms of consumer purchases and economic activity.[\\[164\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKlostermaier201459-183) It is traditionally a time when households purchase new clothing, home refurbishments, gifts, gold, jewelry,[\\[165\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-184)[\\[166\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-185) and other large purchases particularly as the festival is dedicated to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and such purchases are considered auspicious.[\\[167\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-186)[\\[168\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-187) According to Rao, Diwali is one of the major festivals where rural Indians spend a significant portion of their annual income, and is a means for them to renew their relationships and social networks.[\\[169\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTERao200171%E2%80%9395-188)\n\nOther goods that are bought in substantial quantities during Diwali include confectionery and fireworks. In 2013, about ₹25 billion (US\\$300 million) of fireworks were sold to merchants for the Diwali season, an equivalent retail value of about ₹50 billion (US\\$590 million) according to *The Times of India*.[\\[170\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-189)[\\[t\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-192) [ASSOCHAM](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ASSOCHAM \"ASSOCHAM\"), a trade organisation in India, forecasted that online shopping alone to be over ₹300 billion (US\\$3.5 billion) over the 2017 Diwali season.[\\[173\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-193) About two-thirds of Indian households, according to the ASSOCHAM forecast, would spend between ₹5,000 (US\\$59) and ₹10,000 (US\\$120) to celebrate Diwali in 2017.[\\[174\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-194) Stock markets like NSE and BSE in India are typically closed during Diwali, with the exception of a Diwali Muhurat trading session for an hour in the evening to coincide with the beginning of the new year.[\\[175\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-195) In 2020, the INDF ETF was launched to mark the start of Diwali.[\\[176\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-196)\n\nPolitics\n\nDiwali has increasingly attracted cultural exchanges, becoming occasions for politicians and religious leaders worldwide to meet Hindu or Indian origin citizens, diplomatic staff or neighbours. Many participate in other socio-political events as a symbol of support for diversity and inclusiveness. The Catholic dicastery [Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pontifical_Council_for_Interreligious_Dialogue \"Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue\"), founded as Secretariat for non-Christians by Pope Paul VI, began sending official greetings and the Pope's message to the Hindus on Diwali in the mid-1990s.[\\[177\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBarbato201793%E2%80%9397-197)[\\[u\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-198)\n\nMany governments encourage or sponsor Diwali-related festivities in their territories. For example, the Singaporean government, in association with the [Hindu Endowments Board](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_Endowments_Board \"Hindu Endowments Board\") of Singapore, organizes many cultural events during Diwali every year.[\\[178\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-199) National and civic leaders such as [the former Prince Charles](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Charles_III \"Charles III\") have attended Diwali celebrations at prominent Hindu temples in the UK, such as the [Swaminarayan Temple in Neasden](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Neasden_Temple \"Neasden Temple\"), using the occasion to highlight contributions of the Hindu community to British society.[\\[179\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-200)[\\[180\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-201) Additionally, cities across the UK show support of the celebrations through Diwali lights, decorations, and cultural festivities such as dance performances, food stalls and workshops.[\\[181\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-202) Since 2009, Diwali has been celebrated every year at [10 Downing Street](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/10_Downing_Street \"10 Downing Street\"), the residence of the British Prime Minister.[\\[182\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-203)\n\nDiwali was first celebrated in the [White House](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/White_House \"White House\") by [George W. Bush](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/George_W._Bush \"George W. Bush\") in 2003, and its religious and historical significance was officially recognized by the [United States Congress](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/United_States_Congress \"United States Congress\") in 2007.[\\[183\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-204)[\\[184\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-205) [Barack Obama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Barack_Obama \"Barack Obama\") became the first president to personally attend Diwali at the White House in 2009. On the eve of his first visit to India as President of the United States, Obama released an official statement sharing his best wishes with \"those celebrating Diwali\".[\\[185\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-206)\n\nPresident [Donald J. Trump](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Donald_Trump \"Donald Trump\") posted an official statement celebrating Diwali in October 2025.[\\[186\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-207)[\\[187\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-208) A similar message posted online by Trump administration [FBI](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Federal_Bureau_of_Investigation \"Federal Bureau of Investigation\") [Director](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Director_of_the_Federal_Bureau_of_Investigation \"Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation\") [Kash Patel](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kash_Patel \"Kash Patel\") was met with a flood of [racist](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Racism \"Racism\") and [xenophobic](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Xenophobia \"Xenophobia\") invective from [Christian nationalists](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Christian_nationalism \"Christian nationalism\") and other [MAGA](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Make_America_Great_Again \"Make America Great Again\")\\-aligned individuals.[\\[188\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-209)[\\[189\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-210)\n\nAs of October 2025, Diwali was an official holiday in three U.S. states: [California](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/California \"California\"), [Connecticut](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Connecticut \"Connecticut\"), and [Pennsylvania](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pennsylvania \"Pennsylvania\").[\\[190\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-211)[\\[191\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-212)\n\nEvery year during Diwali, Indian forces approach their [Pakistani](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pakistani \"Pakistani\") counterparts at the border bearing gifts of traditional Indian confectionery, a gesture that is returned in kind by the Pakistani soldiers who give Pakistani sweets to the Indian soldiers.[\\[192\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-213)[\\[v\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-217)[\\[196\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-218)\n\nHazards\n\nThe use of [firecrackers](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Firecracker \"Firecracker\") on Diwali increases the concentration of [dust](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dust \"Dust\") and [pollutants](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pollutant \"Pollutant\") in the air. After firing, the fine dust particles get settled on the surrounding surfaces which are packed with chemicals like [copper](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Copper \"Copper\"), [zinc](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Zinc \"Zinc\"), [sodium](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sodium \"Sodium\"), [lead](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lead \"Lead\"), [magnesium](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Magnesium \"Magnesium\"), [cadmium](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Cadmium \"Cadmium\") and pollutants like [oxides of sulfur](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sulfur_oxide \"Sulfur oxide\") and [nitrogen](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nitrogen_oxide \"Nitrogen oxide\").[\\[197\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-219) These invisible yet harmful particles affect the environment and in turn, put people's health at stake.[\\[198\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-220) The smoke created by firecrackers lit up on Diwali causes smog which sometimes takes days to clear.[\\[199\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-221)\n\nDuring Diwali, the levels of suspended particulate matter increase. When people are exposed to these pollutant particles, they may suffer from eye, nose, and throat-related problems. To produce colours when crackers are burst, [carcinogenic](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Carcinogen \"Carcinogen\") and poisonous elements are used.[\\[200\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-222)\n\nDuring the 2023 celebration, [New Delhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/New_Delhi \"New Delhi\") briefly took the top spot in the world for [air pollution](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Air_pollution \"Air pollution\") with an [air quality index](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Air_quality_index \"Air quality index\") of 680 on one night.[\\[201\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-223)\n\nThe use of fireworks during Diwali can also lead to burn injuries. One particular firework called *anar* (fountain) has been found to be responsible for 65% of such injuries, with adults being the typical victims. Most of the injuries sustained are Group I type burns (minor) requiring only outpatient care. Experts urge precaution around candles and fires and ask for children to be kept a safe distance from flames and to enjoy the festivity of Diwali.[\\[202\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-224)[\\[203\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-225)\n\nGuinness World Record\n\nIn October 2025, a Diwali celebration in [Ayodhya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayodhya \"Ayodhya\"), Uttar Pradesh, India, broke the [Guinness World Record](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guinness_World_Records \"Guinness World Records\") for the largest display of oil lamps with 2,617,615 displayed on the eve of Diwali.[\\[204\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-r576-226)\n\nUNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage\n\nDiwali has been inscribed on [UNESCO’s](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/UNESCO \"UNESCO\") List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, becoming the 16th Indian tradition to receive global honour joining the ranks of [Durga Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga_Puja \"Durga Puja\") and [Yoga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yoga \"Yoga\") in international recognition.[\\[205\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-227)\n\nSee also\n\n- [Bandna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bandna \"Bandna\") – Agrarian festival that coincides with Diwali\n- [Bandi Chhor Divas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bandi_Chhor_Divas \"Bandi Chhor Divas\") – Sikh festival that coincides with Diwali\n- [Candlemas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Candlemas \"Candlemas\") – the [Christian](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Christian \"Christian\") celebration involving candles, celebrating the [Presentation of Jesus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Presentation_of_Jesus \"Presentation of Jesus\")\n- [Chinese New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chinese_New_Year \"Chinese New Year\") - Chinese celebration, one of the most important holidays in Chinese culture\n- [Day of the Little Candles](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Day_of_the_Little_Candles \"Day of the Little Candles\") – the Colombian Catholic festival of candles\n- [Diwali (Jainism)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali_\$Jainism\$ \"Diwali (Jainism)\") – Diwali's significance in Jainism\n- [Guy Fawkes Night](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guy_Fawkes_Night \"Guy Fawkes Night\") – the British festival of bonfires and fireworks held on the fifth of November. In towns with a large [British Asian](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/British_Asians \"British Asians\") community, Diwali and Guy Fawkes festivities are often combined.\n- [Hanukkah](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanukkah \"Hanukkah\") – the Jewish festival of lights\n- [Jashn-e-Chiragah](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jashn-e-Chiragah \"Jashn-e-Chiragah\") - the Mughal celebration of Diwali\n- [Kali Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali_Puja \"Kali Puja\") – Diwali is most commonly known as Kali Puja in West Bengal or in Bengali dominated areas\n- [Karthika Deepam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karthika_Deepam \"Karthika Deepam\") – the festival of lights observed by [Tamils](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tamils \"Tamils\") of [Tamil Nadu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tamil_Nadu \"Tamil Nadu\"), [Puducherry](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puducherry_\$union_territory\$ \"Puducherry (union territory)\"), [Kerala](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kerala \"Kerala\"), [Sri Lanka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sri_Lanka \"Sri Lanka\") and elsewhere\n- [Lehyam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lehyam \"Lehyam\"), often prepared on the occasion of Deepavali to aid the digestion\n- [Lantern Festival](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lantern_Festival \"Lantern Festival\") – the Chinese festival of lanterns\n- [Loy Krathong](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Loy_Krathong \"Loy Krathong\") – the Thai festival of lights\n- [Nowruz](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nowruz \"Nowruz\") – the Persian new year and festival of lights\n- [Saint Lucy's Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saint_Lucy%27s_Day \"Saint Lucy's Day\") – the Christian festival of lights\n- [Swanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swanti_\$festival\$ \"Swanti (festival)\") – Newar version of Diwali\n- [Tihar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tihar_\$festival\$ \"Tihar (festival)\") – Nepali version of Diwali\n- [Walpurgis Night](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Walpurgis_Night \"Walpurgis Night\") – the German festival of bonfires\n\nNotes\n\n1. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-4)** Also spelled as **Dipawali**, **Deepavali**, or **Deepawali**.\n2. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-6)** Related to **[Jain Diwali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali_\$Jainism\$ \"Diwali (Jainism)\")**, **[Bandi Chhor Divas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bandi_Chhor_Divas \"Bandi Chhor Divas\")**, **[Tihar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tihar_\$festival\$ \"Tihar (festival)\")**, **[Swanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swanti_\$festival\$ \"Swanti (festival)\")**, **[Sohrai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sohrai \"Sohrai\")** and **[Bandna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bandna \"Bandna\")**\n3. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-35)** except [Sarawak](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sarawak \"Sarawak\")\n4. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-46)** Also spelled as **Divali** or **Dewali**.[\\[4\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Mead-2008a-5)[\\[42\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEShattuck199951,_124-45)\n5. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-50)** The holiday is known as *dipawoli* in [Assamese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Assamese_language \"Assamese language\"): দীপাৱলী, *dīpabolī* or *dipali* in [Bengali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bengali_language \"Bengali language\"): দীপাবলি\/দীপালি, *dīvāḷi* in [Gujarati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gujarati_language \"Gujarati language\"): દિવાળી, *divālī* in [Hindi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindi_language \"Hindi language\"): दिवाली, *dīpavaḷi* in [Kannada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kannada_language \"Kannada language\"): ದೀಪಾವಳಿ, [Konkani](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Konkani_language \"Konkani language\"): दिवाळी, *dīpāvalī* in [Maithili](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maithili_language \"Maithili language\"): दीपावली, [Malayalam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Malayalam_language \"Malayalam language\"): ദീപാവലി, [Marathi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Marathi_language \"Marathi language\"): दिवाळी, *dīpābali* in [Odia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Odia_language \"Odia language\"): ଦୀପାବଳି, *dīvālī* in [Punjabi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Punjabi_language \"Punjabi language\"): ਦੀਵਾਲੀ, *diyārī* in [Sindhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sindhi_language \"Sindhi language\"): दियारी, *tīpāvaḷi* in [Tamil](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tamil_language \"Tamil language\"): தீபாவளி, and [Telugu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Telugu_language \"Telugu language\"): దీపావళి, [Galungan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Galungan \"Galungan\") in [Balinese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balinese_language \"Balinese language\") and [Swanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swanti_\$festival\$ \"Swanti (festival)\") in [Nepali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nepali_language \"Nepali language\"): स्वन्ति or *[tihar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tihar_\$festival\$ \"Tihar (festival)\")* in [Nepali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nepali_language \"Nepali language\"): तिहार and Thudar Parba in [Tulu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tulu_language \"Tulu language\"): ತುಡರ್ ಪರ್ಬ.\n6. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-55)** Historical records appear inconsistent about the name of the lunar month in which Diwali is observed. One of the earliest reports on this variation was by Wilson in 1847. He explained that though the actual Hindu festival day is the same, it is identified differently in regional calendars because there are two traditions in the Hindu calendar. One tradition starts a new month from the new moon, while the other starts it from the full moon.[\\[49\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-54)\n7. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-75)** According to Audrey Truschke, the Sunni Muslim emperor Aurangzeb did limit \"public observation\" of many religious holidays such as Hindu Diwali and Holi, but also of Shia observance of Muharram and the Persian holiday of Nauruz. According to Truschke, Aurangzeb did so because he found the festivals \"distasteful\" and also from \"concerns with public safety\" lurking in the background.[\\[67\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTETruschke201774%E2%80%9375-73) According to Stephen Blake, a part of the reason that led Aurangzeb to ban Diwali was the practice of gambling and drunken celebrations.[\\[66\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389-72) Truschke states that Aurangzeb did not ban private practices altogether and instead \"rescinded taxes previously levied on Hindu festivals\" by his Mughal predecessors.[\\[67\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTETruschke201774%E2%80%9375-73) John Richards disagrees and states Aurangzeb, in his zeal to revive Islam and introduce strict [Sharia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sharia \"Sharia\") in his empire, issued a series of edicts against Hindu festivals and shrines.[\\[68\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Richards1995p175-74) According to Richards, it was Akbar who abolished the discriminatory taxes on Hindu festivals and pilgrims, and it was Aurangzeb who reinstated the Mughal era discriminatory taxes on festivals and increased other religion-based taxes.[\\[68\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Richards1995p175-74)\n8. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-76)** Some Muslims joined the Hindu community in celebrating Diwali in the Mughal era. Illustrative Islamic records, states Stephen Blake, include those of 16th-century Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi who wrote, \"during Diwali.... the ignorant ones amongst Muslims, particularly women, perform the ceremonies... they celebrate it like their own Id and send presents to their daughters and sisters,.... they attach much importance and weight to this season \\[of Diwali\\].\"[\\[66\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389-72)\n9. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-78)** Williams Jones stated that the *Bhutachaturdasi Yamaterpanam* is dedicated to Yama and ancestral spirits, the *Lacshmipuja dipanwita* to goddess Lakshmi with invocations to Kubera, the *Dyuta pratipat Belipuja* to Shiva-Parvati and Bali legends, and the *Bhratri dwitiya* to Yama-Yamuna legend and the Hindus celebrate the brother-sister relationship on this day.[\\[69\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-jone1799p263-77) Jones also noted that on the Diwali day, the Hindus had a mock cremation ceremony with \"torches and flaming brands\" called *Ulcadanam*, where they said goodbye to their colleagues who had died in war or in a foreign country and had never returned home. The ceremony lit the path of the missing to the mansion of Yama.[\\[69\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-jone1799p263-77)\n10. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-82)** Some inscriptions mention the festival of lights in Prakrit terms such as *tipa-malai*, *sara-vilakku* and others.\n11. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-86)** The Sanskrit inscription is in the Grantha script. It is well preserved on the north wall of the second *prakara* in the [Ranganatha temple](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ranganathaswamy_Temple,_Srirangam \"Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam\"), Srirangam island, Tamil Nadu.[\\[75\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-kielhorn1896-85)\n12. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-91)** The Diwali-related inscription is the 4th inscription and it includes the year Vikrama Era 1268 (c. 1211 CE).[\\[78\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-Hultzsch1268-89)\n13. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-113)** Scholars contest the 527 BCE date and consider Mahavira's biographical details as uncertain. Some suggest he lived in the 5th-century BCE contemporaneously with the Buddha.[\\[99\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPotter200735%E2%80%9336-111)[\\[100\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEDundas200222-112)\n14. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-123)** Sikhs historically referred to this festival as Diwali. It was in early 20th-century, states Harjot Oberoi, a scholar of Sikh history, when the Khalsa Tract Society triggered by the [Singh Sabha Movement](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Singh_Sabha_Movement \"Singh Sabha Movement\") sought to establish a Sikh identity distinct from the Hindus and the Muslims.[\\[108\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994346%E2%80%93349-121) They launched a sustained campaign to discourage Sikhs from participating in Holi and Diwali, renaming the festivals, publishing the seasonal greeting cards in the Gurmukhi language and relinking their religious significance to Sikh historical events.[\\[109\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994347%E2%80%93349-122) While some of these efforts have had a lasting impact for the Sikh community, the lighting, feasting together, social bonding, sharing and other ritual grammar of Sikh celebrations during the Diwali season are similar to those of the Hindus and Jains.[\\[109\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994347%E2%80%93349-122)\n15. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-128)** Hindus of eastern and northeastern states of India associate the festival with the goddess [Durga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga \"Durga\"), or her fierce avatar [Kali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali \"Kali\") ([Shaktism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaktism \"Shaktism\")).[\\[84\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEAmazzone2012-96) According to McDermott, this region also celebrated the Lakshmi puja historically, while the Kali puja tradition started during the British Raj and was particularly prominent from the 1920s.[\\[113\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127)\n16. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-156)** According to McDermott, while the Durga Puja is the largest Bengali festival and it can be traced to the 16th-century or earlier, the start of Kali puja tradition on Diwali is traceable to no earlier than about the mid-18th-century during the reign of Raja Krishnacandra Ray.[\\[113\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127) McDermott further writes that the older historic documents of the Bengal confirm that the Bengali Hindus have long celebrated the night of Diwali with illuminations, firecrackers, foods, new account books, Lakshmi (not Kali), inviting their friends (including Europeans during the colonial era) and gambling.[\\[113\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127) The Kali *sarbajanin* tradition on Diwali, with tantric elements in some locations, grew slowly into a popular Bengali tradition after the mid-1920s.[\\[113\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127)\n17. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-173)** According to a Government of Himachal Pradesh and India publication, the Vishvakarma puja is observed on the fourth day of Diwali in the Himalayan state.[\\[156\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-172)\n18. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-175)** The Vishwakarma puja day is alternatively observed in other Hindu communities in accordance with the Hindu solar calendar, and this falls in September.[\\[157\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMelton2011908%E2%80%93909-174)\n19. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-179)** [Max Macauliffe](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Max_Arthur_Macauliffe \"Max Arthur Macauliffe\"), who lived in northwest Punjab area during the colonial era and is known for his work on Sikh literature and history, wrote about Diwali *melas* to which people visited to buy horses, seek pleasure, pray in nearby Amritsar temples for the prosperity of their children and their souls, and some on \"errands, more or less worthy or unworthy character\".[\\[160\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994188%E2%80%93190_with_footnote_96-178)\n20. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-192)** A 2017 estimate states 50,000 tons (100 million pounds) of fireworks are exploded annually in India over the Diwali festival.[\\[171\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-190) As a comparison, Americans explode 134,000 tons (268 million pounds) of fireworks for 4 July celebrations in the United States.[\\[172\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-191)\n21. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-198)** The Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue was founded as Secretariat for non-Christians by Pope Paul VI. It began sending official greetings and message to Muslims in 1967 on *Id al-Fitr*. About 30 years later, in the mid-1990s the Catholic authorities began sending two additional annual official greetings and message, one to the Hindus on Diwali and the other to the Buddhists on Buddha's birthday.[\\[177\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBarbato201793%E2%80%9397-197)\n22. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-217)** Diwali was not a public holiday in Pakistan from 1947 to 2016. Diwali along with Holi for Hindus, and Easter for Christians, was adopted as public holiday resolution by Pakistan's parliament in 2016, giving the local governments and public institutions the right to declare Holi as a holiday and grant leave for its minority communities, for the first time.[\\[193\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-214)[\\[194\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-215) Diwali celebrations have been relatively rare in contemporary Pakistan, but observed across religious lines, including by Muslims in cities such as Peshawar.[\\[195\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_note-216)\n\nReferences\n\n1. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-1)**\n   Townsend, Charles M (2014). *The Oxford Handbook of Sikh Studies*. Oxford University Press. p. 440. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-0-19-969930-8](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-969930-8 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-969930-8\")\n   \n   .\n2. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-3) [***e***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-4)\n   Todd T. Lewis (7 September 2000). [*Popular Buddhist Texts from Nepal: Narratives and Rituals of Newar Buddhism*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=whZ5kAPSwl8C&pg=PA118). State University of New York Press. pp. 118–119\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-0-7914-9243-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7914-9243-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7914-9243-7\")\n   \n   . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170102030235\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=whZ5kAPSwl8C&pg=PA118) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016.\n3. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-3)**\n   [\"Diwali 2025 Date: When is Diwali? All About the 5 Days Festival of Lights\"](https:\/\/www.indiatimes.com\/events\/diwali-2024-date-when-is-diwali-5-days-long-diwali-holidays-620859.html). 16 November 2023.\n4. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead-2008a_5-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead-2008a_5-1)\n   Mead, Jean (February 2008). [*How and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=QJyZKOtHWg4C&dq=deepavali+hinduism&pg=PA5). Evans Brothers. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-0-237-53412-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-53412-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-53412-7\")\n   \n   . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20231111150755\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=QJyZKOtHWg4C&dq=deepavali+hinduism&pg=PA5#v=onepage&q=deepavali%20hinduism&f=false) from the original on 11 November 2023. Retrieved 5 August 2022.\n5. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Heiligman31_7-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Heiligman31_7-1)\n   Vasudha Narayanan; Deborah Heiligman (2008). [*Celebrate Diwali*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=rdTJJEQsDHoC&pg=PA31). National Geographic Society. p. 31. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-1-4263-0291-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-4263-0291-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-4263-0291-6\")\n   \n   . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170102023011\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=rdTJJEQsDHoC&pg=PA31) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016. \"All the stories associated with Deepavali, however, speak of the joy connected with the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.\"\n6. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-htoday_8-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-htoday_8-1)\n   Tina K Ramnarine (2013). [*Musical Performance in the Diaspora*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=yTiPAQAAQBAJ&pg=PA78). Routledge. p. 78. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-1-317-96956-3](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-317-96956-3 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-317-96956-3\")\n   \n   . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170102013829\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=yTiPAQAAQBAJ&pg=PA78) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016. \"Light, in the form of candles and lamps, is a crucial part of Diwali, representing the triumph of light over darkness, goodness over evil and hope for the future.\"\n7. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead-2008b_9-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead-2008b_9-1)\n   Mead, Jean (February 2008). *How and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?*. Evans Brothers. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-0-237-53412-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-53412-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-53412-7\")\n   \n   .\n8. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-melton252_10-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-melton252_10-1) [Jones 2011](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFJones2011), pp. 252–255\n9. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-OED-Diwali_11-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-OED-Diwali_11-1)\n   *The New Oxford Dictionary of English* (1998) [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-0-19-861263-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-861263-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-861263-6\")\n   \n   – p. 540 \"**Diwali** \/dɪwɑːli\/ (also **Diwali**) **noun** a Hindu festival with lights...\".\n10. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-3) [***e***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-4) [Goldstein 2015](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFGoldstein2015), pp. 222–223.\n11. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-13)** [Diwali](https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/EBchecked\/topic\/166786\/Diwali) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20150501153023\/https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/EBchecked\/topic\/166786\/Diwali) 1 May 2015 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\") *Encyclopædia Britannica* (2009)\n12. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-14)**\n    [\"Diwali 2020 Date in India: When is Diwali in 2020?\"](https:\/\/indianexpress.com\/article\/lifestyle\/life-style\/diwali-2020-date-in-india-when-is-diwali-in-2020-7013223\/). *The Indian Express*. 11 November 2020. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20201116074618\/https:\/\/indianexpress.com\/article\/lifestyle\/life-style\/diwali-2020-date-in-india-when-is-diwali-in-2020-7013223\/) from the original on 16 November 2020. Retrieved 13 November 2020.\n13. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-15)**\n    [\"Diwali 2024: When is Diwali in 2024? All you need to know its Significations - Global Times 18\"](https:\/\/globaltimes18.com\/when-is-diwali\/). *Global Times 18*. 23 October 2024. Retrieved 24 October 2024.\n14. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-3) [***e***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-4) [***f***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-5) [Fieldhouse 2017](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFFieldhouse2017), pp. 150–151.\n15. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-17)**\n    Stent, David (22 October 2013). *Religious Studies: Made Simple*. Elsevier. p. 137. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-1-4831-8320-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-4831-8320-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-4831-8320-6\")\n    \n    .\n16. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-dhcd_18-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-dhcd_18-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-dhcd_18-2)\n    Deborah Heiligman, *Celebrate Diwali*, [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-7922-5923-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7922-5923-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7922-5923-7\")\n    \n    , National Geographic Society, Washington, D.C.\n17. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Suzanne_Barchers_2013_19-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Suzanne_Barchers_2013_19-1)\n    Suzanne Barchers (2013). *The Big Book of Holidays and Cultural Celebrations*, Shell Education, [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-1-4258-1048-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-4258-1048-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-4258-1048-1\")\n18. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Sharma2006_20-0)**\n    Sharma, S.P.; Gupta, Seema (2006). [*Fairs and Festivals of India*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=wPPr9HdmnHcC&q=diwali+mahavira+527&pg=PA79). Pustak Mahal. p. 79. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-223-0951-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-223-0951-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-223-0951-5\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210126200725\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=wPPr9HdmnHcC&q=diwali+mahavira+527&pg=PA79) from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 10 November 2020.\n19. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-N._Upadhye,_Review_1982_pp._231%E2%80%93232_21-0)**\n    Upadhye, A.N. (January–March 1982). Cohen, Richard J. (ed.). \"Mahavira and His Teachings\". *Journal of the American Oriental Society*. **102** (1): 231–232\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\$identifier\$ \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.2307\/601199](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2307%2F601199). [ISSN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISSN_\$identifier\$ \"ISSN (identifier)\") [0003-0279](https:\/\/search.worldcat.org\/issn\/0003-0279). [JSTOR](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/JSTOR_\$identifier\$ \"JSTOR (identifier)\") [601199](https:\/\/www.jstor.org\/stable\/601199).\n20. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-22)**\n    Geoff Teece (2005). [*Sikhism*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=kJO1WIABhPQC&pg=PA23). Smart Apple Media. p. 23. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-1-58340-469-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-58340-469-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-58340-469-0\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170102024403\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=kJO1WIABhPQC&pg=PA23) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016.\n21. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-MK72_23-0)** McDermott and Kripal p.72\n22. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Prem_Saran_2012_175_24-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Prem_Saran_2012_175_24-1)\n    Prem Saran (2012). [*Yoga, Bhoga and Ardhanariswara: Individuality, Wellbeing and Gender in Tantra*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=5-DfCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA175). [Routledge](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Routledge \"Routledge\"). p. 175. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-1-136-51648-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-136-51648-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-136-51648-1\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170102021020\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=5-DfCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA175) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016.\n23. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-YustJohnson2006_25-0)**\n    Karen-Marie Yust; Aostre N. Johnson; Sandy Eisenberg Sasso (2006). [*Nurturing Child and Adolescent Spirituality: Perspectives from the World's Religious Traditions*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=_dWh0l-iXHUC&pg=PA223). Rowman & Littlefield. pp. 232–233\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-7425-4463-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7425-4463-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7425-4463-5\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120611\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=_dWh0l-iXHUC&pg=PA223) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 29 August 2018.\n24. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-jgl_26-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-jgl_26-1) [Lochtefeld 2002](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFLochtefeld2002), pp. 200–201\n25. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJohnsonTeuscherSabean2011300%E2%80%93301_27-0)** [Johnson, Teuscher & Sabean 2011](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFJohnsonTeuscherSabean2011), pp. 300–301.\n26. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEShah199541%E2%80%9344_28-0)** [Shah 1995](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFShah1995), pp. 41–44.\n27. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-29)**\n    Diane P. Mines; Sarah E. Lamb (2010). [*Everyday Life in South Asia, Second Edition*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=iczwAAAAQBAJ). Indiana University Press. p. 243. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-253-01357-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-253-01357-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-253-01357-6\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210702103809\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=iczwAAAAQBAJ) from the original on 2 July 2021. Retrieved 25 September 2018.\n28. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-wsj_30-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-wsj_30-1) [India Journal: ‘Tis the Season to be Shopping](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20130421024513\/http:\/\/blogs.wsj.com\/indiarealtime\/2010\/08\/23\/india-journal-tis-the-season-to-be-shopping\/) Devita Saraf, The Wall Street Journal (August 2010)\n29. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJohnson200771%E2%80%9373_31-0)** [Johnson 2007](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFJohnson2007), pp. 71–73.\n30. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKelly198840%E2%80%9355_32-0)** [Kelly 1988](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFKelly1988), pp. 40–55.\n31. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-33)** [Public Holidays](http:\/\/www.fiji.gov.fj\/Events\/2016-FIJI-PUBLIC-HOLIDAYS.aspx) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180916055429\/http:\/\/www.fiji.gov.fj\/Events\/2016-FIJI-PUBLIC-HOLIDAYS.aspx) 16 September 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Government of Fiji\n32. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-34)** [Public Holidays](https:\/\/publicholidays.gy\/) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20171019163247\/https:\/\/publicholidays.gy\/) 19 October 2017 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Guyana\n33. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-36)** [Public Holidays](http:\/\/www.hrdf.com.my\/wps\/portal\/PSMB\/MainEN\/Resources\/Public-Holiday) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20190305093432\/http:\/\/www.hrdf.com.my\/wps\/portal\/PSMB\/MainEN\/Resources\/Public-Holiday) 5 March 2019 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Government of Malaysia\n34. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-37)** [Public Holidays](https:\/\/evisa.moip.gov.mm\/public_holiday.aspx) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180817060609\/https:\/\/evisa.moip.gov.mm\/public_holiday.aspx) 17 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Government of Myanmar\n35. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-38)** [Public Holidays](http:\/\/www.mos.com.np\/holidaylist.php) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20171019163545\/http:\/\/www.mos.com.np\/holidaylist.php) 19 October 2017 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Government of Nepal\n36. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-39)** [Pakistan parliament adopts resolution for Holi, Diwali, Easter holidays](http:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/world\/pakistan\/Pakistan-parliament-adopts-resolution-for-Holi-Diwali-Easter-holidays\/articleshow\/51423609.cms) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180306175436\/https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/world\/pakistan\/Pakistan-parliament-adopts-resolution-for-Holi-Diwali-Easter-holidays\/articleshow\/51423609.cms) 6 March 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), The Times of India (16 March 2016)\n37. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-40)** [Public Gazetted Holidays](http:\/\/www.mom.gov.sg\/newsroom\/press-releases\/2016\/0405-singapore-public-holidays-2017) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20171019215719\/http:\/\/www.mom.gov.sg\/newsroom\/press-releases\/2016\/0405-singapore-public-holidays-2017) 19 October 2017 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Government of Singapore\n38. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-41)** [Official Public Holidays](https:\/\/www.ttconnect.gov.tt\/gortt\/portal\/ttconnect\/!ut\/p\/a1\/jdDBDoIwDAbgp-FKC8tUvHFARUwMGBV2MWjmwCAjY4KPL3ozKNpbm-9P_hQYxMDKtMlFqnNZpsVzZ6NDENpIfYfgOkQH7ci3PKQBmY9JB5I3EM1nHfCotQh2BBH_y-OXcX_mN7yEPbBBtqQ90K_5AgM9lsBEIY-vnyRueSQTAUzxM1dcmTfVnTOtq3pqoIFt25pCSlFw8ySvBn6KZLLWEL9LqK7b-O5faNGs3AdjOzzp\/dl5\/d5\/L2dBISEvZ0FBIS9nQSEh\/?WCM_GLOBAL_CONTEXT=\/gortt\/wcm\/connect\/gortt+web+content\/ttconnect\/non-national\/role\/anationalabroad\/generalinformation\/official+public+holidays) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210303062241\/https:\/\/www.ttconnect.gov.tt\/gortt\/portal\/ttconnect\/!ut\/p\/a1\/jdDBDoIwDAbgp-FKC8tUvHFARUwMGBV2MWjmwCAjY4KPL3ozKNpbm-9P_hQYxMDKtMlFqnNZpsVzZ6NDENpIfYfgOkQH7ci3PKQBmY9JB5I3EM1nHfCotQh2BBH_y-OXcX_mN7yEPbBBtqQ90K_5AgM9lsBEIY-vnyRueSQTAUzxM1dcmTfVnTOtq3pqoIFt25pCSlFw8ySvBn6KZLLWEL9LqK7b-O5faNGs3AdjOzzp\/dl5\/d5\/L2dBISEvZ0FBIS9nQSEh\/?WCM_GLOBAL_CONTEXT=%2Fgortt%2Fwcm%2Fconnect%2Fgortt+web+content%2Fttconnect%2Fnon-national%2Frole%2Fanationalabroad%2Fgeneralinformation%2Fofficial+public+holidays) 3 March 2021 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Government of Trinidad & Tobago\n39. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-42)** [Cal. Government Code § 6700 subd. (a)(9)](https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=GOV&sectionNum=6700)\n40. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-43)**\n    [\"Full list of USA states that recognise Diwali as a state holiday\"](https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/world\/us\/full-list-of-usa-states-that-recognise-diwali-as-a-state-holiday\/articleshow\/114586236.cms). *The Times of India*. 25 October 2024. [ISSN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISSN_\$identifier\$ \"ISSN (identifier)\") [0971-8257](https:\/\/search.worldcat.org\/issn\/0971-8257). Retrieved 25 October 2024.\n41. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-44)**\n    Karmarkar, Richa (10 October 2025). [\"Three US states now recognize Diwali as a holiday\"](https:\/\/religionnews.com\/2025\/10\/10\/three-states-now-recognize-diwali-as-a-holiday\/). *Religion News Sercice*. Retrieved 19 October 2025.\n42. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEShattuck199951,_124_45-0)** [Shattuck 1999](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFShattuck1999), pp. 51, 124.\n43. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFrazierFlood2011255_47-0)** [Frazier & Flood 2011](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFFrazierFlood2011), p. 255.\n44. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-48)** Monier Monier Williams (2008 updated, Harvard University), Sanskrit English dictionary, दीप, [p. 481](http:\/\/www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de\/scans\/MWScan\/2014\/web\/webtc\/servepdf.php?page=481) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180817230340\/http:\/\/www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de\/scans\/MWScan\/2014\/web\/webtc\/servepdf.php?page=481) 17 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\")\n45. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-49)** Monier Monier Williams (2008 updated, Harvard University), Sanskrit English dictionary, आवलि, [p. 155](http:\/\/www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de\/cgi-bin\/monier\/serveimg.pl?file=\/scans\/MWScan\/MWScanjpg\/mw0155-Avarjaka.jpg) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20190327103005\/https:\/\/www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de\/cgi-bin\/monier\/serveimg.pl?file=%2Fscans%2FMWScan%2FMWScanjpg%2Fmw0155-Avarjaka.jpg) 27 March 2019 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\")\n46. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253_51-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253_51-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253_51-2) [Jones 2011](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFJones2011), pp. 252–253.\n47. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9362_52-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9362_52-1) [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 61–62.\n48. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561_53-0)** [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), p. 61.\n49. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-54)**\n    H.H. Wilson (1847). \"Religious festivals of the Hindus\". *Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland*. **9**: 61.\n50. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-about_56-0)**\n    [\"Indian Government Holiday Calendar\"](http:\/\/india.gov.in\/calendar\/calendar.php). National Portal of India. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20181225122630\/https:\/\/www.india.gov.in\/calendar\/calendar.php) from the original on 25 December 2018. Retrieved 16 November 2016.\n51. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-57)**\n    Robert Isaac Levy; Kedar Raj Rajopadhyaya (1990). [*Mesocosm: Hinduism and the Organization of a Traditional Newar City in Nepal*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=ngacsMPGJPcC). University of California Press. pp. 411–417\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-520-06911-4](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-520-06911-4 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-520-06911-4\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210112124529\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=ngacsMPGJPcC) from the original on 12 January 2021. Retrieved 20 August 2018.\n52. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-58)**\n    Shrestha, Bal Gopal (July 2006). [\"The Svanti Festival: Victory over Death and the Renewal of the Ritual Cycle in Nepal\"](http:\/\/himalaya.socanth.cam.ac.uk\/collections\/journals\/contributions\/pdf\/CNAS_33_02_03.pdf) (PDF). *Contributions to Nepalese Studies*. **33** (2): 206–221\\. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20131213034438\/http:\/\/himalaya.socanth.cam.ac.uk\/collections\/journals\/contributions\/pdf\/CNAS_33_02_03.pdf) (PDF) from the original on 13 December 2013. Retrieved 20 August 2018.\n53. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-l796_59-0)**\n    Doniger, W. (2010). [*The Hindus: An Alternative History*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=nNsXZkdHvXUC). OUP Oxford. p. 370. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-19-959334-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-959334-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-959334-7\")\n    \n    . Retrieved 29 October 2024.\n54. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-60)**\n    Clothey, F.W. (1978). [*The Many Faces of Murukan̲: The History and Meaning of a South Indian God*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=0AevljBmCRQC&pg=PA224). Religion and society. Mouton. p. 224. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-90-279-7632-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-90-279-7632-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-90-279-7632-1\")\n    \n    . Retrieved 29 October 2024.\n55. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-3) [***e***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-4) [***f***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-5) [***g***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-6) [***h***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-7) [***i***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-8) [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 59–65\n56. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELochtefeld2002355_62-0)** [Lochtefeld 2002](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFLochtefeld2002), p. 355.\n57. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-bnsharma_63-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-bnsharma_63-1)\n    BN Sharma, *Festivals of India*, South Asia Books, [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-8364-0283-4](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-8364-0283-4 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-8364-0283-4\")\n    \n    , pp. 9–35\n58. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-yaksha_64-0)**\n    Varadpande, Manohar Laxman (1987). *History of Indian Theatre, Volume 1*. Abhinav Publications. p. 159. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-7017-221-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-7017-221-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-7017-221-5\")\n    \n    .\n59. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-65)**\n    R.N. Nandi (2009), in *A Social History of Early India* (Editor: B. Chattopadhyaya), Volume 2, Part 5, Pearson Education, [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-317-1958-9](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-317-1958-9 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-317-1958-9\")\n    \n    , pp. 183–184\n60. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEEraly2015315%E2%80%93316_66-0)** [Eraly 2015](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFEraly2015), pp. 315–316.\n61. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESewell200685%E2%80%9386_67-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESewell200685%E2%80%9386_67-1) [Sewell 2006](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFSewell2006), pp. 85–86.\n62. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-S_A_NEWS-2020_68-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-S_A_NEWS-2020_68-1)\n    [\"Diwali Festival 2020 India:Date,Story,Celebration,Diwali Special Gift\"](https:\/\/news.jagatgururampalji.org\/diwali-festival-2020-special-gift\/). *S A NEWS*. 12 November 2020. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20201114053744\/https:\/\/news.jagatgururampalji.org\/diwali-festival-2020-special-gift\/) from the original on 14 November 2020. Retrieved 14 November 2020.\n63. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEEaton1996159%E2%80%93160_with_footnotes_69-0)** [Eaton 1996](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFEaton1996), pp. 159–160 with footnotes.\n64. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMelville2012526_70-0)** [Melville 2012](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFMelville2012), p. 526: \"He \\[Mahmud b. Amir Vali\\] gives a very detailed account of the celebration of the ten days of Moharram, which he witnessed in Lahore in 1965, as well as Hindu festivals such as Diwali (...).\"\n65. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOkita201428%E2%80%9329_71-0)** [Okita 2014](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFOkita2014), pp. 28–29.\n66. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389_72-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389_72-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389_72-2) [Blake 2013](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFBlake2013), pp. 87–89.\n67. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTETruschke201774%E2%80%9375_73-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTETruschke201774%E2%80%9375_73-1) [Truschke 2017](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFTruschke2017), pp. 74–75.\n68. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Richards1995p175_74-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Richards1995p175_74-1)\n    John F. Richards (1995). [*The Mughal Empire*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=HHyVh29gy4QC). Cambridge University Press. pp. 38–40, 175–176\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-521-56603-2](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-521-56603-2 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-521-56603-2\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20160529043831\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=HHyVh29gy4QC) from the original on 29 May 2016. Retrieved 23 August 2018.\n69. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-jone1799p263_77-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-jone1799p263_77-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-jone1799p263_77-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-jone1799p263_77-3)\n    [Sir William Jones](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/William_Jones_\$philologist\$ \"William Jones (philologist)\") (1799). \"The Lunar Year of the Hindus\". *Asiatic Researches*. **3**: 263–267, context: 257–293, note the mention of Brahmaputra and Ganges rivers, immersion ceremony on Durga puja.\n70. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-79)**\n    John William Kaye; William Simpson (1867). *India ancient and modern: a series of illustrations of the Country and people of India and adjacent territories. Executed in chromolithography from drawings by William Simpson*. London Day and Son. p. 50. [OCLC](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/OCLC_\$identifier\$ \"OCLC (identifier)\") [162249047](https:\/\/search.worldcat.org\/oclc\/162249047).\n71. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-80)**\n    Dineschandra Sircar (1966). [*Indian Epigraphical Glossary*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=pySCGvdyYLIC). Motilal Banarsidass. p. 98. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-208-0562-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-208-0562-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-208-0562-0\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210126200729\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=pySCGvdyYLIC) from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 21 August 2018.\n72. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-81)**\n    E. Hultzsch (1899). [*Epigraphia Indica and Record of the Archæological Survey of India, Volume V*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=TcIUAAAAYAAJ). Office of the Superintendent of Government Printing, India. p. 13. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120608\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=TcIUAAAAYAAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018.\n73. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-83)**\n    Dineschandra Sircar (1971). [*Studies in the Religious Life of Ancient and Medieval India*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=mh1y1eMgGBMC). Motilal Banarsidass. pp. 128–129\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-208-2790-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-208-2790-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-208-2790-5\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210815132825\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=mh1y1eMgGBMC) from the original on 15 August 2021. Retrieved 21 August 2018.\n74. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-84)**\n    R.S. Panchamukhi (1933). Hirananda Sastri (ed.). [*Epigraphia Indica, Volume XX*](https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/in.ernet.dli.2015.69982). Archaeological Society of India. pp. [117](https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/in.ernet.dli.2015.69982\/page\/n151), 121, see Lines 44–52.\n75. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-kielhorn1896_85-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-kielhorn1896_85-1)\n    F. Kielhorn (1896). E. Hultzsch (ed.). [*Epigraphia Indica, Volume IV*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=vqZCAAAAYAAJ). Archaeological Society of India. pp. 148–151\\. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120611\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=vqZCAAAAYAAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018.\n76. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-87)**\n    Ramendra Nath Nandi (1973). [*Religious Institutions and Cults in the Deccan, c. A.D. 600–A.D. 1000*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=7HRgstuWe6EC). Motilal Banarsidass. p. 38. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-8426-0564-9](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-8426-0564-9 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-8426-0564-9\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120609\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=7HRgstuWe6EC) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018.\n77. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-88)**\n    Madhusudan A. Dhaky; Michael W. Meister (1996). [*Encyclopaedia of Indian temple architecture, Volume 1, Part 3*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=TXIYAQAAMAAJ). American Institute of Indian Studies. pp. 255–257\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-86526-00-2](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-86526-00-2 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-86526-00-2\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120610\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=TXIYAQAAMAAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018.\n78. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Hultzsch1268_89-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Hultzsch1268_89-1)\n    E. Hultzsch (1980). [*Epigraphia Indica, Volume XI*](https:\/\/archive.org\/stream\/EpigraphiaIndicaXI\/Epigraphia%20Indica%20XI#page\/n71). Archaeological Society of India. pp. 52–55\\.\n79. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-90)**\n    Manohar Laxman Varadpande (1983). [*Religion and Theatre*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=SISkCN6L0nUC&pg=PA23). Abhinav Publications. p. 23. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-391-02794-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-391-02794-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-391-02794-7\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120611\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=SISkCN6L0nUC&pg=PA23) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018. \"The most important reference is to the setting up of the golden cupola in the newly built central hall for dramatic performances on the occasion of Dipotsava Dana in v.s. 1268. The inscription written in Sanskrit clearly points out a tradition, in the Jain Viharas of performing plays on festive occasions before the idol of Mahavira.\"\n80. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691_92-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691_92-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691_92-2) [Bahadur 2006](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), p. 91.\n81. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-93)**\n    Campbell, Mason (2022). *Diwali and Its Origins*. OUACHITA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY. p. 2.\n82. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-94)**\n    [\"Krishna Killed Narakasur – The Narakasur Legend of Diwali – Diwali Legend\"](http:\/\/www.diwalicelebrations.net\/diwali-legends\/krisna-narakasur.html). *diwalicelebrations.net*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20190227121743\/http:\/\/www.diwalicelebrations.net\/diwali-legends\/krisna-narakasur.html) from the original on 27 February 2019. Retrieved 17 December 2018.\n83. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Karen_Pechilis_2007_pp_273-275_95-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Karen_Pechilis_2007_pp_273-275_95-1)\n    Pechilis, Karen (2007). \"Guests at God's Wedding: Celebrating Kartik among the Women of Benares\". *The Journal of Asian Studies*. **66** (1): 273–275\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\$identifier\$ \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.1017\/S0021911807000460](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1017%2FS0021911807000460).\n84. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEAmazzone2012_96-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEAmazzone2012_96-1) [Amazzone 2012](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFAmazzone2012).\n85. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-97)**\n    Buck, C. (2008). *Hindu Festivals*, Festivals in Indian Society (2 Vols. Set), Vol 1, [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-8324-113-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-8324-113-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-8324-113-7\")\n86. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-98)**\n    Holm, Jean (2006). \"Growing Up in Hinduism\". *British Journal of Religious Education*. **6** (3): 116–120\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\$identifier\$ \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.1080\/0141620840060303](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080%2F0141620840060303).\n87. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECoogan2003152%E2%80%93153_99-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECoogan2003152%E2%80%93153_99-1) [Coogan 2003](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFCoogan2003), pp. 152–153.\n88. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEVemsani2016190%E2%80%93191_100-0)** [Vemsani 2016](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFVemsani2016), pp. 190–191.\n89. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-vasudha31_101-0)**\n    Vasudha Narayanan; Deborah Heiligman (2008). [*Celebrate Diwali*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=rdTJJEQsDHoC). National Geographic. p. 31. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-1-4263-0291-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-4263-0291-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-4263-0291-6\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170102030400\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=rdTJJEQsDHoC) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016.\n90. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-102)** [Hindu Festivals](http:\/\/www.hinduismtoday.com\/modules\/wfchannel\/index.php?wfc_cid=39) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20151011182204\/http:\/\/www.hinduismtoday.com\/modules\/wfchannel\/index.php?wfc_cid=39) 11 October 2015 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\") Hinduism Today (2010)\n91. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-103)**\n    Carol Plum-Ucci (2007). *Celebrate Diwali*, Enslow Publishers, [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-7660-2778-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7660-2778-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7660-2778-7\")\n    \n    , pp. 39–57\n92. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESalamone2004112,_Article_on_Divali_by_Lindsey_Harlan_104-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESalamone2004112,_Article_on_Divali_by_Lindsey_Harlan_104-1) [Salamone 2004](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFSalamone2004), p. 112, Article on Divali by Lindsey Harlan.\n93. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-105)**\n    [Bridget Brereton](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bridget_Brereton \"Bridget Brereton\") (1996). [*An Introduction to the History of Trinidad and Tobago*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=uNrUU360mzsC&pg=PA113). Heinemann. p. 113. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-435-98474-8](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-435-98474-8 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-435-98474-8\")\n    \n    . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120611\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=uNrUU360mzsC&pg=PA113) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 19 August 2018.\n94. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJohnson200771%E2%80%9379_106-0)** [Johnson 2007](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFJohnson2007), pp. 71–79.\n95. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-107)** [Diwali – Celebrating the triumph of goodness](http:\/\/www.hinduismtoday.com\/pdf_downloads\/pagers\/Hindu-Festival_Diwali_broadsheet-color.pdf) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20150924041444\/http:\/\/www.hinduismtoday.com\/pdf_downloads\/pagers\/Hindu-Festival_Diwali_broadsheet-color.pdf) 24 September 2015 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\") Hinduism Today (2012)\n96. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-108)**\n    Jean Mead, How and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?, [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-237-53412-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-53412-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-53412-7\")\n    \n    , pp. 8–12\n97. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Jacobi_1895_109-0)**\n    Jacobi, Hermann; Ed. F. Max Müller (1895). [*Uttaradhyayana Sutra, Jain Sutras Part II, Sacred Books of the East, Vol. 45*](http:\/\/www.sacred-texts.com\/jai\/sbe45\/index.htm). Oxford: The Clarendon Press. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20090704214930\/http:\/\/www.sacred-texts.com\/jai\/sbe45\/index.htm) from the original on 4 July 2009. Retrieved 19 December 2007.\n98. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELong200926,_42_110-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELong200926,_42_110-1) [Long 2009](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFLong2009), pp. 26, 42.\n99. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPotter200735%E2%80%9336_111-0)** [Potter 2007](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPotter2007), pp. 35–36.\n100. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEDundas200222_112-0)** [Dundas 2002](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFDundas2002), p. 22.\n101. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMelton2011255_114-0)** [Melton 2011](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFMelton2011), p. 255.\n102. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELong200942_115-0)** [Long 2009](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFLong2009), p. 42.\n103. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJainFischer197813_116-0)** [Jain & Fischer 1978](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFJainFischer1978), p. 13.\n104. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-117)**\n     H.S. Singha (2000). [*The Encyclopedia of Sikhism (over 1000 Entries)*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=gqIbJz7vMn0C&pg=PA62). Hemkunt Press. p. 62. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-81-7010-301-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-7010-301-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-7010-301-1\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170102024429\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=gqIbJz7vMn0C&pg=PA62) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 6 April 2016.\n105. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGrewal199850%E2%80%9351,_60,_73%E2%80%9378,_93_118-0)** [Grewal 1998](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFGrewal1998), pp. 50–51, 60, 73–78, 93.\n106. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEColledge2017276%E2%80%93278_119-0)** [Colledge 2017](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFColledge2017), pp. 276–278.\n107. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESinghLouis_E._Fenech2014431%E2%80%93433_120-0)** [Singh & Louis E. Fenech 2014](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFSinghLouis_E._Fenech2014), pp. 431–433.\n108. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994346%E2%80%93349_121-0)** [Oberoi 1994](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFOberoi1994), pp. 346–349.\n109. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994347%E2%80%93349_122-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994347%E2%80%93349_122-1) [Oberoi 1994](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFOberoi1994), pp. 347–349.\n110. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-124)**\n     Jon Burbank (2002). [*Nepal*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=EaWLU6Blh_sC&pg=PA111). Marshall Cavendish. pp. 111–112\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-0-7614-1476-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7614-1476-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7614-1476-6\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170102013443\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=EaWLU6Blh_sC&pg=PA111) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016.\n111. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-fs_125-0)**\n     Frank Salamone (2004). *Encyclopedia of Religious Rites, Rituals and Festivals*, [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-0-415-88091-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-415-88091-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-415-88091-6\")\n     \n     , Routledge, pp. 112–113, 174, 252\n112. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Raat_126-0)**\n     Pramodkumar (2008). [*Meri Khoj Ek Bharat Ki*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=6A9EZRQIT9kC&pg=PA109). Lulu.com. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-1-4357-1240-9](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-4357-1240-9 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-4357-1240-9\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120623\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=6A9EZRQIT9kC&pg=PA109) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 26 October 2011. \"It is extremely important to keep the house spotlessly clean and pure on Diwali. The goddess [Lakshmi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi \"Lakshmi\") likes cleanliness, and it is believed that she will visit the cleanest house first. Lamps are lit in the evening to welcome the goddess. They are believed to light up her path.\"\n113. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-3) [***e***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-4) [***f***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-5) [McDermott 2011](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFMcDermott2011), pp. 183–188.\n114. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-129)**\n     Karen Bellenir (1997). *Religious Holidays and Calendars: An Encyclopedic Handbook*, 2nd Edition, [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-0-7808-0258-2](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7808-0258-2 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7808-0258-2\")\n     \n     , Omnigraphics\n115. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-130)**\n     Rajat Gupta; Nishant Singh; Ishita Kirar. [*Hospitality & Tourism Management*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=DatDDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA84). Vikas. p. 84. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-93-259-8244-4](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-93-259-8244-4 \"Special:BookSources\/978-93-259-8244-4\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120612\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=DatDDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA84) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 13 August 2018.\n116. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-haar2009_131-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-haar2009_131-1)\n     Kristen Haar; Sewa Singh Kalsi (2009). [*Sikhism*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=YOI1nB_zTyAC). Infobase Publishing. pp. 98–99\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-1-4381-0647-2](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-4381-0647-2 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-4381-0647-2\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20200208123615\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=YOI1nB_zTyAC) from the original on 8 February 2020. Retrieved 13 August 2018.\n117. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-132)**\n     Shobhna Gupta (2002). [*Festivals of India*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=g4TtrdejbTEC&pg=PA84). Har-Anand. p. 84. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-81-241-0869-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-241-0869-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-241-0869-7\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120607\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=g4TtrdejbTEC&pg=PA84) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 13 August 2018.\n118. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-3) [***e***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-4) [***f***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-5) [Bahadur 2006](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 92–93.\n119. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKinsley198833%E2%80%9334_134-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKinsley198833%E2%80%9334_134-1) [Kinsley 1988](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFKinsley1988), pp. 33–34.\n120. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-135)**\n     Closson, Troy (26 June 2023). [\"Diwali Is Set to Become a School Holiday in New York City\"](https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2023\/06\/26\/nyregion\/diwali-school-holiday-nyc.html). *The New York Times*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20230804020242\/https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2023\/06\/26\/nyregion\/diwali-school-holiday-nyc.html) from the original on 4 August 2023. Retrieved 2 August 2023.\n121. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-3) [***e***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-4) [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 59–60.\n122. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-137)**\n     [\"Diwali \\| Definition & Facts \\| Britannica\"](https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/topic\/Diwali-Hindu-festival). *Encyclopædia Britannica*. 14 July 2023. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20150501153023\/https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/EBchecked\/topic\/166786\/Diwali) from the original on 1 May 2015. Retrieved 27 July 2023.\n123. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-drikpanchang1_138-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-drikpanchang1_138-1)\n     LLP, Adarsh Mobile Applications. [\"2020 Yama Deepam date and timings for New Delhi, NCT, India\"](http:\/\/www.drikpanchang.com\/diwali\/yama-deepam\/yama-deepam-date-time.html). *Drikpanchang*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20171223185715\/http:\/\/www.drikpanchang.com\/diwali\/yama-deepam\/yama-deepam-date-time.html) from the original on 23 December 2017. Retrieved 28 August 2021.\n124. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-swahainternational1_139-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-swahainternational1_139-1)\n     [\"The 'Yam-deep' or 'Jam ke Deeya' – SWAHA International\"](http:\/\/www.swahainternational.org\/the-yam-deep-or-jam-ke-deeya\/). [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120618\/http:\/\/www.swahainternational.org\/the-yam-deep-or-jam-ke-deeya\/) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 11 November 2020.\n125. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-astroved1_140-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-astroved1_140-1)\n     [\"Significance of Yama Deepam on Diwali Eve\"](https:\/\/www.astroved.com\/blogs\/significance-yama-deepam-diwali-eve). AstroVed.com. 29 December 2021. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210419040402\/https:\/\/www.astroved.com\/blogs\/significance-yama-deepam-diwali-eve) from the original on 19 April 2021. Retrieved 10 January 2022.\n126. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-141)**\n     [\"Choti Diwali 2020 date: Kali Chaudas significance, when and how to celebrate\"](https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/astrology\/rituals-puja\/choti-diwali-2020-date-kali-chaudas-significance-when-and-how-to-celebrate\/articleshow\/79203502.cms). *The Times of India*. 13 November 2020. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20201114134308\/https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/astrology\/rituals-puja\/choti-diwali-2020-date-kali-chaudas-significance-when-and-how-to-celebrate\/articleshow\/79203502.cms) from the original on 14 November 2020. Retrieved 14 November 2020.\n127. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361_142-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361_142-1) [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 60–61.\n128. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361,_63_143-0)** [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 60–61, 63.\n129. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-144)**\n     [\"Ravana \\| King of Lanka, Demon King, Ten-Headed \\| Britannica\"](https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/topic\/Ravana). *Encyclopædia Britannica*. 24 June 2023. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20230602165102\/https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/topic\/Ravana) from the original on 2 June 2023. Retrieved 28 July 2023.\n130. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-drikpanchang.com_145-0)**\n     [\"2020 Hanuman Puja date and time during Diwali for New Delhi, NCT, India\"](https:\/\/www.drikpanchang.com\/diwali\/hanuman-puja\/hanuman-puja-date-time.html?year=2020). [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20211103035611\/https:\/\/www.drikpanchang.com\/diwali\/hanuman-puja\/hanuman-puja-date-time.html?year=2020) from the original on 3 November 2021. Retrieved 6 November 2020.\n131. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394_146-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394_146-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394_146-2) [Bahadur 2006](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 93–94.\n132. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTERodrigues201629_147-0)** [Rodrigues 2016](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFRodrigues2016), p. 29.\n133. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJacobs201026_148-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJacobs201026_148-1) [Jacobs 2010](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFJacobs2010), p. 26.\n134. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead2008_149-0)**\n     Jean Mead (February 2008). [*How and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=QJyZKOtHWg4C&pg=PA4). Evans Brothers. pp. 4–. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-0-237-53412-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-53412-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-53412-7\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120611\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=QJyZKOtHWg4C&pg=PA4) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 25 March 2019.\n135. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011254_150-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011254_150-1) [Jones 2011](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFJones2011), p. 254.\n136. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9395_151-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9395_151-1) [Bahadur 2006](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 94–95.\n137. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200697%E2%80%9398_152-0)** [Bahadur 2006](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 97–98.\n138. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-153)** John Bowker, ed., Oxford Concise Dictionary of World Religions (Oxford UP, 2000), See Festivals\n139. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKlostermaier201459,_69_154-0)** [Klostermaier 2014](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFKlostermaier2014), pp. 59, 69.\n140. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTERhodes20101%E2%80%932_155-0)** [Rhodes 2010](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFRhodes2010), pp. 1–2.\n141. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDaniel2004253%E2%80%93255_157-0)** [McDaniel 2004](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFMcDaniel2004), pp. 253–255.\n142. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363_158-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363_158-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363_158-2) [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 61–63.\n143. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9397_159-0)** [Bahadur 2006](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 94–97.\n144. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Firecracker2_160-0)**\n     Petrillo, Valerie (28 May 2007). [*Asian American History*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=GErOyV7FBNUC&pg=PA175). Chicago Review Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-1-55652-634-3](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-55652-634-3 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-55652-634-3\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110120612\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=GErOyV7FBNUC&pg=PA175) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 26 October 2011. \"There are firecrackers everywhere to scare off evil spirits and contribute to the festive atmosphere.\"\n145. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Firecracker3_161-0)**\n     DeRocco, David; Dundas, Joan; Ian Zimmerman (1996). [*The International Holiday & Festival Primer*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=TRyb8XqB7dEC&pg=SA9-PA1). Full Blast Productions. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-1-895451-24-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-895451-24-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-895451-24-5\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20231111153321\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=TRyb8XqB7dEC&pg=SA9-PA1#v=onepage&q&f=false) from the original on 11 November 2023. Retrieved 26 October 2011. \"But as well as delighting the spectators, the fireworks are believed to chase away evil spirits.\"\n146. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563_162-0)** [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), p. 63.\n147. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364_163-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364_163-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364_163-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364_163-3) [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 63–64.\n148. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-NarayananKurup1976_164-0)**\n     M.G.S. Narayanan; K.K.N. Kurup (1976). [*Historical Studies in Kerala*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=mvELAAAAIAAJ). Department of History, University of Calicut. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20140103135407\/http:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=mvELAAAAIAAJ) from the original on 3 January 2014. Retrieved 12 October 2014.\n149. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-165)**\n     Deborah Heiligman, *Celebrate Diwali*, [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-1-4263-0291-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-4263-0291-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-4263-0291-6\")\n     \n     , National Geographic, p. 31\n150. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113_166-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113_166-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113_166-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113_166-3) [***e***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113_166-4) [***f***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113_166-5) [***g***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113_166-6) [Crump 2014](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFCrump2014), pp. 112–113.\n151. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200564%E2%80%9365_167-0)** [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 64–65.\n152. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELodrick1987_168-0)** [Lodrick 1987](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFLodrick1987).\n153. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-169)**\n     David L. Haberman (2006). [*River of Love in an Age of Pollution: The Yamuna River of Northern India*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=63uDsPPr48gC&pg=PA129). University of California Press. p. 129. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-0-520-24789-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-520-24789-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-520-24789-5\")\n     \n     . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20231111153322\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=63uDsPPr48gC&pg=PA129#v=onepage&q&f=false) from the original on 11 November 2023. Retrieved 19 August 2018.\n154. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200566%E2%80%9369_170-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200566%E2%80%9369_170-1) [Pintchman 2005](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 66–69.\n155. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-171)**\n     [\"Bhai Bij in India in 2020\"](https:\/\/www.officeholidays.com\/holidays\/bhai-bij). *Office Holidays*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20201116022133\/https:\/\/www.officeholidays.com\/holidays\/bhai-bij) from the original on 16 November 2020. Retrieved 14 November 2020.\n156. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-172)**\n     Government of India & Himachal Pradesh (1982). [*Census of India, 1981: Himachal Pradesh*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=0EqykjrjNPYC). Controller of Publications. p. 46. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20231111153324\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=0EqykjrjNPYC) from the original on 11 November 2023. Retrieved 20 August 2018.\n157. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMelton2011908%E2%80%93909_174-0)** [Melton 2011](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFMelton2011), pp. 908–909.\n158. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-176)**\n     Narayan, Kirin; George, Kenneth M. (2017). \"Tools and world-making in the worship of Vishwakarma\". *South Asian History and Culture*. **8** (4): 478–492\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\$identifier\$ \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.1080\/19472498.2017.1371506](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080%2F19472498.2017.1371506). [S2CID](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/S2CID_\$identifier\$ \"S2CID (identifier)\") [149325687](https:\/\/api.semanticscholar.org\/CorpusID:149325687).\n159. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-Kadowala1998_177-0)**\n     Kadowala, Dilip (1998). *Diwali*. London: Evans Brothers Limited. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n     \n     [978-0-237-51801-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-51801-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-237-51801-1\")\n     \n     .\n160. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994188%E2%80%93190_with_footnote_96_178-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994188%E2%80%93190_with_footnote_96_178-1) [Oberoi 1994](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFOberoi1994), pp. 188–190 with footnote 96.\n161. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-180)** Priya Krishna (2017), [If You Missed Diwali in India, Dallas Is the Place to Be](https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2017\/10\/31\/dining\/diwali-mela-dallas-food.html) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180820005814\/https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2017\/10\/31\/dining\/diwali-mela-dallas-food.html) 20 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), *The New York Times*, 31 October 2017\n162. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-181)** [Manchester Dashehra and Diwali Mela plans announced](http:\/\/www.asianimage.co.uk\/news\/15570042.Manchester_Dashehra_and_Diwali_Mela_plans_announced\/) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180820005747\/http:\/\/www.asianimage.co.uk\/news\/15570042.Manchester_Dashehra_and_Diwali_Mela_plans_announced\/) 20 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Asian Image (2 October 2017), United Kingdom\n163. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-182)**\n     Bharath, Deepa (7 October 2025). [\"California makes Diwali an official statewide holiday\"](https:\/\/apnews.com\/article\/diwali-state-holiday-california-hindus-sikhs-buddhists-f7ddd73c14e212a698d2c559c12a8a4e). *AP News*. Retrieved 9 October 2025.\n164. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKlostermaier201459_183-0)** [Klostermaier 2014](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFKlostermaier2014), p. 59.\n165. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-184)** [Festive season to boost India gold buying](http:\/\/www.bullionstreet.com\/news\/festive-season-to-boost-india-gold-buying\/145) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20131207104526\/http:\/\/www.bullionstreet.com\/news\/festive-season-to-boost-india-gold-buying\/145) 7 December 2013 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\") Bullion Street (15 October 2013)\n166. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-185)** [Gold, Key markets: India](http:\/\/www.gold.org\/jewellery\/markets\/india\/) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20131207084755\/http:\/\/www.gold.org\/jewellery\/markets\/india\/) 7 December 2013 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\") World Gold Council (2013)\n167. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-186)** [India's banks face pre-Diwali cash crunch](https:\/\/www.ft.com\/intl\/cms\/s\/0\/937525dc-e33f-11df-97db-00144feabdc0.html) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110121010\/https:\/\/www.ft.com\/content\/937525dc-e33f-11df-97db-00144feabdc0) 10 January 2022 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\") James Lamont, *The Financial Times* (29 October 2010)\n168. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-187)** [Diwali lights up consumer spending, festive spirit beats inflation](https:\/\/www.indiatoday.in\/business\/story\/festive-season-consumer-spending-slowing-economy-inflation-retailers-216207-2013-10-31) M.G. Arun, India Today (1 November 2013)\n169. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTERao200171%E2%80%9395_188-0)** [Rao 2001](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#CITEREFRao2001), pp. 71–95.\n170. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-189)** [Firecrackers to cost a bomb this Diwali](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20131028060716\/http:\/\/articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/2013-10-24\/india\/43361997_1_firecrackers-tamil-nadu-fireworks-diwali) *The Times of India* (24 October 2013)\n171. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-190)** [Fear Of Toxic Smog Leads India To Limit Diwali Fireworks](https:\/\/www.npr.org\/sections\/goatsandsoda\/2017\/10\/17\/558067395\/fear-of-toxic-smog-leads-india-to-limit-diwali-fireworks) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180822113355\/https:\/\/www.npr.org\/sections\/goatsandsoda\/2017\/10\/17\/558067395\/fear-of-toxic-smog-leads-india-to-limit-diwali-fireworks) 22 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), NPR (17 October 2017)\n172. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-191)** [Firework Facts: Americans Incinerate \\$1 Billion in July Fourth Fireworks Every Year](http:\/\/fortune.com\/2018\/06\/29\/july-4th-fireworks-billion-dollar-burn-injuries\/) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180822113406\/http:\/\/fortune.com\/2018\/06\/29\/july-4th-fireworks-billion-dollar-burn-injuries\/) 22 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Fortune (29 June 2018)\n173. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-193)** [Oneline sales may surpass Rs 30000 crores in festive months](https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/business\/india-business\/online-sales-may-surpass-rs-30000-crore-in-festive-month-assocham\/articleshow\/61035441.cms) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180828055348\/https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/business\/india-business\/online-sales-may-surpass-rs-30000-crore-in-festive-month-assocham\/articleshow\/61035441.cms) 28 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\") The Times of India (11 October 2017)\n174. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-194)** [Average family to spend Rs. 10,000 on this Diwali: ASSOCHAM survey](http:\/\/www.assocham.org\/newsdetail.php?id=6536) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180820005805\/http:\/\/www.assocham.org\/newsdetail.php?id=6536) 20 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), ASSOCHAM (17 October 2017); Tarandip Kaur (2017), [\"Festival of Lights: All You Need to Know About Diwali\"](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/tarandipkaur\/2017\/10\/18\/festival-of-lights-all-you-need-to-know-about-diwali\/) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180819214317\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/tarandipkaur\/2017\/10\/18\/festival-of-lights-all-you-need-to-know-about-diwali\/) 19 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), *Forbes* (18 October 2017)\n175. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-195)**\n     [\"DNA Explainer: What is Diwali Muhurat Trading and why it is best time to invest in stocks\"](https:\/\/www.dnaindia.com\/business\/report-dna-explainer-what-is-diwali-muhurat-trading-and-why-it-is-best-time-to-invest-in-stocks-2918360). *DNA India*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20211105092714\/https:\/\/www.dnaindia.com\/business\/report-dna-explainer-what-is-diwali-muhurat-trading-and-why-it-is-best-time-to-invest-in-stocks-2918360) from the original on 5 November 2021. Retrieved 5 November 2021.\n176. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-196)**\n     [\"NextFins Celebrates Diwali With the Launch of INDF\"](https:\/\/www.businesswire.com\/news\/home\/20201112005141\/en\/NextFins-Celebrates-Diwali-With-the-Launch-of-INDF). *businesswire.com*. 12 November 2020. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20201112204731\/https:\/\/www.businesswire.com\/news\/home\/20201112005141\/en\/NextFins-Celebrates-Diwali-With-the-Launch-of-INDF) from the original on 12 November 2020. 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[Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20131104183112\/http:\/\/articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/2009-10-17\/uk\/28096259_1_diwali-downing-street-joginder-sangar) from the original on 4 November 2013. Retrieved 3 November 2013.\n183. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-204)**\n     Sanchez, Aurelio (2 November 2007). \"Fest celebrates triumph of light over dark\". *The Albuquerque Journal*. p. 10. \"According to a resolution passed recently by the Foreign Affairs Committee of the House of Representatives, the festival is celebrated by almost 2 million in the United States and many millions more around the world. The bill, H.R. 747, calls for the U.S. Congress to acknowledge 'the religious and historical significance of the festival of Diwali.'\"\n184. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-205)**\n     \"US House passes resolution on significance of Diwali\". *Hindustan Times*. 30 October 2007.\n185. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali#cite_ref-206)**\n     [\"Statement by the President on Diwali\"](https:\/\/obamawhitehouse.archives.gov\/the-press-office\/2010\/11\/04\/statement-president-diwali). *[whitehouse.gov](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Whitehouse.gov \"Whitehouse.gov\")*. 4 November 2010. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170118112828\/https:\/\/www.whitehouse.gov\/the-press-office\/2010\/11\/04\/statement-president-diwali) from the original on 18 January 2017. 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[ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-520-24914-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-520-24914-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-520-24914-1\")\n  \n  .\n- Barbato, Melanie (2017). \"Diplomatic Language in the Deepavali Messages of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue\". *The Review of Faith & International Affairs*. **15** (4: Popes on the Rise: The Modern Papacy in World Affairs): 93–104\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\$identifier\$ \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.1080\/15570274.2017.1392707](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080%2F15570274.2017.1392707). [S2CID](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/S2CID_\$identifier\$ \"S2CID (identifier)\") [148694739](https:\/\/api.semanticscholar.org\/CorpusID:148694739).\n- Blake, Stephen (2013). [*Time in Early Modern Islam: Calendar, Ceremony, and Chronology in the Safavid, Mughal and Ottoman Empires*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=p7ogAwAAQBAJ). Cambridge University Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-139-62032-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-139-62032-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-139-62032-1\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210126093824\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=p7ogAwAAQBAJ) from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Colledge, Ray (2017). [*Mastering World Religions*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=yDpdDwAAQBAJ). Macmillan. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-349-14329-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-349-14329-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-349-14329-0\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110121027\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=yDpdDwAAQBAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 18 August 2018.\n- Coogan, Michael D. (2003). [*The Illustrated Guide to World Religions*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=BshpqnbLOvQC). Oxford University Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-19-521997-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-521997-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-521997-5\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20191217012004\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=BshpqnbLOvQC) from the original on 17 December 2019. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Crump, William D. (2014). [*Encyclopedia of New Year's Holidays Worldwide*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=cDTfCwAAQBAJ). McFarland. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-7864-9545-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7864-9545-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7864-9545-0\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110121013\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=cDTfCwAAQBAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- [Dundas, Paul](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Paul_Dundas \"Paul Dundas\") (2002). [*The Jains*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=X8iAAgAAQBAJ) (Second ed.). Routledge. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-415-26605-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-415-26605-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-415-26605-5\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170122135027\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=X8iAAgAAQBAJ) from the original on 22 January 2017. Retrieved 18 August 2018.\n- Eaton, Richard M. (1996). [*The Rise of Islam and the Bengal Frontier, 1204–1760*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=gKhChF3yAOUC). University of California Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-520-20507-9](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-520-20507-9 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-520-20507-9\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170106124647\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=gKhChF3yAOUC) from the original on 6 January 2017. Retrieved 25 September 2018.\n- Eraly, Abraham (2015). [*The Age of Wrath: A History of the Delhi Sultanate*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=vyEoAwAAQBAJ). Penguin Books. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-93-5118-658-8](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-93-5118-658-8 \"Special:BookSources\/978-93-5118-658-8\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20160428085038\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=vyEoAwAAQBAJ) from the original on 28 April 2016. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Fieldhouse, Paul (2017). [*Food, Feasts, and Faith: An Encyclopedia of Food Culture in World Religions*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=P-FqDgAAQBAJ). ABC-CLIO. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-61069-412-4](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-61069-412-4 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-61069-412-4\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210507142534\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=P-FqDgAAQBAJ) from the original on 7 May 2021. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Frazier, Jessica; Flood, Gavin (2011). [*The Continuum Companion to Hindu Studies*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=Nv_a5cMEwngC). A\\&C Black. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-8264-9966-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-8264-9966-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-8264-9966-0\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20200819154639\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=Nv_a5cMEwngC) from the original on 19 August 2020. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Goldstein, Darra (2015). [*The Oxford Companion to Sugar and Sweets*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=jbi6BwAAQBAJ). Oxford University Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-19-931339-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-931339-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-931339-6\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210225164552\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=jbi6BwAAQBAJ) from the original on 25 February 2021. Retrieved 14 October 2016.\n- Grewal, J. S. (1998). [*The Sikhs of the Punjab*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=2_nryFANsoYC). Cambridge University Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-521-63764-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-521-63764-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-521-63764-0\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20190504204555\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=2_nryFANsoYC) from the original on 4 May 2019. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Jacobs, Stephen (2010). [*Hinduism Today: An Introduction*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=a5732hIV03kC). A\\&C Black. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-8264-3065-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-8264-3065-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-8264-3065-6\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110121002\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=a5732hIV03kC) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Jain, Jyotindra; Fischer, Eberhard (1978). [*Jaina Iconography*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=gFZ7vQ2jwlEC). BRILL Academic. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-90-04-05259-8](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-90-04-05259-8 \"Special:BookSources\/978-90-04-05259-8\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170426074648\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=gFZ7vQ2jwlEC) from the original on 26 April 2017. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Johnson, Christopher H.; Teuscher, Simon; Sabean, David Warren (2011). [*Transregional and Transnational Families in Europe and Beyond: Experiences Since the Middle Ages*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=Snz3E3p_HaUC). Berghahn. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-85745-183-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-85745-183-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-85745-183-5\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110121028\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=Snz3E3p_HaUC) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 19 August 2018.\n- Johnson, Henry (June 2007). \"'Happy Diwali!' Performance, Multicultural Soundscapes and Intervention in Aotearoa\/New Zealand\". *Ethnomusicology Forum*. **16** (1): 71–94\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\$identifier\$ \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.1080\/17411910701276526](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080%2F17411910701276526). [JSTOR](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/JSTOR_\$identifier\$ \"JSTOR (identifier)\") [20184577](https:\/\/www.jstor.org\/stable\/20184577). [S2CID](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/S2CID_\$identifier\$ \"S2CID (identifier)\") [191322269](https:\/\/api.semanticscholar.org\/CorpusID:191322269).\n- Kelly, John D. (March 1988). \"From Holi to Diwali in Fiji: An Essay on Ritual and History\". *Man*. **23** (1): 40–55\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\$identifier\$ \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.2307\/2803032](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2307%2F2803032). [JSTOR](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/JSTOR_\$identifier\$ \"JSTOR (identifier)\") [2803032](https:\/\/www.jstor.org\/stable\/2803032).\n- Kinsley, David (1988). [*Hindu Goddesses: Visions of the Divine Feminine in the Hindu Religious Tradition*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=HzldwMHeS6IC). University of California Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-520-90883-3](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-520-90883-3 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-520-90883-3\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20190401015448\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=HzldwMHeS6IC) from the original on 1 April 2019. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Klostermaier, Klaus K. (2014). [*A Concise Encyclopedia of Hinduism*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=v1UQBwAAQBAJ). Oxford: Oneworld Publications. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-78074-672-2](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-78074-672-2 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-78074-672-2\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20201229174254\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=v1UQBwAAQBAJ) from the original on 29 December 2020. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Lochtefeld, James G. (2002). [*The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Hinduism: A–M, Volume 1*](https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/illustratedencyc0000loch). Rosen Publishing. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-8239-3179-8](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-8239-3179-8 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-8239-3179-8\")\n  \n  .\n- McDermott, Rachel Fell (2011). *Revelry, Rivalry, and Longing for the Goddesses of Bengal*. Columbia University Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-231-52787-3](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-231-52787-3 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-231-52787-3\")\n  \n  .\n- Lodrick, Deryck O. (1987). \"Gopashtami and Govardhan Puja: Two Krishna Festivals of India\". *Journal of Cultural Geography*. **7** (2): 101–116\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\$identifier\$ \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.1080\/08873638709478510](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080%2F08873638709478510).\n- [Long, Jeffery D.](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jeffery_D._Long \"Jeffery D. Long\") (2009). [*Jainism: An Introduction*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=JmRlAgAAQBAJ). I. B. Tauris. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-84511-625-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-84511-625-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-84511-625-5\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170423084645\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=JmRlAgAAQBAJ) from the original on 23 April 2017. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- McDaniel, June (2004). [*Offering Flowers, Feeding Skulls: Popular Goddess Worship in West Bengal*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=rHs8DwAAQBAJ). Oxford University Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-19-516790-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-516790-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-516790-0\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210126200722\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=rHs8DwAAQBAJ) from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 19 August 2018.\n- Melton, J. Gordon, ed. (2011). [*Religious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays Festivals Solemn Observances and Spiritual Commemorations*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=Pk7eEAAAQBAJ). ABC-CLIO. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-59884-205-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-59884-205-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-59884-205-0\")\n  \n  .\n- Jones, Constance (2011). Melton, J. Gordon (ed.). [*Religious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays Festivals Solemn Observances and Spiritual Commemorations*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=Pk7eEAAAQBAJ). ABC-CLIO. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-59884-205-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-59884-205-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-59884-205-0\")\n  \n  .\n- Melville, Charles (2012). [*A History of Persian Literature*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=aFPvAwAAQBAJ). Vol. X: *Persian Historiography*. I. B. Tauris. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-85773-657-4](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-85773-657-4 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-85773-657-4\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20200926132311\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=aFPvAwAAQBAJ) from the original on 26 September 2020. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Oberoi, Harjot (1994). [*The Construction of Religious Boundaries: Culture, Identity, and Diversity in the Sikh Tradition*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=dKl84EYFkTsC). University of Chicago Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-226-61593-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-226-61593-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-226-61593-6\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20200819031846\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=dKl84EYFkTsC) from the original on 19 August 2020. Retrieved 19 August 2018.\n- Okita, Kiyokazu (2014). [*Hindu Theology in Early Modern South Asia: The Rise of Devotionalism and the Politics of Genealogy*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=a9X1AwAAQBAJ). Oxford University Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-19-870926-8](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-870926-8 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-870926-8\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110121011\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=a9X1AwAAQBAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 18 August 2018.\n- Pintchman, Tracy (2005). [*Guests at God's Wedding: Celebrating Kartik among the Women of Benares*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=W-9Hq-DOXnEC). State University of New York Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-7914-8256-8](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7914-8256-8 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7914-8256-8\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20181226115243\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=W-9Hq-DOXnEC) from the original on 26 December 2018. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- [Potter, Karl H.](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karl_H._Potter \"Karl H. Potter\") (2007). Malvania, Dalsukh; Soni, Jayendra (eds.). [*Encyclopedia of Indian Philosophies*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=5WHHJ6O7b-IC). Vol. X: *Jain Philosophy*. Motilal Banarsidass. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-81-208-3169-8](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-208-3169-8 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-208-3169-8\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170412065216\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=5WHHJ6O7b-IC) from the original on 12 April 2017. Retrieved 25 September 2018.\n- Rao, V. (October 2001). \"Celebrations as Social Investments: Festival Expenditures, Unit Price Variation and Social Status in Rural India\". *Journal of Development Studies*. **38** (1): 71–97\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\$identifier\$ \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.1080\/713601102](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080%2F713601102). [S2CID](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/S2CID_\$identifier\$ \"S2CID (identifier)\") [59148993](https:\/\/api.semanticscholar.org\/CorpusID:59148993).\n- Rhodes, Constantina (2010). [*Invoking Lakshmi: The Goddess of Wealth in Song and Ceremony*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=RC0Mr3E1tqAC). State University of New York Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-4384-3322-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-4384-3322-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-4384-3322-6\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110121029\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=RC0Mr3E1tqAC) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Rodrigues, Hillary (2016). [*Introducing Hinduism*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=t86ykgEACAAJ). Routledge. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-415-54966-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-415-54966-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-415-54966-0\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110121029\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=t86ykgEACAAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Salamone, Frank (2004). [*Encyclopedia of Religious Rites, Rituals and Festivals*](https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/encyclopediaofre00sala). Routledge. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-415-88091-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-415-88091-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-415-88091-6\")\n  \n  .\n- Shah, Manju N. (Winter–Fall 1995). \"Celebrating Diwali in America\". *Journal of South Asian Literature*. **30** (1–2\\): 41–44\\. [JSTOR](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/JSTOR_\$identifier\$ \"JSTOR (identifier)\") [40873556](https:\/\/www.jstor.org\/stable\/40873556).\n- Shattuck, Cybelle T. (1999). [*Hinduism*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=Z2ARAQAAIAAJ). Prentice Hall. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-13-266255-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-13-266255-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-13-266255-0\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20210126200724\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=Z2ARAQAAIAAJ) from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Sewell, Robert (2006). [*A Forgotten Empire (Vijayanagar): A Contribution to the History of India*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=TDOZ6A4HRz0C). Echo. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0716521372](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0716521372 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0716521372\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220110121003\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=TDOZ6A4HRz0C) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n- Singh, Pashaura; Louis E. Fenech (2014). [*The Oxford Handbook of Sikh Studies*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=8I0NAwAAQBAJ). Oxford University Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-0-19-969930-8](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-969930-8 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-969930-8\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20190504190932\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=8I0NAwAAQBAJ) from the original on 4 May 2019. Retrieved 18 August 2018.\n- Truschke, Audrey (2017). [*Aurangzeb: The Life and Legacy of India's Most Controversial King*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=oUUkDwAAQBAJ). Stanford University Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-5036-0259-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-5036-0259-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-5036-0259-5\")\n  \n  .\n- Vemsani, Lavanya (2016). [*Krishna in History, Thought, and Culture: An Encyclopedia of the Hindu Lord of Many Names: An Encyclopedia of the Hindu Lord of Many Names*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=4fw2DAAAQBAJ). ABC-CLIO. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n  \n  [978-1-61069-211-3](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-61069-211-3 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-61069-211-3\")\n  \n  . [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20171206083031\/https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=4fw2DAAAQBAJ) from the original on 6 December 2017. Retrieved 17 August 2018.\n\nExternal links\n\n- [The Ancient Origins of Diwali, India's Biggest Holiday](https:\/\/www.history.com\/news\/the-ancient-origins-of-indias-biggest-holiday)—Becky Little (2017)\n- [Deepawali](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170910153209\/http:\/\/knowindia.gov.in\/culture-and-heritage\/festivals\/deepawali.php) at Know India (archived)\n- [Winter air pollution around Diwali and Asthma](https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/life-style\/health-fitness\/health-news\/winter-air-pollution-around-diwali-and-asthma-what-you-need-to-know\/articleshow\/104929975.cms?from=mdr)","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	Diwali Rangoli decorations, made using coloured fine powder or sand, are popular during Diwali. Official name Dīpāvalī Also called Deepavali, Deepawali Observed by Hindus , Jains , Sikhs , [ 1 ] some Buddhists (notably Newar Buddhists [ 2 ] ) Type Religious, cultural, seasonal Significance See below Celebrations Diya lighting puja (worship and prayer) Hukka Paati in Mithila region havan (fire offering) vrat (fasting) dāna (charity) melā (fairs/shows) home cleansing and decoration fireworks gifts and partaking in a feast and sweets Begins Ashwayuja 27 or Ashwayuja 28 ( amanta tradition) Kartika 12 or Kartika 13 ( purnimanta tradition) Ends Kartika 2 ( amanta tradition) Kartika 17 ( purnimanta tradition) Date Ashvin Krishna Trayodashi, Ashvin Krishna Chaturdashi, Ashvin Amavasya, Kartik Shukla Pratipada, Kartik Shukla Dwitiya 2025 date October [ 3 ] 18 ( Dhanteras /Yama Deepam/Kwah Puja/Kaag Tihar) 19 ( Naraka Chaturdashi /Kali Chaudas/Hanuman Puja/Chhoti Diwali/Khicha Puja/ Kukur Tihar ) 20 ( Lakshmi Puja / Kali Puja /Sharda Puja/Kedar Gauri Vrat/Sa Puja/Gai Tihar) 21 ( Govardhan Puja / Balipratipada / Mha Puja /Goru Puja) 22 ( Bhai Dooj / Vishwakarma Puja / Gujarati New Year /Kija Puja) 2026 date 8 November 2026 2027 date 29 October 2027 Duration 5 or 6 days (regional variations) Frequency Annual Related to Diwali (Jainism) , Bandi Chhor Divas , Tihar , Swanti , Sohrai , Bandna Explanatory note on Hindu festival dates The Hindu calendar is lunisolar but most festival dates are specified using the lunar portion of the calendar. A lunar day is uniquely identified by three calendar elements: māsa (lunar month), pakṣa (lunar fortnight) and tithi (lunar day). Furthermore, when specifying the masa, one of two traditions are applicable, viz. amānta / pūrṇimānta . If a festival falls in the waning phase of the moon, these two traditions identify the same lunar day as falling in two different (but successive) masa. A lunar year is shorter than a solar year by about eleven days. As a result, most Hindu festivals occur on different days in successive years on the Gregorian calendar. v t e Deepavali UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Country India Reference 02312 Region Asia and the Pacific Inscription history Inscription 2025 (20th session) List Representative Dipavali ( IAST : Dīpāvalī ), [ a ] commonly known as Diwali ( ), [ 4 ] is the Hindu festival of lights, with variations celebrated in other Indian religions such as Jainism and Sikhism . [ b ] It symbolises the spiritual victory of Dharma over Adharma , light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. [ 5 ] [ 6 ] [ 7 ] [ page needed ] [ 8 ] Diwali is celebrated during the Hindu lunisolar months of Ashvin (according to the amanta tradition) and Kārtika – between around mid-October and mid-November. [ 9 ] [ 10 ] [ 11 ] [ 12 ] [ 13 ] The celebrations generally last five or six days. [ 14 ] [ 15 ] Diwali is connected to various religious events, deities and personalities, such as being the day Rama returned to his kingdom in Ayodhya with his wife Sita and his brother Lakshmana after defeating the demon king Ravana . [ 16 ] It is also widely associated with Lakshmi , the goddess of prosperity, and Ganesha , the god of wisdom and the remover of obstacles. [ 17 ] Other regional traditions connect the holiday to Vishnu , Krishna , Durga , Shiva , Kali , Hanuman , Kubera , Yama , Yami , Dhanvantari , or Vishvakarman . Primarily a Hindu festival, variations of Diwali are also celebrated by adherents of other faiths. [ 14 ] The Jains observe their own Diwali which marks the final liberation of Mahavira . [ 18 ] [ 19 ] The Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas to mark the release of Guru Hargobind from a Mughal prison. [ 20 ] Newar Buddhists , unlike other Buddhists , celebrate Diwali by worshipping Lakshmi, while the Hindus of Eastern India and Bangladesh generally, celebrate Diwali by worshipping the goddess Kali . [ 21 ] [ 2 ] [ 22 ] During the festival, the celebrants illuminate their homes, temples and workspaces with diyas (oil lamps), candles and lanterns. [ 8 ] Hindus, in particular, have a ritual oil bath at dawn on each day of the festival. [ 23 ] Diwali is also marked with fireworks as well as the decoration of floors with rangoli designs and other parts of the house with jhalars . Food is a major focus with families partaking in feasts and sharing mithai . [ 24 ] The festival is an annual homecoming and bonding period not only for families, [ 16 ] [ 17 ] but also for communities and associations, particularly those in urban areas, which will organise activities, events, and gatherings. [ 25 ] [ 26 ] Many towns organise community parades and fairs with parades or music and dance performances in parks. [ 14 ] Some Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs will send Diwali greeting cards to family near and far during the festive season, occasionally with boxes of Indian confectionery. [ 14 ] Another aspect of the festival is remembering the ancestors. [ 27 ] Diwali is also a major cultural event for the Hindu , Sikh , and Jain diaspora . [ 28 ] [ 29 ] [ 30 ] The main day of the festival of Diwali (the day of Lakshmi Puja) is an official holiday in Fiji , [ 31 ] Guyana , [ 32 ] India , Malaysia , [ c ] [ 33 ] Mauritius , Myanmar , [ 34 ] Nepal , [ 35 ] Pakistan , [ 36 ] Singapore , [ 37 ] Sri Lanka , Suriname , and Trinidad and Tobago , [ 38 ] and the US states of Connecticut , Pennsylvania , and California . [ 39 ] [ 40 ] [ 41 ] Etymology Diwali [ 9 ] [ d ] comes from Dipavali ( Sanskrit : दीपावली , romanized : Dīpāvalī ), meaning ' a row or series of lights ' . [ 24 ] [ 43 ] The term is a compound of the Sanskrit words दीप , dīpa , ' lamp, light, lantern, candle, that which glows, shines, illuminates or knowledge ' [ 44 ] and आवलि , āvali , ' a row, range, continuous line, series ' . [ 45 ] [ e ] Dates The five-day celebration is observed every year sometime from the second half of October to the first half of November [ 46 ] coinciding with a new moon ( amāvasyā ) as per the Hindu lunisolar calendar . [ 47 ] The festivities begin two days before amāvasyā , on Dhanteras , and extend two days after, until the second (or 17th) day of the month of Kartik. [ 48 ] (According to Indologist Constance Jones, this night ends the lunar month of Ashwin and starts the month of Kartik [ 46 ] – but see this note [ f ] and Amanta and Purnima systems .) The darkest night is the apex of the celebration. The festival climax is on the third day and is called the main Diwali. It is an official holiday in a dozen countries, while the other festive days are regionally observed as either public or optional restricted holidays in India. [ 50 ] In Nepal, it is also a multiday festival, although the days and rituals are named differently, with the climax being called the Tihar festival by Hindus and Swanti festival by Buddhists. [ 51 ] [ 52 ] History The five-day long festival originated in the Indian subcontinent and is likely a fusion of harvest festivals in ancient India . [ 46 ] It is mentioned in early Sanskrit texts, such as the Padma Purana and the Skanda Purana , both of which were composed between the 7th and 10th centuries. [ 53 ] [ 54 ] The diyas (lamps) are mentioned in Skanda Kishore Purana as symbolising parts of the sun, describing it as the cosmic giver of light and energy to all life and which seasonally transitions in the Hindu calendar month of Kartik. [ 55 ] [ 56 ] Emperor Harsha refers to Deepavali, in the 7th-century Sanskrit play Nagananda , as Dīpapratipadotsava ( dīpa = light, pratipadā = first day, utsava = festival), where lamps were lit and newly engaged brides and grooms received gifts. [ 57 ] [ 58 ] Rajasekhara referred to Deepavali as Dipamalika in his 9th-century Kavyamimamsa , wherein he mentions the tradition of homes being whitewashed and oil lamps decorated homes, streets, and markets in the night. [ 57 ] Radha and Krishna celebrating Diwali by Sitaram. Kishangarh , late 18th-century. National Museum, New Delhi Diwali was also described by numerous travellers from outside India. In his 11th-century memoir on India, the Persian traveller and historian Al Biruni wrote of Deepavali being celebrated by Hindus on the day of the New Moon in the month of Kartika. [ 59 ] The Venetian merchant and traveller Niccolò de' Conti visited India in the early 15th century and wrote in his memoir, "on another of these festivals they fix up within their temples, and on the outside of the roofs, an innumerable number of oil lamps ... which are kept burning day and night" and that the families would gather, "clothe themselves in new garments", sing, dance, and feast. [ 60 ] [ 61 ] The 16th-century Portuguese traveller Domingo Paes wrote of his visit to the Hindu Vijayanagara Empire , where Dipavali was celebrated in October with householders illuminating their homes, and their temples, with lamps. [ 61 ] It is mentioned in the Ramayana that Diwali was celebrated for only 2 years in Ayodhya . [ 62 ] Islamic historians of the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire era also mentioned Diwali and other Hindu festivals. A few, notably the Mughal emperor Akbar , welcomed and participated in the festivities, [ 63 ] [ 64 ] whereas others banned such festivals as Diwali and Holi , as Aurangzeb did in 1665. [ 65 ] [ 66 ] [ g ] [ h ] Publications from the time of the British Raj also made mention of Diwali, such as the note on Hindu festivals published in 1799 by Sir William Jones , a philologist known for his early observations on Sanskrit and Indo-European languages . [ 69 ] In his paper on The Lunar Year of the Hindus , Jones, then based in Bengal , noted four of the five days of Diwali in the autumn months of Aswina-Cartica [ sic ] as the following: Bhutachaturdasi Yamaterpanam (2nd day), Lacshmipuja dipanwita (the day of Diwali), Dyuta pratipat Belipuja (4th day), and Bhratri dwitiya (5th day). The Lacshmipuja dipanwita , remarked Jones, was a "great festival at night, in honour of Lakshmi, with illuminations on trees and houses". [ 69 ] [ i ] Epigraphy William Simpson labelled his chromolithograph of 1867 as "Dewali, feast of lamps". It showed streets lit up at dusk, with a girl and her mother lighting a street corner lamp. [ 70 ] Sanskrit inscriptions in stone and copper mentioning Diwali, occasionally alongside terms such as Dipotsava , Dipavali , Divali and Divalige , have been discovered at numerous sites across India. [ 71 ] [ 72 ] [ j ] Examples include a 10th-century Rashtrakuta empire copper plate inscription of Krishna III (939–967 CE) that mentions Dipotsava , [ 73 ] and a 12th-century mixed Sanskrit-Kannada Sinda inscription discovered in the Isvara temple of Dharwad in Karnataka where the inscription refers to the festival as a "sacred occasion". [ 74 ] According to Lorenz Franz Kielhorn , a German Indologist known for translating many Indic inscriptions, this festival is mentioned as Dipotsavam in verses 6 and 7 of the Ranganatha temple Sanskrit inscription of the 13th-century Venad Hindu king Ravivarman Samgramadhira . Part of the inscription, as translated by Kielhorn, reads: the auspicious festival of lights which disperses the most profound darkness, which in former days was celebrated by the kings Ila, Kartavirya and Sagara, (...) as Sakra (Indra) is of the gods, the universal monarch who knows the duties by the three Vedas, afterwards celebrated here at Ranga for Vishnu, resplendent with Lakshmi resting on his radiant lap. [ 75 ] [ k ] Jain inscriptions, such as the 10th-century Saundatti inscription about a donation of oil to Jinendra worship for the Diwali rituals, speak of Dipotsava . [ 76 ] [ 77 ] Another early 13th-century Sanskrit stone inscription, written in the Devanagari script, has been found in the north end of a mosque pillar in Jalore , Rajasthan evidently built using materials from a demolished Jain temple. The inscription states that Ramachandracharya built and dedicated a drama performance hall, with a golden cupola, on Diwali. [ 78 ] [ 79 ] [ l ] Religious significance Diwali is commonly celebrated in the honour of Lakshmi , the goddess of wealth. The religious significance of Diwali varies regionally within India. One tradition links the festival to legends in the Hindu epic Ramayana , where Diwali is the day Rama, Sita, Lakshmana , and Hanuman reached Ayodhya after a period of 14 years in exile after Rama's army of good, defeated demon king Ravana 's army of evil. [ 80 ] Throughout the epic, Rama's decisions were always in line with dharma ( duty ) and the Diwali festival serves as a reminder for followers of Hinduism to maintain their dharma in day-to-day life. [ 81 ] Per another popular tradition, in the Dvapara Yuga period, Krishna , an avatar of Vishnu , killed the demon Narakasura , who was the evil king of Pragjyotishapura , near present-day Assam, and released 16000 girls held captive by Narakasura. Diwali was celebrated as a signifier of triumph of good over evil after Krishna's Victory over Narakasura. The day before Diwali is remembered as Naraka Chaturdashi, the day on which Narakasura was killed by Krishna. [ 82 ] A picture of Lakshmi and Ganesha worship during Diwali Diwali Ganesh Laxmi Puja Many Hindus associate the festival with Goddess Lakshmi , the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and wife of Vishnu. According to Pintchman, the start of the 5-day Diwali festival is stated in some popular contemporary sources as the day goddess Lakshmi was born from Samudra Manthana , the churning of the cosmic ocean of milk by the Devas (gods) and the Asuras (demons) – a Vedic legend that is also found in several Puranas such as the Padma Purana , while the night of Diwali is when Lakshmi chose and wed Vishnu. [ 55 ] [ 83 ] Along with Lakshmi, who is representative of Vaishnavism , Ganesha , the elephant-headed son of Parvati and Shiva of Shaivism tradition, is remembered as one who symbolises ethical beginnings and the remover of obstacles. [ 80 ] Hindus of eastern India associate the festival with the Goddess Kali, who symbolises the victory of good over evil. [ 84 ] [ 85 ] [ 86 ] Hindus from the Braj region in northern India, parts of Assam , as well as southern Tamil and Telugu communities view Diwali as the day the god Krishna overcame and destroyed the evil demon king Narakasura, in yet another symbolic victory of knowledge and good over ignorance and evil. [ 87 ] [ 88 ] Trade and merchant families and others also offer prayers to Saraswati , who embodies music, literature and learning and Kubera , who symbolises book-keeping, treasury and wealth management. [ 55 ] In western states such as Gujarat, and certain northern Hindu communities of India, the festival of Diwali signifies the start of a new year. [ 87 ] Mythical tales shared on Diwali vary widely depending on region and even within Hindu tradition, [ 89 ] yet all share a common focus on righteousness, self-inquiry and the importance of knowledge, [ 90 ] [ 91 ] which, according to Lindsey Harlan, an Indologist and scholar of Religious Studies, is the path to overcoming the "darkness of ignorance". [ 92 ] The telling of these myths is reminiscent of the Hindu belief that good ultimately triumphs over evil. [ 93 ] [ 10 ] Other religions Originally a Hindu festival, Diwali has transcended religious lines. [ 94 ] Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Newar Buddhists, [ 2 ] although for each faith it marks different historical events and stories, but nonetheless the festival represents the same symbolic victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. [ 5 ] [ 6 ] [ 95 ] [ 96 ] Jainism Lord Mahavir in meditation before attaining nirvana, the day is celebrated by Jains as Dipalikaya In Jain religion, Diwali is celebrated in observance of "Mahavira Nirvana Divas", the physical death and final nirvana of Mahavira , the 24th Tirthankar of current time cycle. Nirvana is considered to be the state of a soul when it escapes from the cycle of birth and death, while experiencing its true nature of boundless bliss and infinite knowledge. [ 97 ] The Jain Diwali celebrated in many parts of India has similar practices to the Hindu Diwali, such as the lighting of lamps. However, the focus of the Jain Diwali remains the dedication to Mahavira. [ 98 ] According to the Jain tradition, this practice of lighting lamps first began on the day of Mahavira's nirvana in 527 BCE, [ m ] when 18 kings who had gathered for Mahavira's final teachings issued a proclamation that lamps be lit in remembrance of the "great light, Mahavira". [ 101 ] [ 102 ] This traditional belief of the origin of Diwali, and its significance to Jains, is reflected in their historic artworks such as paintings. [ 103 ] Sikhism A hukamnama from the tenth Sikh guru, Guru Gobind Singh , requesting all of the Sikh congregation to convene in his presence on the occasion of Diwali Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas in remembrance of the release of Guru Hargobind from the Gwalior Fort prison by the Mughal emperor Jahangir and the day he arrived at the Golden Temple in Amritsar. [ 104 ] According to J.S. Grewal, a scholar of Sikhism and Sikh history, Diwali in the Sikh tradition is older than the sixth Guru Hargobind legend. Guru Amar Das , the third Guru of the Sikhs, built a well in Goindwal with eighty-four steps and invited Sikhs to bathe in its sacred waters on Baisakhi and Diwali as a form of community bonding. Over time, these spring and autumn festivals became the most important of Sikh festivals and holy sites such as Amritsar became focal points for annual pilgrimages. [ 105 ] The festival of Diwali, according to Ray Colledge, highlights three events in Sikh history: the founding of the city of Amritsar in 1577, the release of Guru Hargobind from the Mughal prison, and the day of Bhai Mani Singh's martyrdom in 1738 as a result of his failure to pay a fine for trying to celebrate Diwali and thereafter refusing to convert to Islam. [ 106 ] [ 107 ] [ n ] Buddhism Diwali is not a festival for most Buddhists, with the exception of the Newar people of Nepal who revere various deities in Vajrayana Buddhism and celebrate Diwali by offering prayers to Lakshmi. [ 2 ] [ 22 ] Newar Buddhists in Nepalese valleys also celebrate the Diwali festival over five days, in much the same way, and on the same days, as the Nepalese Hindu Diwali-Tihar festival. [ 110 ] According to some observers, this traditional celebration by Newar Buddhists in Nepal, through the worship of Lakshmi and Vishnu during Diwali, is not syncretism but rather a reflection of the freedom within Mahayana Buddhist tradition to worship any deity for their worldly betterment. [ 2 ] Celebrations Diwali celebrations Hindu girls lighting diyas in Bangladesh Decorations in Kathmandu for Tihar (Diwali in Nepal) Diwali lamps arranged in the pattern of Om Deepavali night fireworks over Chennai Indoor Diwali decorations in front of an altar in Haridwar Dance event for Diwali in Texas , US Divali Nagar celebration in Trinidad and Tobago Diyas lit for Diwali at Golden Temple , Punjab Diwali sweets and snacks Decorative lights for Diwali on a house in Haryana Diwali festivities include a celebration of sights, sounds, arts and flavours. The festivities vary between different regions. [ 111 ] [ 55 ] [ 16 ] In the lead-up to Diwali, celebrants prepare by cleaning, renovating, and decorating their homes and workplaces with diyas (oil lamps) and rangolis (colourful art circle patterns). [ 112 ] During Diwali, people wear their finest clothes, illuminate the interior and exterior of their homes with saaki (earthen lamp), diyas and rangoli , perform worship ceremonies of Lakshmi , the goddess of prosperity and wealth, [ o ] light fireworks, and partake in family feasts, where mithai ( sweets ) and gifts are shared. The height of Diwali is celebrated on the third day coinciding with the darkest night of Ashvin or Kartika. The common celebratory practices are known as the festival of light, however there are minor differences from state to state in India. Diwali is usually celebrated twenty days after the Vijayadashami festival, with Dhanteras , or the regional equivalent, marking the first day of the festival when celebrants prepare by cleaning their homes and making decorations on the floor, such as rangolis . [ 114 ] Some regions of India start Diwali festivities the day before Dhanteras with Govatsa Dwadashi . The second day is Naraka Chaturdashi . The third day is the day of Lakshmi Puja and the darkest night of the traditional month . In some parts of India , the day after Lakshmi Puja is marked with the Govardhan Puja and Balipratipada (Padwa). Some Hindu communities mark the last day as Bhai Dooj or the regional equivalent, which is dedicated to the bond between sister and brother, [ 115 ] while other Hindu and Sikh craftsmen communities mark this day as Vishvakarma Puja and observe it by performing maintenance in their work spaces and offering prayers . [ 116 ] [ 117 ] Diwali celebrations include puja (prayers) to Lakshmi and Ganesha. Lakshmi is of the Vaishnavism tradition, while Ganesha of the Shaivism tradition of Hinduism. [ 118 ] [ 119 ] Chandua lanterns on display for Diwali. Rituals and preparations for Diwali begin days or weeks in advance, typically after the festival of Dusshera that precedes Diwali by about 20 days. [ 80 ] The festival formally begins two days before the night of Diwali and ends two days thereafter. Each day has the following rituals and significance: [ 55 ] Diwali has become more popular in other countries. In New York City lawmakers have passed legislation to make holidays in school. But debates over the holiday push back. In the future Diwali will be a holiday. [ 120 ] Dhanteras and Yama Deepam (Day 1) Dhanteras starts off the Diwali celebrations with the lighting of Diya or Panati lamp rows, house cleaning and floor rangoli Dhanteras , also known as Dhanatrayodashi, is derived from Dhan meaning wealth and teras meaning thirteenth, marks the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Kartik and the beginning of Diwali in most parts of India. [ 121 ] On this day, many Hindus clean their homes and business premises. They install diyas , small earthen oil-filled lamps that they light up for the next five days, near Lakshmi and Ganesha iconography. [ 121 ] [ 118 ] Women and children decorate doorways within homes and offices with rangolis , colourful designs made from rice flour, flower petals, coloured rice or coloured sand, [ 14 ] while the boys and men decorate the roofs and walls of family homes, markets, and temples and string up lights and lanterns. The day also marks a major shopping day for buying new utensils, home equipment, gold jewellery, firecrackers, and other items. [ 118 ] [ 55 ] [ 83 ] [ 122 ] On the evening of Dhanteras, families offer prayers ( puja ) to Lakshmi and Ganesha, and lay offerings of puffed rice, candy toys, rice cakes and batashas (hollow sugar cakes). [ 118 ] According to Tracy Pintchman, Dhanteras is a symbol of annual renewal, cleansing and an auspicious beginning for the next year. [ 121 ] The term Dhan for this day also alludes to the Ayurvedic icon Dhanvantari , the god of health and healing, who is believed to have emerged from the "churning of cosmic ocean" on the same day as Lakshmi. [ 121 ] Some communities, particularly those active in Ayurvedic and health-related professions, pray or perform havan rituals to Dhanvantari on Dhanteras. [ 121 ] On Yama Deepam (also known as Yama Dipadana or Jam ke Diya), Hindus light a diya , ideally made of wheat flour and filled with sesame oil, which faces south in the back of their homes. This is believed to please Yama , the god of death, and to ward off untimely death. [ 123 ] Some Hindus observe Yama Deepam on the second night before the main day of Diwali. [ 124 ] [ 125 ] Naraka Chaturdashi, Kali Chaudas, Chhoti Diwali, Hanuman Puja, Roop Chaudas, Yama Deepam (Day 2) Choti Diwali is the major shopping day for festive mithai (sweets) Naraka Chaturdashi , also known as Chhoti Diwali, is the second day of festivities coinciding with the fourteenth day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Kartik. [ 126 ] The term "chhoti" means little, while "Naraka" means hell and "Chaturdashi" means "fourteenth". [ 127 ] The day and its rituals are interpreted as ways to liberate any soul from suffering in "Naraka", or hell, as well as a reminder of spiritual auspiciousness. For some Hindus, it is a day to pray for the peace to the manes, or defiled souls of one's ancestors and light their way for their journeys in the cyclic afterlife. [ 128 ] A mythological interpretation of this festive day is the destruction of the asura (demon) Narakasura by Krishna, a victory that frees 16,000 imprisoned princesses kidnapped by Narakasura. [ 127 ] It is also celebrated as Roop Chaudas in some North Indian households, where women bathe before sunrise, while lighting a diya (lamp) in the bath area, they believe it helps enhance their beauty – it is a fun ritual that young girls enjoy as part of festivities. Ubtan is applied by the women which is made up of special gram flour mixed with herbs for cleansing and beautifying themselves. Naraka Chaturdashi is also a major day for purchasing festive foods, particularly sweets. A variety of sweets are prepared using flour, semolina, rice, chickpea flour, dry fruit pieces powders or paste, milk solids ( mawa or khoya ) and clarified butter ( ghee ). [ 10 ] According to Goldstein, these are then shaped into various forms, such as laddus , barfis , halwa , kachoris , shrikhand , and sandesh , rolled and stuffed delicacies, such as karanji, shankarpali , maladu, susiyam, pottukadalai. Sometimes these are wrapped with edible silver foil ( vark ). Confectioners and shops create Diwali-themed decorative displays, selling these in large quantities, which are stocked for home celebrations to welcome guests and as gifts. [ 10 ] [ 118 ] Families also prepare homemade delicacies for Lakshmi Pujan, regarded as the main day of Diwali. [ 10 ] Chhoti Diwali is also a day for visiting friends, business associates and relatives, and exchanging gifts. [ 118 ] On the second day of Diwali, Hanuman Puja is performed in some parts of India especially in Gujarat . It coincides with the day of Kali Chaudas. It is believed that spirits roam around on the night of Kali Chaudas, and Hanuman , who is the deity of strength, power, and protection, is worshipped to seek protection from the spirits. Diwali is also celebrated to mark the return of Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon-king Ravana [ 129 ] and completing his fourteen years of exile. The devotion and dedication of Hanuman pleased Rama so much that he blessed Hanuman to be worshipped before him. Thus, people worship Hanuman the day before Diwali's main day. [ 130 ] This day is commonly celebrated as Diwali in Tamil Nadu , Goa , and Karnataka . [ citation needed ] Traditionally, Marathi Hindus and South Indian Hindus receive an oil massage from the elders in the family on the day and then take a ritual bath, all before sunrise. [ 131 ] Many visit their favourite Hindu temple. [ 132 ] Some Hindus observe Yama Deepam (also known as Yama Dipadana or Jam ke Diya) on the second day of Diwali, instead of the first day. A diya that is filled with sesame oil is lit at back of their homes facing in the southern direction. This is believed to please Yama , the god of death, and to ward off untimely death. [ 123 ] [ 124 ] [ 125 ] Lakshmi Pujan, Kali Puja (Day 3) The third day is the height of the festival [ 133 ] and coincides with the last day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Kartik. This is the day when Hindu, Jain and Sikh temples and homes are aglow with lights, thereby making it the "festival of lights". The word Deepawali comes from the Sanskrit word दीप (dīpa, "light") and आवलि (āvali, "series, line, row"), where dīpa means an Indian lantern or lamp. [ 47 ] [ 134 ] A sparkling firecracker, commonly known as 'Kit Kat' in India The youngest members in the family visit their elders, such as grandparents and other senior members of the community, on this day. Small business owners give gifts or special bonus payments to their employees between Dhanteras and Lakshmi Pujan. [ 131 ] [ 135 ] Shops either do not open or close early on this day allowing employees to enjoy family time. Shopkeepers and small operations perform puja rituals in their office premises. Unlike some other festivals, the Hindus typically do not fast during the five-day long Diwali including Lakshmi Pujan, rather they feast and share the bounties of the season at their workplaces, community centres, temples, and homes. [ 131 ] Woman lighting candles for Diwali. People light candles and clay lamps in their houses and at temples during Diwali night As the evening approaches, celebrants will wear new clothes or their best outfits, teenage girls and women, in particular, wear saris and jewellery. [ 136 ] At dusk, family members gather for the Lakshmi Pujan, [ 136 ] although prayers will also be offered to other deities, such as Ganesha, Saraswati, Rama, Lakshmana, Sita, Hanuman, or Kubera. [ 55 ] The lamps from the puja ceremony are then used to light more earthenware lamps, which are placed in rows along the parapets of temples and houses, [ 137 ] while some diyas are set adrift on rivers and streams. [ 7 ] [ 138 ] [ 139 ] After the puja , people go outside and celebrate by lighting up patakhe (fireworks) together, and then share a family feast and mithai (sweets, desserts). [ 55 ] The puja and rituals in the Bengali Hindu community focus on Kali, the goddess of war, instead of Lakshmi. [ 113 ] [ 140 ] According to Rachel Fell McDermott, a scholar of South Asian, particular Bengali, studies, in Bengal during Navaratri (Dussehra elsewhere in India) the Durga puja is the main focus, although in the eastern and northeastern states the two are synonymous, but on Diwali the focus is on the puja dedicated to Kali. These two festivals likely developed in tandem over their recent histories, states McDermott. [ 113 ] Textual evidence suggests that Bengali Hindus worshipped Lakshmi before the colonial era, and that the Kali puja is a more recent phenomenon. [ p ] Contemporary Bengali celebrations mirror those found elsewhere, with teenage boys playing with fireworks and the sharing of festive food with family, but with the Shakti goddess Kali as the focus. [ 141 ] A child playing with (fuljhadi) sparklers during Diwali On the night of Diwali, rituals across much of India are dedicated to Lakshmi to welcome her into their cleaned homes and bring prosperity and happiness for the coming year. [ 142 ] [ 62 ] While the cleaning, or painting, of the home is in part for goddess Lakshmi, it also signifies the ritual "reenactment of the cleansing, purifying action of the monsoon rains" that would have concluded in most of the Indian subcontinent. [ 142 ] Vaishnava families recite Hindu legends of the victory of good over evil and the return of hope after despair on the Diwali night, where the main characters may include Rama, Krishna, Vamana or one of the avatars of Vishnu, the divine husband of Lakshmi. [ 142 ] [ 143 ] At dusk, lamps placed earlier in the inside and outside of the home are lit up to welcome Lakshmi. [ 133 ] Family members light up firecrackers, which some interpret as a way to ward off all evil spirits and the inauspicious, as well as add to the festive mood. [ 144 ] [ 145 ] According to Pintchman, who quotes Raghavan, this ritual may also be linked to the tradition in some communities of paying respect to ancestors. Earlier in the season's fortnight, some welcome the souls of their ancestors to join the family for the festivities with the Mahalaya . The Diwali night's lights and firecrackers, in this interpretation, represent a celebratory and symbolic farewell to the departed ancestral souls. [ 146 ] The celebrations and rituals of the Jains and the Sikhs are similar to those of the Hindus where social and community bonds are renewed. Major temples and homes are decorated with lights, festive foods shared with all, friends and relatives remembered and visited with gifts. [ 135 ] [ 98 ] Annakut, Balipratipada (Padwa), New Year's Day, Govardhan Puja (Day 4) The day after Diwali is the first day of the bright fortnight of Kartik. [ 147 ] It is regionally called Annakut (heap of grain), Padwa, Goverdhan puja, Bali Pratipada, Bali Padyami, Kartik Shukla Pratipada and other names. [ 14 ] [ 147 ] According to one tradition, the day is associated with the story of Bali's defeat at the hands of Vishnu. [ 148 ] [ 149 ] In another interpretation, it is thought to reference the legend of Parvati and her husband Shiva playing a game of dyuta (dice) on a board of twelve squares and thirty pieces, Parvati wins. Shiva surrenders his shirt and adornments to her, rendering him naked. [ 147 ] According to Handelman and Shulman, as quoted by Pintchman, this legend is a Hindu metaphor for the cosmic process for creation and dissolution of the world through the masculine destructive power, as represented by Shiva, and the feminine procreative power, represented by Parvati, where twelve reflects the number of months in the cyclic year, while thirty are the number of days in its lunisolar month. [ 147 ] Annakut community meals (left), Krishna holding Govardhan Hill ritually made from cow dung, rice and flowers (right). This day ritually celebrates the bond between the wife and husband, [ 150 ] and in some Hindu communities, husbands will celebrate this with gifts to their wives. In other regions, parents invite a newly married daughter, or son, together with their spouses to a festive meal and give them gifts. [ 150 ] In some rural communities of the north, west and central regions, the fourth day is celebrated as Govardhan puja, honouring the legend of the Hindu god Krishna saving the cowherd and farming communities from incessant rains and floods triggered by Indra's anger, [ 150 ] which he accomplished by lifting the Govardhan mountain. This legend is remembered through the ritual of building small mountain-like miniatures from cow dung. [ 150 ] According to Kinsley, the ritual use of cow dung, a common fertiliser, is an agricultural motif and a celebration of its significance to annual crop cycles. [ 119 ] [ 151 ] [ 152 ] The agricultural symbolism is also observed on this day by many Hindus as Annakut, literally "mountain of food". Communities prepare over one hundred dishes from a variety of ingredients, which is then dedicated to Krishna before being shared among the community. Hindu temples on this day prepare and present "mountains of sweets" to the faithful who have gathered for darshan (visit). [ 150 ] In Gujarat, Annakut is the first day of the new year and celebrated through the purchase of essentials, or sabras (literally, "good things in life"), such as salt, offering prayers to Krishna and visiting temples. [ 150 ] In Gujarat New Year is celebrated after the day of Diwali. In the early morning people take showers, do prayer at home, visit temples for worship and children in the evening visit neighbour's houses to say happy new year, shake hands, get mukhvas for dessert, and chocolate. Bhai Duj, Bhau-Beej, Vishwakarma Puja (Day 5) A sister ritually feeding her brother on Bhai Duj-Diwali The last day of the festival, the second day of the bright fortnight of Kartik, is called Bhai Duj (literally "brother's day" [ 153 ] ), Bhau Beej , Bhai Tilak or Bhai Phonta . It celebrates the sister-brother bond, similar in spirit to Raksha Bandhan but it is the brother that travels to meet the sister and her family. This festive day is interpreted by some to symbolise Yama's sister Yamuna welcoming Yama with a tilaka , while others interpret it as the arrival of Krishna at his sister Subhadra 's place after defeating Narakasura. Subhadra welcomes him with a tilaka on his forehead. [ 150 ] [ 154 ] The day celebrates the sibling bond between brother and sister. [ 155 ] On this day the womenfolk of the family gather, perform a puja with prayers for the well-being of their brothers, then return to a ritual of feeding their brothers with their hands and receiving gifts. According to Pintchman, in some Hindu traditions the women recite tales where sisters protect their brothers from enemies that seek to cause him either bodily or spiritual harm. [ 154 ] In historic times, this was a day in autumn when brothers would travel to meet their sisters or invite their sister's family to their village to celebrate their sister-brother bond with the bounty of seasonal harvests. [ 55 ] The artisan Hindu and Sikh community celebrates the fourth day as the Vishwakarma puja day. [ q ] Vishwakarma is the presiding Hindu deity for those in architecture, building, manufacturing, textile work and crafts trades. [ 116 ] [ r ] The looms, tools of trade, machines and workplaces are cleaned and prayers offered to these livelihood means. [ 158 ] Other traditions and significance During the season of Diwali, numerous rural townships and villages host melas , [ 159 ] or fairs, where local producers and artisans trade produce and goods. A variety of entertainments are usually available for inhabitants of the local community to enjoy. The women, in particular, adorn themselves in colourful attire and decorate their hands with henna . Such events are also mentioned in Sikh historical records. [ 160 ] [ s ] In the modern day, Diwali mela are held at college, or university, campuses or as community events by members of the Indian diaspora. At such events a variety of music, dance and arts performances, food, crafts, and cultural celebrations are featured. [ 161 ] [ 162 ] [ 92 ] In October 2025, the state of California made Diwali an official state holiday. [ 163 ] Economics Diwali marks a major shopping period in India, [ 28 ] and is comparable to the Christmas period in terms of consumer purchases and economic activity. [ 164 ] It is traditionally a time when households purchase new clothing, home refurbishments, gifts, gold, jewelry, [ 165 ] [ 166 ] and other large purchases particularly as the festival is dedicated to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and such purchases are considered auspicious. [ 167 ] [ 168 ] According to Rao, Diwali is one of the major festivals where rural Indians spend a significant portion of their annual income, and is a means for them to renew their relationships and social networks. [ 169 ] Other goods that are bought in substantial quantities during Diwali include confectionery and fireworks. In 2013, about ₹ 25 billion (US$300 million) of fireworks were sold to merchants for the Diwali season, an equivalent retail value of about ₹ 50 billion (US$590 million) according to The Times of India . [ 170 ] [ t ] ASSOCHAM , a trade organisation in India, forecasted that online shopping alone to be over ₹ 300 billion (US$3.5 billion) over the 2017 Diwali season. [ 173 ] About two-thirds of Indian households, according to the ASSOCHAM forecast, would spend between ₹ 5,000 (US$59) and ₹ 10,000 (US$120) to celebrate Diwali in 2017. [ 174 ] Stock markets like NSE and BSE in India are typically closed during Diwali, with the exception of a Diwali Muhurat trading session for an hour in the evening to coincide with the beginning of the new year. [ 175 ] In 2020, the INDF ETF was launched to mark the start of Diwali. [ 176 ] Politics Diwali has increasingly attracted cultural exchanges, becoming occasions for politicians and religious leaders worldwide to meet Hindu or Indian origin citizens, diplomatic staff or neighbours. Many participate in other socio-political events as a symbol of support for diversity and inclusiveness. The Catholic dicastery Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue , founded as Secretariat for non-Christians by Pope Paul VI, began sending official greetings and the Pope's message to the Hindus on Diwali in the mid-1990s. [ 177 ] [ u ] Many governments encourage or sponsor Diwali-related festivities in their territories. For example, the Singaporean government, in association with the Hindu Endowments Board of Singapore, organizes many cultural events during Diwali every year. [ 178 ] National and civic leaders such as the former Prince Charles have attended Diwali celebrations at prominent Hindu temples in the UK, such as the Swaminarayan Temple in Neasden , using the occasion to highlight contributions of the Hindu community to British society. [ 179 ] [ 180 ] Additionally, cities across the UK show support of the celebrations through Diwali lights, decorations, and cultural festivities such as dance performances, food stalls and workshops. [ 181 ] Since 2009, Diwali has been celebrated every year at 10 Downing Street , the residence of the British Prime Minister. [ 182 ] Diwali was first celebrated in the White House by George W. Bush in 2003, and its religious and historical significance was officially recognized by the United States Congress in 2007. [ 183 ] [ 184 ] Barack Obama became the first president to personally attend Diwali at the White House in 2009. On the eve of his first visit to India as President of the United States, Obama released an official statement sharing his best wishes with "those celebrating Diwali". [ 185 ] President Donald J. Trump posted an official statement celebrating Diwali in October 2025. [ 186 ] [ 187 ] A similar message posted online by Trump administration FBI Director Kash Patel was met with a flood of racist and xenophobic invective from Christian nationalists and other MAGA -aligned individuals. [ 188 ] [ 189 ] As of October 2025, Diwali was an official holiday in three U.S. states: California , Connecticut , and Pennsylvania . [ 190 ] [ 191 ] Every year during Diwali, Indian forces approach their Pakistani counterparts at the border bearing gifts of traditional Indian confectionery, a gesture that is returned in kind by the Pakistani soldiers who give Pakistani sweets to the Indian soldiers. [ 192 ] [ v ] [ 196 ] Hazards The use of firecrackers on Diwali increases the concentration of dust and pollutants in the air. After firing, the fine dust particles get settled on the surrounding surfaces which are packed with chemicals like copper , zinc , sodium , lead , magnesium , cadmium and pollutants like oxides of sulfur and nitrogen . [ 197 ] These invisible yet harmful particles affect the environment and in turn, put people's health at stake. [ 198 ] The smoke created by firecrackers lit up on Diwali causes smog which sometimes takes days to clear. [ 199 ] During Diwali, the levels of suspended particulate matter increase. When people are exposed to these pollutant particles, they may suffer from eye, nose, and throat-related problems. To produce colours when crackers are burst, carcinogenic and poisonous elements are used. [ 200 ] During the 2023 celebration, New Delhi briefly took the top spot in the world for air pollution with an air quality index of 680 on one night. [ 201 ] The use of fireworks during Diwali can also lead to burn injuries. One particular firework called anar (fountain) has been found to be responsible for 65% of such injuries, with adults being the typical victims. Most of the injuries sustained are Group I type burns (minor) requiring only outpatient care. Experts urge precaution around candles and fires and ask for children to be kept a safe distance from flames and to enjoy the festivity of Diwali. [ 202 ] [ 203 ] Guinness World Record In October 2025, a Diwali celebration in Ayodhya , Uttar Pradesh, India, broke the Guinness World Record for the largest display of oil lamps with 2,617,615 displayed on the eve of Diwali. [ 204 ] UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage Diwali has been inscribed on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, becoming the 16th Indian tradition to receive global honour joining the ranks of Durga Puja and Yoga in international recognition. [ 205 ] See also Bandna – Agrarian festival that coincides with Diwali Bandi Chhor Divas – Sikh festival that coincides with Diwali Candlemas – the Christian celebration involving candles, celebrating the Presentation of Jesus Chinese New Year - Chinese celebration, one of the most important holidays in Chinese culture Day of the Little Candles – the Colombian Catholic festival of candles Diwali (Jainism) – Diwali's significance in Jainism Guy Fawkes Night – the British festival of bonfires and fireworks held on the fifth of November. In towns with a large British Asian community, Diwali and Guy Fawkes festivities are often combined. Hanukkah – the Jewish festival of lights Jashn-e-Chiragah - the Mughal celebration of Diwali Kali Puja – Diwali is most commonly known as Kali Puja in West Bengal or in Bengali dominated areas Karthika Deepam – the festival of lights observed by Tamils of Tamil Nadu , Puducherry , Kerala , Sri Lanka and elsewhere Lehyam , often prepared on the occasion of Deepavali to aid the digestion Lantern Festival – the Chinese festival of lanterns Loy Krathong – the Thai festival of lights Nowruz – the Persian new year and festival of lights Saint Lucy's Day – the Christian festival of lights Swanti – Newar version of Diwali Tihar – Nepali version of Diwali Walpurgis Night – the German festival of bonfires Notes ^ Also spelled as Dipawali , Deepavali , or Deepawali . ^ Related to Jain Diwali , Bandi Chhor Divas , Tihar , Swanti , Sohrai and Bandna ^ except Sarawak ^ Also spelled as Divali or Dewali . [ 4 ] [ 42 ] ^ The holiday is known as dipawoli in Assamese : দীপাৱলী , dīpabolī or dipali in Bengali : দীপাবলি/দীপালি , dīvāḷi in Gujarati : દિવાળી , divālī in Hindi : दिवाली , dīpavaḷi in Kannada : ದೀಪಾವಳಿ , Konkani : दिवाळी , dīpāvalī in Maithili : दीपावली , Malayalam : ദീപാവലി , Marathi : दिवाळी , dīpābali in Odia : ଦୀପାବଳି , dīvālī in Punjabi : ਦੀਵਾਲੀ , diyārī in Sindhi : दियारी , tīpāvaḷi in Tamil : தீபாவளி , and Telugu : దీపావళి , Galungan in Balinese and Swanti in Nepali : स्वन्ति or tihar in Nepali : तिहार and Thudar Parba in Tulu : ತುಡರ್ ಪರ್ಬ . ^ Historical records appear inconsistent about the name of the lunar month in which Diwali is observed. One of the earliest reports on this variation was by Wilson in 1847. He explained that though the actual Hindu festival day is the same, it is identified differently in regional calendars because there are two traditions in the Hindu calendar. One tradition starts a new month from the new moon, while the other starts it from the full moon. [ 49 ] ^ According to Audrey Truschke, the Sunni Muslim emperor Aurangzeb did limit "public observation" of many religious holidays such as Hindu Diwali and Holi, but also of Shia observance of Muharram and the Persian holiday of Nauruz. According to Truschke, Aurangzeb did so because he found the festivals "distasteful" and also from "concerns with public safety" lurking in the background. [ 67 ] According to Stephen Blake, a part of the reason that led Aurangzeb to ban Diwali was the practice of gambling and drunken celebrations. [ 66 ] Truschke states that Aurangzeb did not ban private practices altogether and instead "rescinded taxes previously levied on Hindu festivals" by his Mughal predecessors. [ 67 ] John Richards disagrees and states Aurangzeb, in his zeal to revive Islam and introduce strict Sharia in his empire, issued a series of edicts against Hindu festivals and shrines. [ 68 ] According to Richards, it was Akbar who abolished the discriminatory taxes on Hindu festivals and pilgrims, and it was Aurangzeb who reinstated the Mughal era discriminatory taxes on festivals and increased other religion-based taxes. [ 68 ] ^ Some Muslims joined the Hindu community in celebrating Diwali in the Mughal era. Illustrative Islamic records, states Stephen Blake, include those of 16th-century Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi who wrote, "during Diwali.... the ignorant ones amongst Muslims, particularly women, perform the ceremonies... they celebrate it like their own Id and send presents to their daughters and sisters,.... they attach much importance and weight to this season [of Diwali]." [ 66 ] ^ Williams Jones stated that the Bhutachaturdasi Yamaterpanam is dedicated to Yama and ancestral spirits, the Lacshmipuja dipanwita to goddess Lakshmi with invocations to Kubera, the Dyuta pratipat Belipuja to Shiva-Parvati and Bali legends, and the Bhratri dwitiya to Yama-Yamuna legend and the Hindus celebrate the brother-sister relationship on this day. [ 69 ] Jones also noted that on the Diwali day, the Hindus had a mock cremation ceremony with "torches and flaming brands" called Ulcadanam , where they said goodbye to their colleagues who had died in war or in a foreign country and had never returned home. The ceremony lit the path of the missing to the mansion of Yama. [ 69 ] ^ Some inscriptions mention the festival of lights in Prakrit terms such as tipa-malai , sara-vilakku and others. ^ The Sanskrit inscription is in the Grantha script. It is well preserved on the north wall of the second prakara in the Ranganatha temple , Srirangam island, Tamil Nadu. [ 75 ] ^ The Diwali-related inscription is the 4th inscription and it includes the year Vikrama Era 1268 (c. 1211 CE). [ 78 ] ^ Scholars contest the 527 BCE date and consider Mahavira's biographical details as uncertain. Some suggest he lived in the 5th-century BCE contemporaneously with the Buddha. [ 99 ] [ 100 ] ^ Sikhs historically referred to this festival as Diwali. It was in early 20th-century, states Harjot Oberoi, a scholar of Sikh history, when the Khalsa Tract Society triggered by the Singh Sabha Movement sought to establish a Sikh identity distinct from the Hindus and the Muslims. [ 108 ] They launched a sustained campaign to discourage Sikhs from participating in Holi and Diwali, renaming the festivals, publishing the seasonal greeting cards in the Gurmukhi language and relinking their religious significance to Sikh historical events. [ 109 ] While some of these efforts have had a lasting impact for the Sikh community, the lighting, feasting together, social bonding, sharing and other ritual grammar of Sikh celebrations during the Diwali season are similar to those of the Hindus and Jains. [ 109 ] ^ Hindus of eastern and northeastern states of India associate the festival with the goddess Durga , or her fierce avatar Kali ( Shaktism ). [ 84 ] According to McDermott, this region also celebrated the Lakshmi puja historically, while the Kali puja tradition started during the British Raj and was particularly prominent from the 1920s. [ 113 ] ^ According to McDermott, while the Durga Puja is the largest Bengali festival and it can be traced to the 16th-century or earlier, the start of Kali puja tradition on Diwali is traceable to no earlier than about the mid-18th-century during the reign of Raja Krishnacandra Ray. [ 113 ] McDermott further writes that the older historic documents of the Bengal confirm that the Bengali Hindus have long celebrated the night of Diwali with illuminations, firecrackers, foods, new account books, Lakshmi (not Kali), inviting their friends (including Europeans during the colonial era) and gambling. [ 113 ] The Kali sarbajanin tradition on Diwali, with tantric elements in some locations, grew slowly into a popular Bengali tradition after the mid-1920s. [ 113 ] ^ According to a Government of Himachal Pradesh and India publication, the Vishvakarma puja is observed on the fourth day of Diwali in the Himalayan state. [ 156 ] ^ The Vishwakarma puja day is alternatively observed in other Hindu communities in accordance with the Hindu solar calendar, and this falls in September. [ 157 ] ^ Max Macauliffe , who lived in northwest Punjab area during the colonial era and is known for his work on Sikh literature and history, wrote about Diwali melas to which people visited to buy horses, seek pleasure, pray in nearby Amritsar temples for the prosperity of their children and their souls, and some on "errands, more or less worthy or unworthy character". [ 160 ] ^ A 2017 estimate states 50,000 tons (100 million pounds) of fireworks are exploded annually in India over the Diwali festival. [ 171 ] As a comparison, Americans explode 134,000 tons (268 million pounds) of fireworks for 4 July celebrations in the United States. [ 172 ] ^ The Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue was founded as Secretariat for non-Christians by Pope Paul VI. It began sending official greetings and message to Muslims in 1967 on Id al-Fitr . About 30 years later, in the mid-1990s the Catholic authorities began sending two additional annual official greetings and message, one to the Hindus on Diwali and the other to the Buddhists on Buddha's birthday. [ 177 ] ^ Diwali was not a public holiday in Pakistan from 1947 to 2016. Diwali along with Holi for Hindus, and Easter for Christians, was adopted as public holiday resolution by Pakistan's parliament in 2016, giving the local governments and public institutions the right to declare Holi as a holiday and grant leave for its minority communities, for the first time. [ 193 ] [ 194 ] Diwali celebrations have been relatively rare in contemporary Pakistan, but observed across religious lines, including by Muslims in cities such as Peshawar. [ 195 ] References ^ Townsend, Charles M (2014). The Oxford Handbook of Sikh Studies . Oxford University Press. p. 440. ISBN 978-0-19-969930-8 . ^ a b c d e Todd T. Lewis (7 September 2000). 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The Rise of Islam and the Bengal Frontier, 1204–1760 . University of California Press. ISBN 978-0-520-20507-9 . Archived from the original on 6 January 2017 . Retrieved 25 September 2018 . Eraly, Abraham (2015). The Age of Wrath: A History of the Delhi Sultanate . Penguin Books. ISBN 978-93-5118-658-8 . Archived from the original on 28 April 2016 . Retrieved 17 August 2018 . Fieldhouse, Paul (2017). Food, Feasts, and Faith: An Encyclopedia of Food Culture in World Religions . ABC-CLIO. ISBN 978-1-61069-412-4 . Archived from the original on 7 May 2021 . Retrieved 17 August 2018 . Frazier, Jessica; Flood, Gavin (2011). The Continuum Companion to Hindu Studies . A&C Black. ISBN 978-0-8264-9966-0 . Archived from the original on 19 August 2020 . Retrieved 17 August 2018 . Goldstein, Darra (2015). The Oxford Companion to Sugar and Sweets . Oxford University Press. ISBN 978-0-19-931339-6 . Archived from the original on 25 February 2021 . Retrieved 14 October 2016 . Grewal, J. S. (1998). The Sikhs of the Punjab . Cambridge University Press. ISBN 978-0-521-63764-0 . Archived from the original on 4 May 2019 . Retrieved 17 August 2018 . Jacobs, Stephen (2010). Hinduism Today: An Introduction . A&C Black. ISBN 978-0-8264-3065-6 . Archived from the original on 10 January 2022 . Retrieved 17 August 2018 . Jain, Jyotindra; Fischer, Eberhard (1978). Jaina Iconography . BRILL Academic. ISBN 978-90-04-05259-8 . Archived from the original on 26 April 2017 . Retrieved 17 August 2018 . Johnson, Christopher H.; Teuscher, Simon; Sabean, David Warren (2011). Transregional and Transnational Families in Europe and Beyond: Experiences Since the Middle Ages . Berghahn. ISBN 978-0-85745-183-5 . Archived from the original on 10 January 2022 . Retrieved 19 August 2018 . Johnson, Henry (June 2007). " 'Happy Diwali!' Performance, Multicultural Soundscapes and Intervention in Aotearoa/New Zealand". Ethnomusicology Forum . 16 (1): 71– 94. doi : 10.1080/17411910701276526 . JSTOR 20184577 . S2CID 191322269 . Kelly, John D. (March 1988). "From Holi to Diwali in Fiji: An Essay on Ritual and History". Man . 23 (1): 40– 55. doi : 10.2307/2803032 . JSTOR 2803032 . Kinsley, David (1988). Hindu Goddesses: Visions of the Divine Feminine in the Hindu Religious Tradition . University of California Press. ISBN 978-0-520-90883-3 . Archived from the original on 1 April 2019 . Retrieved 17 August 2018 . Klostermaier, Klaus K. (2014). A Concise Encyclopedia of Hinduism . Oxford: Oneworld Publications. ISBN 978-1-78074-672-2 . Archived from the original on 29 December 2020 . Retrieved 17 August 2018 . Lochtefeld, James G. (2002). The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Hinduism: A–M, Volume 1 . Rosen Publishing. ISBN 978-0-8239-3179-8 . McDermott, Rachel Fell (2011). Revelry, Rivalry, and Longing for the Goddesses of Bengal . Columbia University Press. ISBN 978-0-231-52787-3 . Lodrick, Deryck O. (1987). "Gopashtami and Govardhan Puja: Two Krishna Festivals of India". Journal of Cultural Geography . 7 (2): 101– 116. doi : 10.1080/08873638709478510 . Long, Jeffery D. (2009). Jainism: An Introduction . I. B. Tauris. ISBN 978-1-84511-625-5 . Archived from the original on 23 April 2017 . Retrieved 17 August 2018 . McDaniel, June (2004). Offering Flowers, Feeding Skulls: Popular Goddess Worship in West Bengal . Oxford University Press. ISBN 978-0-19-516790-0 . Archived from the original on 26 January 2021 . Retrieved 19 August 2018 . Melton, J. Gordon, ed. (2011). Religious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays Festivals Solemn Observances and Spiritual Commemorations . ABC-CLIO. ISBN 978-1-59884-205-0 . Jones, Constance (2011). Melton, J. Gordon (ed.). Religious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays Festivals Solemn Observances and Spiritual Commemorations . ABC-CLIO. ISBN 978-1-59884-205-0 . Melville, Charles (2012). A History of Persian Literature . Vol. X: Persian Historiography . I. B. Tauris. ISBN 978-0-85773-657-4 . Archived from the original on 26 September 2020 . Retrieved 17 August 2018 . Oberoi, Harjot (1994). The Construction of Religious Boundaries: Culture, Identity, and Diversity in the Sikh Tradition . University of Chicago Press. ISBN 978-0-226-61593-6 . Archived from the original on 19 August 2020 . Retrieved 19 August 2018 . Okita, Kiyokazu (2014). Hindu Theology in Early Modern South Asia: The Rise of Devotionalism and the Politics of Genealogy . Oxford University Press. ISBN 978-0-19-870926-8 . Archived from the original on 10 January 2022 . Retrieved 18 August 2018 . Pintchman, Tracy (2005). Guests at God's Wedding: Celebrating Kartik among the Women of Benares . State University of New York Press. ISBN 978-0-7914-8256-8 . Archived from the original on 26 December 2018 . Retrieved 17 August 2018 . Potter, Karl H. (2007). Malvania, Dalsukh; Soni, Jayendra (eds.). Encyclopedia of Indian Philosophies . Vol. X: Jain Philosophy . Motilal Banarsidass. ISBN 978-81-208-3169-8 . Archived from the original on 12 April 2017 . Retrieved 25 September 2018 . Rao, V. (October 2001). "Celebrations as Social Investments: Festival Expenditures, Unit Price Variation and Social Status in Rural India". Journal of Development Studies . 38 (1): 71– 97. doi : 10.1080/713601102 . S2CID 59148993 . Rhodes, Constantina (2010). Invoking Lakshmi: The Goddess of Wealth in Song and Ceremony . State University of New York Press. ISBN 978-1-4384-3322-6 . Archived from the original on 10 January 2022 . Retrieved 17 August 2018 . Rodrigues, Hillary (2016). Introducing Hinduism . Routledge. ISBN 978-0-415-54966-0 . Archived from the original on 10 January 2022 . Retrieved 17 August 2018 . Salamone, Frank (2004). Encyclopedia of Religious Rites, Rituals and Festivals . Routledge. ISBN 978-0-415-88091-6 . Shah, Manju N. (Winter–Fall 1995). "Celebrating Diwali in America". Journal of South Asian Literature . 30 ( 1– 2): 41– 44. JSTOR 40873556 . Shattuck, Cybelle T. (1999). Hinduism . Prentice Hall. ISBN 978-0-13-266255-0 . Archived from the original on 26 January 2021 . Retrieved 17 August 2018 . Sewell, Robert (2006). A Forgotten Empire (Vijayanagar): A Contribution to the History of India . Echo. ISBN 978-0716521372 . Archived from the original on 10 January 2022 . Retrieved 17 August 2018 . Singh, Pashaura; Louis E. Fenech (2014). The Oxford Handbook of Sikh Studies . Oxford University Press. ISBN 978-0-19-969930-8 . Archived from the original on 4 May 2019 . Retrieved 18 August 2018 . Truschke, Audrey (2017). Aurangzeb: The Life and Legacy of India's Most Controversial King . Stanford University Press. ISBN 978-1-5036-0259-5 . Vemsani, Lavanya (2016). Krishna in History, Thought, and Culture: An Encyclopedia of the Hindu Lord of Many Names: An Encyclopedia of the Hindu Lord of Many Names . ABC-CLIO. ISBN 978-1-61069-211-3 . Archived from the original on 6 December 2017 . Retrieved 17 August 2018 . External links The Ancient Origins of Diwali, India's Biggest Holiday —Becky Little (2017) Deepawali at Know India (archived) Winter air pollution around Diwali and Asthma
Markdown	[Jump to content](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#bodyContent) Main menu Main menu move to sidebar hide Navigation - [Main page](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page "Visit the main page [z]") - [Contents](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Contents "Guides to browsing Wikipedia") - [Current events](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Current_events "Articles related to current events") - [Random article](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Random "Visit a randomly selected article [x]") - [About Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:About "Learn about Wikipedia and how it works") - [Contact us](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Contact_us "How to contact Wikipedia") Contribute - [Help](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:Contents "Guidance on how to use and edit Wikipedia") - [Learn to edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:Introduction "Learn how to edit Wikipedia") - [Community portal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Community_portal "The hub for editors") - [Recent changes](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:RecentChanges "A list of recent changes to Wikipedia [r]") - [Upload file](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:File_upload_wizard "Add images or other media for use on Wikipedia") - [Special pages](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:SpecialPages "A list of all special pages [q]") [![](https://en.wikipedia.org/static/images/icons/enwiki-25.svg) ![Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/static/images/mobile/copyright/wikipedia-wordmark-en-25.svg) ![The Free Encyclopedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/static/images/mobile/copyright/wikipedia-tagline-en-25.svg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page) [Search](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Search "Search Wikipedia [f]") Appearance - [Donate](https://donate.wikimedia.org/?wmf_source=donate&wmf_medium=sidebar&wmf_campaign=en.wikipedia.org&uselang=en) - [Create account](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:CreateAccount&returnto=Diwali "You are encouraged to create an account and log in; however, it is not mandatory") - [Log in](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:UserLogin&returnto=Diwali "You're encouraged to log in; however, it's not mandatory. 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[o]") ## Contents move to sidebar hide - [(Top)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali) - [1 Etymology](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Etymology) - [2 Dates](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Dates) - [3 History](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#History) Toggle History subsection - [3\.1 Epigraphy](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Epigraphy) - [4 Religious significance](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Religious_significance) Toggle Religious significance subsection - [4\.1 Other religions](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Other_religions) - [4\.1.1 Jainism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Jainism) - [4\.1.2 Sikhism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Sikhism) - [4\.1.3 Buddhism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Buddhism) - [5 Celebrations](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Celebrations) Toggle Celebrations subsection - [5\.1 Dhanteras and Yama Deepam (Day 1)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Dhanteras_and_Yama_Deepam_$Day_1$) - [5\.2 Naraka Chaturdashi, Kali Chaudas, Chhoti Diwali, Hanuman Puja, Roop Chaudas, Yama Deepam (Day 2)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Naraka_Chaturdashi,_Kali_Chaudas,_Chhoti_Diwali,_Hanuman_Puja,_Roop_Chaudas,_Yama_Deepam_$Day_2$) - [5\.3 Lakshmi Pujan, Kali Puja (Day 3)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Lakshmi_Pujan,_Kali_Puja_$Day_3$) - [5\.4 Annakut, Balipratipada (Padwa), New Year's Day, Govardhan Puja (Day 4)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Annakut,_Balipratipada_$Padwa$,_New_Year's_Day,_Govardhan_Puja_$Day_4$) - [5\.5 Bhai Duj, Bhau-Beej, Vishwakarma Puja (Day 5)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Bhai_Duj,_Bhau-Beej,_Vishwakarma_Puja_$Day_5$) - [6 Other traditions and significance](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Other_traditions_and_significance) Toggle Other traditions and significance subsection - [6\.1 Economics](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Economics) - [6\.2 Politics](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Politics) - [7 Hazards](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Hazards) - [8 Guinness World Record](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Guinness_World_Record) - [9 UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#UNESCO%E2%80%99s_list_of_Intangible_Cultural_Heritage) - [10 See also](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#See_also) - [11 Notes](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Notes) - [12 References](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#References) Toggle References subsection - [12\.1 Bibliography](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Bibliography) - [13 External links](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#External_links) Toggle the table of contents # Diwali 99 languages - [Afrikaans](https://af.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divali "Divali – Afrikaans") - [अंगिका](https://anp.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%80%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%80 "दीपावली – Angika") - [العربية](https://ar.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D8%AF%D9%8A%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%8A "ديوالي – Arabic") - [مصرى](https://arz.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D8%AF%D9%8A%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%89 "ديوالى – Egyptian Arabic") - [অসমীয়া](https://as.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A6%A6%E0%A7%87%E0%A7%B1%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%B2%E0%A7%80 "দেৱালী – Assamese") - [Asturianu](https://ast.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Asturian") - [अवधी](https://awa.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%80%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%80 "दीपावली – Awadhi") - [Azərbaycanca](https://az.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divali "Divali – Azerbaijani") - [Bikol Central](https://bcl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Central Bikol") - [Български](https://bg.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%94%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BB%D0%B8 "Дивали – Bulgarian") - [भोजपुरी](https://bh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%80 "दिपावली – Bhojpuri") - [বাংলা](https://bn.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A6%A6%E0%A7%80%E0%A6%AA%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%AC%E0%A6%B2%E0%A6%BF "দীপাবলি – Bangla") - [བོད་ཡིག](https://bo.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%BD%84%E0%BE%B7%E0%BD%B2%E0%BC%8B%E0%BD%9D%E0%BC%8B%E0%BD%A3%E0%BD%B2%E0%BC%8B "ངྷི་ཝ་ལི་ – Tibetan") - [Bosanski](https://bs.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Bosnian") - [Català](https://ca.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divali "Divali – Catalan") - [کوردی](https://ckb.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D8%AF%DB%8C%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%DB%8C "دیوالی – Central Kurdish") - [Čeština](https://cs.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C3%ADv%C3%A1l%C3%AD "Díválí – Czech") - [Cymraeg](https://cy.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divali "Divali – Welsh") - [Dansk](https://da.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divali "Divali – Danish") - [Deutsch](https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – German") - [Kadazandusun](https://dtp.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tadau_Deepavali "Tadau Deepavali – Central Dusun") - [डोटेली](https://dty.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%80 "दिवाली – Doteli") - [Ελληνικά](https://el.wikipedia.org/wiki/%CE%9D%CF%84%CE%B9%CE%B2%CE%AC%CE%BB%CE%B9 "Ντιβάλι – Greek") - [Esperanto](https://eo.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divalo "Divalo – Esperanto") - [Español](https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Spanish") - [Euskara](https://eu.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Basque") - [فارسی](https://fa.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D8%AF%DB%8C%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%DB%8C "دیوالی – Persian") - [Suomi](https://fi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Finnish") - [Français](https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divali "Divali – French") - [Gaeilge](https://ga.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C3%ADbhe%C3%A1la%C3%AD "Díbheálaí – Irish") - [गोंयची कोंकणी / Gõychi Konknni](https://gom.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Goan Konkani") - [ગુજરાતી](https://gu.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%AA%A6%E0%AA%BF%E0%AA%B5%E0%AA%BE%E0%AA%B3%E0%AB%80 "દિવાળી – Gujarati") - [עברית](https://he.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D7%93%D7%99%D7%95%D7%95%D7%90%D7%9C%D7%99 "דיוואלי – Hebrew") - [हिन्दी](https://hi.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%80%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%80 "दीपावली – Hindi") - [Fiji Hindi](https://hif.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Fiji Hindi") - [Magyar](https://hu.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C3%ADv%C3%A1li "Díváli – Hungarian") - [Հայերեն](https://hy.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D4%B4%D5%AB%D5%BE%D5%A1%D5%AC%D5%AB "Դիվալի – Armenian") - [Արեւմտահայերէն](https://hyw.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D5%8F%D5%AB%D5%BE%D5%A1%D5%AC%D5%AB "Տիվալի – Western Armenian") - [Interlingua](https://ia.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Interlingua") - [Jaku Iban](https://iba.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hari_Deepavali "Hari Deepavali – Iban") - [Bahasa Indonesia](https://id.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dipawali "Dipawali – Indonesian") - [Ido](https://io.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Ido") - [Italiano](https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C4%ABp%C4%81val%C4%AB "Dīpāvalī – Italian") - [日本語](https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E3%83%87%E3%82%A3%E3%83%BC%E3%83%AF%E3%83%BC%E3%83%AA%E3%83%BC "ディーワーリー – Japanese") - [ქართული](https://ka.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E1%83%93%E1%83%98%E1%83%95%E1%83%90%E1%83%9A%E1%83%98 "დივალი – Georgian") - [Қазақша](https://kk.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%94%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BB%D0%B8 "Дивали – Kazakh") - [ಕನ್ನಡ](https://kn.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%B2%A6%E0%B3%80%E0%B2%AA%E0%B2%BE%E0%B2%B5%E0%B2%B3%E0%B2%BF "ದೀಪಾವಳಿ – Kannada") - [Yerwa Kanuri](https://knc.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Central Kanuri") - [한국어](https://ko.wikipedia.org/wiki/%EB%94%94%EC%99%88%EB%A6%AC "디왈리 – Korean") - [کٲشُر](https://ks.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D8%AF%DB%8C%D9%88%D8%A3%D9%84%DB%8C "دیوألی – Kashmiri") - [Latina](https://la.wikipedia.org/wiki/Div%C4%81%E1%B8%B7%C4%AB "Divāḷī – Latin") - [Lietuvių](https://lt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dyvalis "Dyvalis – Lithuanian") - [Latviešu](https://lv.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divali "Divali – Latvian") - [मैथिली](https://mai.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%80%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%80 "दीपावली – Maithili") - [മലയാളം](https://ml.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%B4%A6%E0%B5%80%E0%B4%AA%E0%B4%BE%E0%B4%B5%E0%B4%B2%E0%B4%BF "ദീപാവലി – Malayalam") - [ꯃꯤꯇꯩ ꯂꯣꯟ](https://mni.wikipedia.org/wiki/%EA%AF%97%EA%AF%A4%EA%AF%8B%EA%AF%A5%EA%AF%82%EA%AF%A4 "ꯗꯤꯋꯥꯂꯤ – Manipuri") - [ဘာသာမန်](https://mnw.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E1%80%92%E1%80%B3%E1%80%9D%E1%80%9C%E1%80%B3 "ဒဳဝလဳ – Mon") - [मराठी](https://mr.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B3%E0%A5%80 "दिवाळी – Marathi") - [Bahasa Melayu](https://ms.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deepavali "Deepavali – Malay") - [မြန်မာဘာသာ](https://my.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E1%80%92%E1%80%AE%E1%80%95%E1%80%AB%E1%80%9D%E1%80%9C%E1%80%AE "ဒီပါဝလီ – Burmese") - [नेपाली](https://ne.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%80%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%80 "दीपावली – Nepali") - [Nederlands](https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divali "Divali – Dutch") - [Norsk nynorsk](https://nn.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dipavali "Dipavali – Norwegian Nynorsk") - [Norsk bokmål](https://no.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divali "Divali – Norwegian Bokmål") - [Occitan](https://oc.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divali "Divali – Occitan") - [ଓଡ଼ିଆ](https://or.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%AC%A6%E0%AD%80%E0%AC%AA%E0%AC%BE%E0%AC%AC%E0%AC%B3%E0%AD%80 "ଦୀପାବଳୀ – Odia") - [ਪੰਜਾਬੀ](https://pa.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A8%A6%E0%A8%BF%E0%A8%B5%E0%A8%BE%E0%A8%B2%E0%A9%80 "ਦਿਵਾਲੀ – Punjabi") - [Polski](https://pl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Polish") - [پنجابی](https://pnb.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D8%AF%DB%8C%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%DB%8C "دیوالی – Western Punjabi") - [پښتو](https://ps.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D8%AF%DB%90%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%8A_$%D9%87%D9%86%D8%AF%D9%8A_%D8%A7%D8%AE%D8%AA%D8%B1$ "دېوالي (هندي اختر) – Pashto") - [Português](https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Portuguese") - [Română](https://ro.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C4%ABp%C4%81vali "Dīpāvali – Romanian") - [Русский](https://ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%94%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BB%D0%B8 "Дивали – Russian") - [संस्कृतम्](https://sa.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%80%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%83 "दीपावलिः – Sanskrit") - [ᱥᱟᱱᱛᱟᱲᱤ](https://sat.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E1%B1%AB%E1%B1%A4%E1%B1%AF%E1%B1%9F%E1%B1%A3%E1%B1%9F%E1%B1%9E%E1%B1%A4 "ᱫᱤᱯᱟᱣᱟᱞᱤ – Santali") - [Scots](https://sco.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Scots") - [سنڌي](https://sd.wikipedia.org/wiki/%DA%8F%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%B1%D9%8A "ڏياري – Sindhi") - [සිංහල](https://si.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%B6%AF%E0%B7%93%E0%B6%B4%E0%B7%8F%E0%B7%80%E0%B6%BD%E0%B7%92 "දීපාවලි – Sinhala") - [Simple English](https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Simple English") - [Slovenčina](https://sk.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C3%ADv%C3%A1l%C3%AD "Díválí – Slovak") - [سرائیکی](https://skr.wikipedia.org/wiki/%DD%99%DB%8C%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%DB%8C "ݙیوالی – Saraiki") - [Anarâškielâ](https://smn.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Inari Sami") - [Shqip](https://sq.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Albanian") - [Српски / srpski](https://sr.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%94%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BB%D0%B8 "Дивали – Serbian") - [Svenska](https://sv.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Swedish") - [தமிழ்](https://ta.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%AE%A4%E0%AF%80%E0%AE%AA%E0%AE%BE%E0%AE%B5%E0%AE%B3%E0%AE%BF "தீபாவளி – Tamil") - [ತುಳು](https://tcy.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%B2%A4%E0%B3%81%E0%B2%A1%E0%B2%B0_%E0%B2%AA%E0%B2%B0%E0%B3%8D%E0%B2%AC%E0%B3%8A "ತುಡರ ಪರ್ಬೊ – Tulu") - [తెలుగు](https://te.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%B0%A6%E0%B1%80%E0%B0%AA%E0%B0%BE%E0%B0%B5%E0%B0%B3%E0%B0%BF "దీపావళి – Telugu") - [ไทย](https://th.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%B8%97%E0%B8%B5%E0%B8%9B%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%A7%E0%B8%A5%E0%B8%B5 "ทีปาวลี – Thai") - [Tagalog](https://tl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Tagalog") - [Türkçe](https://tr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divali "Divali – Turkish") - [Українська](https://uk.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%94%D1%96%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BB%D1%96 "Дівалі – Ukrainian") - [اردو](https://ur.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D8%AF%DB%8C%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%DB%8C "دیوالی – Urdu") - [Oʻzbekcha / ўзбекча](https://uz.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divali "Divali – Uzbek") - [Tiếng Việt](https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Vietnamese") - [Winaray](https://war.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali – Waray") - [吴语](https://wuu.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E6%8E%92%E7%81%AF%E8%8A%82 "排灯节 – Wu") - [粵語](https://zh-yue.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E6%8E%92%E7%87%88%E7%AF%80 "排燈節 – Cantonese") - [中文](https://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E6%8E%92%E7%87%88%E7%AF%80 "排燈節 – Chinese") [Edit links](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Special:EntityPage/Q10244#sitelinks-wikipedia "Edit interlanguage links") - [Article](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "View the content page [c]") - [Talk](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Talk:Diwali "Discuss improvements to the content page [t]") English - [Read](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali) - [View source](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Diwali&action=edit "This page is protected. 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From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Hindu festival of lights "Deepawali" and "Dipawali" redirect here. For other uses, see [Deepavali (disambiguation)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deepavali_$disambiguation$ "Deepavali (disambiguation)"). \| Diwali \| \| \|---\|---\| \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/99/The_Rangoli_of_Lights.jpg/250px-The_Rangoli_of_Lights.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:The_Rangoli_of_Lights.jpg)[Rangoli](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rangoli "Rangoli") decorations, made using coloured fine powder or sand, are popular during Diwali. \| \| \| Official name \| Dīpāvalī \| \| Also called \| Deepavali, Deepawali \| \| Observed by \| [Hindus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindus "Hindus"), [Jains](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jains "Jains"), [Sikhs](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikhs "Sikhs"),[\[1\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-1) some [Buddhists](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhism "Buddhism") (notably [Newar Buddhists](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newar_Buddhism "Newar Buddhism")[\[2\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2)) \| \| Type \| Religious, cultural, seasonal \| \| Significance \| [See below](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Religious_significance) \| \| Celebrations \| [Diya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diya_$light$ "Diya (light)") lighting [puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puja_$Hinduism$ "Puja (Hinduism)") (worship and prayer) [Hukka Paati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hukka_Paati "Hukka Paati") in [Mithila region](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mithila_region "Mithila region") [havan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homa_$ritual$ "Homa (ritual)") (fire offering) [vrat](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vrata "Vrata") (fasting) [dāna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C4%81na "Dāna") (charity) [melā](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mel%C4%81 "Melā") (fairs/shows) home cleansing and decoration fireworks gifts and partaking in a feast and [sweets](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweets_from_the_Indian_subcontinent "Sweets from the Indian subcontinent") \| \| Begins \| Ashwayuja 27 or Ashwayuja 28 ([amanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#amanta "Hindu calendar") tradition) Kartika 12 or Kartika 13 ([purnimanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#purnimanta "Hindu calendar") tradition) \| \| Ends \| Kartika 2 ([amanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#amanta "Hindu calendar") tradition) Kartika 17 ([purnimanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#purnimanta "Hindu calendar") tradition) \| \| Date \| Ashvin Krishna Trayodashi, Ashvin Krishna Chaturdashi, Ashvin Amavasya, Kartik Shukla Pratipada, Kartik Shukla Dwitiya \| \| 2025 date \| October[\[3\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-3) 18 ([Dhanteras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhanteras "Dhanteras")/Yama Deepam/Kwah Puja/Kaag Tihar) 19 ([Naraka Chaturdashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naraka_Chaturdashi "Naraka Chaturdashi")/Kali Chaudas/Hanuman Puja/Chhoti Diwali/Khicha Puja/[Kukur Tihar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kukur_Tihar "Kukur Tihar")) 20 ([Lakshmi Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi_Puja "Lakshmi Puja")/[Kali Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali_Puja "Kali Puja")/Sharda Puja/Kedar Gauri Vrat/Sa Puja/Gai Tihar) 21 ([Govardhan Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Govardhan_Puja "Govardhan Puja")/[Balipratipada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balipratipada "Balipratipada")/[Mha Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mha_Puja "Mha Puja")/Goru Puja) 22 ([Bhai Dooj](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhai_Dooj "Bhai Dooj")/[Vishwakarma Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishwakarma_Puja "Vishwakarma Puja")/[Gujarati New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_New_Year%27s_days "Indian New Year's days")/Kija Puja) \| \| 2026 date \| 8 November 2026 \| \| 2027 date \| 29 October 2027 \| \| Duration \| 5 or 6 days (regional variations) \| \| Frequency \| Annual \| \| Related to \| [Diwali (Jainism)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali_$Jainism$ "Diwali (Jainism)"), [Bandi Chhor Divas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandi_Chhor_Divas "Bandi Chhor Divas"), [Tihar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tihar_$festival$ "Tihar (festival)"), [Swanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swanti_$festival$ "Swanti (festival)"), [Sohrai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sohrai "Sohrai"), [Bandna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandna "Bandna") \| \| Explanatory note on Hindu festival dates \| \|---\| \| The [Hindu calendar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar "Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar") is lunisolar but most festival dates are specified using the lunar portion of the calendar. A lunar day is uniquely identified by three calendar elements: [māsa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#chandramasa "Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar") (lunar month), [pakṣa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#paksha "Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar") (lunar fortnight) and [tithi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#tithi "Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar") (lunar day). Furthermore, when specifying the masa, one of two traditions are applicable, viz. [amānta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#amanta "Hindu calendar") / [pūrṇimānta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#purnimanta "Hindu calendar"). If a festival falls in the waning phase of the moon, these two traditions identify the same lunar day as falling in two different (but successive) masa. A lunar year is shorter than a solar year by about eleven days. As a result, most Hindu festivals occur on different days in successive years on the Gregorian calendar. \| \| [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Hindu_festival_date_info "Template:Hindu festival date info") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Hindu_festival_date_info "Template talk:Hindu festival date info") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Hindu_festival_date_info "Special:EditPage/Template:Hindu festival date info") \| \| \| \|---\| \| Part of [a series](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Hinduism "Category:Hinduism") on \| \| [Hinduism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism "Hinduism") \| \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/30/1_Om.svg/120px-1_Om.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Om "Om") \| \| [Hindus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindus "Hindus") [Mythology](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_mythology "Hindu mythology") \| \| [Origin](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_synthesis "Hindu synthesis") and [history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Hinduism "History of Hinduism") [Dravidian folk religion](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dravidian_folk_religion "Dravidian folk religion") [Indus Valley Civilisation](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion_of_the_Indus_Valley_Civilization "Religion of the Indus Valley Civilization") [Itihasa-Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Itihasa-Purana "Itihasa-Purana") [Epic-Puranic royal genealogies](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epic-Puranic_royal_genealogies "Epic-Puranic royal genealogies") [Epic-Puranic chronology](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epic-Puranic_chronology "Epic-Puranic chronology") [Śramaṇa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C5%9Arama%E1%B9%87a "Śramaṇa") [Tribal religions](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tribal_religions_in_India "Tribal religions in India") [Vedic religion](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Historical_Vedic_religion "Historical Vedic religion") \| \| [Sampradaya (traditions)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sampradaya "Sampradaya") [Shaktism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaktism "Shaktism") [Shaivism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaivism "Shaivism") [Kapalika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kapalika "Kapalika") [Pashupata](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pashupata_Shaivism "Pashupata Shaivism") [Pratyabhijña](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pratyabhijna "Pratyabhijna") [Smartism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smarta_tradition "Smarta tradition") [Vaishnavism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaishnavism "Vaishnavism") [Pancharatra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pancharatra "Pancharatra") [Other denominations](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_denominations "Hindu denominations") \| \| [Deities](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_deities "Hindu deities") [Trimurti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trimurti "Trimurti") [Brahma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahma "Brahma") [Shiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva "Shiva") [Vishnu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishnu "Vishnu") [Tridevi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tridevi "Tridevi") [Lakshmi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi "Lakshmi") [Parvati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parvati "Parvati") [Saraswati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saraswati "Saraswati") Others [Vedic deities](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rigvedic_deities "Rigvedic deities"): [Agni](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agni "Agni") [Chandra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandra "Chandra") [Indra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indra "Indra") [Tridasha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tridasha "Tridasha") [Adityas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adityas "Adityas") [Ashvins](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashvins "Ashvins") [Rudras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rudras "Rudras") [Vasus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasus "Vasus") Post-Vedic: [Dashavatara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dashavatara "Dashavatara") [Krishna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna "Krishna") [Rama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rama "Rama") [Ganesha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha "Ganesha") [Hanuman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman "Hanuman") [Kartikeya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kartikeya "Kartikeya") [Shakti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakti "Shakti") [Amman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mariamman "Mariamman") [Durga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga "Durga") [Kali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali "Kali") [Radha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radha "Radha") [Sita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sita "Sita") \| \| [Concepts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_philosophy "Hindu philosophy") [Cosmology](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_cosmology "Hindu cosmology") [Guṇa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gu%E1%B9%87a "Guṇa") [Mythology](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_mythology "Hindu mythology") [Pancha Bhuta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pancha_Bhuta "Pancha Bhuta") [Panchikarana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panchikarana "Panchikarana") [Prakṛti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prak%E1%B9%9Bti "Prakṛti") [Pramana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pramana "Pramana") [Shabda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shabda "Shabda") [Purusha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Purusha "Purusha") [Tanmatras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tanmatras "Tanmatras") [Tattva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tattva "Tattva") [Supreme reality](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Para_Brahman "Para Brahman") [Brahman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahman "Brahman") [Nirguna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nirguna_brahman "Nirguna brahman") [Saguna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saguna_brahman "Saguna brahman") [Om](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Om "Om") [Saccidānanda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saccid%C4%81nanda "Saccidānanda") [God](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/God_in_Hinduism "God in Hinduism") [Deva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deva_$Hinduism$ "Deva (Hinduism)") [Devata](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devata "Devata") [Devi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devi "Devi") [God and gender](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/God_and_gender_in_Hinduism "God and gender in Hinduism") [Ishvara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ishvara "Ishvara") [Puruṣārtha (meaning of life)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puru%E1%B9%A3%C4%81rtha "Puruṣārtha") [Artha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artha "Artha") [Dharma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dharma "Dharma") [Kama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kama "Kama") [Moksha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moksha "Moksha") [Āśrama (stages of life)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%80%C5%9Brama_$stage$ "Āśrama (stage)") [Brahmacharya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmacharya "Brahmacharya") [Gṛhastha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G%E1%B9%9Bhastha "Gṛhastha") [Sannyasa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sannyasa "Sannyasa") [Vānaprastha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V%C4%81naprastha "Vānaprastha") [Saṃsāra (cycle of birth and death)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sa%E1%B9%83s%C4%81ra_$Hinduism$ "Saṃsāra (Hinduism)") [Karma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karma "Karma") [Maya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maya_$religion$ "Maya (religion)") [Pāpa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/P%C4%81pa "Pāpa") [Mahapataka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahapataka "Mahapataka") [Paramātman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paramatman "Paramatman") [Prāyaścitta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pr%C4%81ya%C5%9Bcitta "Prāyaścitta") [Punya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punya_$Hinduism$ "Punya (Hinduism)") Mind and Ethics [Achourya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Achourya "Achourya") [Ahamkara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ahamkara "Ahamkara") [Ahimsa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ahimsa "Ahimsa") [Akrodha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akrodha "Akrodha") [Ānanda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%80nanda_$Hindu_philosophy$ "Ānanda (Hindu philosophy)") [Anātman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/An%C4%81tman_$Hinduism$ "Anātman (Hinduism)") [Antahkarana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antahkarana "Antahkarana") [Arishadvargas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arishadvargas "Arishadvargas") [Arjava](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arjava "Arjava") [Ātman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%80tman_$Hinduism$ "Ātman (Hinduism)") [Dayā](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compassion#Hinduism "Compassion") [Dāna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C4%81na "Dāna") [Niti śastra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethics_in_religion#Hindu_ethics "Ethics in religion") [Shraddha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faith_in_Hinduism "Faith in Hinduism") [Mitahara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitahara "Mitahara") [Niyama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niyama "Niyama") [Aparigraha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-possession "Non-possession") [Prajña](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Praj%C3%B1%C4%81_$Hinduism$ "Prajñā (Hinduism)") [Samatva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samatva "Samatva") [Santosha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santosha "Santosha") [Sastra pramanam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C5%9A%C4%81stra_pram%C4%81%E1%B9%87am_in_Hinduism "Śāstra pramāṇam in Hinduism") [Satya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satya "Satya") [Shaucha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaucha "Shaucha") [Svādhyāya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sv%C4%81dhy%C4%81ya "Svādhyāya") [Dama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Temperance_$virtue$#Hinduism "Temperance (virtue)") [Sūkṣma śarīra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Three_bodies_doctrine "Three bodies doctrine") [Titiksha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Titiksha "Titiksha") [Vairagya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vairagya "Vairagya") [Viveka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Viveka "Viveka") [Yamas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yamas "Yamas") \| \| Practices [Worship](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Worship_in_Hinduism "Worship in Hinduism") [Arti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arti_$Hinduism$ "Arti (Hinduism)") [Bhajan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhajan "Bhajan") [Bhakti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhakti "Bhakti") [Dāna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C4%81na "Dāna") [Exorcism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exorcism_in_Hinduism "Exorcism in Hinduism") [Homa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homa_$ritual$ "Homa (ritual)") [Japa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japa "Japa") [Kirtan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kirtan "Kirtan") [Murti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murti "Murti") [Prarthana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prayer_in_Hinduism "Prayer in Hinduism") [Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puja_$Hinduism$ "Puja (Hinduism)") [Temple](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_temple "Hindu temple") [Matha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matha "Matha") [Sevā](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sev%C4%81 "Sevā") [Śrauta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C5%9Arauta "Śrauta") [Tarpana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tarpana "Tarpana") [Tirtha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tirtha_$Hinduism$ "Tirtha (Hinduism)") [Tirthadana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_pilgrimage_sites_in_India "Hindu pilgrimage sites in India") [Vrata](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vrata "Vrata") [Yajna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yajna "Yajna") [Yatra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yatra "Yatra") Meditation [Dhyana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhyana_in_Hinduism "Dhyana in Hinduism") [Nididhyāsana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nididhy%C4%81sana "Nididhyāsana") [Tapas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tapas_$Indian_religions$ "Tapas (Indian religions)") [Yoga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga "Yoga") [Asana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asana "Asana") [Bhakti yoga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhakti_yoga "Bhakti yoga") [Hatha yoga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hatha_yoga "Hatha yoga") [Jnana yoga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jnana_yoga "Jnana yoga") [Karma yoga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karma_yoga "Karma yoga") [Kundalini yoga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kundalini_yoga "Kundalini yoga") [Rāja yoga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/R%C4%81ja_yoga "Rāja yoga") [Sādhanā](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/S%C4%81dhan%C4%81 "Sādhanā") [Sadhu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sadhu "Sadhu") [Yogi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yogi "Yogi") [Yogini](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yogini "Yogini") [Rites of passage](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samskara_$rite_of_passage$ "Samskara (rite of passage)") [Annaprashana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annaprashana "Annaprashana") [Antyesti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antyesti "Antyesti") [Chudakarana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chudakarana "Chudakarana") [Garbhadhana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garbhadhana "Garbhadhana") [Jatakarma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jatakarma "Jatakarma") [Karnavedha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karnavedha "Karnavedha") [Keshanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keshanta "Keshanta") [Nāmakaraṇa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/N%C4%81makara%E1%B9%87a "Nāmakaraṇa") [Nishkramana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nishkramana "Nishkramana") [Pumsavana Simantonayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pumsavana_Simantonayana "Pumsavana Simantonayana") [Pumsavana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pumsavana "Pumsavana") [Ritushuddhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ritu_Kala_Samskaram "Ritu Kala Samskaram") [Samavartanam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samavartanam "Samavartanam") [Simantonnayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simantonnayana "Simantonnayana") [Upanayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Upanayana "Upanayana") [Vidyāraṃbhaṃ](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vidy%C4%81ra%E1%B9%83bha%E1%B9%83 "Vidyāraṃbhaṃ") [Vivaha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_wedding "Hindu wedding") [Festivals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Hindu_festivals "List of Hindu festivals") [Diwali]() [Ganesh Chaturthi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesh_Chaturthi "Ganesh Chaturthi") [Holi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holi "Holi") [Janmashtami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Janmashtami "Janmashtami") [Kumbh Mela](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumbh_Mela "Kumbh Mela") [Maha Shivaratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri "Maha Shivaratri") [Navaratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navaratri "Navaratri") [Durga Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Puja "Durga Puja") [Ramlila](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramlila "Ramlila") [Vijayadashami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vijayadashami "Vijayadashami") [Makar Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Makar_Sankranti "Makar Sankranti") New year [Bihu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bihu "Bihu") [Puthandu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puthandu "Puthandu") [Ugadi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ugadi "Ugadi") [Vaisakhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaisakhi "Vaisakhi") [Vishu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishu "Vishu") [Pongal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pongal_$festival$ "Pongal (festival)") [Onam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Onam "Onam") [Raksha Bandhan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raksha_Bandhan "Raksha Bandhan") [Rama Navami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rama_Navami "Rama Navami") [Ratha Yatra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ratha_Yatra_$Puri$ "Ratha Yatra (Puri)") [Vasant Panchami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasant_Panchami "Vasant Panchami") \| \| [Philosophical schools](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_philosophy "Hindu philosophy") [Six Astika schools](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astika "Astika") [Samkhya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samkhya "Samkhya") [Yoga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga_$philosophy$ "Yoga (philosophy)") [Nyaya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nyaya "Nyaya") [Vaisheshika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaisheshika "Vaisheshika") [Mīmāṃsā](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C4%ABm%C4%81%E1%B9%83s%C4%81 "Mīmāṃsā") [Vedanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedanta "Vedanta") [Advaita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advaita_Vedanta "Advaita Vedanta") [Dvaita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dvaita_Vedanta "Dvaita Vedanta") [Vishishtadvaita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishishtadvaita "Vishishtadvaita") [Achintya Bheda Abheda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Achintya_Bheda_Abheda "Achintya Bheda Abheda") [Shuddhadvaita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shuddhadvaita "Shuddhadvaita") [Svabhavika Bhedabheda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Svabhavika_Bhedabheda "Svabhavika Bhedabheda") [Akshar Purushottam Darshan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akshar_Purushottam_Darshan "Akshar Purushottam Darshan") Other schools [Ājīvika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%80j%C4%ABvika "Ājīvika") [Buddhism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhism "Buddhism") [Jainism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jainism "Jainism") [Charvaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charvaka "Charvaka") \| \| [Gurus, Rishi, philosophers](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Hindu_gurus_and_sants "List of Hindu gurus and sants") [Ancient](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_India "Ancient India") [Saptarshi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saptarshi "Saptarshi") [Vashistha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vashistha "Vashistha") [Kashyapa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kashyapa "Kashyapa") [Atri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atri "Atri") [Jamadagni](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamadagni "Jamadagni") [Gotama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nyaya_Sutras "Nyaya Sutras") [Vishvamitra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishvamitra "Vishvamitra") [Bharadwaja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bharadwaja "Bharadwaja") [Agastya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agastya "Agastya") [Angiras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angiras "Angiras") [Aruni](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aruni "Aruni") [Ashtavakra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashtavakra "Ashtavakra") [Jaimini](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaimini "Jaimini") [Kanada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanada_$philosopher$ "Kanada (philosopher)") [Kapila](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kapila "Kapila") [Patanjali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patanjali "Patanjali") [Pāṇini](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/P%C4%81%E1%B9%87ini "Pāṇini") [Prashastapada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prashastapada "Prashastapada") [Raikva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raikva "Raikva") [Satyakama Jabala](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satyakama_Jabala "Satyakama Jabala") [Valmiki](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valmiki "Valmiki") [Vyasa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vyasa "Vyasa") [Yajnavalkya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yajnavalkya "Yajnavalkya") [Medieval](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medieval_India "Medieval India") [Abhinavagupta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abhinavagupta "Abhinavagupta") [Adi Shankara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adi_Shankara "Adi Shankara") [Akka Mahadevi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akka_Mahadevi "Akka Mahadevi") [Allama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allama_Prabhu "Allama Prabhu") [Alvars](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alvars "Alvars") [Basava](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basava "Basava") [Chaitanya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chaitanya_Mahaprabhu "Chaitanya Mahaprabhu") [Ramdas Kathiababa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramdas_Kathiababa "Ramdas Kathiababa") [Chakradhara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chakradhar_Swami "Chakradhar Swami") [Changdev](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Changdev "Changdev") [Dadu Dayal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dadu_Dayal "Dadu Dayal") [Eknath](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eknath "Eknath") [Gangesha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gangesha_Upadhyaya "Gangesha Upadhyaya") [Gaudapada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaudapada "Gaudapada") [Gorakshanath](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gorakshanath "Gorakshanath") [Haridasa Thakur](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haridasa_Thakur "Haridasa Thakur") [Harivansh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hith_Harivansh_Mahaprabhu "Hith Harivansh Mahaprabhu") [Jagannatha Dasa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jagannatha_Dasa_$Odia_poet$ "Jagannatha Dasa (Odia poet)") [Jayanta Bhatta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jayanta_Bhatta "Jayanta Bhatta") [Jayatirtha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jayatirtha "Jayatirtha") [Jiva Goswami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jiva_Goswami "Jiva Goswami") [Jñāneśvar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J%C3%B1%C4%81ne%C5%9Bvar "Jñāneśvar") [Kabir](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kabir "Kabir") [Kanaka Dasa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanaka_Dasa "Kanaka Dasa") [Kumārila Bhaṭṭa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kum%C4%81rila_Bha%E1%B9%AD%E1%B9%ADa "Kumārila Bhaṭṭa") [Madhusūdana Sarasvatī](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madhus%C5%ABdana_Sarasvat%C4%AB "Madhusūdana Sarasvatī") [Madhvacharya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madhvacharya "Madhvacharya") [Matsyendranatha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matsyendranath "Matsyendranath") [Morya Gosavi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Morya_Gosavi "Morya Gosavi") [Mukundraj](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mukundraj "Mukundraj") [Namdev](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Namdev "Namdev") [Narahari Tirtha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narahari_Tirtha "Narahari Tirtha") [Narasimha Saraswati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narasimha_Saraswati "Narasimha Saraswati") [Nayanars](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nayanars "Nayanars") [Nimbarkacharya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nimbarkacharya "Nimbarkacharya") [Srinivasacharya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Srinivasacharya "Srinivasacharya") [Prabhākara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prabh%C4%81kara "Prabhākara") [Purandara Dasa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Purandara_Dasa "Purandara Dasa") [Raghavendra Swami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raghavendra_Swami "Raghavendra Swami") [Raghunatha Siromani](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raghunatha_Siromani "Raghunatha Siromani") [Raghuttama Tirtha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raghuttama_Tirtha "Raghuttama Tirtha") [Ram Charan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ram_Charan_$guru$ "Ram Charan (guru)") [Ramananda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramananda "Ramananda") [Ramanuja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramanuja "Ramanuja") [Ramprasad Sen](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramprasad_Sen "Ramprasad Sen") [Ravidas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ravidas "Ravidas") [Rupa Goswami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rupa_Goswami "Rupa Goswami") [Samarth Ramdas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samarth_Ramdas "Samarth Ramdas") [Sankardev](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sankardev "Sankardev") [Satyanatha Tirtha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satyanatha_Tirtha "Satyanatha Tirtha") [Siddheshwar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siddheshwar "Siddheshwar") [Sripada Srivallabha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sripada_Srivallabha "Sripada Srivallabha") [Sripadaraja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sripadaraja "Sripadaraja") [Surdas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surdas "Surdas") [Swaminarayan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swaminarayan "Swaminarayan") [Syama Sastri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Syama_Sastri "Syama Sastri") [Thiruvalluvar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thiruvalluvar "Thiruvalluvar") [Tukaram](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tukaram "Tukaram") [Tulsidas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tulsidas "Tulsidas") [Tyagaraja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tyagaraja "Tyagaraja") [Vācaspati Miśra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V%C4%81caspati_Mi%C5%9Bra "Vācaspati Miśra") [Vadiraja Tirtha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vadiraja_Tirtha "Vadiraja Tirtha") [Vallabha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vallabha "Vallabha") [Vedanta Desika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedanta_Desika "Vedanta Desika") [Vidyaranya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vidyaranya "Vidyaranya") [Vyasaraja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vyasaraja "Vyasaraja") Modern [Aurobindo](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_Aurobindo "Sri Aurobindo") [Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhaktisiddhanta_Sarasvati "Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati") [Bhaktivinoda Thakur](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhaktivinoda_Thakur "Bhaktivinoda Thakur") [Chandrashekarendra Saraswati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandrashekarendra_Saraswati "Chandrashekarendra Saraswati") [Chinmayananda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinmayananda "Chinmayananda") [Dayananda Saraswati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dayananda_Saraswati "Dayananda Saraswati") [Jaggi Vasudev](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaggi_Vasudev "Jaggi Vasudev") [Krishnananda Saraswati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishnananda_Saraswati "Krishnananda Saraswati") [Mahavatar Babaji](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahavatar_Babaji "Mahavatar Babaji") [Mahesh Yogi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharishi_Mahesh_Yogi "Maharishi Mahesh Yogi") [Narayana Guru](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narayana_Guru "Narayana Guru") [Nigamananda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nigamananda_Paramahansa "Nigamananda Paramahansa") [Nisargadatta Maharaj](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nisargadatta_Maharaj "Nisargadatta Maharaj") [Prabhupada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A._C._Bhaktivedanta_Swami_Prabhupada "A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada") [Radhakrishnan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarvepalli_Radhakrishnan "Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan") [R. D. Ranade](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramachandra_Dattatrya_Ranade "Ramachandra Dattatrya Ranade") [Ramakrishna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramakrishna "Ramakrishna") [Rama Tirtha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swami_Rama_Tirtha "Swami Rama Tirtha") [Ramana Maharshi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramana_Maharshi "Ramana Maharshi") [Ravi Shankar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ravi_Shankar_$spiritual_leader$ "Ravi Shankar (spiritual leader)") [Ramdas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swami_Ramdas "Swami Ramdas") [Samarth](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swami_Samarth "Swami Samarth") [Sathya Sai Baba](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sathya_Sai_Baba "Sathya Sai Baba") [Shirdi Sai Baba](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sai_Baba_of_Shirdi "Sai Baba of Shirdi") [Shraddhanand](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swami_Shraddhanand "Swami Shraddhanand") [Satyadhyana Tirtha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satyadhyana_Tirtha "Satyadhyana Tirtha") [Siddharameshwar Maharaj](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siddharameshwar_Maharaj "Siddharameshwar Maharaj") [Sivananda Saraswati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sivananda_Saraswati "Sivananda Saraswati") [Trailanga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trailanga "Trailanga") [U. G. Krishnamurti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/U._G._Krishnamurti "U. G. Krishnamurti") [Upasni Maharaj](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Upasni_Maharaj "Upasni Maharaj") [Vethathiri Maharishi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vethathiri_Maharishi "Vethathiri Maharishi") [Vivekananda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swami_Vivekananda "Swami Vivekananda") [Yogananda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paramahansa_Yogananda "Paramahansa Yogananda") \| \| [Texts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_texts "Hindu texts") [Sources and classification of scripture](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C5%9A%C4%81stra_pram%C4%81%E1%B9%87am_in_Hinduism "Śāstra pramāṇam in Hinduism") [Śruti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C5%9Aruti "Śruti") [Smṛti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sm%E1%B9%9Bti "Smṛti") [Ācāra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%80c%C4%81ra "Ācāra") [Ātmatuṣṭi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atmatusti "Atmatusti") [Scriptures](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_texts "Hindu texts") [Timeline of Hindu texts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_of_Hindu_texts "Timeline of Hindu texts") [Vedas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedas "Vedas") [Rigveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rigveda "Rigveda") [Yajurveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yajurveda "Yajurveda") [Samaveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samaveda "Samaveda") [Atharvaveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atharvaveda "Atharvaveda") Divisions [Samhita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samhitapatha "Samhitapatha") [Brahmana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmana "Brahmana") [Aranyaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aranyaka "Aranyaka") [Upanishads](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Upanishads "Upanishads") [Upanishads](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Upanishads "Upanishads") [Principal Upanishads](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Principal_Upanishads "Principal Upanishads") Rigveda: [Aitareya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aitareya_Upanishad "Aitareya Upanishad") [Kaushitaki](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaushitaki_Upanishad "Kaushitaki Upanishad") Yajurveda: [Brihadaranyaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brihadaranyaka_Upanishad "Brihadaranyaka Upanishad") [Isha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isha_Upanishad "Isha Upanishad") [Taittiriya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taittiriya_Upanishad "Taittiriya Upanishad") [Katha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Katha_Upanishad "Katha Upanishad") [Shvetashvatara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shvetashvatara_Upanishad "Shvetashvatara Upanishad") [Maitri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maitrayaniya_Upanishad "Maitrayaniya Upanishad") Samaveda: [Chandogya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandogya_Upanishad "Chandogya Upanishad") [Kena](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kena_Upanishad "Kena Upanishad") Atharvaveda: [Mundaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mundaka_Upanishad "Mundaka Upanishad") [Mandukya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandukya_Upanishad "Mandukya Upanishad") [Prashna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prashna_Upanishad "Prashna Upanishad") [Vedangas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedangas "Vedangas") [Shiksha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiksha "Shiksha") [Chandas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedic_metre "Vedic metre") [Vyākaraṇa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vy%C4%81kara%E1%B9%87a "Vyākaraṇa") [Nirukta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nirukta "Nirukta") [Kalpa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalpa_$Vedanga$ "Kalpa (Vedanga)") [Jyotisha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jyotisha "Jyotisha") [Other scriptures](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Hindu_scriptures "List of Hindu scriptures") [Bhagavad Gita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhagavad_Gita "Bhagavad Gita") [Agamas (Hinduism)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agama_$Hinduism$ "Agama (Hinduism)") [Itihasas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Itihasa-Purana "Itihasa-Purana") [Ramayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramayana "Ramayana") [Mahabharata](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahabharata "Mahabharata") [Puranas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puranas "Puranas") [Vishnu Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishnu_Purana "Vishnu Purana") [Bhagavata Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhagavata_Purana "Bhagavata Purana") [Devi Bhagavata Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devi_Bhagavata_Purana "Devi Bhagavata Purana") [Naradiya Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naradiya_Purana "Naradiya Purana") [Vāmana Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vamana_Purana "Vamana Purana") [Matsya Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matsya_Purana "Matsya Purana") [Garuda Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garuda_Purana "Garuda Purana") [Brahma Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahma_Purana "Brahma Purana") [Brahmanda Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmanda_Purana "Brahmanda Purana") [Brahma Vaivarta Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahma_Vaivarta_Purana "Brahma Vaivarta Purana") [Bhavishya Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhavishya_Purana "Bhavishya Purana") [Padma Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Padma_Purana "Padma Purana") [Agni Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agni_Purana "Agni Purana") [Shiva Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Purana "Shiva Purana") [Linga Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linga_Purana "Linga Purana") [Kūrma Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kurma_Purana "Kurma Purana") [Skanda Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skanda_Purana "Skanda Purana") [Varaha Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varaha_Purana "Varaha Purana") [Markandeya Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Markandeya_Purana "Markandeya Purana") [Upavedas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedas#Upaveda "Vedas") [Ayurveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayurveda "Ayurveda") [Dhanurveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhanurveda "Dhanurveda") [Gandharvaveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gandharvaveda "Gandharvaveda") [Sthapatyaveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sthapatyaveda "Sthapatyaveda") [Shastras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shastra "Shastra"), [sutras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sutra "Sutra"), and [samhitas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samhita "Samhita") [Arthashastra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthashastra "Arthashastra") [Brahma Sutras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahma_Sutras "Brahma Sutras") [Charaka Samhita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charaka_Samhita "Charaka Samhita") [Dharma Shastra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dharma%C5%9B%C4%81stra "Dharmaśāstra") [Kama Sutra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kama_Sutra "Kama Sutra") [Natya Shastra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natya_Shastra "Natya Shastra") [Nyāya Sūtras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ny%C4%81ya_S%C5%ABtras "Nyāya Sūtras") [Panchatantra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panchatantra "Panchatantra") [Pramana Sutras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pramana "Pramana") [Purva Mimamsa Sutras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Purva_Mimamsa_Sutras "Purva Mimamsa Sutras") [Ramcharitmanas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramcharitmanas "Ramcharitmanas") [Samkhya Pravachana Sutra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samkhya_Pravachana_Sutra "Samkhya Pravachana Sutra") [Shilpa Shastras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shilpa_Shastras "Shilpa Shastras") [Shiva Swarodaya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Swarodaya "Shiva Swarodaya") [Sushruta Samhita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sushruta_Samhita "Sushruta Samhita") [Vaiśeṣika Sūtra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vai%C5%9Be%E1%B9%A3ika_S%C5%ABtra "Vaiśeṣika Sūtra") [Yoga Sutras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga_Sutras_of_Patanjali "Yoga Sutras of Patanjali") [Yoga Vasistha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga_Vasistha "Yoga Vasistha") [Stotras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stotra "Stotra"), [stutis](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suktas_and_stutis "List of suktas and stutis") and [Bhashya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhashya "Bhashya") [Abirami Antati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abirami_Antati "Abirami Antati") [Hanuman Chalisa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman_Chalisa "Hanuman Chalisa") [Kanakadhara Stotra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanakadhara_Stotra "Kanakadhara Stotra") [Kanda Shasti Kavasam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanda_Shasti_Kavasam "Kanda Shasti Kavasam") [Shiva Stuti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Stuti "Shiva Stuti") [Vayu Stuti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vayu_Stuti "Vayu Stuti") [Tamil literature](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamil_literature "Tamil literature") [Athichudi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Athichudi "Athichudi") [Eighteen Greater Texts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eighteen_Greater_Texts "Eighteen Greater Texts") [Eighteen Lesser Texts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eighteen_Lesser_Texts "Eighteen Lesser Texts") [Five Great Epics](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Five_Great_Epics "Five Great Epics") [Iraiyanar Akapporul](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iraiyanar_Akapporul "Iraiyanar Akapporul") [Kamba Ramayanam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kamba_Ramayanam "Kamba Ramayanam") [Kural](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kural "Kural") [Naalayira Divya Prabandham](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naalayira_Divya_Prabandham "Naalayira Divya Prabandham") [Thiruvilaiyadal Puranam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thiruvilaiyadal_Puranam "Thiruvilaiyadal Puranam") [Tirumurai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tirumurai "Tirumurai") [Tirumurukāṟṟuppaṭai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tirumuruk%C4%81%E1%B9%9F%E1%B9%9Fuppa%E1%B9%ADai "Tirumurukāṟṟuppaṭai") [Tiruppukal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiruppukal "Tiruppukal") [Vinayagar Agaval](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vinayagar_Agaval "Vinayagar Agaval") [Other texts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Hindu_texts "List of Hindu texts") \| \| Hindu culture and society Society [Dalit](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dalit "Dalit") [Dasa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dasa "Dasa") [Dvija](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dvija "Dvija") [Gotra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gotra "Gotra") [Jāti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J%C4%81ti "Jāti") [Kayastha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kayastha "Kayastha") [Varna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varna_$Hinduism$ "Varna (Hinduism)") [Brahmin](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmin "Brahmin") [Kshatriya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kshatriya "Kshatriya") [Vaishya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaishya "Vaishya") [Shudra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shudra "Shudra") [Hindu art](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_art "Hindu art") [Bhagavata Mela](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhagavata_Mela "Bhagavata Mela") [Bharatanatyam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bharatanatyam "Bharatanatyam") [Bommalattam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bommalattam "Bommalattam") [Carnatic music](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carnatic_music "Carnatic music") [Hindu iconography](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_iconography "Hindu iconography") [Kai silambattam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kai_silambattam "Kai silambattam") [Kalaripayattu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalaripayattu "Kalaripayattu") [Kavadi Aattam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kavadi_Aattam "Kavadi Aattam") [Kathak](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kathak "Kathak") [Kathakali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kathakali "Kathakali") [Kolattam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kolattam "Kolattam") [Koothu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Koothu "Koothu") [Kuchipudi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuchipudi "Kuchipudi") [Manipuri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manipuri_dance "Manipuri dance") [Mayilattam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mayilattam "Mayilattam") [Mohiniyattam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mohiniyattam "Mohiniyattam") [Nritta-Nritya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_classical_dance "Indian classical dance") [Odissi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Odissi "Odissi") [Pandav Lila](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pandav_Lila "Pandav Lila") [Rasa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rasa_$aesthetics$ "Rasa (aesthetics)") [Sattriya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sattriya "Sattriya") [Yakshagana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yakshagana "Yakshagana") [Yantra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yantra "Yantra") [Hindu architecture](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_architecture "Hindu architecture") [Hindu temple architecture](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_temple_architecture "Hindu temple architecture") [Talamana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Talamana "Talamana") [Vastu shastra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vastu_shastra "Vastu shastra") [Hindu music](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_music "Hindu music") [Alankāra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alank%C4%81ra "Alankāra") [Raga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raga "Raga") [Sangita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sangita "Sangita") [Shruti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shruti_$music$ "Shruti (music)") [Svara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Svara "Svara") [Tala](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tala_$music$ "Tala (music)") [Vadya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vadya "Vadya") [Food and diet](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diet_in_Hinduism "Diet in Hinduism") [Jhatka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jhatka "Jhatka") [Mitahara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitahara "Mitahara") [Sattvic](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sattvic_diet "Sattvic diet") [Vrata](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vrata "Vrata") Time keeping practices [Calendar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar "Hindu calendar") [Panchangam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panchangam "Panchangam") [Shaka era](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaka_era "Shaka era") [Units of Time](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_units_of_time "Hindu units of time") [Vikram Samvat](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vikram_Samvat "Vikram Samvat") Other society-related topics [Discrimination](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anti-Hindu_sentiment "Anti-Hindu sentiment") [Persecution](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Persecution_of_Hindus "Persecution of Hindus") [Nationalism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_nationalism "Hindu nationalism") [Organisations](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Hindu_organisations "List of Hindu organisations") [Reform movements](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_reform_movements "Hindu reform movements") \| \| [Other topics](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Hinduism "Portal:Hinduism") [Hinduism by country](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_by_country "Hinduism by country") [Balinese Hinduism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balinese_Hinduism "Balinese Hinduism") [Caribbean Shaktism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caribbean_Shaktism "Caribbean Shaktism") [Greater India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greater_India "Greater India") Hinduism & other religions [Hinduism and Jainism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_and_Jainism "Hinduism and Jainism") / [and Buddhism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhism_and_Hinduism "Buddhism and Hinduism") / [and Sikhism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_and_Sikhism "Hinduism and Sikhism") / [and Judaism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_and_Judaism "Hinduism and Judaism") / [and Christianity](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_and_Christianity "Hinduism and Christianity") / [and Islam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu%E2%80%93Islamic_relations "Hindu–Islamic relations") \| \| [Glossary](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glossary_of_Hinduism_terms "Glossary of Hinduism terms") [Outline](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Outline_of_Hinduism "Outline of Hinduism") ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/67/Aum_Om_red.svg/20px-Aum_Om_red.svg.png) [Hinduism portal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Hinduism "Portal:Hinduism") \| \| [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Hinduism "Template:Hinduism") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Hinduism "Template talk:Hinduism") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Hinduism "Special:EditPage/Template:Hinduism") \| \| Deepavali \| \| \|---\|---\| \| [UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UNESCO_Intangible_Cultural_Heritage_Lists "UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists") \| \| \| Country \| [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India "India") \| \| Reference \| [02312](https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/02312) \| \| Region \| [Asia and the Pacific](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:UNESCO_Representative_List_of_the_Intangible_Cultural_Heritage_of_Humanity/APA "Template:UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity/APA") \| \| Inscription history \| \| \| Inscription \| 2025 (20th session) \| \| [List](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UNESCO_Intangible_Cultural_Heritage_Lists "UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists") \| Representative \| Dipavali ([IAST](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IAST "IAST"): Dīpāvalī),[\[a\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-4) commonly known as Diwali ([/dɪˈwɑːliː/](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:IPA/English "Help:IPA/English")),[\[4\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Mead-2008a-5) is the [Hindu festival](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_festival "Hindu festival") of lights, with variations celebrated in other [Indian religions](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_religions "Indian religions") such as [Jainism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jainism "Jainism") and [Sikhism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikhism "Sikhism").[\[b\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-6) It symbolises the spiritual victory of [Dharma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dharma "Dharma") over [Adharma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adharma "Adharma"), light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Heiligman31-7)[\[6\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-htoday-8)[\[7\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Mead-2008b-9)\[[page needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citing_sources "Wikipedia:Citing sources")\][\[8\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-melton252-10) Diwali is celebrated during the [Hindu lunisolar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar "Hindu calendar") months of [Ashvin](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashvin_$month$ "Ashvin (month)") (according to the [amanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#amanta "Hindu calendar") tradition) and [Kārtika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kartika_$month$ "Kartika (month)") – between around mid-October and mid-November.[\[9\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-OED-Diwali-11)[\[10\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12)[\[11\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-13)[\[12\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-14)[\[13\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-15) The celebrations generally last five or six days.[\[14\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16)[\[15\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-17) Diwali is connected to various religious events, deities and personalities, such as being the day [Rama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rama "Rama") returned to his [kingdom](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kosala "Kosala") in [Ayodhya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayodhya_$Ramayana$ "Ayodhya (Ramayana)") with his wife [Sita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sita "Sita") and his brother [Lakshmana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmana "Lakshmana") after defeating the demon king [Ravana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ravana "Ravana").[\[16\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-dhcd-18) It is also widely associated with [Lakshmi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi "Lakshmi"), the goddess of prosperity, and [Ganesha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha "Ganesha"), the god of wisdom and the remover of obstacles.[\[17\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Suzanne_Barchers_2013-19) Other regional traditions connect the holiday to [Vishnu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishnu "Vishnu"), [Krishna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna "Krishna"), [Durga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga "Durga"), [Shiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva "Shiva"), [Kali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali "Kali"), [Hanuman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman "Hanuman"), [Kubera](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kubera "Kubera"), [Yama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yama "Yama"), [Yami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yami "Yami"), [Dhanvantari](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhanvantari "Dhanvantari"), or [Vishvakarman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishvakarman "Vishvakarman"). Primarily a [Hindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindus "Hindus") festival, variations of Diwali are also celebrated by adherents of other faiths.[\[14\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16) The [Jains](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jainism "Jainism") observe their [own Diwali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali_$Jainism$ "Diwali (Jainism)") which marks the final liberation of [Mahavira](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahavira "Mahavira").[\[18\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Sharma2006-20)[\[19\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-N._Upadhye,_Review_1982_pp._231%E2%80%93232-21) The [Sikhs](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikhism "Sikhism") celebrate [Bandi Chhor Divas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandi_Chhor_Divas "Bandi Chhor Divas") to mark the release of [Guru Hargobind](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Hargobind "Guru Hargobind") from a [Mughal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal_Empire "Mughal Empire") prison.[\[20\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-22) [Newar Buddhists](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newar_Buddhism "Newar Buddhism"), unlike other [Buddhists](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhism "Buddhism"), celebrate Diwali by worshipping Lakshmi, while the Hindus of [Eastern India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eastern_India "Eastern India") and [Bangladesh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bangladesh "Bangladesh") generally, celebrate Diwali by worshipping the [goddess Kali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali "Kali").[\[21\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-MK72-23)[\[2\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2)[\[22\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Prem_Saran_2012_175-24) During the festival, the celebrants illuminate their homes, temples and workspaces with [diyas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diya_$light$ "Diya (light)") (oil lamps), candles and lanterns.[\[8\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-melton252-10) Hindus, in particular, have a ritual oil bath at dawn on each day of the festival.[\[23\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-YustJohnson2006-25) Diwali is also marked with fireworks as well as the decoration of floors with [rangoli](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rangoli "Rangoli") designs and other parts of the house with [jhalars](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jhalar "Jhalar"). Food is a major focus with families partaking in feasts and sharing [mithai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mithai_$confectionery$ "Mithai (confectionery)").[\[24\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-jgl-26) The festival is an annual homecoming and bonding period not only for families,[\[16\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-dhcd-18)[\[17\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Suzanne_Barchers_2013-19) but also for communities and associations, particularly those in urban areas, which will organise activities, events, and gatherings.[\[25\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJohnsonTeuscherSabean2011300%E2%80%93301-27)[\[26\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEShah199541%E2%80%9344-28) Many towns organise community parades and fairs with parades or music and dance performances in parks.[\[14\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16) Some Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs will send Diwali greeting cards to family near and far during the festive season, occasionally with boxes of Indian confectionery.[\[14\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16) Another aspect of the festival is remembering the ancestors.[\[27\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-29) Diwali is also a major cultural event for the [Hindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindus "Hindus"), [Sikh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikhs "Sikhs"), and [Jain](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jainism "Jainism") [diaspora](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diaspora "Diaspora").[\[28\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-wsj-30)[\[29\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJohnson200771%E2%80%9373-31)[\[30\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKelly198840%E2%80%9355-32) The main day of the festival of Diwali (the day of Lakshmi Puja) is an official holiday in [Fiji](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fiji "Fiji"),[\[31\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-33) [Guyana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guyana "Guyana"),[\[32\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-34) [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India "India"), [Malaysia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malaysia "Malaysia"),[\[c\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-35)[\[33\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-36) [Mauritius](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mauritius "Mauritius"), [Myanmar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myanmar "Myanmar"),[\[34\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-37) [Nepal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepal "Nepal"),[\[35\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-38) [Pakistan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pakistan "Pakistan"),[\[36\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-39) [Singapore](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Singapore "Singapore"),[\[37\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-40) [Sri Lanka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_Lanka "Sri Lanka"), [Suriname](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suriname "Suriname"), and [Trinidad and Tobago](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trinidad_and_Tobago "Trinidad and Tobago"),[\[38\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-41) and the [US](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States "United States") states of [Connecticut](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Connecticut "Connecticut"), [Pennsylvania](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pennsylvania "Pennsylvania"), and [California](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California "California").[\[39\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-42)[\[40\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-43)[\[41\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-44) ## Etymology Diwali[\[9\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-OED-Diwali-11)[\[d\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-46) comes from Dipavali ([Sanskrit](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanskrit_language "Sanskrit language"): दीपावली, [romanized](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romanization_of_Sanskrit "Romanization of Sanskrit"):Dīpāvalī), meaning 'a row or series of lights'.[\[24\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-jgl-26)[\[43\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFrazierFlood2011255-47) The term is a compound of the Sanskrit words दीप, dīpa, 'lamp, light, lantern, candle, that which glows, shines, illuminates or knowledge'[\[44\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-48) and आवलि, āvali, 'a row, range, continuous line, series'.[\[45\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-49)[\[e\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-50) ## Dates The five-day celebration is observed every year sometime from the second half of October to the first half of November[\[46\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253-51) coinciding with a new moon ([amāvasyā](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amavasya "Amavasya")) as per the [Hindu lunisolar calendar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar "Hindu calendar").[\[47\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9362-52) The festivities begin two days before [amāvasyā](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amavasya "Amavasya"), on [Dhanteras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhanteras "Dhanteras"), and extend two days after, until the second (or 17th) day of the month of Kartik.[\[48\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561-53) (According to Indologist Constance Jones, this night ends the lunar month of Ashwin and starts the month of Kartik[\[46\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253-51) – but see this note[\[f\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-55) and [Amanta and Purnima systems](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#Amanta_and_Purnima_systems "Hindu calendar").) The darkest night is the apex of the celebration. The festival climax is on the third day and is called the main Diwali. It is an official holiday in a dozen countries, while the other festive days are regionally observed as either public or optional restricted holidays in India.[\[50\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-about-56) In Nepal, it is also a multiday festival, although the days and rituals are named differently, with the climax being called the [Tihar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tihar_$festival$ "Tihar (festival)") festival by Hindus and [Swanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swanti_$festival$ "Swanti (festival)") festival by Buddhists.[\[51\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-57)[\[52\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-58) ## History The five-day long festival originated in the [Indian subcontinent](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_subcontinent "Indian subcontinent") and is likely a fusion of harvest festivals in ancient [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India "India").[\[46\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253-51) It is mentioned in early [Sanskrit](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanskrit_literature "Sanskrit literature") texts, such as the [Padma Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Padma_Purana "Padma Purana") and the [Skanda Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skanda_Purana "Skanda Purana"), both of which were composed between the 7th and 10th centuries.[\[53\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-l796-59)[\[54\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-60) The diyas (lamps) are mentioned in Skanda Kishore Purana as symbolising parts of the sun, describing it as the cosmic giver of light and energy to all life and which seasonally transitions in the Hindu calendar month of Kartik.[\[55\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61)[\[56\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELochtefeld2002355-62) Emperor [Harsha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harsha "Harsha") refers to Deepavali, in the 7th-century Sanskrit play [Nagananda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nagananda "Nagananda"), as Dīpapratipadotsava (dīpa = light, pratipadā = first day, utsava = festival), where lamps were lit and newly engaged brides and grooms received gifts.[\[57\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-bnsharma-63)[\[58\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-yaksha-64) [Rajasekhara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajashekhara_$Sanskrit_poet$ "Rajashekhara (Sanskrit poet)") referred to Deepavali as Dipamalika in his 9th-century Kavyamimamsa, wherein he mentions the tradition of homes being whitewashed and oil lamps decorated homes, streets, and markets in the night.[\[57\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-bnsharma-63) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/75/Radha_and_Krishna_watching_fireworks_in_the_night_sky.jpg/250px-Radha_and_Krishna_watching_fireworks_in_the_night_sky.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Radha_and_Krishna_watching_fireworks_in_the_night_sky.jpg) Radha and Krishna celebrating Diwali by Sitaram. [Kishangarh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kishangarh_State "Kishangarh State"), late 18th-century. [National Museum, New Delhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Museum,_New_Delhi "National Museum, New Delhi") Diwali was also described by numerous travellers from outside India. In his 11th-century memoir on India, the Persian traveller and historian [Al Biruni](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ab%C5%AB_Ray%E1%B8%A5%C4%81n_al-B%C4%ABr%C5%ABn%C4%AB "Abū Rayḥān al-Bīrūnī") wrote of Deepavali being celebrated by Hindus on the day of the New Moon in the month of Kartika.[\[59\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-65) The Venetian merchant and traveller [Niccolò de' Conti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niccol%C3%B2_de%27_Conti "Niccolò de' Conti") visited India in the early 15th century and wrote in his memoir, "on another of these festivals they fix up within their temples, and on the outside of the roofs, an innumerable number of oil lamps ... which are kept burning day and night" and that the families would gather, "clothe themselves in new garments", sing, dance, and feast.[\[60\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEEraly2015315%E2%80%93316-66)[\[61\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESewell200685%E2%80%9386-67) The 16th-century Portuguese traveller [Domingo Paes](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Domingo_Paes "Domingo Paes") wrote of his visit to the Hindu [Vijayanagara Empire](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vijayanagara_Empire "Vijayanagara Empire"), where Dipavali was celebrated in October with householders illuminating their homes, and their temples, with lamps.[\[61\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESewell200685%E2%80%9386-67) It is mentioned in the [Ramayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramayana "Ramayana") that Diwali was celebrated for only 2 years in [Ayodhya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayodhya_$Ramayana$ "Ayodhya (Ramayana)").[\[62\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-S_A_NEWS-2020-68) Islamic historians of the [Delhi Sultanate](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi_Sultanate "Delhi Sultanate") and the [Mughal Empire](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal_Empire "Mughal Empire") era also mentioned Diwali and other Hindu festivals. A few, notably the [Mughal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal_Empire "Mughal Empire") emperor [Akbar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar "Akbar"), welcomed and participated in the festivities,[\[63\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEEaton1996159%E2%80%93160_with_footnotes-69)[\[64\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMelville2012526-70) whereas others banned such festivals as Diwali and [Holi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holi "Holi"), as [Aurangzeb](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurangzeb "Aurangzeb") did in 1665.[\[65\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOkita201428%E2%80%9329-71)[\[66\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389-72)[\[g\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-75)[\[h\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-76) Publications from the time of the [British Raj](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Raj "British Raj") also made mention of Diwali, such as the note on Hindu festivals published in 1799 by [Sir William Jones](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Jones_$philologist$ "William Jones (philologist)"), a philologist known for his early observations on Sanskrit and [Indo-European languages](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indo-European_languages "Indo-European languages").[\[69\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-jone1799p263-77) In his paper on The Lunar Year of the Hindus, Jones, then based in [Bengal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengal "Bengal"), noted four of the five days of Diwali in the [autumn](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Autumn "Autumn") months of Aswina-Cartica \[[sic](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sic "Sic")\] as the following: Bhutachaturdasi Yamaterpanam (2nd day), Lacshmipuja dipanwita (the day of Diwali), Dyuta pratipat Belipuja (4th day), and Bhratri dwitiya (5th day). The Lacshmipuja dipanwita, remarked Jones, was a "great festival at night, in honour of Lakshmi, with illuminations on trees and houses".[\[69\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-jone1799p263-77)[\[i\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-78) ### Epigraphy [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/81/1867_CE_chromolithograph%2C_Diwali%2C_feast_of_lamps%2C_by_William_Simpson.jpg/250px-1867_CE_chromolithograph%2C_Diwali%2C_feast_of_lamps%2C_by_William_Simpson.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:1867_CE_chromolithograph,_Diwali,_feast_of_lamps,_by_William_Simpson.jpg) William Simpson labelled his chromolithograph of 1867 as "Dewali, feast of lamps". It showed streets lit up at dusk, with a girl and her mother lighting a street corner lamp.[\[70\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-79) Sanskrit inscriptions in stone and copper mentioning Diwali, occasionally alongside terms such as Dipotsava, [Dipavali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dipawali_$Jainism$ "Dipawali (Jainism)"), Divali and Divalige, have been discovered at numerous sites across India.[\[71\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-80)[\[72\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-81)[\[j\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-82) Examples include a 10th-century Rashtrakuta empire copper plate inscription of [Krishna III](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna_III "Krishna III") (939–967 CE) that mentions Dipotsava,[\[73\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-83) and a 12th-century mixed Sanskrit-Kannada Sinda inscription discovered in the Isvara temple of [Dharwad](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dharwad "Dharwad") in Karnataka where the inscription refers to the festival as a "sacred occasion".[\[74\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-84) According to [Lorenz Franz Kielhorn](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lorenz_Franz_Kielhorn "Lorenz Franz Kielhorn"), a German Indologist known for translating many Indic inscriptions, this festival is mentioned as Dipotsavam in verses 6 and 7 of the Ranganatha temple Sanskrit inscription of the 13th-century [Venad](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Venad_$Kingdom$ "Venad (Kingdom)") Hindu king [Ravivarman Samgramadhira](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ravivarman_Kula%C5%9B%C4%93khara "Ravivarman Kulaśēkhara"). Part of the inscription, as translated by Kielhorn, reads: > the auspicious festival of lights which disperses the most profound darkness, which in former days was celebrated by the kings Ila, Kartavirya and Sagara, (...) as Sakra (Indra) is of the gods, the universal monarch who knows the duties by the three Vedas, afterwards celebrated here at Ranga for Vishnu, resplendent with Lakshmi resting on his radiant lap.[\[75\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-kielhorn1896-85)[\[k\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-86) Jain inscriptions, such as the 10th-century Saundatti inscription about a donation of oil to Jinendra worship for the Diwali rituals, speak of Dipotsava.[\[76\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-87)[\[77\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-88) Another early 13th-century Sanskrit stone inscription, written in the Devanagari script, has been found in the north end of a mosque pillar in [Jalore](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jalore "Jalore"), [Rajasthan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajasthan "Rajasthan") evidently built using materials from a demolished Jain temple. The inscription states that Ramachandracharya built and dedicated a drama performance hall, with a golden cupola, on Diwali.[\[78\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Hultzsch1268-89)[\[79\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-90)[\[l\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-91) ## Religious significance [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a6/Raja_Ravi_Varma%2C_Goddess_Lakshmi%2C_1896.jpg/250px-Raja_Ravi_Varma%2C_Goddess_Lakshmi%2C_1896.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Raja_Ravi_Varma,_Goddess_Lakshmi,_1896.jpg) Diwali is commonly celebrated in the honour of [Lakshmi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi "Lakshmi"), the goddess of wealth. The religious significance of Diwali varies regionally within India. One tradition links the festival to legends in the Hindu epic [Ramayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramayana "Ramayana"), where Diwali is the day Rama, Sita, [Lakshmana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshman "Lakshman"), and [Hanuman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman "Hanuman") reached [Ayodhya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayodhya_$Ramayana$ "Ayodhya (Ramayana)") after a period of 14 years in exile after Rama's army of good, defeated demon king [Ravana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ravana "Ravana")'s army of evil.[\[80\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691-92) Throughout the epic, Rama's decisions were always in line with [dharma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dharma "Dharma") (duty) and the Diwali festival serves as a reminder for followers of Hinduism to maintain their dharma in day-to-day life.[\[81\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-93) Per another popular tradition, in the [Dvapara Yuga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dvapara_Yuga "Dvapara Yuga") period, [Krishna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna "Krishna"), an [avatar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avatar "Avatar") of [Vishnu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishnu "Vishnu"), killed the demon [Narakasura](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narakasura "Narakasura"), who was the evil king of [Pragjyotishapura](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pragjyotishapura "Pragjyotishapura"), near present-day Assam, and released 16000 girls held captive by Narakasura. Diwali was celebrated as a signifier of triumph of good over evil after Krishna's Victory over Narakasura. The day before Diwali is remembered as Naraka Chaturdashi, the day on which Narakasura was killed by Krishna.[\[82\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-94) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/2a/Diwali_Lakshmi_Poojan.jpg/250px-Diwali_Lakshmi_Poojan.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diwali_Lakshmi_Poojan.jpg) A picture of Lakshmi and [Ganesha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha "Ganesha") worship during Diwali [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/57/Diwali_Ganesh_Laxmi_Puja_001.jpg/250px-Diwali_Ganesh_Laxmi_Puja_001.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diwali_Ganesh_Laxmi_Puja_001.jpg) Diwali Ganesh Laxmi Puja Many Hindus associate the festival with Goddess [Lakshmi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi "Lakshmi"), the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and wife of Vishnu. According to Pintchman, the start of the 5-day Diwali festival is stated in some popular contemporary sources as the day goddess Lakshmi was born from [Samudra Manthana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samudra_manthan "Samudra manthan"), the churning of the cosmic ocean of milk by the [Devas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deva_$Hinduism$ "Deva (Hinduism)") (gods) and the [Asuras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asuras "Asuras") (demons) – a Vedic legend that is also found in several [Puranas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puranas "Puranas") such as the [Padma Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Padma_Purana "Padma Purana"), while the night of Diwali is when Lakshmi chose and wed Vishnu.[\[55\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61)[\[83\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Karen_Pechilis_2007_pp_273-275-95) Along with Lakshmi, who is representative of [Vaishnavism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaishnavism "Vaishnavism"), [Ganesha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha "Ganesha"), the elephant-headed son of [Parvati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parvati "Parvati") and [Shiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva "Shiva") of [Shaivism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaivism "Shaivism") tradition, is remembered as one who symbolises ethical beginnings and the remover of obstacles.[\[80\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691-92) Hindus of eastern India associate the festival with the Goddess Kali, who symbolises the victory of good over evil.[\[84\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEAmazzone2012-96)[\[85\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-97)[\[86\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-98) Hindus from the Braj region in northern India, parts of [Assam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assam "Assam"), as well as southern Tamil and Telugu communities view Diwali as the day the god Krishna overcame and destroyed the evil demon king Narakasura, in yet another symbolic victory of knowledge and good over ignorance and evil.[\[87\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECoogan2003152%E2%80%93153-99)[\[88\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEVemsani2016190%E2%80%93191-100) Trade and merchant families and others also offer prayers to [Saraswati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saraswati "Saraswati"), who embodies music, literature and learning and [Kubera](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kubera "Kubera"), who symbolises book-keeping, treasury and wealth management.[\[55\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61) In western states such as Gujarat, and certain northern Hindu communities of India, the festival of Diwali signifies the start of a new year.[\[87\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECoogan2003152%E2%80%93153-99) Mythical tales shared on Diwali vary widely depending on region and even within Hindu tradition,[\[89\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-vasudha31-101) yet all share a common focus on righteousness, self-inquiry and the importance of knowledge,[\[90\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-102)[\[91\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-103) which, according to Lindsey Harlan, an Indologist and scholar of Religious Studies, is the path to overcoming the "darkness of ignorance".[\[92\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESalamone2004112,_Article_on_Divali_by_Lindsey_Harlan-104) The telling of these myths is reminiscent of the Hindu belief that good ultimately triumphs over evil.[\[93\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-105)[\[10\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12) ### Other religions Originally a Hindu festival, Diwali has transcended religious lines.[\[94\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJohnson200771%E2%80%9379-106) Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Newar Buddhists,[\[2\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2) although for each faith it marks different historical events and stories, but nonetheless the festival represents the same symbolic victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Heiligman31-7)[\[6\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-htoday-8)[\[95\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-107)[\[96\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-108) #### Jainism Main article: [Diwali (Jainism)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali_$Jainism$ "Diwali (Jainism)") [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/47/Mahavira_Nirvan_Kalyanak_Diwali.jpg/330px-Mahavira_Nirvan_Kalyanak_Diwali.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Mahavira_Nirvan_Kalyanak_Diwali.jpg) [Lord Mahavir](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahavira "Mahavira") in meditation before attaining nirvana, the day is celebrated by [Jains](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jains "Jains") as Dipalikaya In Jain religion, Diwali is celebrated in observance of "Mahavira Nirvana Divas", the physical death and final nirvana of [Mahavira](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahavira "Mahavira"), the 24th [Tirthankar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tirthankar "Tirthankar") of current time cycle. Nirvana is considered to be the state of a soul when it escapes from the cycle of birth and death, while experiencing its true nature of boundless bliss and infinite knowledge.[\[97\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Jacobi_1895-109) The Jain Diwali celebrated in many parts of India has similar practices to the Hindu Diwali, such as the lighting of lamps. However, the focus of the Jain Diwali remains the dedication to Mahavira.[\[98\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELong200926,_42-110) According to the Jain tradition, this practice of lighting lamps first began on the day of Mahavira's nirvana in 527 BCE,[\[m\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-113) when 18 kings who had gathered for Mahavira's final teachings issued a proclamation that lamps be lit in remembrance of the "great light, Mahavira".[\[101\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMelton2011255-114)[\[102\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELong200942-115) This traditional belief of the origin of Diwali, and its significance to Jains, is reflected in their historic artworks such as paintings.[\[103\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJainFischer197813-116) #### Sikhism Main article: [Bandi Chhor Divas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandi_Chhor_Divas "Bandi Chhor Divas") [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f4/A_hukamnama_from_the_tenth_Sikh_guru%2C_Guru_Gobind_Singh%2C_requesting_all_of_the_Sikh_congregation_to_convene_in_his_presence_on_the_occasion_of_Diwali.jpg/250px-A_hukamnama_from_the_tenth_Sikh_guru%2C_Guru_Gobind_Singh%2C_requesting_all_of_the_Sikh_congregation_to_convene_in_his_presence_on_the_occasion_of_Diwali.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:A_hukamnama_from_the_tenth_Sikh_guru,_Guru_Gobind_Singh,_requesting_all_of_the_Sikh_congregation_to_convene_in_his_presence_on_the_occasion_of_Diwali.jpg) A [hukamnama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hukamnama "Hukamnama") from the tenth Sikh guru, [Guru Gobind Singh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Gobind_Singh "Guru Gobind Singh"), requesting all of the Sikh congregation to convene in his presence on the occasion of Diwali Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas in remembrance of the release of [Guru Hargobind](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Hargobind "Guru Hargobind") from the [Gwalior Fort](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gwalior_Fort "Gwalior Fort") prison by the Mughal emperor [Jahangir](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jahangir "Jahangir") and the day he arrived at the Golden Temple in Amritsar.[\[104\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-117) According to J.S. Grewal, a scholar of Sikhism and Sikh history, Diwali in the Sikh tradition is older than the sixth Guru Hargobind legend. [Guru Amar Das](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Amar_Das "Guru Amar Das"), the third Guru of the Sikhs, built a well in Goindwal with eighty-four steps and invited Sikhs to bathe in its [sacred waters](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sacred_waters "Sacred waters") on Baisakhi and Diwali as a form of community bonding. Over time, these spring and autumn festivals became the most important of Sikh festivals and holy sites such as Amritsar became focal points for annual pilgrimages.[\[105\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGrewal199850%E2%80%9351,_60,_73%E2%80%9378,_93-118) The festival of Diwali, according to Ray Colledge, highlights three events in Sikh history: the founding of the city of Amritsar in 1577, the release of Guru Hargobind from the Mughal prison, and the day of Bhai Mani Singh's martyrdom in 1738 as a result of his failure to pay a fine for trying to celebrate Diwali and thereafter refusing to convert to Islam.[\[106\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEColledge2017276%E2%80%93278-119)[\[107\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESinghLouis_E._Fenech2014431%E2%80%93433-120)[\[n\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-123) #### Buddhism Diwali is not a festival for most Buddhists, with the exception of the [Newar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newar_people "Newar people") people of Nepal who revere various deities in [Vajrayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vajrayana "Vajrayana") Buddhism and celebrate Diwali by offering prayers to Lakshmi.[\[2\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2)[\[22\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Prem_Saran_2012_175-24) Newar Buddhists in Nepalese valleys also celebrate the Diwali festival over five days, in much the same way, and on the same days, as the Nepalese Hindu Diwali-Tihar festival.[\[110\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-124) According to some observers, this traditional celebration by Newar Buddhists in Nepal, through the worship of Lakshmi and Vishnu during Diwali, is not [syncretism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Syncretism "Syncretism") but rather a reflection of the freedom within [Mahayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahayana "Mahayana") Buddhist tradition to worship any deity for their worldly betterment.[\[2\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2) ## Celebrations \| \| \| \|---\|---\| \| \| \| \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/5c/Diwali_Festival.jpg/250px-Diwali_Festival.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diwali_Festival.jpg)Hindu girls lighting [diyas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diya_$light$ "Diya (light)") in Bangladesh \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/49/Glowing_Swayambhu_%283005358416%29.jpg/250px-Glowing_Swayambhu_%283005358416%29.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Glowing_Swayambhu_$3005358416$.jpg)Decorations in [Kathmandu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kathmandu "Kathmandu") for [Tihar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tihar_$festival$ "Tihar (festival)") (Diwali in Nepal) \| \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/73/Diyas_Diwali_Decor_India.jpg/250px-Diyas_Diwali_Decor_India.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diyas_Diwali_Decor_India.jpg)Diwali lamps arranged in the pattern of [Om](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Om "Om") \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/2f/Fireworks_Diwali_Chennai_India_November_2013_b.jpg/250px-Fireworks_Diwali_Chennai_India_November_2013_b.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Fireworks_Diwali_Chennai_India_November_2013_b.jpg)Deepavali night fireworks over [Chennai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chennai "Chennai") \| \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/7/70/Diwali_Pujan_at_Haridwar.jpg/250px-Diwali_Pujan_at_Haridwar.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diwali_Pujan_at_Haridwar.jpg)Indoor Diwali decorations in front of an altar in [Haridwar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haridwar "Haridwar") \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/ae/United_States_Diwali_Dance_San_Antonio_2011_b.jpg/250px-United_States_Diwali_Dance_San_Antonio_2011_b.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:United_States_Diwali_Dance_San_Antonio_2011_b.jpg)Dance event for Diwali in [Texas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Texas "Texas"), US \| \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/38/Divalinagar.jpg/120px-Divalinagar.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Divalinagar.jpg)[Divali Nagar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divali_Nagar "Divali Nagar") celebration in Trinidad and Tobago \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f2/Diwali_Festival._Jpg.jpg/250px-Diwali_Festival._Jpg.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diwali_Festival._Jpg.jpg)Diyas lit for Diwali at [Golden Temple](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harmandir_Sahib "Harmandir Sahib"), Punjab \| \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/7e/Diwali_offerings_to_god_in_Tamil_Nadu_JEG2437.jpg/250px-Diwali_offerings_to_god_in_Tamil_Nadu_JEG2437.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diwali_offerings_to_god_in_Tamil_Nadu_JEG2437.jpg)Diwali sweets and snacks \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0b/DiwaliKarnal.JPG/250px-DiwaliKarnal.JPG)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:DiwaliKarnal.JPG)Decorative lights for Diwali on a house in Haryana \| In the lead-up to Diwali, celebrants prepare by cleaning, renovating, and decorating their homes and workplaces with diyas (oil lamps) and [rangolis](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rangoli "Rangoli") (colourful art circle patterns).[\[112\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Raat-126) During Diwali, people wear their finest clothes, illuminate the interior and exterior of their homes with saaki (earthen lamp), diyas and rangoli, perform worship ceremonies of [Lakshmi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi "Lakshmi"), the goddess of prosperity and wealth,[\[o\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-128) light fireworks, and partake in family feasts, where mithai ([sweets](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Asian_sweets "South Asian sweets")) and [gifts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gift "Gift") are shared. The height of Diwali is celebrated on the third day coinciding with the darkest night of Ashvin or Kartika. The common celebratory practices are known as the festival of light, however there are minor differences from state to state in India. Diwali is usually celebrated twenty days after the [Vijayadashami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vijayadashami "Vijayadashami") festival, with [Dhanteras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhanteras "Dhanteras"), or the regional equivalent, marking the first day of the festival when celebrants prepare by cleaning their homes and making decorations on the floor, such as [rangolis](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rangoli "Rangoli").[\[114\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-129) Some regions of [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India "India") start Diwali festivities the day before Dhanteras with [Govatsa Dwadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Govatsa_Dwadashi "Govatsa Dwadashi"). The second day is [Naraka Chaturdashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naraka_Chaturdashi "Naraka Chaturdashi"). The third day is the day of [Lakshmi Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi_Puja "Lakshmi Puja") and the darkest [night](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Night "Night") of the [traditional month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K%C4%81rtika_$month$ "Kārtika (month)"). In some parts of [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India "India"), the day after [Lakshmi Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi_Puja "Lakshmi Puja") is marked with the [Govardhan Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Govardhan_Puja "Govardhan Puja") and [Balipratipada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balipratipada "Balipratipada") (Padwa). Some [Hindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindus "Hindus") communities mark the last day as [Bhai Dooj](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhai_Dooj "Bhai Dooj") or the regional equivalent, which is dedicated to the bond between sister and brother,[\[115\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-130) while other Hindu and Sikh craftsmen communities mark this day as [Vishvakarma Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishwakarma_Puja "Vishwakarma Puja") and observe it by performing maintenance in their work spaces and offering [prayers](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prayer "Prayer").[\[116\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-haar2009-131)[\[117\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-132) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/5e/Diwali_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg/250px-Diwali_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diwali_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg) Diwali celebrations include [puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puja_$Hinduism$ "Puja (Hinduism)") (prayers) to Lakshmi and Ganesha. Lakshmi is of the Vaishnavism tradition, while Ganesha of the Shaivism tradition of Hinduism.[\[118\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133)[\[119\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKinsley198833%E2%80%9334-134) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/3c/%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%86_%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%9F%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A8%2C_%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%AD%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BF_%E0%A4%93%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AA_%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%97%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%AF.jpg/250px-%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%86_%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%9F%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A8%2C_%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%AD%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BF_%E0%A4%93%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AA_%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%97%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%AF.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%86_%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%9F%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A8,_%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%AD%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BF_%E0%A4%93%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AA_%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%97%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%AF.jpg) Chandua lanterns on display for Diwali. Rituals and preparations for Diwali begin days or weeks in advance, typically after the festival of Dusshera that precedes Diwali by about 20 days.[\[80\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691-92) The festival formally begins two days before the night of Diwali and ends two days thereafter. Each day has the following rituals and significance:[\[55\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61) Diwali has become more popular in other countries. In [New York City](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York_City "New York City") lawmakers have passed legislation to make holidays in school. But debates over the holiday push back. In the future Diwali will be a holiday.[\[120\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-135) ### Dhanteras and Yama Deepam (Day 1) Main article: [Dhanteras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhanteras "Dhanteras") [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/1c/DiwaliOilLampCrop.JPG/250px-DiwaliOilLampCrop.JPG)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:DiwaliOilLampCrop.JPG) Dhanteras starts off the Diwali celebrations with the lighting of [Diya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diya_$lamp$ "Diya (lamp)") or Panati lamp rows, house cleaning and floor [rangoli](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rangoli "Rangoli") Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi, is derived from Dhan meaning wealth and teras meaning thirteenth, marks the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Kartik and the beginning of Diwali in most parts of India.[\[121\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136) On this day, many Hindus clean their homes and business premises. They install diyas, small earthen oil-filled lamps that they light up for the next five days, near Lakshmi and Ganesha iconography.[\[121\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136)[\[118\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133) Women and children decorate doorways within homes and offices with rangolis, colourful designs made from rice flour, flower petals, coloured rice or coloured sand,[\[14\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16) while the boys and men decorate the roofs and walls of family homes, markets, and temples and string up lights and lanterns. The day also marks a major shopping day for buying new utensils, home equipment, gold jewellery, firecrackers, and other items.[\[118\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133)[\[55\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61)[\[83\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Karen_Pechilis_2007_pp_273-275-95)[\[122\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-137) On the evening of Dhanteras, families offer prayers (puja) to Lakshmi and Ganesha, and lay offerings of puffed rice, candy toys, rice cakes and batashas (hollow sugar cakes).[\[118\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133) According to Tracy Pintchman, Dhanteras is a symbol of annual renewal, cleansing and an auspicious beginning for the next year.[\[121\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136) The term Dhan for this day also alludes to the [Ayurvedic](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayurvedic "Ayurvedic") icon [Dhanvantari](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhanvantari "Dhanvantari"), the god of health and healing, who is believed to have emerged from the "churning of cosmic ocean" on the same day as Lakshmi.[\[121\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136) Some communities, particularly those active in Ayurvedic and health-related professions, pray or perform [havan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homa_$ritual$ "Homa (ritual)") rituals to Dhanvantari on Dhanteras.[\[121\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136) On Yama Deepam (also known as Yama Dipadana or Jam ke Diya), Hindus light a [diya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diya_$lamp$ "Diya (lamp)"), ideally made of wheat flour and filled with sesame oil, which faces south in the back of their homes. This is believed to please [Yama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yama_$Hinduism$ "Yama (Hinduism)"), the god of death, and to ward off untimely death.[\[123\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-drikpanchang1-138) Some Hindus observe Yama Deepam on the second night before the main day of Diwali.[\[124\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-swahainternational1-139)[\[125\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-astroved1-140) ### Naraka Chaturdashi, Kali Chaudas, Chhoti Diwali, Hanuman Puja, Roop Chaudas, Yama Deepam (Day 2) Main article: [Naraka Chaturdashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naraka_Chaturdashi "Naraka Chaturdashi") [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/96/Diwali_Food_and_Celebrations_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg/250px-Diwali_Food_and_Celebrations_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diwali_Food_and_Celebrations_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d1/Hindu_diet%2C_meal_setting_at_festival.jpg/250px-Hindu_diet%2C_meal_setting_at_festival.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Hindu_diet,_meal_setting_at_festival.jpg) Choti Diwali is the major shopping day for festive mithai (sweets) Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as Chhoti Diwali, is the second day of festivities coinciding with the fourteenth day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Kartik.[\[126\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-141) The term "chhoti" means little, while "Naraka" means hell and "Chaturdashi" means "fourteenth".[\[127\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361-142) The day and its rituals are interpreted as ways to liberate any soul from suffering in "Naraka", or hell, as well as a reminder of spiritual auspiciousness. For some Hindus, it is a day to pray for the peace to the manes, or defiled souls of one's ancestors and light their way for their journeys in the cyclic afterlife.[\[128\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361,_63-143) A mythological interpretation of this festive day is the destruction of the asura (demon) [Narakasura](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narakasura "Narakasura") by Krishna, a victory that frees 16,000 imprisoned princesses kidnapped by Narakasura.[\[127\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361-142) It is also celebrated as Roop Chaudas in some North Indian households, where women bathe before sunrise, while lighting a [diya (lamp)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diya_$lamp$ "Diya (lamp)") in the bath area, they believe it helps enhance their beauty – it is a fun ritual that young girls enjoy as part of festivities. Ubtan is applied by the women which is made up of special gram flour mixed with herbs for cleansing and beautifying themselves. Naraka Chaturdashi is also a major day for purchasing festive foods, particularly sweets. A variety of sweets are prepared using flour, semolina, rice, chickpea flour, dry fruit pieces powders or paste, milk solids (mawa or khoya) and clarified butter (ghee).[\[10\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12) According to Goldstein, these are then shaped into various forms, such as [laddus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laddu "Laddu"), [barfis](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barfi "Barfi"), [halwa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Halwa "Halwa"), [kachoris](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kachori "Kachori"), [shrikhand](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shrikhand "Shrikhand"), and [sandesh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandesh_$confectionery$ "Sandesh (confectionery)"), rolled and stuffed delicacies, such as karanji, [shankarpali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shankarpali "Shankarpali"), maladu, susiyam, pottukadalai. Sometimes these are wrapped with edible silver foil ([vark](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vark "Vark")). Confectioners and shops create Diwali-themed decorative displays, selling these in large quantities, which are stocked for home celebrations to welcome guests and as gifts.[\[10\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12)[\[118\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133) Families also prepare homemade delicacies for Lakshmi Pujan, regarded as the main day of Diwali.[\[10\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12) Chhoti Diwali is also a day for visiting friends, business associates and relatives, and exchanging gifts.[\[118\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133) On the second day of Diwali, Hanuman Puja is performed in some parts of India especially in [Gujarat](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarat "Gujarat"). It coincides with the day of Kali Chaudas. It is believed that spirits roam around on the night of Kali Chaudas, and [Hanuman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman "Hanuman"), who is the deity of strength, power, and protection, is worshipped to seek protection from the spirits. Diwali is also celebrated to mark the return of [Rama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rama "Rama") to [Ayodhya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayodhya_$Ramayana$ "Ayodhya (Ramayana)") after defeating the demon-king Ravana[\[129\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-144) and completing his fourteen years of exile. The devotion and dedication of Hanuman pleased Rama so much that he blessed Hanuman to be worshipped before him. Thus, people worship Hanuman the day before Diwali's main day.[\[130\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-drikpanchang.com-145) This day is commonly celebrated as Diwali in [Tamil Nadu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamil_Nadu "Tamil Nadu"), [Goa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goa "Goa"), and [Karnataka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karnataka "Karnataka").\[[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed "Wikipedia:Citation needed")\] Traditionally, [Marathi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marathi_people "Marathi people") Hindus and South Indian Hindus receive an oil massage from the elders in the family on the day and then take a ritual bath, all before sunrise.[\[131\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394-146) Many visit their favourite Hindu temple.[\[132\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTERodrigues201629-147) Some Hindus observe Yama Deepam (also known as Yama Dipadana or Jam ke Diya) on the second day of Diwali, instead of the first day. A diya that is filled with sesame oil is lit at back of their homes facing in the southern direction. This is believed to please [Yama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yama_$Hinduism$ "Yama (Hinduism)"), the god of death, and to ward off untimely death.[\[123\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-drikpanchang1-138)[\[124\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-swahainternational1-139)[\[125\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-astroved1-140) ### Lakshmi Pujan, Kali Puja (Day 3) Main articles: [Lakshmi Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi_Puja "Lakshmi Puja") and [Kali Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali_Puja "Kali Puja") The third day is the height of the festival[\[133\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJacobs201026-148) and coincides with the last day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Kartik. This is the day when Hindu, Jain and Sikh temples and homes are aglow with lights, thereby making it the "festival of lights". The word Deepawali comes from the Sanskrit word दीप (dīpa, "light") and आवलि (āvali, "series, line, row"), where dīpa means an Indian lantern or lamp.[\[47\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9362-52)[\[134\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Mead2008-149) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/7c/Kit_Kat_Firecracker.jpg/250px-Kit_Kat_Firecracker.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Kit_Kat_Firecracker.jpg) A sparkling firecracker, commonly known as 'Kit Kat' in India The youngest members in the family visit their elders, such as grandparents and other senior members of the community, on this day. Small business owners give gifts or special bonus payments to their employees between Dhanteras and Lakshmi Pujan.[\[131\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394-146)[\[135\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011254-150) Shops either do not open or close early on this day allowing employees to enjoy family time. Shopkeepers and small operations perform puja rituals in their office premises. Unlike some other festivals, the Hindus typically do not fast during the five-day long Diwali including Lakshmi Pujan, rather they feast and share the bounties of the season at their workplaces, community centres, temples, and homes.[\[131\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394-146) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/7d/Woman_lighting_the_candles_for_the_Festival_of_Lights_in_India_%28cropped%29.jpg/250px-Woman_lighting_the_candles_for_the_Festival_of_Lights_in_India_%28cropped%29.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Woman_lighting_the_candles_for_the_Festival_of_Lights_in_India_$cropped$.jpg) Woman lighting candles for Diwali. People light candles and clay lamps in their houses and at temples during Diwali night As the evening approaches, celebrants will wear new clothes or their best outfits, teenage girls and women, in particular, wear saris and jewellery.[\[136\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9395-151) At dusk, family members gather for the Lakshmi Pujan,[\[136\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9395-151) although prayers will also be offered to other deities, such as Ganesha, Saraswati, Rama, Lakshmana, Sita, Hanuman, or Kubera.[\[55\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61) The lamps from the puja ceremony are then used to light more earthenware lamps, which are placed in rows along the parapets of temples and houses,[\[137\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200697%E2%80%9398-152) while some diyas are set adrift on rivers and streams.[\[7\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Mead-2008b-9)[\[138\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-153)[\[139\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKlostermaier201459,_69-154) After the puja, people go outside and celebrate by lighting up patakhe (fireworks) together, and then share a family feast and [mithai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mithai_$confectionery$ "Mithai (confectionery)") (sweets, desserts).[\[55\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61) The puja and rituals in the [Bengali Hindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengali_Hindu "Bengali Hindu") community focus on Kali, the goddess of war, instead of Lakshmi.[\[113\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127)[\[140\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTERhodes20101%E2%80%932-155) According to Rachel Fell McDermott, a scholar of South Asian, particular Bengali, studies, in Bengal during Navaratri (Dussehra elsewhere in India) the [Durga puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_puja "Durga puja") is the main focus, although in the eastern and northeastern states the two are synonymous, but on Diwali the focus is on the puja dedicated to Kali. These two festivals likely developed in tandem over their recent histories, states McDermott.[\[113\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127) Textual evidence suggests that Bengali Hindus worshipped Lakshmi before the colonial era, and that the Kali puja is a more recent phenomenon.[\[p\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-156) Contemporary Bengali celebrations mirror those found elsewhere, with teenage boys playing with fireworks and the sharing of festive food with family, but with the [Shakti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaktism "Shaktism") goddess Kali as the focus.[\[141\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDaniel2004253%E2%80%93255-157) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/18/Sparkles_phuljhari_fireworks_on_DIWALI%2C_festival_of_lights.jpg/250px-Sparkles_phuljhari_fireworks_on_DIWALI%2C_festival_of_lights.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Sparkles_phuljhari_fireworks_on_DIWALI,_festival_of_lights.jpg) A child playing with [(fuljhadi) sparklers](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sparkler "Sparkler") during Diwali On the night of Diwali, rituals across much of India are dedicated to Lakshmi to welcome her into their cleaned homes and bring prosperity and happiness for the coming year.[\[142\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363-158)[\[62\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-S_A_NEWS-2020-68) While the cleaning, or painting, of the home is in part for goddess Lakshmi, it also signifies the ritual "reenactment of the cleansing, purifying action of the monsoon rains" that would have concluded in most of the Indian subcontinent.[\[142\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363-158) Vaishnava families recite Hindu legends of the victory of good over evil and the return of hope after despair on the Diwali night, where the main characters may include Rama, Krishna, Vamana or one of the avatars of Vishnu, the divine husband of Lakshmi.[\[142\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363-158)[\[143\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9397-159) At dusk, lamps placed earlier in the inside and outside of the home are lit up to welcome Lakshmi.[\[133\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJacobs201026-148) Family members light up firecrackers, which some interpret as a way to ward off all evil spirits and the inauspicious, as well as add to the festive mood.[\[144\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Firecracker2-160)[\[145\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Firecracker3-161) According to Pintchman, who quotes Raghavan, this ritual may also be linked to the tradition in some communities of paying respect to ancestors. Earlier in the season's fortnight, some welcome the souls of their ancestors to join the family for the festivities with the Mahalaya. The Diwali night's lights and firecrackers, in this interpretation, represent a celebratory and symbolic farewell to the departed ancestral souls.[\[146\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563-162) The celebrations and rituals of the Jains and the Sikhs are similar to those of the Hindus where social and community bonds are renewed. Major temples and homes are decorated with lights, festive foods shared with all, friends and relatives remembered and visited with gifts.[\[135\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011254-150)[\[98\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELong200926,_42-110) ### Annakut, Balipratipada (Padwa), New Year's Day, Govardhan Puja (Day 4) Main articles: [Balipratipada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balipratipada "Balipratipada") and [Govardhan Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Govardhan_Puja "Govardhan Puja") The day after Diwali is the first day of the bright fortnight of Kartik.[\[147\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364-163) It is regionally called Annakut (heap of grain), Padwa, Goverdhan puja, Bali Pratipada, Bali Padyami, Kartik Shukla Pratipada and other names.[\[14\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16)[\[147\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364-163) According to one tradition, the day is associated with the story of Bali's defeat at the hands of Vishnu.[\[148\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-NarayananKurup1976-164)[\[149\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-165) In another interpretation, it is thought to reference the legend of Parvati and her husband Shiva playing a game of dyuta (dice) on a board of twelve squares and thirty pieces, Parvati wins. Shiva surrenders his shirt and adornments to her, rendering him naked.[\[147\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364-163) According to Handelman and Shulman, as quoted by Pintchman, this legend is a Hindu metaphor for the cosmic process for creation and dissolution of the world through the masculine destructive power, as represented by Shiva, and the feminine procreative power, represented by Parvati, where twelve reflects the number of months in the cyclic year, while thirty are the number of days in its lunisolar month.[\[147\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364-163) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/3a/Annakut.jpg/330px-Annakut.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Annakut.jpg) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/78/Lord_Krishna_and_Goverdhan_parwat_in_his_left_hand%27s_finger.jpg/250px-Lord_Krishna_and_Goverdhan_parwat_in_his_left_hand%27s_finger.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Lord_Krishna_and_Goverdhan_parwat_in_his_left_hand%27s_finger.jpg) Annakut community meals (left), Krishna holding [Govardhan Hill](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Govardhan_Hill "Govardhan Hill") ritually made from cow dung, rice and flowers (right). This day ritually celebrates the bond between the wife and husband,[\[150\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) and in some Hindu communities, husbands will celebrate this with gifts to their wives. In other regions, parents invite a newly married daughter, or son, together with their spouses to a festive meal and give them gifts.[\[150\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) In some rural communities of the north, west and central regions, the fourth day is celebrated as Govardhan puja, honouring the legend of the Hindu god Krishna saving the cowherd and farming communities from incessant rains and floods triggered by Indra's anger,[\[150\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) which he accomplished by lifting the Govardhan mountain. This legend is remembered through the ritual of building small mountain-like miniatures from cow dung.[\[150\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) According to Kinsley, the ritual use of cow dung, a common fertiliser, is an agricultural motif and a celebration of its significance to annual crop cycles.[\[119\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKinsley198833%E2%80%9334-134)[\[151\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200564%E2%80%9365-167)[\[152\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELodrick1987-168) The agricultural symbolism is also observed on this day by many Hindus as Annakut, literally "mountain of food". Communities prepare over one hundred dishes from a variety of ingredients, which is then dedicated to Krishna before being shared among the community. Hindu temples on this day prepare and present "mountains of sweets" to the faithful who have gathered for darshan (visit).[\[150\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) In Gujarat, Annakut is the first day of the new year and celebrated through the purchase of essentials, or sabras (literally, "good things in life"), such as salt, offering prayers to Krishna and visiting temples.[\[150\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) In Gujarat [New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_New_Year%27s_days "Indian New Year's days") is celebrated after the day of Diwali. In the early morning people take showers, do prayer at home, visit temples for worship and children in the evening visit neighbour's houses to say happy new year, shake hands, get mukhvas for dessert, and chocolate. ### Bhai Duj, Bhau-Beej, Vishwakarma Puja (Day 5) Main articles: [Bhai Dooj](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhai_Dooj "Bhai Dooj") and [Vishwakarma Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishwakarma_Puja "Vishwakarma Puja") [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/82/Diwali_%28Bhaiya_Dweej_%29.JPG/250px-Diwali_%28Bhaiya_Dweej_%29.JPG)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diwali_$Bhaiya_Dweej_$.JPG) A sister ritually feeding her brother on Bhai Duj-Diwali The last day of the festival, the second day of the bright fortnight of Kartik, is called Bhai Duj (literally "brother's day"[\[153\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-169)), Bhau Beej, Bhai Tilak or Bhai Phonta. It celebrates the sister-brother bond, similar in spirit to [Raksha Bandhan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raksha_Bandhan "Raksha Bandhan") but it is the brother that travels to meet the sister and her family. This festive day is interpreted by some to symbolise Yama's sister [Yamuna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yamuna_in_Hinduism "Yamuna in Hinduism") welcoming Yama with a tilaka, while others interpret it as the arrival of Krishna at his sister [Subhadra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subhadra "Subhadra")'s place after defeating Narakasura. Subhadra welcomes him with a tilaka on his forehead.[\[150\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166)[\[154\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200566%E2%80%9369-170) The day celebrates the sibling bond between brother and sister.[\[155\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-171) On this day the womenfolk of the family gather, perform a puja with prayers for the well-being of their brothers, then return to a ritual of feeding their brothers with their hands and receiving gifts. According to Pintchman, in some Hindu traditions the women recite tales where sisters protect their brothers from enemies that seek to cause him either bodily or spiritual harm.[\[154\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200566%E2%80%9369-170) In historic times, this was a day in autumn when brothers would travel to meet their sisters or invite their sister's family to their village to celebrate their sister-brother bond with the bounty of seasonal harvests.[\[55\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61) The artisan Hindu and Sikh community celebrates the fourth day as the Vishwakarma puja day.[\[q\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-173) Vishwakarma is the presiding Hindu deity for those in architecture, building, manufacturing, textile work and crafts trades.[\[116\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-haar2009-131)[\[r\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-175) The looms, tools of trade, machines and workplaces are cleaned and prayers offered to these livelihood means.[\[158\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-176) ## Other traditions and significance During the season of Diwali, numerous rural townships and villages host [melas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mela_Festival "Mela Festival"),[\[159\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Kadowala1998-177) or fairs, where local producers and artisans trade produce and goods. A variety of entertainments are usually available for inhabitants of the local community to enjoy. The women, in particular, adorn themselves in colourful attire and [decorate](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mehndi "Mehndi") their hands with [henna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henna "Henna"). Such events are also mentioned in Sikh historical records.[\[160\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994188%E2%80%93190_with_footnote_96-178)[\[s\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-179) In the modern day, Diwali mela are held at college, or university, campuses or as community events by members of the Indian diaspora. At such events a variety of music, dance and arts performances, food, crafts, and cultural celebrations are featured.[\[161\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-180)[\[162\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-181)[\[92\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESalamone2004112,_Article_on_Divali_by_Lindsey_Harlan-104) In October 2025, the state of California made Diwali an official state holiday.[\[163\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-182) ### Economics Diwali marks a major shopping period in India,[\[28\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-wsj-30) and is comparable to the Christmas period in terms of consumer purchases and economic activity.[\[164\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKlostermaier201459-183) It is traditionally a time when households purchase new clothing, home refurbishments, gifts, gold, jewelry,[\[165\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-184)[\[166\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-185) and other large purchases particularly as the festival is dedicated to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and such purchases are considered auspicious.[\[167\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-186)[\[168\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-187) According to Rao, Diwali is one of the major festivals where rural Indians spend a significant portion of their annual income, and is a means for them to renew their relationships and social networks.[\[169\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTERao200171%E2%80%9395-188) Other goods that are bought in substantial quantities during Diwali include confectionery and fireworks. In 2013, about ₹25 billion (US\$300 million) of fireworks were sold to merchants for the Diwali season, an equivalent retail value of about ₹50 billion (US\$590 million) according to The Times of India.[\[170\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-189)[\[t\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-192) [ASSOCHAM](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ASSOCHAM "ASSOCHAM"), a trade organisation in India, forecasted that online shopping alone to be over ₹300 billion (US\$3.5 billion) over the 2017 Diwali season.[\[173\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-193) About two-thirds of Indian households, according to the ASSOCHAM forecast, would spend between ₹5,000 (US\$59) and ₹10,000 (US\$120) to celebrate Diwali in 2017.[\[174\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-194) Stock markets like NSE and BSE in India are typically closed during Diwali, with the exception of a Diwali Muhurat trading session for an hour in the evening to coincide with the beginning of the new year.[\[175\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-195) In 2020, the INDF ETF was launched to mark the start of Diwali.[\[176\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-196) ### Politics Diwali has increasingly attracted cultural exchanges, becoming occasions for politicians and religious leaders worldwide to meet Hindu or Indian origin citizens, diplomatic staff or neighbours. Many participate in other socio-political events as a symbol of support for diversity and inclusiveness. The Catholic dicastery [Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pontifical_Council_for_Interreligious_Dialogue "Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue"), founded as Secretariat for non-Christians by Pope Paul VI, began sending official greetings and the Pope's message to the Hindus on Diwali in the mid-1990s.[\[177\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBarbato201793%E2%80%9397-197)[\[u\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-198) Many governments encourage or sponsor Diwali-related festivities in their territories. For example, the Singaporean government, in association with the [Hindu Endowments Board](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_Endowments_Board "Hindu Endowments Board") of Singapore, organizes many cultural events during Diwali every year.[\[178\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-199) National and civic leaders such as [the former Prince Charles](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_III "Charles III") have attended Diwali celebrations at prominent Hindu temples in the UK, such as the [Swaminarayan Temple in Neasden](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neasden_Temple "Neasden Temple"), using the occasion to highlight contributions of the Hindu community to British society.[\[179\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-200)[\[180\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-201) Additionally, cities across the UK show support of the celebrations through Diwali lights, decorations, and cultural festivities such as dance performances, food stalls and workshops.[\[181\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-202) Since 2009, Diwali has been celebrated every year at [10 Downing Street](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/10_Downing_Street "10 Downing Street"), the residence of the British Prime Minister.[\[182\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-203) Diwali was first celebrated in the [White House](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_House "White House") by [George W. Bush](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_W._Bush "George W. Bush") in 2003, and its religious and historical significance was officially recognized by the [United States Congress](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Congress "United States Congress") in 2007.[\[183\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-204)[\[184\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-205) [Barack Obama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barack_Obama "Barack Obama") became the first president to personally attend Diwali at the White House in 2009. On the eve of his first visit to India as President of the United States, Obama released an official statement sharing his best wishes with "those celebrating Diwali".[\[185\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-206) President [Donald J. Trump](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donald_Trump "Donald Trump") posted an official statement celebrating Diwali in October 2025.[\[186\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-207)[\[187\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-208) A similar message posted online by Trump administration [FBI](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federal_Bureau_of_Investigation "Federal Bureau of Investigation") [Director](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Director_of_the_Federal_Bureau_of_Investigation "Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation") [Kash Patel](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kash_Patel "Kash Patel") was met with a flood of [racist](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Racism "Racism") and [xenophobic](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xenophobia "Xenophobia") invective from [Christian nationalists](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_nationalism "Christian nationalism") and other [MAGA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Make_America_Great_Again "Make America Great Again")\-aligned individuals.[\[188\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-209)[\[189\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-210) As of October 2025, Diwali was an official holiday in three U.S. states: [California](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California "California"), [Connecticut](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Connecticut "Connecticut"), and [Pennsylvania](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pennsylvania "Pennsylvania").[\[190\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-211)[\[191\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-212) Every year during Diwali, Indian forces approach their [Pakistani](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pakistani "Pakistani") counterparts at the border bearing gifts of traditional Indian confectionery, a gesture that is returned in kind by the Pakistani soldiers who give Pakistani sweets to the Indian soldiers.[\[192\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-213)[\[v\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-217)[\[196\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-218) ## Hazards See also: [Firecrackers in India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Firecrackers_in_India "Firecrackers in India") and [Fireworks safety](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fireworks_safety "Fireworks safety") The use of [firecrackers](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Firecracker "Firecracker") on Diwali increases the concentration of [dust](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dust "Dust") and [pollutants](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pollutant "Pollutant") in the air. After firing, the fine dust particles get settled on the surrounding surfaces which are packed with chemicals like [copper](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Copper "Copper"), [zinc](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zinc "Zinc"), [sodium](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sodium "Sodium"), [lead](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lead "Lead"), [magnesium](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnesium "Magnesium"), [cadmium](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cadmium "Cadmium") and pollutants like [oxides of sulfur](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sulfur_oxide "Sulfur oxide") and [nitrogen](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nitrogen_oxide "Nitrogen oxide").[\[197\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-219) These invisible yet harmful particles affect the environment and in turn, put people's health at stake.[\[198\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-220) The smoke created by firecrackers lit up on Diwali causes smog which sometimes takes days to clear.[\[199\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-221) During Diwali, the levels of suspended particulate matter increase. When people are exposed to these pollutant particles, they may suffer from eye, nose, and throat-related problems. To produce colours when crackers are burst, [carcinogenic](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carcinogen "Carcinogen") and poisonous elements are used.[\[200\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-222) During the 2023 celebration, [New Delhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Delhi "New Delhi") briefly took the top spot in the world for [air pollution](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_pollution "Air pollution") with an [air quality index](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_quality_index "Air quality index") of 680 on one night.[\[201\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-223) The use of fireworks during Diwali can also lead to burn injuries. One particular firework called anar (fountain) has been found to be responsible for 65% of such injuries, with adults being the typical victims. Most of the injuries sustained are Group I type burns (minor) requiring only outpatient care. Experts urge precaution around candles and fires and ask for children to be kept a safe distance from flames and to enjoy the festivity of Diwali.[\[202\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-224)[\[203\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-225) ## Guinness World Record In October 2025, a Diwali celebration in [Ayodhya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayodhya "Ayodhya"), Uttar Pradesh, India, broke the [Guinness World Record](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guinness_World_Records "Guinness World Records") for the largest display of oil lamps with 2,617,615 displayed on the eve of Diwali.[\[204\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-r576-226) ## UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage Diwali has been inscribed on [UNESCO’s](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UNESCO "UNESCO") List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, becoming the 16th Indian tradition to receive global honour joining the ranks of [Durga Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Puja "Durga Puja") and [Yoga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga "Yoga") in international recognition.[\[205\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-227) ## See also - [Bandna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandna "Bandna") – Agrarian festival that coincides with Diwali - [Bandi Chhor Divas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandi_Chhor_Divas "Bandi Chhor Divas") – Sikh festival that coincides with Diwali - [Candlemas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Candlemas "Candlemas") – the [Christian](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian "Christian") celebration involving candles, celebrating the [Presentation of Jesus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presentation_of_Jesus "Presentation of Jesus") - [Chinese New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_New_Year "Chinese New Year") - Chinese celebration, one of the most important holidays in Chinese culture - [Day of the Little Candles](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Day_of_the_Little_Candles "Day of the Little Candles") – the Colombian Catholic festival of candles - [Diwali (Jainism)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali_$Jainism$ "Diwali (Jainism)") – Diwali's significance in Jainism - [Guy Fawkes Night](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guy_Fawkes_Night "Guy Fawkes Night") – the British festival of bonfires and fireworks held on the fifth of November. In towns with a large [British Asian](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Asians "British Asians") community, Diwali and Guy Fawkes festivities are often combined. - [Hanukkah](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanukkah "Hanukkah") – the Jewish festival of lights - [Jashn-e-Chiragah](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jashn-e-Chiragah "Jashn-e-Chiragah") - the Mughal celebration of Diwali - [Kali Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali_Puja "Kali Puja") – Diwali is most commonly known as Kali Puja in West Bengal or in Bengali dominated areas - [Karthika Deepam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karthika_Deepam "Karthika Deepam") – the festival of lights observed by [Tamils](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamils "Tamils") of [Tamil Nadu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamil_Nadu "Tamil Nadu"), [Puducherry](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puducherry_$union_territory$ "Puducherry (union territory)"), [Kerala](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kerala "Kerala"), [Sri Lanka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_Lanka "Sri Lanka") and elsewhere - [Lehyam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lehyam "Lehyam"), often prepared on the occasion of Deepavali to aid the digestion - [Lantern Festival](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lantern_Festival "Lantern Festival") – the Chinese festival of lanterns - [Loy Krathong](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loy_Krathong "Loy Krathong") – the Thai festival of lights - [Nowruz](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nowruz "Nowruz") – the Persian new year and festival of lights - [Saint Lucy's Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Lucy%27s_Day "Saint Lucy's Day") – the Christian festival of lights - [Swanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swanti_$festival$ "Swanti (festival)") – Newar version of Diwali - [Tihar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tihar_$festival$ "Tihar (festival)") – Nepali version of Diwali - [Walpurgis Night](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walpurgis_Night "Walpurgis Night") – the German festival of bonfires ## Notes 1. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-4) Also spelled as Dipawali, Deepavali, or Deepawali. 2. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-6) Related to [Jain Diwali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali_$Jainism$ "Diwali (Jainism)"), [Bandi Chhor Divas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandi_Chhor_Divas "Bandi Chhor Divas"), [Tihar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tihar_$festival$ "Tihar (festival)"), [Swanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swanti_$festival$ "Swanti (festival)"), [Sohrai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sohrai "Sohrai") and [Bandna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandna "Bandna") 3. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-35) except [Sarawak](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarawak "Sarawak") 4. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-46) Also spelled as Divali or Dewali.[\[4\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Mead-2008a-5)[\[42\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEShattuck199951,_124-45) 5. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-50) The holiday is known as dipawoli in [Assamese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assamese_language "Assamese language"): দীপাৱলী, dīpabolī or dipali in [Bengali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengali_language "Bengali language"): দীপাবলি/দীপালি, dīvāḷi in [Gujarati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarati_language "Gujarati language"): દિવાળી, divālī in [Hindi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindi_language "Hindi language"): दिवाली, dīpavaḷi in [Kannada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kannada_language "Kannada language"): ದೀಪಾವಳಿ, [Konkani](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Konkani_language "Konkani language"): दिवाळी, dīpāvalī in [Maithili](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maithili_language "Maithili language"): दीपावली, [Malayalam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malayalam_language "Malayalam language"): ദീപാവലി, [Marathi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marathi_language "Marathi language"): दिवाळी, dīpābali in [Odia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Odia_language "Odia language"): ଦୀପାବଳି, dīvālī in [Punjabi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punjabi_language "Punjabi language"): ਦੀਵਾਲੀ, diyārī in [Sindhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindhi_language "Sindhi language"): दियारी, tīpāvaḷi in [Tamil](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamil_language "Tamil language"): தீபாவளி, and [Telugu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telugu_language "Telugu language"): దీపావళి, [Galungan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galungan "Galungan") in [Balinese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balinese_language "Balinese language") and [Swanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swanti_$festival$ "Swanti (festival)") in [Nepali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepali_language "Nepali language"): स्वन्ति or [tihar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tihar_$festival$ "Tihar (festival)") in [Nepali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepali_language "Nepali language"): तिहार and Thudar Parba in [Tulu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tulu_language "Tulu language"): ತುಡರ್ ಪರ್ಬ. 6. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-55) Historical records appear inconsistent about the name of the lunar month in which Diwali is observed. One of the earliest reports on this variation was by Wilson in 1847. He explained that though the actual Hindu festival day is the same, it is identified differently in regional calendars because there are two traditions in the Hindu calendar. One tradition starts a new month from the new moon, while the other starts it from the full moon.[\[49\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-54) 7. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-75) According to Audrey Truschke, the Sunni Muslim emperor Aurangzeb did limit "public observation" of many religious holidays such as Hindu Diwali and Holi, but also of Shia observance of Muharram and the Persian holiday of Nauruz. According to Truschke, Aurangzeb did so because he found the festivals "distasteful" and also from "concerns with public safety" lurking in the background.[\[67\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTETruschke201774%E2%80%9375-73) According to Stephen Blake, a part of the reason that led Aurangzeb to ban Diwali was the practice of gambling and drunken celebrations.[\[66\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389-72) Truschke states that Aurangzeb did not ban private practices altogether and instead "rescinded taxes previously levied on Hindu festivals" by his Mughal predecessors.[\[67\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTETruschke201774%E2%80%9375-73) John Richards disagrees and states Aurangzeb, in his zeal to revive Islam and introduce strict [Sharia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sharia "Sharia") in his empire, issued a series of edicts against Hindu festivals and shrines.[\[68\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Richards1995p175-74) According to Richards, it was Akbar who abolished the discriminatory taxes on Hindu festivals and pilgrims, and it was Aurangzeb who reinstated the Mughal era discriminatory taxes on festivals and increased other religion-based taxes.[\[68\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Richards1995p175-74) 8. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-76) Some Muslims joined the Hindu community in celebrating Diwali in the Mughal era. Illustrative Islamic records, states Stephen Blake, include those of 16th-century Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi who wrote, "during Diwali.... the ignorant ones amongst Muslims, particularly women, perform the ceremonies... they celebrate it like their own Id and send presents to their daughters and sisters,.... they attach much importance and weight to this season \[of Diwali\]."[\[66\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389-72) 9. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-78) Williams Jones stated that the Bhutachaturdasi Yamaterpanam is dedicated to Yama and ancestral spirits, the Lacshmipuja dipanwita to goddess Lakshmi with invocations to Kubera, the Dyuta pratipat Belipuja to Shiva-Parvati and Bali legends, and the Bhratri dwitiya to Yama-Yamuna legend and the Hindus celebrate the brother-sister relationship on this day.[\[69\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-jone1799p263-77) Jones also noted that on the Diwali day, the Hindus had a mock cremation ceremony with "torches and flaming brands" called Ulcadanam, where they said goodbye to their colleagues who had died in war or in a foreign country and had never returned home. The ceremony lit the path of the missing to the mansion of Yama.[\[69\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-jone1799p263-77) 10. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-82) Some inscriptions mention the festival of lights in Prakrit terms such as tipa-malai, sara-vilakku and others. 11. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-86) The Sanskrit inscription is in the Grantha script. It is well preserved on the north wall of the second prakara in the [Ranganatha temple](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ranganathaswamy_Temple,_Srirangam "Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam"), Srirangam island, Tamil Nadu.[\[75\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-kielhorn1896-85) 12. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-91) The Diwali-related inscription is the 4th inscription and it includes the year Vikrama Era 1268 (c. 1211 CE).[\[78\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Hultzsch1268-89) 13. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-113) Scholars contest the 527 BCE date and consider Mahavira's biographical details as uncertain. Some suggest he lived in the 5th-century BCE contemporaneously with the Buddha.[\[99\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPotter200735%E2%80%9336-111)[\[100\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEDundas200222-112) 14. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-123) Sikhs historically referred to this festival as Diwali. It was in early 20th-century, states Harjot Oberoi, a scholar of Sikh history, when the Khalsa Tract Society triggered by the [Singh Sabha Movement](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Singh_Sabha_Movement "Singh Sabha Movement") sought to establish a Sikh identity distinct from the Hindus and the Muslims.[\[108\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994346%E2%80%93349-121) They launched a sustained campaign to discourage Sikhs from participating in Holi and Diwali, renaming the festivals, publishing the seasonal greeting cards in the Gurmukhi language and relinking their religious significance to Sikh historical events.[\[109\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994347%E2%80%93349-122) While some of these efforts have had a lasting impact for the Sikh community, the lighting, feasting together, social bonding, sharing and other ritual grammar of Sikh celebrations during the Diwali season are similar to those of the Hindus and Jains.[\[109\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994347%E2%80%93349-122) 15. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-128) Hindus of eastern and northeastern states of India associate the festival with the goddess [Durga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga "Durga"), or her fierce avatar [Kali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali "Kali") ([Shaktism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaktism "Shaktism")).[\[84\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEAmazzone2012-96) According to McDermott, this region also celebrated the Lakshmi puja historically, while the Kali puja tradition started during the British Raj and was particularly prominent from the 1920s.[\[113\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127) 16. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-156) According to McDermott, while the Durga Puja is the largest Bengali festival and it can be traced to the 16th-century or earlier, the start of Kali puja tradition on Diwali is traceable to no earlier than about the mid-18th-century during the reign of Raja Krishnacandra Ray.[\[113\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127) McDermott further writes that the older historic documents of the Bengal confirm that the Bengali Hindus have long celebrated the night of Diwali with illuminations, firecrackers, foods, new account books, Lakshmi (not Kali), inviting their friends (including Europeans during the colonial era) and gambling.[\[113\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127) The Kali sarbajanin tradition on Diwali, with tantric elements in some locations, grew slowly into a popular Bengali tradition after the mid-1920s.[\[113\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127) 17. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-173) According to a Government of Himachal Pradesh and India publication, the Vishvakarma puja is observed on the fourth day of Diwali in the Himalayan state.[\[156\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-172) 18. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-175) The Vishwakarma puja day is alternatively observed in other Hindu communities in accordance with the Hindu solar calendar, and this falls in September.[\[157\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMelton2011908%E2%80%93909-174) 19. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-179) [Max Macauliffe](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Max_Arthur_Macauliffe "Max Arthur Macauliffe"), who lived in northwest Punjab area during the colonial era and is known for his work on Sikh literature and history, wrote about Diwali melas to which people visited to buy horses, seek pleasure, pray in nearby Amritsar temples for the prosperity of their children and their souls, and some on "errands, more or less worthy or unworthy character".[\[160\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994188%E2%80%93190_with_footnote_96-178) 20. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-192) A 2017 estimate states 50,000 tons (100 million pounds) of fireworks are exploded annually in India over the Diwali festival.[\[171\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-190) As a comparison, Americans explode 134,000 tons (268 million pounds) of fireworks for 4 July celebrations in the United States.[\[172\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-191) 21. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-198) The Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue was founded as Secretariat for non-Christians by Pope Paul VI. It began sending official greetings and message to Muslims in 1967 on Id al-Fitr. About 30 years later, in the mid-1990s the Catholic authorities began sending two additional annual official greetings and message, one to the Hindus on Diwali and the other to the Buddhists on Buddha's birthday.[\[177\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBarbato201793%E2%80%9397-197) 22. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-217) Diwali was not a public holiday in Pakistan from 1947 to 2016. Diwali along with Holi for Hindus, and Easter for Christians, was adopted as public holiday resolution by Pakistan's parliament in 2016, giving the local governments and public institutions the right to declare Holi as a holiday and grant leave for its minority communities, for the first time.[\[193\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-214)[\[194\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-215) Diwali celebrations have been relatively rare in contemporary Pakistan, but observed across religious lines, including by Muslims in cities such as Peshawar.[\[195\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-216) ## References 1. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-1) Townsend, Charles M (2014). The Oxford Handbook of Sikh Studies. Oxford University Press. p. 440. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-19-969930-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-969930-8 "Special:BookSources/978-0-19-969930-8") . 2. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-3) [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-4) Todd T. Lewis (7 September 2000). [Popular Buddhist Texts from Nepal: Narratives and Rituals of Newar Buddhism](https://books.google.com/books?id=whZ5kAPSwl8C&pg=PA118). State University of New York Press. pp. 118–119\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-7914-9243-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7914-9243-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-7914-9243-7") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170102030235/https://books.google.com/books?id=whZ5kAPSwl8C&pg=PA118) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016. 3. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-3)* ["Diwali 2025 Date: When is Diwali? All About the 5 Days Festival of Lights"](https://www.indiatimes.com/events/diwali-2024-date-when-is-diwali-5-days-long-diwali-holidays-620859.html). 16 November 2023. 4. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead-2008a_5-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead-2008a_5-1) Mead, Jean (February 2008). [How and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?](https://books.google.com/books?id=QJyZKOtHWg4C&dq=deepavali+hinduism&pg=PA5). Evans Brothers. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-237-53412-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-237-53412-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-237-53412-7") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20231111150755/https://books.google.com/books?id=QJyZKOtHWg4C&dq=deepavali+hinduism&pg=PA5#v=onepage&q=deepavali%20hinduism&f=false) from the original on 11 November 2023. Retrieved 5 August 2022. 5. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Heiligman31_7-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Heiligman31_7-1) Vasudha Narayanan; Deborah Heiligman (2008). [Celebrate Diwali](https://books.google.com/books?id=rdTJJEQsDHoC&pg=PA31). National Geographic Society. p. 31. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-4263-0291-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-4263-0291-6 "Special:BookSources/978-1-4263-0291-6") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170102023011/https://books.google.com/books?id=rdTJJEQsDHoC&pg=PA31) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016. "All the stories associated with Deepavali, however, speak of the joy connected with the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil." 6. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-htoday_8-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-htoday_8-1) Tina K Ramnarine (2013). [Musical Performance in the Diaspora](https://books.google.com/books?id=yTiPAQAAQBAJ&pg=PA78). Routledge. p. 78. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-317-96956-3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-317-96956-3 "Special:BookSources/978-1-317-96956-3") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170102013829/https://books.google.com/books?id=yTiPAQAAQBAJ&pg=PA78) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016. "Light, in the form of candles and lamps, is a crucial part of Diwali, representing the triumph of light over darkness, goodness over evil and hope for the future." 7. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead-2008b_9-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead-2008b_9-1) Mead, Jean (February 2008). How and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?. Evans Brothers. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-237-53412-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-237-53412-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-237-53412-7") . 8. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-melton252_10-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-melton252_10-1) [Jones 2011](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFJones2011), pp. 252–255 9. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-OED-Diwali_11-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-OED-Diwali_11-1) The New Oxford Dictionary of English* (1998) [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-19-861263-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-861263-6 "Special:BookSources/978-0-19-861263-6") – p. 540 "Diwali /dɪwɑːli/ (also Diwali) noun a Hindu festival with lights...". 10. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-3) [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-4) [Goldstein 2015](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFGoldstein2015), pp. 222–223. 11. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-13)* [Diwali](https://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/166786/Diwali) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20150501153023/https://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/166786/Diwali) 1 May 2015 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine") Encyclopædia Britannica (2009) 12. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-14) ["Diwali 2020 Date in India: When is Diwali in 2020?"](https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/life-style/diwali-2020-date-in-india-when-is-diwali-in-2020-7013223/). The Indian Express. 11 November 2020. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20201116074618/https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/life-style/diwali-2020-date-in-india-when-is-diwali-in-2020-7013223/) from the original on 16 November 2020. Retrieved 13 November 2020. 13. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-15) ["Diwali 2024: When is Diwali in 2024? All you need to know its Significations - Global Times 18"](https://globaltimes18.com/when-is-diwali/). Global Times 18. 23 October 2024. Retrieved 24 October 2024. 14. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-3) [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-4) [f](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-5) [Fieldhouse 2017](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFFieldhouse2017), pp. 150–151. 15. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-17)* Stent, David (22 October 2013). Religious Studies: Made Simple. Elsevier. p. 137. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-4831-8320-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-4831-8320-6 "Special:BookSources/978-1-4831-8320-6") . 16. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-dhcd_18-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-dhcd_18-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-dhcd_18-2) Deborah Heiligman, Celebrate Diwali, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-7922-5923-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7922-5923-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-7922-5923-7") , National Geographic Society, Washington, D.C. 17. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Suzanne_Barchers_2013_19-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Suzanne_Barchers_2013_19-1) Suzanne Barchers (2013). The Big Book of Holidays and Cultural Celebrations, Shell Education, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-4258-1048-1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-4258-1048-1 "Special:BookSources/978-1-4258-1048-1") 18. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Sharma2006_20-0)* Sharma, S.P.; Gupta, Seema (2006). [Fairs and Festivals of India](https://books.google.com/books?id=wPPr9HdmnHcC&q=diwali+mahavira+527&pg=PA79). Pustak Mahal. p. 79. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-223-0951-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-223-0951-5 "Special:BookSources/978-81-223-0951-5") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210126200725/https://books.google.com/books?id=wPPr9HdmnHcC&q=diwali+mahavira+527&pg=PA79) from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 10 November 2020. 19. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-N._Upadhye,_Review_1982_pp._231%E2%80%93232_21-0) Upadhye, A.N. (January–March 1982). Cohen, Richard J. (ed.). "Mahavira and His Teachings". Journal of the American Oriental Society. 102 (1): 231–232\. [doi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doi_$identifier$ "Doi (identifier)"):[10\.2307/601199](https://doi.org/10.2307%2F601199). [ISSN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISSN_$identifier$ "ISSN (identifier)") [0003-0279](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/0003-0279). [JSTOR](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/JSTOR_$identifier$ "JSTOR (identifier)") [601199](https://www.jstor.org/stable/601199). 20. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-22) Geoff Teece (2005). [Sikhism](https://books.google.com/books?id=kJO1WIABhPQC&pg=PA23). Smart Apple Media. p. 23. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-58340-469-0](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-58340-469-0 "Special:BookSources/978-1-58340-469-0") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170102024403/https://books.google.com/books?id=kJO1WIABhPQC&pg=PA23) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016. 21. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-MK72_23-0) McDermott and Kripal p.72 22. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Prem_Saran_2012_175_24-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Prem_Saran_2012_175_24-1) Prem Saran (2012). [Yoga, Bhoga and Ardhanariswara: Individuality, Wellbeing and Gender in Tantra](https://books.google.com/books?id=5-DfCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA175). [Routledge](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Routledge "Routledge"). p. 175. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-136-51648-1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-136-51648-1 "Special:BookSources/978-1-136-51648-1") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170102021020/https://books.google.com/books?id=5-DfCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA175) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016. 23. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-YustJohnson2006_25-0)* Karen-Marie Yust; Aostre N. Johnson; Sandy Eisenberg Sasso (2006). [Nurturing Child and Adolescent Spirituality: Perspectives from the World's Religious Traditions](https://books.google.com/books?id=_dWh0l-iXHUC&pg=PA223). Rowman & Littlefield. pp. 232–233\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-7425-4463-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7425-4463-5 "Special:BookSources/978-0-7425-4463-5") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120611/https://books.google.com/books?id=_dWh0l-iXHUC&pg=PA223) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 29 August 2018. 24. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-jgl_26-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-jgl_26-1) [Lochtefeld 2002](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFLochtefeld2002), pp. 200–201 25. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJohnsonTeuscherSabean2011300%E2%80%93301_27-0)* [Johnson, Teuscher & Sabean 2011](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFJohnsonTeuscherSabean2011), pp. 300–301. 26. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEShah199541%E2%80%9344_28-0) [Shah 1995](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFShah1995), pp. 41–44. 27. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-29) Diane P. Mines; Sarah E. Lamb (2010). [Everyday Life in South Asia, Second Edition](https://books.google.com/books?id=iczwAAAAQBAJ). Indiana University Press. p. 243. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-253-01357-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-253-01357-6 "Special:BookSources/978-0-253-01357-6") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210702103809/https://books.google.com/books?id=iczwAAAAQBAJ) from the original on 2 July 2021. Retrieved 25 September 2018. 28. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-wsj_30-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-wsj_30-1) [India Journal: ‘Tis the Season to be Shopping](https://web.archive.org/web/20130421024513/http://blogs.wsj.com/indiarealtime/2010/08/23/india-journal-tis-the-season-to-be-shopping/) Devita Saraf, The Wall Street Journal (August 2010) 29. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJohnson200771%E2%80%9373_31-0)* [Johnson 2007](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFJohnson2007), pp. 71–73. 30. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKelly198840%E2%80%9355_32-0) [Kelly 1988](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFKelly1988), pp. 40–55. 31. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-33) [Public Holidays](http://www.fiji.gov.fj/Events/2016-FIJI-PUBLIC-HOLIDAYS.aspx) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20180916055429/http://www.fiji.gov.fj/Events/2016-FIJI-PUBLIC-HOLIDAYS.aspx) 16 September 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), Government of Fiji 32. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-34) [Public Holidays](https://publicholidays.gy/) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20171019163247/https://publicholidays.gy/) 19 October 2017 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), Guyana 33. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-36) [Public Holidays](http://www.hrdf.com.my/wps/portal/PSMB/MainEN/Resources/Public-Holiday) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20190305093432/http://www.hrdf.com.my/wps/portal/PSMB/MainEN/Resources/Public-Holiday) 5 March 2019 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), Government of Malaysia 34. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-37) [Public Holidays](https://evisa.moip.gov.mm/public_holiday.aspx) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20180817060609/https://evisa.moip.gov.mm/public_holiday.aspx) 17 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), Government of Myanmar 35. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-38) [Public Holidays](http://www.mos.com.np/holidaylist.php) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20171019163545/http://www.mos.com.np/holidaylist.php) 19 October 2017 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), Government of Nepal 36. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-39) [Pakistan parliament adopts resolution for Holi, Diwali, Easter holidays](http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/pakistan/Pakistan-parliament-adopts-resolution-for-Holi-Diwali-Easter-holidays/articleshow/51423609.cms) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20180306175436/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/pakistan/Pakistan-parliament-adopts-resolution-for-Holi-Diwali-Easter-holidays/articleshow/51423609.cms) 6 March 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), The Times of India (16 March 2016) 37. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-40) [Public Gazetted Holidays](http://www.mom.gov.sg/newsroom/press-releases/2016/0405-singapore-public-holidays-2017) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20171019215719/http://www.mom.gov.sg/newsroom/press-releases/2016/0405-singapore-public-holidays-2017) 19 October 2017 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), Government of Singapore 38. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-41) [Official Public Holidays](https://www.ttconnect.gov.tt/gortt/portal/ttconnect/!ut/p/a1/jdDBDoIwDAbgp-FKC8tUvHFARUwMGBV2MWjmwCAjY4KPL3ozKNpbm-9P_hQYxMDKtMlFqnNZpsVzZ6NDENpIfYfgOkQH7ci3PKQBmY9JB5I3EM1nHfCotQh2BBH_y-OXcX_mN7yEPbBBtqQ90K_5AgM9lsBEIY-vnyRueSQTAUzxM1dcmTfVnTOtq3pqoIFt25pCSlFw8ySvBn6KZLLWEL9LqK7b-O5faNGs3AdjOzzp/dl5/d5/L2dBISEvZ0FBIS9nQSEh/?WCM_GLOBAL_CONTEXT=/gortt/wcm/connect/gortt+web+content/ttconnect/non-national/role/anationalabroad/generalinformation/official+public+holidays) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210303062241/https://www.ttconnect.gov.tt/gortt/portal/ttconnect/!ut/p/a1/jdDBDoIwDAbgp-FKC8tUvHFARUwMGBV2MWjmwCAjY4KPL3ozKNpbm-9P_hQYxMDKtMlFqnNZpsVzZ6NDENpIfYfgOkQH7ci3PKQBmY9JB5I3EM1nHfCotQh2BBH_y-OXcX_mN7yEPbBBtqQ90K_5AgM9lsBEIY-vnyRueSQTAUzxM1dcmTfVnTOtq3pqoIFt25pCSlFw8ySvBn6KZLLWEL9LqK7b-O5faNGs3AdjOzzp/dl5/d5/L2dBISEvZ0FBIS9nQSEh/?WCM_GLOBAL_CONTEXT=%2Fgortt%2Fwcm%2Fconnect%2Fgortt+web+content%2Fttconnect%2Fnon-national%2Frole%2Fanationalabroad%2Fgeneralinformation%2Fofficial+public+holidays) 3 March 2021 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), Government of Trinidad & Tobago 39. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-42) [Cal. Government Code § 6700 subd. (a)(9)](https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=GOV&sectionNum=6700) 40. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-43) ["Full list of USA states that recognise Diwali as a state holiday"](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/full-list-of-usa-states-that-recognise-diwali-as-a-state-holiday/articleshow/114586236.cms). The Times of India. 25 October 2024. [ISSN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISSN_$identifier$ "ISSN (identifier)") [0971-8257](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/0971-8257). Retrieved 25 October 2024. 41. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-44) Karmarkar, Richa (10 October 2025). ["Three US states now recognize Diwali as a holiday"](https://religionnews.com/2025/10/10/three-states-now-recognize-diwali-as-a-holiday/). Religion News Sercice. Retrieved 19 October 2025. 42. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEShattuck199951,_124_45-0) [Shattuck 1999](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFShattuck1999), pp. 51, 124. 43. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFrazierFlood2011255_47-0) [Frazier & Flood 2011](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFFrazierFlood2011), p. 255. 44. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-48) Monier Monier Williams (2008 updated, Harvard University), Sanskrit English dictionary, दीप, [p. 481](http://www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de/scans/MWScan/2014/web/webtc/servepdf.php?page=481) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20180817230340/http://www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de/scans/MWScan/2014/web/webtc/servepdf.php?page=481) 17 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine") 45. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-49) Monier Monier Williams (2008 updated, Harvard University), Sanskrit English dictionary, आवलि, [p. 155](http://www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de/cgi-bin/monier/serveimg.pl?file=/scans/MWScan/MWScanjpg/mw0155-Avarjaka.jpg) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20190327103005/https://www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de/cgi-bin/monier/serveimg.pl?file=%2Fscans%2FMWScan%2FMWScanjpg%2Fmw0155-Avarjaka.jpg) 27 March 2019 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine") 46. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253_51-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253_51-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253_51-2) [Jones 2011](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFJones2011), pp. 252–253. 47. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9362_52-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9362_52-1) [Pintchman 2005](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 61–62. 48. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561_53-0)* [Pintchman 2005](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), p. 61. 49. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-54) H.H. Wilson (1847). "Religious festivals of the Hindus". Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland. 9: 61. 50. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-about_56-0) ["Indian Government Holiday Calendar"](http://india.gov.in/calendar/calendar.php). National Portal of India. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20181225122630/https://www.india.gov.in/calendar/calendar.php) from the original on 25 December 2018. Retrieved 16 November 2016. 51. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-57) Robert Isaac Levy; Kedar Raj Rajopadhyaya (1990). [Mesocosm: Hinduism and the Organization of a Traditional Newar City in Nepal](https://books.google.com/books?id=ngacsMPGJPcC). University of California Press. pp. 411–417\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-520-06911-4](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-520-06911-4 "Special:BookSources/978-0-520-06911-4") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210112124529/https://books.google.com/books?id=ngacsMPGJPcC) from the original on 12 January 2021. Retrieved 20 August 2018. 52. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-58) Shrestha, Bal Gopal (July 2006). ["The Svanti Festival: Victory over Death and the Renewal of the Ritual Cycle in Nepal"](http://himalaya.socanth.cam.ac.uk/collections/journals/contributions/pdf/CNAS_33_02_03.pdf) (PDF). Contributions to Nepalese Studies. 33 (2): 206–221\. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20131213034438/http://himalaya.socanth.cam.ac.uk/collections/journals/contributions/pdf/CNAS_33_02_03.pdf) (PDF) from the original on 13 December 2013. Retrieved 20 August 2018. 53. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-l796_59-0) Doniger, W. (2010). [The Hindus: An Alternative History](https://books.google.com/books?id=nNsXZkdHvXUC). OUP Oxford. p. 370. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-19-959334-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-959334-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-19-959334-7") . Retrieved 29 October 2024. 54. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-60) Clothey, F.W. (1978). [The Many Faces of Murukan̲: The History and Meaning of a South Indian God](https://books.google.com/books?id=0AevljBmCRQC&pg=PA224). Religion and society. Mouton. p. 224. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-90-279-7632-1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-90-279-7632-1 "Special:BookSources/978-90-279-7632-1") . Retrieved 29 October 2024. 55. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-3) [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-4) [f](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-5) [g](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-6) [h](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-7) [i](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-8) [Pintchman 2005](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 59–65 56. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELochtefeld2002355_62-0)* [Lochtefeld 2002](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFLochtefeld2002), p. 355. 57. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-bnsharma_63-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-bnsharma_63-1) BN Sharma, Festivals of India, South Asia Books, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-8364-0283-4](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-8364-0283-4 "Special:BookSources/978-0-8364-0283-4") , pp. 9–35 58. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-yaksha_64-0)* Varadpande, Manohar Laxman (1987). History of Indian Theatre, Volume 1. Abhinav Publications. p. 159. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-7017-221-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-7017-221-5 "Special:BookSources/978-81-7017-221-5") . 59. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-65) R.N. Nandi (2009), in A Social History of Early India (Editor: B. Chattopadhyaya), Volume 2, Part 5, Pearson Education, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-317-1958-9](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-317-1958-9 "Special:BookSources/978-81-317-1958-9") , pp. 183–184 60. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEEraly2015315%E2%80%93316_66-0) [Eraly 2015](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFEraly2015), pp. 315–316. 61. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESewell200685%E2%80%9386_67-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESewell200685%E2%80%9386_67-1) [Sewell 2006](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFSewell2006), pp. 85–86. 62. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-S_A_NEWS-2020_68-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-S_A_NEWS-2020_68-1) ["Diwali Festival 2020 India:Date,Story,Celebration,Diwali Special Gift"](https://news.jagatgururampalji.org/diwali-festival-2020-special-gift/). S A NEWS. 12 November 2020. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20201114053744/https://news.jagatgururampalji.org/diwali-festival-2020-special-gift/) from the original on 14 November 2020. Retrieved 14 November 2020. 63. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEEaton1996159%E2%80%93160_with_footnotes_69-0)* [Eaton 1996](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFEaton1996), pp. 159–160 with footnotes. 64. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMelville2012526_70-0) [Melville 2012](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFMelville2012), p. 526: "He \[Mahmud b. Amir Vali\] gives a very detailed account of the celebration of the ten days of Moharram, which he witnessed in Lahore in 1965, as well as Hindu festivals such as Diwali (...)." 65. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOkita201428%E2%80%9329_71-0) [Okita 2014](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFOkita2014), pp. 28–29. 66. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389_72-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389_72-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389_72-2) [Blake 2013](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFBlake2013), pp. 87–89. 67. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTETruschke201774%E2%80%9375_73-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTETruschke201774%E2%80%9375_73-1) [Truschke 2017](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFTruschke2017), pp. 74–75. 68. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Richards1995p175_74-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Richards1995p175_74-1) John F. Richards (1995). [The Mughal Empire](https://books.google.com/books?id=HHyVh29gy4QC). Cambridge University Press. pp. 38–40, 175–176\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-521-56603-2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-521-56603-2 "Special:BookSources/978-0-521-56603-2") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20160529043831/https://books.google.com/books?id=HHyVh29gy4QC) from the original on 29 May 2016. Retrieved 23 August 2018. 69. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-jone1799p263_77-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-jone1799p263_77-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-jone1799p263_77-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-jone1799p263_77-3) [Sir William Jones](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Jones_$philologist$ "William Jones (philologist)") (1799). "The Lunar Year of the Hindus". Asiatic Researches. 3: 263–267, context: 257–293, note the mention of Brahmaputra and Ganges rivers, immersion ceremony on Durga puja. 70. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-79)* John William Kaye; William Simpson (1867). India ancient and modern: a series of illustrations of the Country and people of India and adjacent territories. Executed in chromolithography from drawings by William Simpson. London Day and Son. p. 50. [OCLC](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/OCLC_$identifier$ "OCLC (identifier)") [162249047](https://search.worldcat.org/oclc/162249047). 71. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-80) Dineschandra Sircar (1966). [Indian Epigraphical Glossary](https://books.google.com/books?id=pySCGvdyYLIC). Motilal Banarsidass. p. 98. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-208-0562-0](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-208-0562-0 "Special:BookSources/978-81-208-0562-0") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210126200729/https://books.google.com/books?id=pySCGvdyYLIC) from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 21 August 2018. 72. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-81) E. Hultzsch (1899). [Epigraphia Indica and Record of the Archæological Survey of India, Volume V](https://books.google.com/books?id=TcIUAAAAYAAJ). Office of the Superintendent of Government Printing, India. p. 13. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120608/https://books.google.com/books?id=TcIUAAAAYAAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018. 73. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-83) Dineschandra Sircar (1971). [Studies in the Religious Life of Ancient and Medieval India](https://books.google.com/books?id=mh1y1eMgGBMC). Motilal Banarsidass. pp. 128–129\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-208-2790-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-208-2790-5 "Special:BookSources/978-81-208-2790-5") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210815132825/https://books.google.com/books?id=mh1y1eMgGBMC) from the original on 15 August 2021. Retrieved 21 August 2018. 74. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-84) R.S. Panchamukhi (1933). Hirananda Sastri (ed.). [Epigraphia Indica, Volume XX](https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.69982). Archaeological Society of India. pp. [117](https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.69982/page/n151), 121, see Lines 44–52. 75. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-kielhorn1896_85-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-kielhorn1896_85-1) F. Kielhorn (1896). E. Hultzsch (ed.). [Epigraphia Indica, Volume IV](https://books.google.com/books?id=vqZCAAAAYAAJ). Archaeological Society of India. pp. 148–151\. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120611/https://books.google.com/books?id=vqZCAAAAYAAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018. 76. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-87)* Ramendra Nath Nandi (1973). [Religious Institutions and Cults in the Deccan, c. A.D. 600–A.D. 1000](https://books.google.com/books?id=7HRgstuWe6EC). Motilal Banarsidass. p. 38. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-8426-0564-9](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-8426-0564-9 "Special:BookSources/978-0-8426-0564-9") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120609/https://books.google.com/books?id=7HRgstuWe6EC) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018. 77. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-88) Madhusudan A. Dhaky; Michael W. Meister (1996). [Encyclopaedia of Indian temple architecture, Volume 1, Part 3](https://books.google.com/books?id=TXIYAQAAMAAJ). American Institute of Indian Studies. pp. 255–257\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-86526-00-2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-86526-00-2 "Special:BookSources/978-81-86526-00-2") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120610/https://books.google.com/books?id=TXIYAQAAMAAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018. 78. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Hultzsch1268_89-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Hultzsch1268_89-1) E. Hultzsch (1980). [Epigraphia Indica, Volume XI](https://archive.org/stream/EpigraphiaIndicaXI/Epigraphia%20Indica%20XI#page/n71). Archaeological Society of India. pp. 52–55\. 79. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-90)* Manohar Laxman Varadpande (1983). [Religion and Theatre](https://books.google.com/books?id=SISkCN6L0nUC&pg=PA23). Abhinav Publications. p. 23. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-391-02794-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-391-02794-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-391-02794-7") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120611/https://books.google.com/books?id=SISkCN6L0nUC&pg=PA23) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018. "The most important reference is to the setting up of the golden cupola in the newly built central hall for dramatic performances on the occasion of Dipotsava Dana in v.s. 1268. The inscription written in Sanskrit clearly points out a tradition, in the Jain Viharas of performing plays on festive occasions before the idol of Mahavira." 80. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691_92-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691_92-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691_92-2) [Bahadur 2006](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), p. 91. 81. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-93)* Campbell, Mason (2022). Diwali and Its Origins. OUACHITA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY. p. 2. 82. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-94) ["Krishna Killed Narakasur – The Narakasur Legend of Diwali – Diwali Legend"](http://www.diwalicelebrations.net/diwali-legends/krisna-narakasur.html). diwalicelebrations.net. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20190227121743/http://www.diwalicelebrations.net/diwali-legends/krisna-narakasur.html) from the original on 27 February 2019. Retrieved 17 December 2018. 83. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Karen_Pechilis_2007_pp_273-275_95-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Karen_Pechilis_2007_pp_273-275_95-1) Pechilis, Karen (2007). "Guests at God's Wedding: Celebrating Kartik among the Women of Benares". The Journal of Asian Studies. 66* (1): 273–275\. [doi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doi_$identifier$ "Doi (identifier)"):[10\.1017/S0021911807000460](https://doi.org/10.1017%2FS0021911807000460). 84. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEAmazzone2012_96-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEAmazzone2012_96-1) [Amazzone 2012](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFAmazzone2012). 85. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-97)* Buck, C. (2008). Hindu Festivals, Festivals in Indian Society (2 Vols. Set), Vol 1, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-8324-113-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-8324-113-7 "Special:BookSources/978-81-8324-113-7") 86. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-98) Holm, Jean (2006). "Growing Up in Hinduism". British Journal of Religious Education. 6 (3): 116–120\. [doi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doi_$identifier$ "Doi (identifier)"):[10\.1080/0141620840060303](https://doi.org/10.1080%2F0141620840060303). 87. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECoogan2003152%E2%80%93153_99-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECoogan2003152%E2%80%93153_99-1) [Coogan 2003](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFCoogan2003), pp. 152–153. 88. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEVemsani2016190%E2%80%93191_100-0)* [Vemsani 2016](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFVemsani2016), pp. 190–191. 89. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-vasudha31_101-0) Vasudha Narayanan; Deborah Heiligman (2008). [Celebrate Diwali](https://books.google.com/books?id=rdTJJEQsDHoC). National Geographic. p. 31. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-4263-0291-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-4263-0291-6 "Special:BookSources/978-1-4263-0291-6") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170102030400/https://books.google.com/books?id=rdTJJEQsDHoC) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016. 90. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-102) [Hindu Festivals](http://www.hinduismtoday.com/modules/wfchannel/index.php?wfc_cid=39) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20151011182204/http://www.hinduismtoday.com/modules/wfchannel/index.php?wfc_cid=39) 11 October 2015 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine") Hinduism Today (2010) 91. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-103) Carol Plum-Ucci (2007). Celebrate Diwali, Enslow Publishers, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-7660-2778-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7660-2778-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-7660-2778-7") , pp. 39–57 92. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESalamone2004112,_Article_on_Divali_by_Lindsey_Harlan_104-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESalamone2004112,_Article_on_Divali_by_Lindsey_Harlan_104-1) [Salamone 2004](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFSalamone2004), p. 112, Article on Divali by Lindsey Harlan. 93. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-105)* [Bridget Brereton](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bridget_Brereton "Bridget Brereton") (1996). [An Introduction to the History of Trinidad and Tobago](https://books.google.com/books?id=uNrUU360mzsC&pg=PA113). Heinemann. p. 113. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-435-98474-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-435-98474-8 "Special:BookSources/978-0-435-98474-8") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120611/https://books.google.com/books?id=uNrUU360mzsC&pg=PA113) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 19 August 2018. 94. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJohnson200771%E2%80%9379_106-0) [Johnson 2007](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFJohnson2007), pp. 71–79. 95. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-107) [Diwali – Celebrating the triumph of goodness](http://www.hinduismtoday.com/pdf_downloads/pagers/Hindu-Festival_Diwali_broadsheet-color.pdf) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20150924041444/http://www.hinduismtoday.com/pdf_downloads/pagers/Hindu-Festival_Diwali_broadsheet-color.pdf) 24 September 2015 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine") Hinduism Today (2012) 96. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-108) Jean Mead, How and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-237-53412-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-237-53412-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-237-53412-7") , pp. 8–12 97. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Jacobi_1895_109-0) Jacobi, Hermann; Ed. F. Max Müller (1895). [Uttaradhyayana Sutra, Jain Sutras Part II, Sacred Books of the East, Vol. 45](http://www.sacred-texts.com/jai/sbe45/index.htm). Oxford: The Clarendon Press. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20090704214930/http://www.sacred-texts.com/jai/sbe45/index.htm) from the original on 4 July 2009. Retrieved 19 December 2007. 98. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELong200926,_42_110-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELong200926,_42_110-1) [Long 2009](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFLong2009), pp. 26, 42. 99. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPotter200735%E2%80%9336_111-0)* [Potter 2007](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFPotter2007), pp. 35–36. 100. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEDundas200222_112-0) [Dundas 2002](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFDundas2002), p. 22. 101. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMelton2011255_114-0) [Melton 2011](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFMelton2011), p. 255. 102. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELong200942_115-0) [Long 2009](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFLong2009), p. 42. 103. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJainFischer197813_116-0) [Jain & Fischer 1978](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFJainFischer1978), p. 13. 104. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-117) H.S. Singha (2000). [The Encyclopedia of Sikhism (over 1000 Entries)](https://books.google.com/books?id=gqIbJz7vMn0C&pg=PA62). Hemkunt Press. p. 62. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-7010-301-1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-7010-301-1 "Special:BookSources/978-81-7010-301-1") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170102024429/https://books.google.com/books?id=gqIbJz7vMn0C&pg=PA62) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 6 April 2016. 105. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGrewal199850%E2%80%9351,_60,_73%E2%80%9378,_93_118-0) [Grewal 1998](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFGrewal1998), pp. 50–51, 60, 73–78, 93. 106. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEColledge2017276%E2%80%93278_119-0) [Colledge 2017](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFColledge2017), pp. 276–278. 107. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESinghLouis_E._Fenech2014431%E2%80%93433_120-0) [Singh & Louis E. Fenech 2014](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFSinghLouis_E._Fenech2014), pp. 431–433. 108. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994346%E2%80%93349_121-0) [Oberoi 1994](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFOberoi1994), pp. 346–349. 109. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994347%E2%80%93349_122-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994347%E2%80%93349_122-1) [Oberoi 1994](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFOberoi1994), pp. 347–349. 110. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-124)* Jon Burbank (2002). [Nepal](https://books.google.com/books?id=EaWLU6Blh_sC&pg=PA111). Marshall Cavendish. pp. 111–112\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-7614-1476-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7614-1476-6 "Special:BookSources/978-0-7614-1476-6") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170102013443/https://books.google.com/books?id=EaWLU6Blh_sC&pg=PA111) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016. 111. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-fs_125-0) Frank Salamone (2004). Encyclopedia of Religious Rites, Rituals and Festivals, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-415-88091-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-415-88091-6 "Special:BookSources/978-0-415-88091-6") , Routledge, pp. 112–113, 174, 252 112. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Raat_126-0) Pramodkumar (2008). [Meri Khoj Ek Bharat Ki](https://books.google.com/books?id=6A9EZRQIT9kC&pg=PA109). Lulu.com. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-4357-1240-9](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-4357-1240-9 "Special:BookSources/978-1-4357-1240-9") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120623/https://books.google.com/books?id=6A9EZRQIT9kC&pg=PA109) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 26 October 2011. "It is extremely important to keep the house spotlessly clean and pure on Diwali. The goddess [Lakshmi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi "Lakshmi") likes cleanliness, and it is believed that she will visit the cleanest house first. Lamps are lit in the evening to welcome the goddess. They are believed to light up her path." 113. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-3) [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-4) [f](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-5) [McDermott 2011](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFMcDermott2011), pp. 183–188. 114. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-129)* Karen Bellenir (1997). Religious Holidays and Calendars: An Encyclopedic Handbook, 2nd Edition, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-7808-0258-2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7808-0258-2 "Special:BookSources/978-0-7808-0258-2") , Omnigraphics 115. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-130) Rajat Gupta; Nishant Singh; Ishita Kirar. [Hospitality & Tourism Management](https://books.google.com/books?id=DatDDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA84). Vikas. p. 84. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-93-259-8244-4](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-93-259-8244-4 "Special:BookSources/978-93-259-8244-4") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120612/https://books.google.com/books?id=DatDDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA84) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 13 August 2018. 116. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-haar2009_131-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-haar2009_131-1) Kristen Haar; Sewa Singh Kalsi (2009). [Sikhism](https://books.google.com/books?id=YOI1nB_zTyAC). Infobase Publishing. pp. 98–99\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-4381-0647-2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-4381-0647-2 "Special:BookSources/978-1-4381-0647-2") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20200208123615/https://books.google.com/books?id=YOI1nB_zTyAC) from the original on 8 February 2020. Retrieved 13 August 2018. 117. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-132)* Shobhna Gupta (2002). [Festivals of India](https://books.google.com/books?id=g4TtrdejbTEC&pg=PA84). Har-Anand. p. 84. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-241-0869-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-241-0869-7 "Special:BookSources/978-81-241-0869-7") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120607/https://books.google.com/books?id=g4TtrdejbTEC&pg=PA84) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 13 August 2018. 118. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-3) [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-4) [f](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-5) [Bahadur 2006](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 92–93. 119. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKinsley198833%E2%80%9334_134-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKinsley198833%E2%80%9334_134-1) [Kinsley 1988](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFKinsley1988), pp. 33–34. 120. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-135)* Closson, Troy (26 June 2023). ["Diwali Is Set to Become a School Holiday in New York City"](https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/26/nyregion/diwali-school-holiday-nyc.html). The New York Times. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20230804020242/https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/26/nyregion/diwali-school-holiday-nyc.html) from the original on 4 August 2023. Retrieved 2 August 2023. 121. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-3) [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-4) [Pintchman 2005](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 59–60. 122. 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[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-141)* ["Choti Diwali 2020 date: Kali Chaudas significance, when and how to celebrate"](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/astrology/rituals-puja/choti-diwali-2020-date-kali-chaudas-significance-when-and-how-to-celebrate/articleshow/79203502.cms). The Times of India. 13 November 2020. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20201114134308/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/astrology/rituals-puja/choti-diwali-2020-date-kali-chaudas-significance-when-and-how-to-celebrate/articleshow/79203502.cms) from the original on 14 November 2020. Retrieved 14 November 2020. 127. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361_142-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361_142-1) [Pintchman 2005](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 60–61. 128. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361,_63_143-0)* [Pintchman 2005](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 60–61, 63. 129. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-144) ["Ravana \\| King of Lanka, Demon King, Ten-Headed \\| Britannica"](https://www.britannica.com/topic/Ravana). Encyclopædia Britannica. 24 June 2023. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20230602165102/https://www.britannica.com/topic/Ravana) from the original on 2 June 2023. Retrieved 28 July 2023. 130. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-drikpanchang.com_145-0) ["2020 Hanuman Puja date and time during Diwali for New Delhi, NCT, India"](https://www.drikpanchang.com/diwali/hanuman-puja/hanuman-puja-date-time.html?year=2020). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20211103035611/https://www.drikpanchang.com/diwali/hanuman-puja/hanuman-puja-date-time.html?year=2020) from the original on 3 November 2021. Retrieved 6 November 2020. 131. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394_146-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394_146-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394_146-2) [Bahadur 2006](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 93–94. 132. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTERodrigues201629_147-0)* [Rodrigues 2016](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFRodrigues2016), p. 29. 133. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJacobs201026_148-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJacobs201026_148-1) [Jacobs 2010](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFJacobs2010), p. 26. 134. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead2008_149-0)* Jean Mead (February 2008). [How and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?](https://books.google.com/books?id=QJyZKOtHWg4C&pg=PA4). Evans Brothers. pp. 4–. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-237-53412-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-237-53412-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-237-53412-7") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120611/https://books.google.com/books?id=QJyZKOtHWg4C&pg=PA4) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 25 March 2019. 135. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011254_150-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011254_150-1) [Jones 2011](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFJones2011), p. 254. 136. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9395_151-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9395_151-1) [Bahadur 2006](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 94–95. 137. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200697%E2%80%9398_152-0)* [Bahadur 2006](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 97–98. 138. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-153) John Bowker, ed., Oxford Concise Dictionary of World Religions (Oxford UP, 2000), See Festivals 139. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKlostermaier201459,_69_154-0) [Klostermaier 2014](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFKlostermaier2014), pp. 59, 69. 140. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTERhodes20101%E2%80%932_155-0) [Rhodes 2010](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFRhodes2010), pp. 1–2. 141. 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["Largest display of oil lamps illuminate Indian city to celebrate Diwali"](https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/commercial/2023/11/largest-display-of-oil-lamps-illuminate-indian-city-to-celebrate-diwali-761303). Guinness World Records. Retrieved 20 July 2024. 205. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-227) ["Historic moment as Diwali makes it to Unesco list: Deepavali joins Yoga, Durga Puja among intangible cultural heritage — full list"](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/historic-moment-as-diwali-makes-it-to-unesco-list-deepavali-joins-yoga-durga-puja-among-intangible-cultural-heritage-full-list/articleshow/125883637.cms). The Times of India. 10 December 2025. [ISSN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISSN_$identifier$ "ISSN (identifier)") [0971-8257](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/0971-8257). Retrieved 10 December 2025. ### Bibliography - Amazzone, Laura (2012). [Goddess Durga and Sacred Female Power](https://books.google.com/books?id=PM_TNDu8NHUC). 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[ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-59884-205-0](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-59884-205-0 "Special:BookSources/978-1-59884-205-0") . - Jones, Constance (2011). Melton, J. Gordon (ed.). [Religious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays Festivals Solemn Observances and Spiritual Commemorations](https://books.google.com/books?id=Pk7eEAAAQBAJ). ABC-CLIO. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-59884-205-0](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-59884-205-0 "Special:BookSources/978-1-59884-205-0") . - Melville, Charles (2012). [A History of Persian Literature](https://books.google.com/books?id=aFPvAwAAQBAJ). Vol. X: Persian Historiography. I. B. Tauris. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-85773-657-4](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-85773-657-4 "Special:BookSources/978-0-85773-657-4") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20200926132311/https://books.google.com/books?id=aFPvAwAAQBAJ) from the original on 26 September 2020. Retrieved 17 August 2018. - Oberoi, Harjot (1994). [The Construction of Religious Boundaries: Culture, Identity, and Diversity in the Sikh Tradition](https://books.google.com/books?id=dKl84EYFkTsC). University of Chicago Press. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-226-61593-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-226-61593-6 "Special:BookSources/978-0-226-61593-6") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20200819031846/https://books.google.com/books?id=dKl84EYFkTsC) from the original on 19 August 2020. Retrieved 19 August 2018. - Okita, Kiyokazu (2014). [Hindu Theology in Early Modern South Asia: The Rise of Devotionalism and the Politics of Genealogy](https://books.google.com/books?id=a9X1AwAAQBAJ). Oxford University Press. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-19-870926-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-870926-8 "Special:BookSources/978-0-19-870926-8") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110121011/https://books.google.com/books?id=a9X1AwAAQBAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 18 August 2018. - Pintchman, Tracy (2005). [Guests at God's Wedding: Celebrating Kartik among the Women of Benares](https://books.google.com/books?id=W-9Hq-DOXnEC). State University of New York Press. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-7914-8256-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7914-8256-8 "Special:BookSources/978-0-7914-8256-8") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20181226115243/https://books.google.com/books?id=W-9Hq-DOXnEC) from the original on 26 December 2018. Retrieved 17 August 2018. - [Potter, Karl H.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karl_H._Potter "Karl H. Potter") (2007). Malvania, Dalsukh; Soni, Jayendra (eds.). [Encyclopedia of Indian Philosophies](https://books.google.com/books?id=5WHHJ6O7b-IC). Vol. X: Jain Philosophy. Motilal Banarsidass. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-208-3169-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-208-3169-8 "Special:BookSources/978-81-208-3169-8") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170412065216/https://books.google.com/books?id=5WHHJ6O7b-IC) from the original on 12 April 2017. Retrieved 25 September 2018. - Rao, V. (October 2001). "Celebrations as Social Investments: Festival Expenditures, Unit Price Variation and Social Status in Rural India". Journal of Development Studies. 38 (1): 71–97\. [doi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doi_$identifier$ "Doi (identifier)"):[10\.1080/713601102](https://doi.org/10.1080%2F713601102). [S2CID](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/S2CID_$identifier$ "S2CID (identifier)") [59148993](https://api.semanticscholar.org/CorpusID:59148993). - Rhodes, Constantina (2010). [Invoking Lakshmi: The Goddess of Wealth in Song and Ceremony](https://books.google.com/books?id=RC0Mr3E1tqAC). State University of New York Press. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-4384-3322-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-4384-3322-6 "Special:BookSources/978-1-4384-3322-6") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110121029/https://books.google.com/books?id=RC0Mr3E1tqAC) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 17 August 2018. - Rodrigues, Hillary (2016). [Introducing Hinduism](https://books.google.com/books?id=t86ykgEACAAJ). Routledge. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-415-54966-0](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-415-54966-0 "Special:BookSources/978-0-415-54966-0") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110121029/https://books.google.com/books?id=t86ykgEACAAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 17 August 2018. - Salamone, Frank (2004). [Encyclopedia of Religious Rites, Rituals and Festivals](https://archive.org/details/encyclopediaofre00sala). Routledge. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-415-88091-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-415-88091-6 "Special:BookSources/978-0-415-88091-6") . - Shah, Manju N. (Winter–Fall 1995). "Celebrating Diwali in America". Journal of South Asian Literature. 30 (1–2\): 41–44\. [JSTOR](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/JSTOR_$identifier$ "JSTOR (identifier)") [40873556](https://www.jstor.org/stable/40873556). - Shattuck, Cybelle T. (1999). [Hinduism](https://books.google.com/books?id=Z2ARAQAAIAAJ). Prentice Hall. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-13-266255-0](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-13-266255-0 "Special:BookSources/978-0-13-266255-0") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210126200724/https://books.google.com/books?id=Z2ARAQAAIAAJ) from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 17 August 2018. - Sewell, Robert (2006). [A Forgotten Empire (Vijayanagar): A Contribution to the History of India](https://books.google.com/books?id=TDOZ6A4HRz0C). Echo. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0716521372](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0716521372 "Special:BookSources/978-0716521372") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110121003/https://books.google.com/books?id=TDOZ6A4HRz0C) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 17 August 2018. - Singh, Pashaura; Louis E. Fenech (2014). [The Oxford Handbook of Sikh Studies](https://books.google.com/books?id=8I0NAwAAQBAJ). Oxford University Press. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-19-969930-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-969930-8 "Special:BookSources/978-0-19-969930-8") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20190504190932/https://books.google.com/books?id=8I0NAwAAQBAJ) from the original on 4 May 2019. Retrieved 18 August 2018. - Truschke, Audrey (2017). [Aurangzeb: The Life and Legacy of India's Most Controversial King](https://books.google.com/books?id=oUUkDwAAQBAJ). Stanford University Press. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-5036-0259-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-5036-0259-5 "Special:BookSources/978-1-5036-0259-5") . - Vemsani, Lavanya (2016). [Krishna in History, Thought, and Culture: An Encyclopedia of the Hindu Lord of Many Names: An Encyclopedia of the Hindu Lord of Many Names](https://books.google.com/books?id=4fw2DAAAQBAJ). ABC-CLIO. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-61069-211-3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-61069-211-3 "Special:BookSources/978-1-61069-211-3") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20171206083031/https://books.google.com/books?id=4fw2DAAAQBAJ) from the original on 6 December 2017. Retrieved 17 August 2018. ## External links Diwali at Wikipedia's [sister projects](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Wikimedia_sister_projects "Wikipedia:Wikimedia sister projects") - [![Wiktionary logo](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/99/Wiktionary-logo-en-v2.svg/40px-Wiktionary-logo-en-v2.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Wiktionary-logo-en-v2.svg)[Definitions](https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Special:Search/Diwali "wikt:Special:Search/Diwali") from Wiktionary - ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fa/Wikiquote-logo.svg/40px-Wikiquote-logo.svg.png)[Quotations](https://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Diwali "q:Diwali") from Wikiquote - [The Ancient Origins of Diwali, India's Biggest Holiday](https://www.history.com/news/the-ancient-origins-of-indias-biggest-holiday)—Becky Little (2017) - [Deepawali](https://web.archive.org/web/20170910153209/http://knowindia.gov.in/culture-and-heritage/festivals/deepawali.php) at Know India (archived) - [Winter air pollution around Diwali and Asthma](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/winter-air-pollution-around-diwali-and-asthma-what-you-need-to-know/articleshow/104929975.cms?from=mdr) \| Diwali \| \| \| \|---\|---\|---\| \| [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Hindudharma "Template:Hindudharma") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Hindudharma "Template talk:Hindudharma") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Hindudharma "Special:EditPage/Template:Hindudharma")[![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/67/Aum_Om_red.svg/20px-Aum_Om_red.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aum "Aum") [Hinduism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism "Hinduism") [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/63/HinduSwastika.svg/20px-HinduSwastika.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:HinduSwastika.svg) topics \| \| \| \| [Glossary](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glossary_of_Hinduism_terms "Glossary of Hinduism terms") Index [Timeline](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_of_Hinduism "Timeline of Hinduism") \| \| \| \| [Philosophy](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_philosophy "Hindu philosophy") \| \| ![Hindu "Om" symbol](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/69/Aum_Om_navy_blue_circle_hollow_coral.svg/120px-Aum_Om_navy_blue_circle_hollow_coral.svg.png) \| \| \| \| \| \| [Concepts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glossary_of_Hinduism_terms "Glossary of Hinduism terms") \| [Brahman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahman "Brahman") [Om](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Om "Om") [Ishvara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ishvara "Ishvara") [Atman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%80tman_$Hinduism$ "Ātman (Hinduism)") [Maya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maya_$religion$ "Maya (religion)") [Karma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karma "Karma") [Saṃsāra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sa%E1%B9%83s%C4%81ra "Saṃsāra") [Puruṣārthas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puru%E1%B9%A3%C4%81rtha "Puruṣārtha") [Dharma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dharma "Dharma") [Artha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artha "Artha") [Kama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kama "Kama") [Moksha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moksha "Moksha") [Niti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethics_in_religion#Hindu_ethics "Ethics in religion") [Ahimsa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ahimsa "Ahimsa") [Asteya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Achourya "Achourya") [Aparigraha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aparigraha "Aparigraha") [Brahmacharya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmacarya "Brahmacarya") [Satya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satya "Satya") [Dāna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C4%81na "Dāna") [Damah](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Temperance_$virtue$#Hinduism "Temperance (virtue)") [Dayā](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compassion#Hinduism "Compassion") [Akrodha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akrodha "Akrodha") \| \| \| [Schools](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_philosophy "Hindu philosophy") \| [Āstika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%80stika_and_n%C4%81stika "Āstika and nāstika"): [Samkhya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samkhya "Samkhya") [Yoga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga "Yoga") [Nyaya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nyaya "Nyaya") [Vaisheshika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaisheshika "Vaisheshika") [Mīmāṃsā](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C4%ABm%C4%81%E1%B9%83s%C4%81 "Mīmāṃsā") [Vedanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedanta "Vedanta") [Svābhāvika Bhedābheda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sv%C4%81bh%C4%81vika_Bhed%C4%81bheda "Svābhāvika Bhedābheda") [Dvaita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dvaita_Vedanta "Dvaita Vedanta") [Advaita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advaita_Vedanta "Advaita Vedanta") [Vishishtadvaita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishishtadvaita "Vishishtadvaita") [Nāstika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%80stika_and_n%C4%81stika "Āstika and nāstika"): [Charvaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charvaka "Charvaka") \| \| \| [Texts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_texts "Hindu texts") \| \| \| \| \| \| \| \| Classification \| [Śruti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C5%9Aruti "Śruti") [Smṛti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sm%E1%B9%9Bti "Smṛti") \| \| \| [Vedas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedas "Vedas") \| \| \| \| \| \| \| \| [Rigveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rigveda "Rigveda") [Yajurveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yajurveda "Yajurveda") [Samaveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samaveda "Samaveda") [Atharvaveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atharvaveda "Atharvaveda") \| \| \| \| Divisions \| [Samhita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedic_chant "Vedic chant") [Brahmana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmana "Brahmana") [Aranyaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aranyaka "Aranyaka") \| \| \| [Upanishads](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Upanishads "Upanishads") \| [Aitareya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aitareya_Upanishad "Aitareya Upanishad") [Kaushitaki](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaushitaki_Upanishad "Kaushitaki Upanishad") [Brihadaranyaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brihadaranyaka_Upanishad "Brihadaranyaka Upanishad") [Isha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isha_Upanishad "Isha Upanishad") [Taittiriya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taittiriya_Upanishad "Taittiriya Upanishad") [Katha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Katha_Upanishad "Katha Upanishad") [Maitrayaniya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maitrayaniya_Upanishad "Maitrayaniya Upanishad") [Shvetashvatara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shvetashvatara_Upanishad "Shvetashvatara Upanishad") [Chandogya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandogya_Upanishad "Chandogya Upanishad") [Kena](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kena_Upanishad "Kena Upanishad") [Mundaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mundaka_Upanishad "Mundaka Upanishad") [Mandukya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandukya_Upanishad "Mandukya Upanishad") [Prashna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prashna_Upanishad "Prashna Upanishad") \| \| \| [Upavedas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Upaveda "Upaveda") \| [Ayurveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayurveda "Ayurveda") [Dhanurveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_martial_arts "Indian martial arts") [Natyaveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natya_Shastra "Natya Shastra") [Sthapatyaveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_temple_architecture "Hindu temple architecture") \| \| \| [Vedanga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedanga "Vedanga") \| [Shiksha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiksha "Shiksha") [Chandas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanskrit_prosody "Sanskrit prosody") [Vyākaraṇa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vy%C4%81kara%E1%B9%87a "Vyākaraṇa") [Nirukta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nirukta "Nirukta") [Kalpa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalpa_$Vedanga$ "Kalpa (Vedanga)") [Jyotisha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jyotisha "Jyotisha") \| \| \| [Other](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Hindu_texts "List of Hindu texts") \| [Bhagavad Gita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhagavad_Gita "Bhagavad Gita") [Agamas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agama_$Hinduism$ "Agama (Hinduism)") [Itihasas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Itihasa-Purana "Itihasa-Purana") [Ramayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramayana "Ramayana") [Mahabharata](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahabharata "Mahabharata") [Puranas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puranas "Puranas") [Minor Upanishads](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Upanishads#Classification "Upanishads") [Arthashastra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthashastra "Arthashastra") [Nitisara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nitisara "Nitisara") [Dharmaśāstra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dharma%C5%9B%C4%81stra "Dharmaśāstra") [Manusmriti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manusmriti "Manusmriti") [Nāradasmṛti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/N%C4%81radasm%E1%B9%9Bti "Nāradasmṛti") [Yājñavalkya Smṛti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Y%C4%81j%C3%B1avalkya_Sm%E1%B9%9Bti "Yājñavalkya Smṛti") [Sutras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sutra "Sutra") [Stotras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stotra "Stotra") [Subhashita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subhashita "Subhashita") [Tantras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tantras_$Hinduism$ "Tantras (Hinduism)") [Yoga Vasistha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga_Vasistha "Yoga Vasistha") [Yoga Sutras of Patanjali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga_Sutras_of_Patanjali "Yoga Sutras of Patanjali") \| \| \| [Sangam literature](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sangam_literature "Sangam literature") \| [Tirumurai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tirumurai "Tirumurai") [Divya Prabandham](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divya_Prabandham "Divya Prabandham") [Tirumurukāṟṟuppaṭai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tirumuruk%C4%81%E1%B9%9F%E1%B9%9Fuppa%E1%B9%ADai "Tirumurukāṟṟuppaṭai") [Thiruppugal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thiruppugal "Thiruppugal") [Thirukkural](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thirukkural "Thirukkural") [Kamba Ramayanam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kamba_Ramayanam "Kamba Ramayanam") [Five Great Epics](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Five_Great_Epics "Five Great Epics") [Eighteen Greater Texts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eighteen_Greater_Texts "Eighteen Greater Texts") [Eighteen Lesser Texts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eighteen_Lesser_Texts "Eighteen Lesser Texts") [Athichudi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Athichudi "Athichudi") [Iraiyanar Akapporul](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iraiyanar_Akapporul "Iraiyanar Akapporul") [Abhirami Antati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abhirami_Antati "Abhirami Antati") [Thiruvilaiyadal Puranam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thiruvilaiyadal_Puranam "Thiruvilaiyadal Puranam") [Vinayagar Agaval](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vinayagar_Agaval "Vinayagar Agaval") [Vedarthasamgraha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedarthasamgraha "Vedarthasamgraha") \| \| \| [Deities](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_deities "Hindu deities") \| \| \| \| \| \| \| \| [Gods](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deva_$Hinduism$ "Deva (Hinduism)") \| [Trimurti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trimurti "Trimurti") [Brahma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahma "Brahma") [Vishnu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishnu "Vishnu") [Shiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva "Shiva") [Agni](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agni "Agni") [Dattatreya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dattatreya "Dattatreya") [Ganesha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha "Ganesha") [Hanuman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman "Hanuman") [Indra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indra "Indra") [Kartikeya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kartikeya "Kartikeya") [Krishna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna "Krishna") [Rama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rama "Rama") [Surya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surya "Surya") [Varuna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varuna "Varuna") [Vayu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vayu "Vayu") [more](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Hindu_gods "Category:Hindu gods") \| \| \| [Goddesses](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devi "Devi") \| [Tridevi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tridevi "Tridevi") [Saraswati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saraswati "Saraswati") [Lakshmi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi "Lakshmi") [Parvati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parvati "Parvati") [Bhumi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhumi_$goddess$ "Bhumi (goddess)") [Durga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga "Durga") [Kali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali "Kali") [Mahavidya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahavidya "Mahavidya") [Matrika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matrika "Matrika") [Radha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radha "Radha") [Rukmini](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rukmini "Rukmini") [Sati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sati_$Hindu_goddess$ "Sati (Hindu goddess)") [Shakti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakti "Shakti") [Shashthi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shashthi "Shashthi") [Sita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sita "Sita") [more](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Hindu_goddesses "Category:Hindu goddesses") \| \| \| Practices \| \| \| \| \| \| \| \| [Worship](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Worship_in_Hinduism "Worship in Hinduism") \| [Temple](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_temple "Hindu temple") [Murti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murti "Murti") [Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puja_$Hinduism$ "Puja (Hinduism)") [Bhakti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhakti "Bhakti") [Japa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japa "Japa") [Bhajan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhajan "Bhajan") [Naivedhya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naivedhya "Naivedhya") [Yajna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yajna "Yajna") [Homa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homa_$ritual$ "Homa (ritual)") [Tapas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tapas_$Indian_religions$ "Tapas (Indian religions)") [Dhyāna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhy%C4%81na_in_Hinduism "Dhyāna in Hinduism") [Tirthatana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_pilgrimage_sites_in_India "Hindu pilgrimage sites in India") \| \| \| [Sanskaras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanskara_$rite_of_passage$ "Sanskara (rite of passage)") \| [Garbhadhana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garbhadhana "Garbhadhana") [Pumsavana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pumsavana "Pumsavana") [Simantonayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pumsavana_Simantonayana "Pumsavana Simantonayana") [Jatakarma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jatakarma "Jatakarma") [Namakarana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/N%C4%81makara%E1%B9%87a "Nāmakaraṇa") [Nishkramana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nishkramana "Nishkramana") [Annaprashana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annaprashana "Annaprashana") [Chudakarana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chudakarana "Chudakarana") [Karnavedha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karnavedha "Karnavedha") [Vidyarambha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vidy%C4%81ra%E1%B9%83bha%E1%B9%83 "Vidyāraṃbhaṃ") [Upanayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Upanayana "Upanayana") [Keshanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keshanta "Keshanta") [Ritushuddhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ritu_Kala_Samskaram "Ritu Kala Samskaram") [Samavartanam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samavartanam "Samavartanam") [Vivaha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vivaah "Vivaah") [Antyeshti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antyesti "Antyesti") \| \| \| Varnashrama \| [Varna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varna_$Hinduism$ "Varna (Hinduism)") [Brahmin](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmin "Brahmin") [Kshatriya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kshatriya "Kshatriya") [Vaishya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaishya "Vaishya") [Shudra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shudra "Shudra") [Ashrama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashrama_$stage$ "Ashrama (stage)") [Brahmacharya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmacarya "Brahmacarya") [Grihastha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grihastha "Grihastha") [Vanaprastha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vanaprastha "Vanaprastha") [Sannyasa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sannyasa "Sannyasa") \| \| \| [Festivals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Hindu_festivals "List of Hindu festivals") \| [Diwali]() [Holi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holi "Holi") [Shivaratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri "Maha Shivaratri") [Raksha Bandhan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raksha_Bandhan "Raksha Bandhan") [Navaratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navaratri "Navaratri") [Durga Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Puja "Durga Puja") [Ramlila](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramlila "Ramlila") [Vijayadashami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vijayadashami "Vijayadashami") [Ganesh Chaturthi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesh_Chaturthi "Ganesh Chaturthi") [Rama Navami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rama_Navami "Rama Navami") [Janmashtami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna_Janmashtami "Krishna Janmashtami") [Onam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Onam "Onam") [Pongal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pongal_$festival$ "Pongal (festival)") [Makar Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Makar_Sankranti "Makar Sankranti") New Year [Bihu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bihu "Bihu") [Gudi Padwa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gudi_Padwa "Gudi Padwa") [Pahela Baishakh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pahela_Baishakh "Pahela Baishakh") [Puthandu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puthandu "Puthandu") [Vaisakhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaisakhi "Vaisakhi") [Vishu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishu "Vishu") [Ugadi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ugadi "Ugadi") [Kumbh Mela](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumbh_Mela "Kumbh Mela") [Haridwar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haridwar_Kumbh_Mela "Haridwar Kumbh Mela") [Nashik](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nashik-Trimbakeshwar_Simhastha "Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha") [Prayag](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prayag_Kumbh_Mela "Prayag Kumbh Mela") [Ujjain](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ujjain_Simhastha "Ujjain Simhastha") [Ratha Yatra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ratha_Yatra_$Puri$ "Ratha Yatra (Puri)") [Teej](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teej "Teej") [Vasant Panchami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasant_Panchami "Vasant Panchami") [Others](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Hindu_festivals "Template:Hindu festivals") \| \| \| Other \| [Svādhyāya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sv%C4%81dhy%C4%81ya "Svādhyāya") [Namaste](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Namaste "Namaste") [Bindi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi_$decoration$ "Bindi (decoration)") [Tilaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilaka "Tilaka") \| \| \| [Related](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Hinduism "Portal:Hinduism") \| [Hindus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindus "Hindus") [Etymology](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindus#Etymology "Hindus") [List](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lists_of_Hindus "Lists of Hindus") [Denominations](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_denominations "Hindu denominations") [Law](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_law "Hindu law") [Calendar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar "Hindu calendar") [Anti-Hindu sentiment](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anti-Hindu_sentiment "Anti-Hindu sentiment") [Criticism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Criticism_of_Hinduism "Criticism of Hinduism") [Hindu gurus and sants](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Hindu_gurus_and_sants "List of Hindu gurus and sants") [Hindu studies](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_studies "Hindu studies") [Iconography](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_iconography "Hindu iconography") [Mythology](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_mythology "Hindu mythology") [Nationalism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_nationalism "Hindu nationalism") [Hindutva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindutva "Hindutva") [Persecution](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Persecution_of_Hindus "Persecution of Hindus") [Pilgrimage sites](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_pilgrimage_sites "Hindu pilgrimage sites") [Bahi registers](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bahi_genealogy_registers "Bahi genealogy registers") [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_pilgrimage_sites_in_India "Hindu pilgrimage sites in India") [Relations with other religions](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_and_other_religions "Hinduism and other religions") [Baháʼí](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bah%C3%A1%CA%BC%C3%AD_Faith_and_Hinduism "Baháʼí Faith and Hinduism") [Buddhism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhism_and_Hinduism "Buddhism and Hinduism") [Islam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu%E2%80%93Islamic_relations "Hindu–Islamic relations") [Jainism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jainism_and_Hinduism "Jainism and Hinduism") [Judaism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_and_Judaism "Hinduism and Judaism") [Sikhism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_and_Sikhism "Hinduism and Sikhism") [Theosophy](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_and_Theosophy "Hinduism and Theosophy") [Glossary](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glossary_of_Hinduism_terms "Glossary of Hinduism terms") [Hinduism by country](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_by_country "Hinduism by country") [Hindu temples](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_temples "Hindu temples") [Lists](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lists_of_Hindu_temples "Lists of Hindu temples") [Architecture](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_temple_architecture "Hindu temple architecture") \| \| \| ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/41/Global_thinking.svg/20px-Global_thinking.svg.png) [Outline](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Outline_of_Hinduism "Outline of Hinduism") ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/96/Symbol_category_class.svg/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Category](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Hinduism "Category:Hinduism") [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/e/e2/Symbol_portal_class.svg/20px-Symbol_portal_class.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Symbol_portal_class.svg "Portal") [Portal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Hinduism "Portal:Hinduism") ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/37/People_icon.svg/20px-People_icon.svg.png) [WikiProject](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:WikiProject_Hinduism "Wikipedia:WikiProject Hinduism") \| \| \| \| [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Hindu_festivals "Template:Hindu festivals") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Hindu_festivals "Template talk:Hindu festivals") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Hindu_festivals "Special:EditPage/Template:Hindu festivals")[![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b7/Om_symbol.svg/20px-Om_symbol.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism "Hinduism") [Festivals in the Hindu calendar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Hindu_festivals "List of Hindu festivals") \| \| \| \| Major festivals \| [Ayudha Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayudha_Puja "Ayudha Puja") [Chhath](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chhath "Chhath") [Diwali]() [Durga Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Puja "Durga Puja") [Ganesh Chaturthi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesh_Chaturthi "Ganesh Chaturthi") [Holi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holi "Holi") [Krishna Janmashtami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna_Janmashtami "Krishna Janmashtami") [Maha Shivaratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri "Maha Shivaratri") [Navaratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navaratri "Navaratri") [Rama Navami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rama_Navami "Rama Navami") [Thaipusam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thaipusam "Thaipusam") [Vijayadashami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vijayadashami "Vijayadashami") \| \| \| [Harvest festivals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harvest_festival "Harvest festival") \| [Bandna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandna "Bandna") [Bhogi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhogi "Bhogi") [Lohri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lohri "Lohri") [Maghi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maghi "Maghi") [Maghe Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maghe_Sankranti "Maghe Sankranti") [Makar Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Makar_Sankranti "Makar Sankranti") [Onam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Onam "Onam") [Pongal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pongal_$festival$ "Pongal (festival)") [Kaanum Pongal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaanum_Pongal "Kaanum Pongal") [Mattu Pongal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mattu_Pongal "Mattu Pongal") [Pusnâ](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pusn%C3%A2 "Pusnâ") [Sohrai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sohrai "Sohrai") \| \| \| [New year's days](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_New_Year%27s_days "Indian New Year's days") \| [Balipratipada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balipratipada "Balipratipada") [Bohag Bihu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bohag_Bihu "Bohag Bihu") [Bisu Parba](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bisu_Parba "Bisu Parba") [Chaitra Navaratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navaratri#Chaitra_Navaratri "Navaratri") [Cheti Chand](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cheti_Chand "Cheti Chand") [Gudi Padwa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gudi_Padwa "Gudi Padwa") [Mesha Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mesha_Sankranti "Mesha Sankranti") [Mha Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mha_Puja "Mha Puja") [Jur Sital](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jur_Sital "Jur Sital") [Navreh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navreh "Navreh") [Nyepi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nyepi "Nyepi") [Maha Bishuba Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Bishuba_Sankranti "Maha Bishuba Sankranti") [Pahela Baishakh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pahela_Baishakh "Pahela Baishakh") [Puthandu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puthandu "Puthandu") [Sajibu Nongma Panba](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sajibu_Nongma_Panba "Sajibu Nongma Panba") [Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sankranti "Sankranti") [Ugadi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ugadi "Ugadi") [Vaisakhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaisakhi "Vaisakhi") [Vishu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishu "Vishu") \| \| \| Other festivals \| [Aadi Perukku](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aadi_Perukku "Aadi Perukku") [Balipratipada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balipratipada "Balipratipada") [Bhai Dooj](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhai_Dooj "Bhai Dooj") [Datta Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datta_Jayanti "Datta Jayanti") [Dhanteras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhanteras "Dhanteras") [Gaura Parva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaura_$festival$ "Gaura (festival)") [Govardhan Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Govardhan_Puja "Govardhan Puja") [Gowri Habba](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gowri_Habba "Gowri Habba") [Hanuman Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman_Jayanti "Hanuman Jayanti") [Kali Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali_Puja "Kali Puja") [Karthika Deepam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karthika_Deepam "Karthika Deepam") [Karva Chauth](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karva_Chauth "Karva Chauth") [Kashmiri Hindu festivals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kashmiri_Hindu_festivals "Kashmiri Hindu festivals") [Lakshmi Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi_Puja "Lakshmi Puja") [Kumbh Mela](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumbh_Mela "Kumbh Mela") [Mahalakshmi Vrata](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahalakshmi_Vrata "Mahalakshmi Vrata") [Mahamaham](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahamaham "Mahamaham") [Mha Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mha_Puja "Mha Puja") [Panguni Uthiram](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panguni_Uthiram "Panguni Uthiram") [Pargat Diwas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pargat_Diwas "Pargat Diwas") [Raksha Bandhan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raksha_Bandhan "Raksha Bandhan") [Ratha-Yatra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ratha-Yatra "Ratha-Yatra") [Savitri Vrata](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Savitri_Vrata "Savitri Vrata") [Surasamharam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surasamharam "Surasamharam") [Swanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swanti_$festival$ "Swanti (festival)") [Teej](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teej "Teej") [Tihar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tihar_$festival$ "Tihar (festival)") [Kukur Tihar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kukur_Tihar "Kukur Tihar") [Thiruvathira](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thiruvathira "Thiruvathira") [Tulasi Vivaha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tulasi_Vivaha "Tulasi Vivaha") [Vaikasi Visakam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaikasi_Visakam "Vaikasi Visakam") [Vishwakarma Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishwakarma_Puja "Vishwakarma Puja") \| \| \| Holy days \| [Akshaya Tritiya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akshaya_Tritiya "Akshaya Tritiya") [Amalaka Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amalaka_Ekadashi "Amalaka Ekadashi") [Amavasya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amavasya "Amavasya") [Ananta Chaturdashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ananta_Chaturdashi "Ananta Chaturdashi") [Ashadhi Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashadhi_Ekadashi "Ashadhi Ekadashi") [Guru Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Purnima "Guru Purnima") [Kamada Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kamada_Ekadashi "Kamada Ekadashi") [Kartik Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kartik_Purnima "Kartik Purnima") [Naga Panchami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naga_Panchami "Naga Panchami") [Naraka Chaturdashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naraka_Chaturdashi "Naraka Chaturdashi") [Narali Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narali_Purnima "Narali Purnima") [Nirjala Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nirjala_Ekadashi "Nirjala Ekadashi") [Pausha Putrada Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pausha_Putrada_Ekadashi "Pausha Putrada Ekadashi") [Prabodhini Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prabodhini_Ekadashi "Prabodhini Ekadashi") [Pradosha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pradosha "Pradosha") [Rishi Panchami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rishi_Panchami "Rishi Panchami") [Sankashti Chaturthi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sankashti_Chaturthi "Sankashti Chaturthi") [Sharad Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sharad_Purnima "Sharad Purnima") [Shayani Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shayani_Ekadashi "Shayani Ekadashi") [Shravana Putrada Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shravana_Putrada_Ekadashi "Shravana Putrada Ekadashi") [Vaikuntha Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaikuntha_Ekadashi "Vaikuntha Ekadashi") [Varuthini Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varuthini_Ekadashi "Varuthini Ekadashi") [Vasant Panchami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasant_Panchami "Vasant Panchami") [Vat Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vat_Purnima "Vat Purnima") \| \| \| [Balinese festivals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balinese_people "Balinese people") \| [Galungan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galungan "Galungan") [Nyepi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nyepi "Nyepi") \| \| \| Holy periods \| [Chaturmasya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chaturmasya "Chaturmasya") [Dakshinayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dakshinayana "Dakshinayana") [Pitru Paksha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pitru_Paksha "Pitru Paksha") [Uttarayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uttarayana "Uttarayana") \| \| \| ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/96/Symbol_category_class.svg/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Hindu festivals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Hindu_festivals "Category:Hindu festivals") \| \| \| \| [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Sindhi_festivals "Template:Sindhi festivals") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Sindhi_festivals "Template talk:Sindhi festivals") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Sindhi_festivals "Special:EditPage/Template:Sindhi festivals")[Festivals in the Sindhi calendar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Sindhi_festivals "List of Sindhi festivals") \| \| \| \| Major festivals \| [Sindhi Cultural Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindhi_Cultural_Day "Sindhi Cultural Day") [Lal Loi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lal_Loi "Lal Loi") [Makar Sankrant](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Makar_Sankranti "Makar Sankranti") [Basant Panchmi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasant_Panchami "Vasant Panchami") [Shivratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri "Maha Shivaratri") [Holi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holi "Holi") Dhudiyo Ram Navami Akhan Teej Chaliho Starts [Guru Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Purnima "Guru Purnima") Guru Purnima Gogio - Nag Panchmi Chaliho Ends Rakhadi Teejadi Thadadi [Krishna Janmashtami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna_Janmashtami "Krishna Janmashtami") Janmashtami [Ganesh Chaturthi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesh_Chaturthi "Ganesh Chaturthi") Shradh Starts Mahalaxmi \[Sagido Chhodinin\] Shradh Ends [Navratra Starts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navratri "Navratri") [Navratra Ends](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navratri "Navratri") Dashero Dhan Teras Diyari - Laxmi Pooja Gop Ashtami Guru Nanak Jayanti Geeta Jayanti [Diyarri]() [Krishna Janmashtami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna_Janmashtami "Krishna Janmashtami") [Maha Shivaratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri "Maha Shivaratri") [Makar Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Makar_Sankranti "Makar Sankranti") [Navratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navratri "Navratri") [Hanuman Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman_Jayanti "Hanuman Jayanti") \| \| \| [Sindhi New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_New_Year%27s_days "Indian New Year's days") \| [Chetri Chand](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cheti_Chand "Cheti Chand") \| \| \| Literary Events \| [Sindh Literature Festival](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindh_Literature_Festival "Sindh Literature Festival") [Hyderabad Literary Festival](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyderabad_Literature_Festival,_Pakistan "Hyderabad Literature Festival, Pakistan") \| \| \| Holy days \| Sindhi Muslims Holidays [Eid al-Fitr](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Fitr "Eid al-Fitr") [Eid al-Adha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Adha "Eid al-Adha") \| \| \| Lists \| [List of Sindhi festivals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Sindhi_festivals "List of Sindhi festivals") \| \| \| ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/96/Symbol_category_class.svg/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Sindhi Culture](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Sindhi_culture "Category:Sindhi culture") ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/96/Symbol_category_class.svg/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Sindhi festivals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Sindhi_festivals "Category:Sindhi festivals") ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/96/Symbol_category_class.svg/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Sindhi Hindu festivals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Hindu_festivals "Category:Hindu festivals") \| \| \| \| [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Asia_topic "Template:Asia topic") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Asia_topic "Template talk:Asia topic") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Asia_topic "Special:EditPage/Template:Asia topic")Public holidays in Asia \| \| \| \| [Sovereign states](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_sovereign_states "List of sovereign states") \| [Afghanistan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Afghanistan "Public holidays in Afghanistan") [Armenia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Armenia "Public holidays in Armenia") [Azerbaijan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Azerbaijan "Public holidays in Azerbaijan") [Bahrain](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Bahrain "Public holidays in Bahrain") [Bangladesh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Bangladesh "Public holidays in Bangladesh") [Bhutan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Bhutan "Public holidays in Bhutan") [Brunei](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Brunei "Public holidays in Brunei") [Cambodia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Cambodia "Public holidays in Cambodia") [China](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_China "Public holidays in China") [Cyprus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Cyprus "Public holidays in Cyprus") [Egypt](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Egypt "Public holidays in Egypt") [Georgia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Georgia_$country$ "Public holidays in Georgia (country)") [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_India "Public holidays in India") [Indonesia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Indonesia "Public holidays in Indonesia") [Iran](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Iran "Public holidays in Iran") [Iraq](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Iraq "Public holidays in Iraq") [Israel](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Israel "Public holidays in Israel") [Japan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Japan "Public holidays in Japan") [Jordan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Jordan "Public holidays in Jordan") [Kazakhstan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Kazakhstan "Public holidays in Kazakhstan") [North Korea](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_North_Korea "Public holidays in North Korea") [South Korea](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_South_Korea "Public holidays in South Korea") [Kuwait](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Kuwait "Public holidays in Kuwait") [Kyrgyzstan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Kyrgyzstan "Public holidays in Kyrgyzstan") [Laos](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Laos "Public holidays in Laos") [Lebanon](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Lebanon "Public holidays in Lebanon") [Malaysia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Malaysia "Public holidays in Malaysia") [Maldives](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_the_Maldives "Public holidays in the Maldives") [Mongolia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Mongolia "Public holidays in Mongolia") [Myanmar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Myanmar "Public holidays in Myanmar") [Nepal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Nepal "Public holidays in Nepal") [Oman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Oman "Public holidays in Oman") [Palestine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Palestine "Public holidays in Palestine") [Pakistan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Pakistan "Public holidays in Pakistan") [Philippines](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_the_Philippines "Public holidays in the Philippines") [Qatar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Qatar "Public holidays in Qatar") [Russia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Russia "Public holidays in Russia") [Saudi Arabia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Saudi_Arabia "Public holidays in Saudi Arabia") [Singapore](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Singapore "Public holidays in Singapore") [Sri Lanka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Sri_Lanka "Public holidays in Sri Lanka") [Syria](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Syria "Public holidays in Syria") [Tajikistan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Tajikistan "Public holidays in Tajikistan") [Thailand](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Thailand "Public holidays in Thailand") [Timor-Leste (East Timor)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Timor-Leste "Public holidays in Timor-Leste") [Turkey](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Turkey "Public holidays in Turkey") [Turkmenistan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Turkmenistan "Public holidays in Turkmenistan") [United Arab Emirates](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_the_United_Arab_Emirates "Public holidays in the United Arab Emirates") [Uzbekistan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Uzbekistan "Public holidays in Uzbekistan") [Vietnam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Vietnam "Public holidays in Vietnam") [Yemen](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Yemen "Public holidays in Yemen") \| \| \| [States with limited recognition](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_states_with_limited_recognition "List of states with limited recognition") \| [Abkhazia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Abkhazia "Public holidays in Abkhazia") [Northern Cyprus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Northern_Cyprus "Public holidays in Northern Cyprus") [South Ossetia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_South_Ossetia "Public holidays in South Ossetia") [Taiwan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Taiwan "Public holidays in Taiwan") \| \| \| [Dependencies](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dependent_territory "Dependent territory") and other territories \| [British Indian Ocean Territory](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_the_British_Indian_Ocean_Territory "Public holidays in the British Indian Ocean Territory") [Christmas Island](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Christmas_Island "Public holidays in Christmas Island") [Cocos (Keeling) Islands](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_the_Cocos_$Keeling$_Islands "Public holidays in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands") [Hong Kong](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Hong_Kong "Public holidays in Hong Kong") [Macau](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Macau "Public holidays in Macau") \| \| \| ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/96/Symbol_category_class.svg/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Category](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Asia "Category:Asia") [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/e/e2/Symbol_portal_class.svg/20px-Symbol_portal_class.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Symbol_portal_class.svg "Portal") [Asia portal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Asia "Portal:Asia") \| \| \| \| [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Public_holidays_in_India "Template:Public holidays in India") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Public_holidays_in_India "Template talk:Public holidays in India") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Public_holidays_in_India "Special:EditPage/Template:Public holidays in India")[![India](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/41/Flag_of_India.svg/40px-Flag_of_India.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India "India") [Public holidays in India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_India "Public holidays in India") \| \| \| \| National holidays \| [Republic Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Republic_Day_$India$ "Republic Day (India)") [Independence Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Day_$India$ "Independence Day (India)") [Gandhi Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gandhi_Jayanti "Gandhi Jayanti") \| \| \| Central holidays \| [Buddha Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddha%27s_Birthday "Buddha's Birthday") [Christmas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas "Christmas") [Dussehra (Vijayadashami)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vijayadashami "Vijayadashami") [Diwali]() [Good Friday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Good_Friday "Good Friday") [Guru Nanak's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Nanak_Gurpurab "Guru Nanak Gurpurab") [Eid ul-Fitr](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_ul-Fitr "Eid ul-Fitr") [Eid-ul Zuha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Adha "Eid al-Adha") [Mahavir Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahavir_Janma_Kalyanak "Mahavir Janma Kalyanak") [Muharram](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashura "Ashura") [Prophet Mohammad's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mawlid "Mawlid") \| \| \| State holidays (differ by states) \| \| \| \| \| \| \| \| [Harvest festival](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harvest_festival "Harvest festival") \| [Bhogi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhogi "Bhogi") [Chapchar Kut](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chapchar_Kut "Chapchar Kut") [Kati Bihu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bihu "Bihu") [Lohri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lohri "Lohri") [Magh Bihu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magh_Bihu "Magh Bihu") [Maghi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maghi "Maghi") [Makar Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Makar_Sankranti "Makar Sankranti") [Onam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Onam "Onam") [Pongal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pongal_$festival$ "Pongal (festival)") [Kaanum Pongal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaanum_Pongal "Kaanum Pongal") [Mattu Pongal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mattu_Pongal "Mattu Pongal") [Thiruvonam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Onam "Onam") [Wangala](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wangala "Wangala") \| \| \| [New year's days](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Year%27s_Day "New Year's Day") \| [Bohag Bihu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bohag_Bihu "Bohag Bihu") [Cheiraoba](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cheiraoba "Cheiraoba") [Gudi Padwa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gudi_Padwa "Gudi Padwa") [Losoong](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Losoong_Festival "Losoong Festival") [Losar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Losar "Losar") [Nauroz](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nauroz "Nauroz") [New Year's Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Year%27s_Day "New Year's Day") [New Year's Eve](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Year%27s_Eve "New Year's Eve") [Pana Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pana_Sankranti "Pana Sankranti") [Parsi New Year Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pateti "Pateti") [Pohela Boishakh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pohela_Boishakh "Pohela Boishakh") [Puthandu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puthandu "Puthandu") [Sajibu Nongma Panba](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sajibu_Nongma_Panba "Sajibu Nongma Panba") [Sarhul](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarhul "Sarhul") [Ugadi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ugadi "Ugadi") [Vaisakhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaisakhi "Vaisakhi") [Vishu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishu "Vishu") [Vikram Samvant](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vikram_Samvant "Vikram Samvant") \| \| \| [State days](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Indian_state_days "List of Indian state days") \| [Arunachal Pradesh Statehood Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arunachal_Pradesh_Statehood_Day "Arunachal Pradesh Statehood Day") [Asom Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sukaphaa "Sukaphaa") [Bihar Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bihar_Day "Bihar Day") [Chhattisgarh Rajyotsava](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chhattisgarh_Rajyotsava "Chhattisgarh Rajyotsava") [Goa Liberation Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goa_Liberation_Day "Goa Liberation Day") [Gujarat Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarat_Day "Gujarat Day") [Haryana Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haryana_Day "Haryana Day") [Himachal Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Indian_state_days "List of Indian state days") [Jammu and Kashmir Accession day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Accession_Day_$Jammu_and_Kashmir$ "Accession Day (Jammu and Kashmir)") [Kannada Rajyothsava](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kannada_Rajyothsava "Kannada Rajyothsava") [Maharashtra Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharashtra_Day "Maharashtra Day") [Mizoram State Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Indian_state_days "List of Indian state days") [Nagaland State Inauguration Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Indian_state_days "List of Indian state days") [Odisha Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Odisha_Day "Odisha Day") [Puducherry De Jure Transfer Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Indian_state_days "List of Indian state days") [Puducherry Liberation Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Indian_state_days "List of Indian state days") [Sikkim State Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikkim_State_Day "Sikkim State Day") [Telangana Formation Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telangana_Formation_Day "Telangana Formation Day") \| \| \| Birth and anniversary days \| [Ambedkar Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ambedkar_Jayanti "Ambedkar Jayanti") [Babu Jag Jivan Ram's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jagjivan_Ram "Jagjivan Ram") [Basava Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basava "Basava") [Bhanu Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhanu_Jayanti "Bhanu Jayanti") [Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiv_Jayanti "Shiv Jayanti") [Guru Ghasidas Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Ghasidas "Guru Ghasidas") [Guru Ravidass Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Ravidass_Jayanti "Guru Ravidass Jayanti") [Heroes' Martyrdom Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martyrs%27_Day_$India$ "Martyrs' Day (India)") [Janmotsav](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sankardev "Sankardev") [Kabir Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kabir_Jayanti "Kabir Jayanti") [Kanakadasa Jayanthi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanakadasa_Jayanthi "Kanakadasa Jayanthi") [Kazi Nazrul Islam Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nazrul_Jayanti "Nazrul Jayanti") [Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agrasen "Agrasen") [Maharaja Hari Singh Ji's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hari_Singh "Hari Singh") [Maharana Pratap Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pratap_Jayanti "Pratap Jayanti") [Martyrs' Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martyrs%27_Day_$India$ "Martyrs' Day (India)") [Netaji's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Netaji "Netaji") [Pa Togan Sangma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pa_Togan_Sangma "Pa Togan Sangma") [Rabindranath Tagore's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rabindranath_Tagore "Rabindranath Tagore") [Ramdev Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramdev_Pir "Ramdev Pir") [Shaheed Udham Singh Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Udham_Singh "Udham Singh") [Shaheedi Diwas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martyrs%27_Day_$India$ "Martyrs' Day (India)") [Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vallabhbhai_Patel "Vallabhbhai Patel") [Sree Narayana Guru Jayanthi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sree_Narayana_Guru_Jayanthi "Sree Narayana Guru Jayanthi") [Sree Narayana Guru Samadhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sree_Narayana_Guru_Samadhi "Sree Narayana Guru Samadhi") [Swami Vivekananda's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swami_Vivekananda "Swami Vivekananda") [Thiruvalluvar Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thiruvalluvar_Day "Thiruvalluvar Day") [U Soso Tham Death Anniversary](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khasi_language "Khasi language") [U Kiang Nangbah](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/U_Kiang_Nangbah "U Kiang Nangbah") [U Tirot Sing Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/U_Tirot_Sing "U Tirot Sing") \| \| \| Religious festivals \| \| \| \| \| \| \| \| [Hindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Hindu_festivals "List of Hindu festivals") \| [Akshaya Tritiya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akshaya_Tritiya "Akshaya Tritiya") [Ayudha Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayudha_Puja "Ayudha Puja") [Bathukamma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bathukamma "Bathukamma") [Bhai Dooj](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhai_Dooj "Bhai Dooj") [Bonalu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bonalu "Bonalu") [Chhath](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chhath "Chhath") [Egas Bagwal]() [Dol Jatra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dol_Jatra "Dol Jatra") [Durga Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Puja "Durga Puja") [Ganesh Chaturthi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesh_Chaturthi "Ganesh Chaturthi") [Garia Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garia_puja "Garia puja") [Ghatasthapana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navratri "Navratri") [Govardhan Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Govardhan_Puja "Govardhan Puja") [Hanuman Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman_Jayanti "Hanuman Jayanti") [Hartalika Teej](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teej "Teej") [Haryali Teej](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teej "Teej") [Holi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holi "Holi") [Holika Dahan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holika_Dahan "Holika Dahan") [Jhulan Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jhulan_Purnima "Jhulan Purnima") [Kali Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali_Puja "Kali Puja") [Kartika Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kartika_Purnima "Kartika Purnima") [Ker Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ker_puja "Ker puja") [Kharchi Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kharchi_puja "Kharchi puja") [Krishna Janmashtami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna_Janmashtami "Krishna Janmashtami") [Lakshmi Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi_Puja "Lakshmi Puja") [Maha Ashtami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashtami "Ashtami") [Maha Navami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_navami "Maha navami") [Maha Saptami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saptami "Saptami") [Maha Shivaratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri "Maha Shivaratri") [Mahalaya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahalaya "Mahalaya") [Maharshi Parasuram Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parashurama "Parashurama") [Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sharad_Purnima#Valmiki_Jayanti "Sharad Purnima") [Nag Panchami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nag_Panchami "Nag Panchami") [Navratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navaratri#Chaitra_Navaratri "Navaratri") [Raja Parba](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raja_Parba "Raja Parba") [Raksha Bandhan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raksha_Bandhan "Raksha Bandhan") [Ram Navami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ram_Navami "Ram Navami") [Rath Jatra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rath_Jatra "Rath Jatra") [Ratha Saptami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ratha_Saptami "Ratha Saptami") [Rahasa Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sharad_Purnima "Sharad Purnima") [Teja Dashmi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dashami "Dashami") [Thaipusam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thaipusam "Thaipusam") [Vasant Panchami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasant_Panchami "Vasant Panchami") [Vishwakarma day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishwakarma_day "Vishwakarma day") \| \| \| [Buddhist](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Buddhist_festivals "List of Buddhist festivals") \| [Dosmoche](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dosmoche "Dosmoche") [Drupka Teshi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drupka_Teshi "Drupka Teshi") [Lhabab Duchen](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lhabab_Duchen "Lhabab Duchen") [Pang-Lhabsol](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kagyed "Kagyed") \| \| \| [Muslim](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muslim_festivals "Muslim festivals") \| [Chehlum](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chehlum "Chehlum") [Jumat-ul-Vida](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jumu%27atul-Wida "Jumu'atul-Wida") [Mohm Hajarat Ali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ali "Ali") [Shab-I-Qadr](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Night_of_Power "Night of Power") \| \| \| [Christian](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_festivals "Christian festivals") \| [Easter](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Easter "Easter") [Feast of St. Francis Xavier](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culture_of_Goa "Culture of Goa") [Missionary Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Christianity_in_Mizoram "History of Christianity in Mizoram") \| \| \| [Sikh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikhism "Sikhism") \| [Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Gobind_Singh "Guru Gobind Singh") [Guru Hargobind Ji's birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Hargobind "Guru Hargobind") [Parkash Utsav Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Granth_Sahib "Guru Granth Sahib") [Sri Guru Arjun Dev Ji's Martyrdom Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Arjun_Dev "Guru Arjun Dev") [Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji's Martyrdom Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Teg_Bahadur "Guru Teg Bahadur") \| \| \| [Jain](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jain_festivals "Jain festivals") \| [Samvatsari](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samvatsari "Samvatsari") \| \| \| [Indigeneous](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indigenous_people_of_India "Indigenous people of India") \| [Behdienkhlam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Behdienkhlam "Behdienkhlam") [Indigenous Faith Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donyi-Polo "Donyi-Polo") [Gaan-Ngai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaan-Ngai "Gaan-Ngai") [Imoinu Iratpa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Imoinu_Iratpa "Imoinu Iratpa") [Indrajatra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indrajatra "Indrajatra") [Lui Ngai Ni](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lui_Ngai_Ni "Lui Ngai Ni") [Me-Dam-Me-Phi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Me-Dam-Me-Phi "Me-Dam-Me-Phi") [Ningol Chakouba](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ningol_Chakouba "Ningol Chakouba") [Nuakhai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nuakhai "Nuakhai") [Tendong Lho Rumfaat](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tendong_Lho_Rumfaat "Tendong Lho Rumfaat") [Yaosang](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yaosang "Yaosang") \| \| \| Others \| [May Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Workers%27_Day "International Workers' Day") [MHIP day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mizo_Hmeichhe_Insuihkhawm_Pawl "Mizo Hmeichhe Insuihkhawm Pawl") [Remna Ni](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mizoram_Peace_Accord "Mizoram Peace Accord") [Panchayatiraj Divas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Panchayati_Raj_Day "National Panchayati Raj Day") [Patriot's day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anglo-Manipur_War#Legacy "Anglo-Manipur War") [Seng Kut Snem](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seng_Khasi_Movement "Seng Khasi Movement") [YMA Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Young_Mizo_Association "Young Mizo Association") \| \| \| [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Public_holidays_in_Malaysia "Template:Public holidays in Malaysia") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Public_holidays_in_Malaysia "Template talk:Public holidays in Malaysia") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Public_holidays_in_Malaysia "Special:EditPage/Template:Public holidays in Malaysia")[![Malaysia](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/66/Flag_of_Malaysia.svg/40px-Flag_of_Malaysia.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malaysia "Malaysia") [Public holidays in Malaysia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Malaysia "Public holidays in Malaysia") \| \| \| \| National holidays \| [Chinese New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_New_Year "Chinese New Year") [Labour Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labour_Day "Labour Day") [Wesak Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vesak "Vesak") [Eid al-Fitr](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Fitr "Eid al-Fitr") [Eid al-Adha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Adha "Eid al-Adha") [Islamic New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islamic_New_Year "Islamic New Year") [Merdeka Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Day_$Malaysia$ "Independence Day (Malaysia)") [Muharram](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muharram "Muharram") [Agong's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yang_di-Pertuan_Agong "Yang di-Pertuan Agong") [Malaysia Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malaysia_Day "Malaysia Day") [Muhammad's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad "Muhammad") [Christmas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas "Christmas") \| \| \| State holidays (differ by states) \| [New Year's Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Year%27s_Day "New Year's Day") [Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sembilan's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yang_di-Pertuan_Besar_of_Negeri_Sembilan "Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan") [Sultan of Kedah's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sultan_of_Kedah "Sultan of Kedah") [Thaipusam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thaipusam "Thaipusam") [Federal Territory Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federal_Territory_Day "Federal Territory Day") [Anniversary of Installation of the Sultan of Terengganu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sultan_of_Terengganu "Sultan of Terengganu") [Sultan of Johor's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sultan_of_Johor "Sultan of Johor") [Isra and Mi'raj](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isra_and_Mi%27raj "Isra and Mi'raj") [Declaration of Malacca City as Historical City](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malacca_City "Malacca City") [Good Friday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Good_Friday "Good Friday") [Sultan of Terengganu's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sultan_of_Terengganu "Sultan of Terengganu") [First Day of Ramadan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramadan "Ramadan") [Day of Nuzul Al-Quran](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_the_Quran "History of the Quran") [Tadau Kaamatan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaamatan "Kaamatan") [Gawai Dayak](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gawai_Dayak "Gawai Dayak") [Declaration of George Town as World Heritage Site](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Town,_Penang#History "George Town, Penang") [Penang State Governor's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Governor_of_Penang "Governor of Penang") [Raja of Perlis's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raja_of_Perlis "Raja of Perlis") [Sarawak Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarawak_Day "Sarawak Day") [Hol Day of Sultan Iskandar of Johor](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sultan_Iskandar_of_Johor "Sultan Iskandar of Johor") [Sabah State Governor's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Governor_of_Sabah "Governor of Sabah") [Malacca State Governor's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Governor_of_Malacca "Governor of Malacca") [Sarawak State Governor's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Yang_di-Pertua_Negeri_of_Sarawak "List of Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak") [Sultan of Pahang's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sultan_of_Pahang "Sultan of Pahang") [Deepavali]() [Sultan of Perak's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sultan_of_Perak "Sultan of Perak") [Sultan of Kelantan's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sultan_of_Kelantan "Sultan of Kelantan") [Sultan of Selangor's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sultan_of_Selangor "Sultan of Selangor") [Christmas Eve](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas_Eve "Christmas Eve") \| \| \| [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Public_holidays_in_Myanmar "Template:Public holidays in Myanmar") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Public_holidays_in_Myanmar "Template talk:Public holidays in Myanmar") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Public_holidays_in_Myanmar "Special:EditPage/Template:Public holidays in Myanmar")![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8c/Flag_of_Myanmar.svg/40px-Flag_of_Myanmar.svg.png) [Public holidays in Myanmar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Myanmar "Public holidays in Myanmar") \| \| \| \| National holidays \| [New Year's Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Year%27s_Day "New Year's Day") [Independence Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Day_$Myanmar$ "Independence Day (Myanmar)") [Union Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Union_Day_$Myanmar$ "Union Day (Myanmar)") [Peasants' Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peasants%27_Day "Peasants' Day") [Full Moon Day of Tabaung](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C4%81gha_P%C5%ABj%C4%81 "Māgha Pūjā") [Armed Forces Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Armed_Forces_Day_$Myanmar$ "Armed Forces Day (Myanmar)") [Thingyan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thingyan "Thingyan") [Labour Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labour_Day "Labour Day") [Full Moon Day of Kason](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vesak "Vesak") [Martyrs' Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martyrs%27_Day_$Myanmar$ "Martyrs' Day (Myanmar)") [Full Moon Day of Kason](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vassa "Vassa") [Full Moon Day of Thadingyut](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thadingyut "Thadingyut") [Full Moon Day of Tazaungmon](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tazaungmon "Tazaungmon") [National Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Day_$Myanmar$ "National Day (Myanmar)") [Christmas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas "Christmas") [Eid al-Adha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Adha "Eid al-Adha") [Diwali]() \| \| \| ![flag](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8c/Flag_of_Myanmar.svg/20px-Flag_of_Myanmar.svg.png) [Myanmar portal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Myanmar "Portal:Myanmar") \| \| \| \| [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Nepal_Holidays "Template:Nepal Holidays") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Nepal_Holidays "Template talk:Nepal Holidays") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Nepal_Holidays "Special:EditPage/Template:Nepal Holidays")[![Nepal](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/9b/Flag_of_Nepal.svg/20px-Flag_of_Nepal.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepal "Nepal") [Public holidays in Nepal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Nepal "Public holidays in Nepal") \| \| \| \| [Maghe Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maghe_Sankranti "Maghe Sankranti") [Nepal Sambat](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepal_Sambat "Nepal Sambat") [Shahid Diwas](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Shahid_Diwas&action=edit&redlink=1 "Shahid Diwas (page does not exist)") [Sonam Lhosar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sonam_Lhosar "Sonam Lhosar") [Saraswati Puja (Vasant Panchami)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasant_Panchami "Vasant Panchami") [Prajatantra Diwas](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Prajatantra_Diwas&action=edit&redlink=1 "Prajatantra Diwas (page does not exist)") [Gyalpo Lhosar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gyalpo_Lhosar "Gyalpo Lhosar") [Maha Shivaratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri "Maha Shivaratri") [Nari Diwas](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Nari_Diwas&action=edit&redlink=1 "Nari Diwas (page does not exist)") [Fagu Purnima (Holi)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holi "Holi") [Ghode Jatra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ghode_Jatra "Ghode Jatra") [Ram Nawami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ram_Nawami "Ram Nawami") [Nepali New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepali_New_Year "Nepali New Year") [Majdur Diwas](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Majdur_Diwas&action=edit&redlink=1 "Majdur Diwas (page does not exist)") [Buddha Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddha_Jayanti "Buddha Jayanti") [Ganatantra Diwas](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Ganatantra_Diwas&action=edit&redlink=1 "Ganatantra Diwas (page does not exist)") [Ramadan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramadan "Ramadan") [Janai Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Janai_Purnima "Janai Purnima") and [Raksha Bandhan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raksha_Bandhan "Raksha Bandhan") [Gaijatra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaijatra "Gaijatra") [Gaura Parwa](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Gaura_Parwa&action=edit&redlink=1 "Gaura Parwa (page does not exist)") [Krishna Janmashtami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna_Janmashtami "Krishna Janmashtami") [Baqri Id](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baqri_Id "Baqri Id") [Teej](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teej "Teej") [Rishi Panchami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rishi_Panchami "Rishi Panchami") [Indra Jatra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indra_Jatra "Indra Jatra") [Sambidhaan Diwas](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sambidhaan_Diwas&action=edit&redlink=1 "Sambidhaan Diwas (page does not exist)") [Ghatasthapana](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Ghatasthapana&action=edit&redlink=1 "Ghatasthapana (page does not exist)") [Fulpati](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Fulpati&action=edit&redlink=1 "Fulpati (page does not exist)") [Maha Asthami](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Asthami&action=edit&redlink=1 "Maha Asthami (page does not exist)") [Maha Navami](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Navami&action=edit&redlink=1 "Maha Navami (page does not exist)") [Bijaya Dashami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bijaya_Dashami "Bijaya Dashami") [Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ekadashi "Ekadashi") [Duwadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Duwadashi&action=edit&redlink=1 "Duwadashi (page does not exist)") [Kojagrat Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Kojagrat_Purnima&action=edit&redlink=1 "Kojagrat Purnima (page does not exist)") [Laxmi Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Laxmi_Puja&action=edit&redlink=1 "Laxmi Puja (page does not exist)") [Mha Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mha_Puja "Mha Puja") and [Govardhan Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Govardhan_Puja "Govardhan Puja") [Bhaitika](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bhaitika&action=edit&redlink=1 "Bhaitika (page does not exist)") [Chhath Parwa](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chhath_Parwa&action=edit&redlink=1 "Chhath Parwa (page does not exist)") [Yomari Punhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yomari_Punhi "Yomari Punhi") and [Jyapu Diwas](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Jyapu_Diwas&action=edit&redlink=1 "Jyapu Diwas (page does not exist)") [Christmas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas "Christmas") [Tamu Lhosar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamu_Lhosar "Tamu Lhosar") \| \| \| \| ![flag](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/9b/Flag_of_Nepal.svg/20px-Flag_of_Nepal.svg.png) [Nepal portal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Nepal "Portal:Nepal") \| \| \| \| [![Singapore](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/48/Flag_of_Singapore.svg/40px-Flag_of_Singapore.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Singapore "Singapore") [Public holidays in Singapore](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Singapore "Public holidays in Singapore") \| \| \| \| National holidays (fixed) \| [New Year's Day (1 January)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Year%27s_Day "New Year's Day") [Labour Day (1 May)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labour_Day "Labour Day") [National Day (9 August)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Day_$Singapore$ "National Day (Singapore)") [Christmas Day (25 December)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas "Christmas") \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/99/Flag_map_of_Singapore.svg/250px-Flag_map_of_Singapore.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Singapore "Singapore") \| \| National holidays (moveable) \| [Chinese New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_New_Year "Chinese New Year") (2 days) [Good Friday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Good_Friday "Good Friday") [Vesak Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vesak "Vesak") [Hari Raya Puasa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Fitr "Eid al-Fitr") [Hari Raya Haji](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Adha "Eid al-Adha") [Deepavali]() \| \| \| Removed holidays \| [Thaipusam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thaipusam "Thaipusam") [Easter Monday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Easter_Monday "Easter Monday") [Holy Saturday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holy_Saturday "Holy Saturday") [Boxing Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boxing_Day "Boxing Day") [Birthday of Prophet Mohamed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Birthday_of_Prophet_Mohamed "Birthday of Prophet Mohamed") [Second day of Hari Raya Puasa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Fitr "Eid al-Fitr") \| \| \| [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Public_holidays_in_Sri_Lanka "Template:Public holidays in Sri Lanka") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Public_holidays_in_Sri_Lanka "Template talk:Public holidays in Sri Lanka") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Public_holidays_in_Sri_Lanka "Special:EditPage/Template:Public holidays in Sri Lanka")![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/11/Flag_of_Sri_Lanka.svg/40px-Flag_of_Sri_Lanka.svg.png) [Public holidays in Sri Lanka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Sri_Lanka "Public holidays in Sri Lanka") \| \| \| \| Jan–Mar \| [Thai Pongal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thai_Pongal "Thai Pongal") [Duruthu Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Duruthu_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 "Duruthu Poya Day (page does not exist)") [Independence Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Day_$Sri_Lanka$ "Independence Day (Sri Lanka)") [Navam Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navam_Poya_Day "Navam Poya Day") [Maha Shivratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivratri "Maha Shivratri") [Madin Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Madin_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 "Madin Poya Day (page does not exist)") \| \| \| Apr–Jun \| Sinhala and Tamil New Year Day eve [Sinhalese New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sinhalese_New_Year "Sinhalese New Year")/[Tamil New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamil_New_Year "Tamil New Year") [Bak Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bak_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 "Bak Poya Day (page does not exist)") [Good Friday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Good_Friday "Good Friday") [May Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Workers%27_Day "International Workers' Day") [Vesak Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vesak "Vesak") Day following Vesak Poya Day [Id-Ul-Fitr (Ramazan Festival Day)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Fitr "Eid al-Fitr") [Poson](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poson "Poson") \| \| \| Jul–Sep \| [Esala Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Esala_Poya_Day "Esala Poya Day") [Id-Ul-Alha (Hadji Festival Day)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Adha "Eid al-Adha") [Nikini Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Nikini_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 "Nikini Poya Day (page does not exist)") [Binara Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Binara_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 "Binara Poya Day (page does not exist)") \| \| \| Oct–Dec \| [Vap Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Vap_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 "Vap Poya Day (page does not exist)") [Deepavali Festival Day]() [Milad-Un-Nabi (Holy Prophet’s Birthday)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mawlid "Mawlid") [Ill Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Ill_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 "Ill Poya Day (page does not exist)") [Unduvap Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Unduvap_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 "Unduvap Poya Day (page does not exist)") [Christmas Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas "Christmas") \| \| \| [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Public_holidays_in_Trinidad_and_Tobago "Template:Public holidays in Trinidad and Tobago") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Public_holidays_in_Trinidad_and_Tobago "Template talk:Public holidays in Trinidad and Tobago") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Public_holidays_in_Trinidad_and_Tobago "Special:EditPage/Template:Public holidays in Trinidad and Tobago")[![Trinidad and Tobago](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/64/Flag_of_Trinidad_and_Tobago.svg/40px-Flag_of_Trinidad_and_Tobago.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trinidad_and_Tobago "Trinidad and Tobago") [Public holidays in Trinidad and Tobago](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Trinidad_and_Tobago "Public holidays in Trinidad and Tobago") \| \| \| \| Official holidays \| [New Year's Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Year%27s_Day "New Year's Day") [Spiritual Baptist/Shouter Liberation Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiritual_Baptist/Shouter_Liberation_Day "Spiritual Baptist/Shouter Liberation Day") [Good Friday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Good_Friday "Good Friday") [Easter](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Easter "Easter") [Easter Monday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Easter_Monday "Easter Monday") [Indian Arrival Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_Arrival_Day "Indian Arrival Day") [Corpus Christi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corpus_Christi_$feast$ "Corpus Christi (feast)") [Labour Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labour_Day "Labour Day") [Emancipation Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emancipation_Day "Emancipation Day") [Independence Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Day "Independence Day") [Republic Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Republic_Day "Republic Day") [Diwali]() [Christmas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas "Christmas") [Boxing Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boxing_Day "Boxing Day") [Eid al-Fitr](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Fitr "Eid al-Fitr") \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8b/Flag-map_of_Trinidad_and_Tobago.svg/250px-Flag-map_of_Trinidad_and_Tobago.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trinidad_and_Tobago "Trinidad and Tobago") \| \| Other holidays \| [All Hallows' Eve](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_Hallows%27_Eve "All Hallows' Eve") [All Saints' Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_Saints%27_Day "All Saints' Day") [All Souls' Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_Souls%27_Day "All Souls' Day") [Ash Wednesday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ash_Wednesday "Ash Wednesday") [Ashura](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashura "Ashura")/[Hosay](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hosay "Hosay") [Carnival](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trinidad_and_Tobago_Carnival "Trinidad and Tobago Carnival") [Chinese New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_New_Year "Chinese New Year") [Chhath](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chhath "Chhath") [Dashahara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dashahara "Dashahara") [Eid al-Adha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Adha "Eid al-Adha") [Epiphany (Three Kings' Day)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epiphany_$holiday$ "Epiphany (holiday)") [Ganesh Chaturthi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesh_Chaturthi "Ganesh Chaturthi") [Good Friday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Good_Friday "Good Friday") [Guru Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Purnima "Guru Purnima") [Hanuman Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman_Jayanti "Hanuman Jayanti") [Holy Saturday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holy_Saturday "Holy Saturday") [Islamic New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islamic_New_Year "Islamic New Year") [Kartik Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kartik_Purnima "Kartik Purnima") [Kali Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali_Puja "Kali Puja") [Krishna Janmashtami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna_Janmashtami "Krishna Janmashtami") [Maha Shivaratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri "Maha Shivaratri") [Makar Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Makar_Sankranti "Makar Sankranti") [Maundy Thursday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maundy_Thursday "Maundy Thursday") [Mawlid](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mawlid "Mawlid") [Mesha Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mesha_Sankranti "Mesha Sankranti") (Hindu New Year) [Naga Panchami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naga_Panchami "Naga Panchami") [Navratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navratri "Navratri") [Palm Sunday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palm_Sunday "Palm Sunday") [Phagwah](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holi "Holi") [Rama Navami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rama_Navami "Rama Navami") [Raksha Bandhan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raksha_Bandhan "Raksha Bandhan") [Ratha-Yatra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ratha-Yatra "Ratha-Yatra") [Shrove Tuesday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shrove_Tuesday "Shrove Tuesday") [Vasant Panchami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasant_Panchami "Vasant Panchami") [Whit Monday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whit_Monday "Whit Monday") [Whitsun](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whitsun "Whitsun") \| \| \| [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Public_holidays_in_the_United_States "Template:Public holidays in the United States") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Public_holidays_in_the_United_States "Template talk:Public holidays in the United States") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Public_holidays_in_the_United_States "Special:EditPage/Template:Public holidays in the United States")Holidays, observances, and celebrations in the United States \| \| \| \| January \| [New Year's Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Year%27s_Day "New Year's Day") (federal) [Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther_King_Jr._Day "Martin Luther King Jr. Day") (federal) [Birthday of Eugenio María de Hostos](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eugenio_Mar%C3%ADa_de_Hostos "Eugenio María de Hostos") (PR) [Confederate Heroes Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Confederate_Memorial_Day "Confederate Memorial Day") (TX) [Eve of Three Kings' Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epiphany_$holiday$ "Epiphany (holiday)") (PR, religious) [Feast of Epiphany / Feast of Theophany](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epiphany_$holiday$ "Epiphany (holiday)") (religious) [Fred Korematsu Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fred_Korematsu_Day "Fred Korematsu Day") (AZ, CA, FL, HI, VA) [Idaho Human Rights Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Idaho_Human_Rights_Day "Idaho Human Rights Day") (ID) [Inauguration Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_presidential_inauguration "United States presidential inauguration") (federal quadrennial) [Kansas Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kansas_Day "Kansas Day") (KS) [Makar Sankranti / Pongal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Makar_Sankranti "Makar Sankranti") (religious) [Robert E. Lee Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_E._Lee_Day "Robert E. Lee Day") (FL) [Stephen Foster Memorial Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen_Foster_Memorial_Day "Stephen Foster Memorial Day") (36) [National Religious Freedom Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Religious_Freedom_Day "National Religious Freedom Day") [The Eighth](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Eighth_$United_States$ "The Eighth (United States)") (LA) [Three Kings' Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epiphany_$holiday$ "Epiphany (holiday)") (PR, VI, religious) [World Religion Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Religion_Day "World Religion Day") (religious) \| \| \| January–February \| [Chinese New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_New_Year "Chinese New Year") / [Lunar New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lunar_New_Year "Lunar New Year") (NY, cultural, religious) [Vasant Panchami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasant_Panchami "Vasant Panchami") (religious) \| \| \| February [American Heart Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Heart_Month "American Heart Month") [Black History Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_History_Month "Black History Month") \| [Washington's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presidents%27_Day "Presidents' Day") (federal) [Valentine's Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valentine%27s_Day "Valentine's Day") [Birthday of Luis Muñoz Marín](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luis_Mu%C3%B1oz_Mar%C3%ADn "Luis Muñoz Marín") (PR) [Candlemas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Candlemas "Candlemas") (religious) [Charles Darwin Day / Darwin Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darwin_Day "Darwin Day") (CA, DE) [Day of Remembrance](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Day_of_Remembrance_$Japanese_Americans$ "Day of Remembrance (Japanese Americans)") (CA, OR, WA, cultural) [Georgia Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Georgia_Day "Georgia Day") (GA) [Groundhog Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Groundhog_Day "Groundhog Day") [Imbolc](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Imbolc "Imbolc") (religious) [Lincoln's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lincoln%27s_Birthday "Lincoln's Birthday") (CA, CT, IL, IN, MO, NY, WV) [National Girls and Women in Sports Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Girls_and_Women_in_Sports_Day "National Girls and Women in Sports Day") [National Freedom Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Freedom_Day "National Freedom Day") (36) [Nirvana Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parinirvana_Day "Parinirvana Day") (religious) [Presentation of Our Lord to the Temple](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presentation_of_Jesus_at_the_Temple "Presentation of Jesus at the Temple") (religious) [Promised Reformer Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Promised_Reformer_Day "Promised Reformer Day") (religious) [Ronald Reagan Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ronald_Reagan_Day "Ronald Reagan Day") (CA) [Rosa Parks Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosa_Parks_Day "Rosa Parks Day") (CA, MO) [Saviours' Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saviours%27_Day "Saviours' Day") (religious) [Susan B. Anthony Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Susan_B._Anthony_Day "Susan B. Anthony Day") (CA, FL, NY, WI, WV, proposed federal) [Tu B’shvat](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tu_BiShvat "Tu BiShvat") (religious) \| \| \| February–March \| [Mardi Gras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mardi_Gras "Mardi Gras") [Ash Wednesday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ash_Wednesday "Ash Wednesday") (PR, religious) [Carnival](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carnival "Carnival") (PR, VI, religious) [Clean Monday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clean_Monday "Clean Monday") (religious) [Courir de Mardi Gras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Courir_de_Mardi_Gras "Courir de Mardi Gras") (religious) [Intercalary Days](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayy%C3%A1m-i-H%C3%A1 "Ayyám-i-Há") (religious) [Mahashivaratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri "Maha Shivaratri") (religious) [Purim](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Purim "Purim") (religious) [Shrove Tuesday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shrove_Tuesday "Shrove Tuesday") (religious) [Super Tuesday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Super_Tuesday "Super Tuesday") \| \| \| March [Irish-American Heritage Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irish-American_Heritage_Month "Irish-American Heritage Month") [Colon Cancer Awareness Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Colon_Cancer_Awareness_Month "National Colon Cancer Awareness Month") [Women's History Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Women%27s_History_Month "Women's History Month") \| [Saint Patrick's Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Patrick%27s_Day "Saint Patrick's Day") (ethnic) [Spring break](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spring_break "Spring break") (week) [Annunciation of the Virgin Mary / Annunciation of the Theotokos](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annunciation "Annunciation") (religious) [Casimir Pulaski Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Casimir_Pulaski_Day "Casimir Pulaski Day") (IL) [Cesar Chavez Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cesar_Chavez_Day "Cesar Chavez Day") (CA, CO, TX, proposed federal) [Emancipation Day in Puerto Rico](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emancipation_Day#Puerto_Rico "Emancipation Day") (PR, cultural) [Evacuation Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evacuation_Day_$Massachusetts$ "Evacuation Day (Massachusetts)") (Suffolk County, MA) [Harriet Tubman Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harriet_Tubman_Day "Harriet Tubman Day") (NY) [Hola Mohalla](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hola_Mohalla "Hola Mohalla") (religious) [Holi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holi "Holi") (NY, religious) [Lailat al-Mi'raj](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isra_and_Mi%27raj#Modern_Muslim_observance "Isra and Mi'raj") (religious) [Liberation and Freedom Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liberation_and_Freedom_Day "Liberation and Freedom Day") (Charlottesville, VA, cultural) [Mardi Gras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mardi_Gras_in_the_United_States "Mardi Gras in the United States") (AL (in two counties), LA) [Maryland Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maryland_Day "Maryland Day") (MD) [Medal of Honor Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medal_of_Honor_Day "Medal of Honor Day") [National Poison Prevention Week](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Poison_Prevention_Week "National Poison Prevention Week") (week) [Nowruz](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nowruz "Nowruz") (cultural, religious) [Ostara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%92ostre "Ēostre") (religious) [Pi Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pi_Day "Pi Day") [Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prince_K%C5%ABhi%C5%8D_Day "Prince Kūhiō Day") (HI) [Promised Messiah Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Promised_Messiah_Day "Promised Messiah Day") (religious) [Saint Joseph's Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph%27s_Day "Saint Joseph's Day") (religious) [Seward's Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seward%27s_Day "Seward's Day") (AK) [Texas Independence Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Texas_Independence_Day "Texas Independence Day") (TX) [Town Meeting Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Town_meeting#Vermont "Town meeting") (VT) [Transfer Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transfer_Day "Transfer Day") (VI) [U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/U.S._Hostage_and_Wrongful_Detainee_Day "U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day") (36) [Trans Day of Visibility](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Transgender_Day_of_Visibility "International Transgender Day of Visibility") (cultural) \| \| \| March–April \| [Easter](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Easter "Easter") (religious) [Good Friday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Good_Friday "Good Friday") (CT, NC, PR, NJ, VI, religious) [Hanuman Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman_Jayanti "Hanuman Jayanti") (religious) [Holy Thursday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maundy_Thursday "Maundy Thursday") (PR, VI, religious) [Holy Week](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holy_Week "Holy Week") (PR, religious, week) [Lazarus Saturday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus_Saturday "Lazarus Saturday") (religious) [Mahavir Janma Kalyanak](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahavir_Janma_Kalyanak "Mahavir Janma Kalyanak") (religious) [Mesha Sankranti / Hindu New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mesha_Sankranti "Mesha Sankranti") (religious) [Palm Sunday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palm_Sunday "Palm Sunday") (PR, religious) [Passover](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passover "Passover") (religious, week) [Easter Monday / Bright Monday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Easter_Monday "Easter Monday") (VI, religious) [Ramnavami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rama_Navami "Rama Navami") (religious) [Chandramana Uugadi / Souramana Uugadi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ugadi "Ugadi") (religious) \| \| \| April [Arab American Heritage Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Arab_American_Heritage_Month "National Arab American Heritage Month") [Confederate History Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Confederate_History_Month "Confederate History Month") \| [420](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/420_$cannabis_culture$ "420 (cannabis culture)") [April Fools' Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/April_Fools%27_Day "April Fools' Day") [Arbor Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arbor_Day "Arbor Day") [Birthday of José de Diego](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jos%C3%A9_de_Diego "José de Diego") (PR) [Confederate Memorial Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Confederate_Memorial_Day "Confederate Memorial Day") (AL, MS) [Days of Remembrance of the Victims of the Holocaust](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Days_of_Remembrance_of_the_Victims_of_the_Holocaust "Days of Remembrance of the Victims of the Holocaust") (week) [DNA Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DNA_Day "DNA Day") [Earth Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth_Day "Earth Day") [Emancipation Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emancipation_Day "Emancipation Day") (cultural) [Thomas Jefferson's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jefferson%27s_Birthday "Jefferson's Birthday") (AL) [Lag B’Omer](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lag_BaOmer "Lag BaOmer") (religious) [Last Friday of Great Lent](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Lent "Great Lent") (religious) [National First Ladies Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_First_Ladies_Day "National First Ladies Day") [Pascua Florida](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pascua_Florida "Pascua Florida") (FL) [Patriots' Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patriots%27_Day "Patriots' Day") (MA, ME) [Ridván](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ridv%C3%A1n "Ridván") (religious) [San Jacinto Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Jacinto_Day "San Jacinto Day") (TX) [Siblings Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siblings_Day "Siblings Day") [Walpurgis Night](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walpurgis_Night "Walpurgis Night") (religious) [Yom Ha'atzmaut](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Day_$Israel$ "Independence Day (Israel)") (cultural, religious) \| \| \| May [Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asian_American_and_Pacific_Islander_Heritage_Month "Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month") [Jewish American Heritage Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_American_Heritage_Month "Jewish American Heritage Month") [Military Appreciation Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Military_Appreciation_Month "National Military Appreciation Month") \| [Memorial Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Memorial_Day "Memorial Day") (federal) [Mother's Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mother%27s_Day_$United_States$ "Mother's Day (United States)") (36) [Cinco de Mayo](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cinco_de_Mayo "Cinco de Mayo") [Ascension of Baháʼu'lláh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bah%C3%A1%CA%BC%C3%AD_Holy_Days "Baháʼí Holy Days") (religious) [Ascension of Our Lord](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ascension_Day "Ascension Day") (religious) [Caliphate Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caliphate_Day "Caliphate Day") (religious) [Declaration of the Bab](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bah%C3%A1%CA%BC%C3%AD_Holy_Days "Baháʼí Holy Days") (religious) [Harvey Milk Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harvey_Milk_Day "Harvey Milk Day") (CA) [International Workers' Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Workers%27_Day "International Workers' Day") / [May Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/May_Day "May Day") (CA, unofficial, proposed state) [Law Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Law_Day_$United_States$ "Law Day (United States)") (36) [Loyalty Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loyalty_Day "Loyalty Day") (36) [Malcolm X Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malcolm_X_Day "Malcolm X Day") (CA, IL, proposed federal) [Military Spouse Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Military_Spouse_Day "Military Spouse Day") [National Day of Prayer](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Day_of_Prayer "National Day of Prayer") (36) [National Day of Reason](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Day_of_Reason "National Day of Reason") [National Defense Transportation Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Defense_Transportation_Day "National Defense Transportation Day") (36) [National Maritime Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_National_Maritime_Day "United States National Maritime Day") (36) [Peace Officers Memorial Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peace_Officers_Memorial_Day "Peace Officers Memorial Day") (36) [Pentecost](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pentecost "Pentecost") (religious) [Shavuot](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shavuot "Shavuot") (religious) [Truman Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Truman_Day "Truman Day") (MO) [Vesak](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vesak "Vesak") / [Buddha's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddha%27s_Birthday "Buddha's Birthday") (religious) \| \| \| June [Pride Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pride_Month "Pride Month") \| [Juneteenth](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juneteenth "Juneteenth") (federal, cultural) [Father's Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Father%27s_Day_$United_States$ "Father's Day (United States)") (36) [Bunker Hill Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bunker_Hill_Day "Bunker Hill Day") (Suffolk County, MA) [Carolina Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carolina_Day "Carolina Day") (SC) [Don Young Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don_Young_Day "Don Young Day") (AK) [Fast of the Holy Apostles](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apostles%27_Fast "Apostles' Fast") (religious) [Flag Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flag_Day_$United_States$ "Flag Day (United States)") (36, proposed federal) [Helen Keller Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helen_Keller_Day "Helen Keller Day") (PA) [Honor America Days](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honor_America_Days "Honor America Days") (3 weeks) [Jefferson Davis Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jefferson_Davis_Day "Jefferson Davis Day") (AL, FL) [Kamehameha Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kamehameha_Day "Kamehameha Day") (HI) [Litha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Midsummer "Midsummer") (religious) [Martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Sahib](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Arjan "Guru Arjan") (religious) [Odunde Festival](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Odunde_Festival "Odunde Festival") (Philadelphia, PA, cultural) [Senior Week](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Senior_Week "Senior Week") (week) [Saint John's Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nativity_of_Saint_John_the_Baptist#Celebration "Nativity of Saint John the Baptist") (PR, religious) [West Virginia Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_Virginia_Day "West Virginia Day") (WV) [Women Veterans Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Women_Veterans_Day "Women Veterans Day") \| \| \| July \| [Independence Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Day_$United_States$ "Independence Day (United States)") (federal) [Asalha Puja Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asalha_Puja "Asalha Puja") (religious) [Birthday of Don Luis Muñoz Rivera](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luis_Mu%C3%B1oz_Rivera "Luis Muñoz Rivera") (PR) [Birthday of Dr. José Celso Barbosa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jos%C3%A9_Celso_Barbosa "José Celso Barbosa") (PR) [Emancipation Day in the U.S. Virgin Islands](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emancipation_Day#United_States_Virgin_Islands "Emancipation Day") (VI, cultural) [Guru Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Purnima "Guru Purnima") (religious) [Khordad Sal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khordad_Sal "Khordad Sal") (religious) [Lā Hoʻihoʻi Ea](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sovereignty_Restoration_Day "Sovereignty Restoration Day") (HI, unofficial, cultural) [Martyrdom of the Báb](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Execution_of_the_B%C3%A1b "Execution of the Báb") (religious) [Parents' Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parents%27_Day "Parents' Day") (36) [Pioneer Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pioneer_Day "Pioneer Day") (UT) [Puerto Rico Constitution Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puerto_Rico_Constitution_Day "Puerto Rico Constitution Day") (PR) \| \| \| July–August \| [Summer vacation](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Summer_vacation "Summer vacation") [Tisha B'Av](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tisha_B%27Av "Tisha B'Av") (religious) \| \| \| August \| [American Family Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Family_Day "American Family Day") (AZ) [Barack Obama Day in Illinois](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barack_Obama_Day "Barack Obama Day") (IL) [Bennington Battle Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bennington_Battle_Day "Bennington Battle Day") (VT) [Dormition of the Theotokos](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dormition_of_the_Mother_of_God#Dormition_versus_Assumption "Dormition of the Mother of God") (religious) [Eid-e-Ghadeer](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Ghadir "Eid al-Ghadir") (religious) [Fast in Honor of the Holy Mother of Lord Jesus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dormition_of_the_Mother_of_God#Dormition_fast "Dormition of the Mother of God") (religious) [Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assumption_of_Mary#Feasts "Assumption of Mary") (religious) [Hawaii Admission Day / Statehood Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statehood_Day_$Hawaii$ "Statehood Day (Hawaii)") (HI) [Krishna Janmashtami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna_Janmashtami "Krishna Janmashtami") (religious) [Lammas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lammas "Lammas") (religious) [Lyndon Baines Johnson Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lyndon_Baines_Johnson_Day "Lyndon Baines Johnson Day") (TX) [Naga Panchami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naga_Panchami "Naga Panchami") (religious) [National Aviation Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Aviation_Day "National Aviation Day") (36) [Paryushana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paryushana "Paryushana") (religious) [Raksha Bandhan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raksha_Bandhan "Raksha Bandhan") (religious) [Transfiguration of the Lord](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feast_of_the_Transfiguration "Feast of the Transfiguration") (religious) [Victory Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victory_Day_$United_States$ "Victory Day (United States)") (RI) [Women's Equality Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Women%27s_Equality_Day "Women's Equality Day") (36) \| \| \| September [Prostate Cancer Awareness Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Prostate_Cancer_Awareness_Month "National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month") [Childhood Cancer Awareness Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Childhood_Cancer_Awareness_Month "National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month") [Gospel Music Heritage Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gospel_Music_Heritage_Month "Gospel Music Heritage Month") \| [Labor Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labor_Day "Labor Day") (federal) [Brazilian Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_Day "Brazilian Day") (NY, cultural) [California Admission Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California_Admission_Day "California Admission Day") (CA) [Carl Garner Federal Lands Cleanup Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carl_Garner_Federal_Lands_Cleanup_Day "Carl Garner Federal Lands Cleanup Day") (36) [Constitution Day and Citizenship Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_Day_and_Citizenship_Day "Constitution Day and Citizenship Day") (36) [Constitution Week](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_Week "Constitution Week") [Defenders Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Defenders_Day_$Maryland$ "Defenders Day (Maryland)") (MD) [Elevation of the Holy Cross](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elevation_of_the_Holy_Cross "Elevation of the Holy Cross") (religious) [Feast of San Gennaro](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feast_of_San_Gennaro "Feast of San Gennaro") (NY, cultural, religious) [Ganesh Chaturthi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesh_Chaturthi "Ganesh Chaturthi") (religious) [Gold Star Mother's Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gold_Star_Mother%27s_Day "Gold Star Mother's Day") (36) [His Holiness Sakya Trizin's Birthday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sakya_Trizin_Ngawang_Kunga "Sakya Trizin Ngawang Kunga") (religious) [Mabon](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/September_equinox "September equinox") (religious) [National Grandparents Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grandparents%27_Day "Grandparents' Day") (36) [National Payroll Week](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Payroll_Week "National Payroll Week") (week) [Nativity of Mary / Nativity of the Theotokos](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nativity_of_Mary "Nativity of Mary") (religious) [Native American Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Native_American_Day "Native American Day") (proposed federal) [Patriot Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patriot_Day "Patriot Day") (36) [Von Steuben Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Von_Steuben_Day "Von Steuben Day") \| \| \| September–October [Hispanic Heritage Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Hispanic_Heritage_Month "National Hispanic Heritage Month") \| [Chehlum Imam Hussain](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arba%27een "Arba'een") (religious) [Oktoberfest](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oktoberfest_celebrations "Oktoberfest celebrations") [Pitri Paksha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pitri_Paksha "Pitri Paksha") (religious) [Rosh Hashanah / Feast of Trumpets](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosh_Hashanah "Rosh Hashanah") (TX, NY, religious) [Shemini Atzeret](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shemini_Atzeret "Shemini Atzeret") (religious) [Simchat Torah](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simchat_Torah "Simchat Torah") (religious) [Vijaya Dashami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vijayadashami "Vijayadashami") (religious) [Yom Kippur / Day of Atonement](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yom_Kippur "Yom Kippur") (TX, NY, religious) \| \| \| October [Breast Cancer Awareness Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Breast_Cancer_Awareness_Month "National Breast Cancer Awareness Month") [Disability Employment Awareness Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Disability_Employment_Awareness_Month "National Disability Employment Awareness Month") [Italian-American Heritage and Culture Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Italian-American_Heritage_and_Culture_Month "Italian-American Heritage and Culture Month") [Filipino American History Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filipino_American_History_Month "Filipino American History Month") [LGBT History Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LGBT_History_Month "LGBT History Month") \| [Columbus Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columbus_Day "Columbus Day") (federal) [Halloween](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Halloween "Halloween") [Alaska Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alaska_Day "Alaska Day") (AK) [Child Health Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Child_Health_Day "Child Health Day") (36) [General Pulaski Memorial Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Pulaski_Memorial_Day "General Pulaski Memorial Day") [German-American Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/German-American_Day "German-American Day") [Indigenous Peoples' Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indigenous_Peoples%27_Day_$United_States$ "Indigenous Peoples' Day (United States)") [International Day of Non-Violence](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Day_of_Non-Violence "International Day of Non-Violence") [Leif Erikson Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leif_Erikson_Day "Leif Erikson Day") (36) [Missouri Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Missouri_Day "Missouri Day") (MO) [Nanomonestotse](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nanomonestotse "Nanomonestotse") (cultural) [National School Lunch Week](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_School_Lunch_Week "National School Lunch Week") (week) [Native American Day in South Dakota](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Native_American_Day "Native American Day") (SD) [Nevada Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nevada_Day "Nevada Day") (NV) [Spirit Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spirit_Day "Spirit Day") (cultural) [Sweetest Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweetest_Day "Sweetest Day") [Sukkot / Feast of Tabernacles](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sukkot "Sukkot") (religious, week) [Virgin Islands–Puerto Rico Friendship Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virgin_Islands%E2%80%93Puerto_Rico_Friendship_Day "Virgin Islands–Puerto Rico Friendship Day") (PR, VI) [White Cane Safety Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_Cane_Safety_Day "White Cane Safety Day") (36) \| \| \| October–November \| [Birth of the Báb](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twin_Holy_Birthdays "Twin Holy Birthdays") (religious) [Birth of Baháʼu'lláh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Birth_of_Bah%C3%A1%CA%BCu%27ll%C3%A1h "Birth of Baháʼu'lláh") (religious) [Day of the Dead](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Day_of_the_Dead "Day of the Dead") (VI) [Diwali]() (NY, religious) [Mawlid al-Nabi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mawlid "Mawlid") (religious) \| \| \| November [Native American Indian Heritage Month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Native_American_Indian_Heritage_Month "Native American Indian Heritage Month") \| [Veterans Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veterans_Day "Veterans Day") (federal) [Thanksgiving](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thanksgiving_$United_States$ "Thanksgiving (United States)") (federal) [Ascension of ‘Abdu’l Baha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%CA%BBAbdu%27l-Bah%C3%A1 "ʻAbdu'l-Bahá") (religious) [All Saints' Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_Saints%27_Day "All Saints' Day") (religious) [Beginning of the Nativity Fast](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nativity_Fast "Nativity Fast") (religious) [Beltane](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beltane "Beltane") / [Samhain](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samhain "Samhain") (religious) [Barack Obama Day in Alabama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barack_Obama_Day "Barack Obama Day") (Perry County, AL) [D. Hamilton Jackson Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D._Hamilton_Jackson "D. Hamilton Jackson") (VI) [Day after Thanksgiving](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Friday_$shopping$ "Black Friday (shopping)") (24) [Day of the Covenant](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Day_of_the_Covenant_$Bah%C3%A1%CA%BC%C3%AD$ "Day of the Covenant (Baháʼí)") (religious) [Discovery of Puerto Rico Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Discovery_of_Puerto_Rico "Discovery of Puerto Rico") (PR) [Election Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Election_Day_$United_States$ "Election Day (United States)") (CA, DE, HI, KY, MT, NJ, NY, OH, PR, VA, WV, proposed federal) [Family Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Family_Day "Family Day") (NV) [Friendsgiving](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Friendsgiving "Friendsgiving") [Guru Nanak Gurpurab](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Nanak_Gurpurab "Guru Nanak Gurpurab") (religious) [Hanukkah](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanukkah "Hanukkah") (religious) [Lā Kūʻokoʻa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Day_$Hawaii$ "Independence Day (Hawaii)") (HI, unofficial, cultural) [Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Tegh_Bahadur "Guru Tegh Bahadur") (religious) [Native American Heritage Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Native_American_Heritage_Day "Native American Heritage Day") (MD, WA, cultural) [Presentation of the Theotokos to the Temple](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presentation_of_Mary "Presentation of Mary") (religious) [Trans Day of Remembrance](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transgender_Day_of_Remembrance "Transgender Day of Remembrance") (cultural) [Unthanksgiving Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unthanksgiving_Day "Unthanksgiving Day") (cultural) \| \| \| December \| [Christmas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas "Christmas") (religious, federal) [New Year's Eve](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Year%27s_Eve "New Year's Eve") [Advent Sunday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advent_Sunday "Advent Sunday") (religious) [Alabama Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alabama_Day "Alabama Day") (AL) [Birthday of Guru Gobind Singh Sahib](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Gobind_Singh "Guru Gobind Singh") (religious) [Bodhi Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bodhi_Day "Bodhi Day") (religious) [Chalica](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chalica "Chalica") (religious) [Christmas Eve](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas_Eve "Christmas Eve") (KY, NC, SC, PR, VI) [Day after Christmas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boxing_Day "Boxing Day") (KY, NC, SC, TX, VI) [Festivus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Festivus "Festivus") [HumanLight](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HumanLight "HumanLight") [Hanukkah](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanukkah "Hanukkah") (religious, week) [Immaculate Conception](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Immaculate_Conception "Immaculate Conception") (religious) [Indiana Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indiana_Day "Indiana Day") (IN) [Kwanzaa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kwanzaa "Kwanzaa") (cultural, week) [Milad Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mohammed_Burhanuddin "Mohammed Burhanuddin") (religious) [National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Pearl_Harbor_Remembrance_Day "National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day") (36) [Nativity of Jesus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nativity_of_Jesus "Nativity of Jesus") (religious) [Old Year's Night](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Year%27s_Eve "New Year's Eve") (VI) [Pan American Aviation Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pan_American_Aviation_Day "Pan American Aviation Day") (36) [Pancha Ganapati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sivaya_Subramuniyaswami "Sivaya Subramuniyaswami") (religious, week) [Rosa Parks Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosa_Parks_Day "Rosa Parks Day") (OH, OR) [Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solemnity_of_Mary,_Mother_of_God "Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God") (religious) [Wright Brothers Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wright_Brothers_Day "Wright Brothers Day") (36) [Yule](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yule "Yule") (religious) [Zartosht No-Diso](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zartosht_No-Diso "Zartosht No-Diso") (religious) \| \| \| Varies (year round) \| [Eid al-Adha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Adha "Eid al-Adha") (NY, religious) [Eid al-Fitr](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Fitr "Eid al-Fitr") (NY, religious) [Islamic New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islamic_New_Year "Islamic New Year") (religious) [Yawm al-Arafa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Day_of_Arafah "Day of Arafah") (religious) [Laylat al-Qadr](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laylat_al-Qadr "Laylat al-Qadr") (religious) [Navaratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navaratri "Navaratri") (religious, four times a year) [Obon](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bon_Festival "Bon Festival") (religious) [Onam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Onam "Onam") (religious) [Ramadan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramadan "Ramadan") (religious, month) [Ghost Festival](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ghost_Festival "Ghost Festival") (religious) [Yawm Aashura](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashura "Ashura") (religious) \| \| \| Legend: (federal) = federal holidays, (abbreviation) = state/territorial holidays, (religious) = religious holidays, (cultural) = holiday related to a specific [racial/ethnic group](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Race_and_ethnicity_in_the_United_States_census "Race and ethnicity in the United States census") or [sexual minority](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sexual_minority "Sexual minority"), (week) = week-long holidays, (month) = month-long holidays, (36) = [Title 36 Observances and Ceremonies](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Title_36_of_the_United_States_Code "Title 36 of the United States Code") See also: [Lists of holidays](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lists_of_holidays "Lists of holidays"), [Hallmark holidays](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hallmark_holiday "Hallmark holiday"), [Public holidays in the United States](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_the_United_States "Public holidays in the United States"), [Puerto Rico](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Puerto_Rico "Public holidays in Puerto Rico") and the [United States Virgin Islands](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_the_United_States_Virgin_Islands "Public holidays in the United States Virgin Islands"). \| \| \| [Portals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Contents/Portals "Wikipedia:Contents/Portals"): - ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/67/Aum_Om_red.svg/20px-Aum_Om_red.svg.png) [Hinduism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Hinduism "Portal:Hinduism") - [![icon](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/dd/Calendar_icon.svg/20px-Calendar_icon.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Calendar_icon.svg) [Holidays](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Holidays "Portal:Holidays") - 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"Portal:Religion") \| [Authority control databases](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:Authority_control "Help:Authority control") [![Edit this at Wikidata](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/8/8a/OOjs_UI_icon_edit-ltr-progressive.svg/20px-OOjs_UI_icon_edit-ltr-progressive.svg.png)](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q10244#identifiers "Edit this at Wikidata") \| \| \|---\|---\| \| International \| [GND](https://d-nb.info/gnd/5105778-5) [FAST](https://id.worldcat.org/fast/895678) \| \| National \| [United States](https://id.loc.gov/authorities/sh85038571) [France](https://catalogue.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/cb17071956x) [BnF data](https://data.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/cb17071956x) [Israel](https://www.nli.org.il/en/authorities/987007557951305171) \| \| Other \| [IdRef](https://www.idref.fr/195306414) [Yale LUX](https://lux.collections.yale.edu/view/group/560d75ae-bf66-4bdf-814b-f16e29ba0049) \| 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Readable Markdown	\| Diwali \| \| \|---\|---\| \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/99/The_Rangoli_of_Lights.jpg/250px-The_Rangoli_of_Lights.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:The_Rangoli_of_Lights.jpg)[Rangoli](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rangoli "Rangoli") decorations, made using coloured fine powder or sand, are popular during Diwali. \| \| \| Official name \| Dīpāvalī \| \| Also called \| Deepavali, Deepawali \| \| Observed by \| [Hindus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindus "Hindus"), [Jains](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jains "Jains"), [Sikhs](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikhs "Sikhs"),[\[1\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-1) some [Buddhists](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhism "Buddhism") (notably [Newar Buddhists](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newar_Buddhism "Newar Buddhism")[\[2\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2)) \| \| Type \| Religious, cultural, seasonal \| \| Significance \| [See below](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Religious_significance) \| \| Celebrations \| [Diya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diya_$light$ "Diya (light)") lighting [puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puja_$Hinduism$ "Puja (Hinduism)") (worship and prayer) [Hukka Paati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hukka_Paati "Hukka Paati") in [Mithila region](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mithila_region "Mithila region") [havan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homa_$ritual$ "Homa (ritual)") (fire offering) [vrat](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vrata "Vrata") (fasting) [dāna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C4%81na "Dāna") (charity) [melā](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mel%C4%81 "Melā") (fairs/shows) home cleansing and decoration fireworks gifts and partaking in a feast and [sweets](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweets_from_the_Indian_subcontinent "Sweets from the Indian subcontinent") \| \| Begins \| Ashwayuja 27 or Ashwayuja 28 ([amanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#amanta "Hindu calendar") tradition) Kartika 12 or Kartika 13 ([purnimanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#purnimanta "Hindu calendar") tradition) \| \| Ends \| Kartika 2 ([amanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#amanta "Hindu calendar") tradition) Kartika 17 ([purnimanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#purnimanta "Hindu calendar") tradition) \| \| Date \| Ashvin Krishna Trayodashi, Ashvin Krishna Chaturdashi, Ashvin Amavasya, Kartik Shukla Pratipada, Kartik Shukla Dwitiya \| \| 2025 date \| October[\[3\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-3) 18 ([Dhanteras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhanteras "Dhanteras")/Yama Deepam/Kwah Puja/Kaag Tihar) 19 ([Naraka Chaturdashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naraka_Chaturdashi "Naraka Chaturdashi")/Kali Chaudas/Hanuman Puja/Chhoti Diwali/Khicha Puja/[Kukur Tihar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kukur_Tihar "Kukur Tihar")) 20 ([Lakshmi Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi_Puja "Lakshmi Puja")/[Kali Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali_Puja "Kali Puja")/Sharda Puja/Kedar Gauri Vrat/Sa Puja/Gai Tihar) 21 ([Govardhan Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Govardhan_Puja "Govardhan Puja")/[Balipratipada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balipratipada "Balipratipada")/[Mha Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mha_Puja "Mha Puja")/Goru Puja) 22 ([Bhai Dooj](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhai_Dooj "Bhai Dooj")/[Vishwakarma Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishwakarma_Puja "Vishwakarma Puja")/[Gujarati New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_New_Year%27s_days "Indian New Year's days")/Kija Puja) \| \| 2026 date \| 8 November 2026 \| \| 2027 date \| 29 October 2027 \| \| Duration \| 5 or 6 days (regional variations) \| \| Frequency \| Annual \| \| Related to \| [Diwali (Jainism)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali_$Jainism$ "Diwali (Jainism)"), [Bandi Chhor Divas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandi_Chhor_Divas "Bandi Chhor Divas"), [Tihar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tihar_$festival$ "Tihar (festival)"), [Swanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swanti_$festival$ "Swanti (festival)"), [Sohrai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sohrai "Sohrai"), [Bandna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandna "Bandna") \| \| Explanatory note on Hindu festival dates \| \|---\| \| The [Hindu calendar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar "Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar") is lunisolar but most festival dates are specified using the lunar portion of the calendar. A lunar day is uniquely identified by three calendar elements: [māsa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#chandramasa "Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar") (lunar month), [pakṣa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#paksha "Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar") (lunar fortnight) and [tithi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#tithi "Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar") (lunar day). Furthermore, when specifying the masa, one of two traditions are applicable, viz. [amānta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#amanta "Hindu calendar") / [pūrṇimānta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#purnimanta "Hindu calendar"). If a festival falls in the waning phase of the moon, these two traditions identify the same lunar day as falling in two different (but successive) masa. A lunar year is shorter than a solar year by about eleven days. As a result, most Hindu festivals occur on different days in successive years on the Gregorian calendar. \| \| [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Hindu_festival_date_info "Template:Hindu festival date info") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Hindu_festival_date_info "Template talk:Hindu festival date info") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Hindu_festival_date_info "Special:EditPage/Template:Hindu festival date info") \| \| Deepavali \| \| \|---\|---\| \| [UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UNESCO_Intangible_Cultural_Heritage_Lists "UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists") \| \| \| Country \| [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India "India") \| \| Reference \| [02312](https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/02312) \| \| Region \| [Asia and the Pacific](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:UNESCO_Representative_List_of_the_Intangible_Cultural_Heritage_of_Humanity/APA "Template:UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity/APA") \| \| Inscription history \| \| \| Inscription \| 2025 (20th session) \| \| [List](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UNESCO_Intangible_Cultural_Heritage_Lists "UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists") \| Representative \| Dipavali ([IAST](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IAST "IAST"): Dīpāvalī),[\[a\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-4) commonly known as Diwali (),[\[4\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Mead-2008a-5) is the [Hindu festival](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_festival "Hindu festival") of lights, with variations celebrated in other [Indian religions](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_religions "Indian religions") such as [Jainism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jainism "Jainism") and [Sikhism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikhism "Sikhism").[\[b\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-6) It symbolises the spiritual victory of [Dharma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dharma "Dharma") over [Adharma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adharma "Adharma"), light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Heiligman31-7)[\[6\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-htoday-8)[\[7\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Mead-2008b-9)\[[page needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citing_sources "Wikipedia:Citing sources")\][\[8\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-melton252-10) Diwali is celebrated during the [Hindu lunisolar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar "Hindu calendar") months of [Ashvin](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashvin_$month$ "Ashvin (month)") (according to the [amanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#amanta "Hindu calendar") tradition) and [Kārtika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kartika_$month$ "Kartika (month)") – between around mid-October and mid-November.[\[9\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-OED-Diwali-11)[\[10\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12)[\[11\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-13)[\[12\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-14)[\[13\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-15) The celebrations generally last five or six days.[\[14\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16)[\[15\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-17) Diwali is connected to various religious events, deities and personalities, such as being the day [Rama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rama "Rama") returned to his [kingdom](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kosala "Kosala") in [Ayodhya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayodhya_$Ramayana$ "Ayodhya (Ramayana)") with his wife [Sita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sita "Sita") and his brother [Lakshmana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmana "Lakshmana") after defeating the demon king [Ravana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ravana "Ravana").[\[16\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-dhcd-18) It is also widely associated with [Lakshmi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi "Lakshmi"), the goddess of prosperity, and [Ganesha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha "Ganesha"), the god of wisdom and the remover of obstacles.[\[17\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Suzanne_Barchers_2013-19) Other regional traditions connect the holiday to [Vishnu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishnu "Vishnu"), [Krishna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna "Krishna"), [Durga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga "Durga"), [Shiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva "Shiva"), [Kali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali "Kali"), [Hanuman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman "Hanuman"), [Kubera](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kubera "Kubera"), [Yama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yama "Yama"), [Yami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yami "Yami"), [Dhanvantari](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhanvantari "Dhanvantari"), or [Vishvakarman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishvakarman "Vishvakarman"). Primarily a [Hindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindus "Hindus") festival, variations of Diwali are also celebrated by adherents of other faiths.[\[14\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16) The [Jains](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jainism "Jainism") observe their [own Diwali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali_$Jainism$ "Diwali (Jainism)") which marks the final liberation of [Mahavira](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahavira "Mahavira").[\[18\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Sharma2006-20)[\[19\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-N._Upadhye,_Review_1982_pp._231%E2%80%93232-21) The [Sikhs](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikhism "Sikhism") celebrate [Bandi Chhor Divas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandi_Chhor_Divas "Bandi Chhor Divas") to mark the release of [Guru Hargobind](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Hargobind "Guru Hargobind") from a [Mughal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal_Empire "Mughal Empire") prison.[\[20\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-22) [Newar Buddhists](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newar_Buddhism "Newar Buddhism"), unlike other [Buddhists](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhism "Buddhism"), celebrate Diwali by worshipping Lakshmi, while the Hindus of [Eastern India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eastern_India "Eastern India") and [Bangladesh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bangladesh "Bangladesh") generally, celebrate Diwali by worshipping the [goddess Kali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali "Kali").[\[21\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-MK72-23)[\[2\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2)[\[22\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Prem_Saran_2012_175-24) During the festival, the celebrants illuminate their homes, temples and workspaces with [diyas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diya_$light$ "Diya (light)") (oil lamps), candles and lanterns.[\[8\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-melton252-10) Hindus, in particular, have a ritual oil bath at dawn on each day of the festival.[\[23\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-YustJohnson2006-25) Diwali is also marked with fireworks as well as the decoration of floors with [rangoli](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rangoli "Rangoli") designs and other parts of the house with [jhalars](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jhalar "Jhalar"). Food is a major focus with families partaking in feasts and sharing [mithai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mithai_$confectionery$ "Mithai (confectionery)").[\[24\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-jgl-26) The festival is an annual homecoming and bonding period not only for families,[\[16\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-dhcd-18)[\[17\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Suzanne_Barchers_2013-19) but also for communities and associations, particularly those in urban areas, which will organise activities, events, and gatherings.[\[25\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJohnsonTeuscherSabean2011300%E2%80%93301-27)[\[26\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEShah199541%E2%80%9344-28) Many towns organise community parades and fairs with parades or music and dance performances in parks.[\[14\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16) Some Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs will send Diwali greeting cards to family near and far during the festive season, occasionally with boxes of Indian confectionery.[\[14\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16) Another aspect of the festival is remembering the ancestors.[\[27\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-29) Diwali is also a major cultural event for the [Hindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindus "Hindus"), [Sikh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikhs "Sikhs"), and [Jain](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jainism "Jainism") [diaspora](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diaspora "Diaspora").[\[28\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-wsj-30)[\[29\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJohnson200771%E2%80%9373-31)[\[30\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKelly198840%E2%80%9355-32) The main day of the festival of Diwali (the day of Lakshmi Puja) is an official holiday in [Fiji](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fiji "Fiji"),[\[31\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-33) [Guyana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guyana "Guyana"),[\[32\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-34) [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India "India"), [Malaysia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malaysia "Malaysia"),[\[c\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-35)[\[33\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-36) [Mauritius](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mauritius "Mauritius"), [Myanmar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myanmar "Myanmar"),[\[34\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-37) [Nepal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepal "Nepal"),[\[35\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-38) [Pakistan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pakistan "Pakistan"),[\[36\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-39) [Singapore](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Singapore "Singapore"),[\[37\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-40) [Sri Lanka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_Lanka "Sri Lanka"), [Suriname](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suriname "Suriname"), and [Trinidad and Tobago](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trinidad_and_Tobago "Trinidad and Tobago"),[\[38\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-41) and the [US](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States "United States") states of [Connecticut](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Connecticut "Connecticut"), [Pennsylvania](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pennsylvania "Pennsylvania"), and [California](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California "California").[\[39\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-42)[\[40\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-43)[\[41\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-44) Etymology Diwali[\[9\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-OED-Diwali-11)[\[d\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-46) comes from Dipavali ([Sanskrit](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanskrit_language "Sanskrit language"): दीपावली, [romanized](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romanization_of_Sanskrit "Romanization of Sanskrit"):Dīpāvalī), meaning 'a row or series of lights'.[\[24\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-jgl-26)[\[43\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFrazierFlood2011255-47) The term is a compound of the Sanskrit words दीप, dīpa, 'lamp, light, lantern, candle, that which glows, shines, illuminates or knowledge'[\[44\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-48) and आवलि, āvali, 'a row, range, continuous line, series'.[\[45\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-49)[\[e\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-50) Dates The five-day celebration is observed every year sometime from the second half of October to the first half of November[\[46\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253-51) coinciding with a new moon ([amāvasyā](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amavasya "Amavasya")) as per the [Hindu lunisolar calendar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar "Hindu calendar").[\[47\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9362-52) The festivities begin two days before [amāvasyā](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amavasya "Amavasya"), on [Dhanteras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhanteras "Dhanteras"), and extend two days after, until the second (or 17th) day of the month of Kartik.[\[48\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561-53) (According to Indologist Constance Jones, this night ends the lunar month of Ashwin and starts the month of Kartik[\[46\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253-51) – but see this note[\[f\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-55) and [Amanta and Purnima systems](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#Amanta_and_Purnima_systems "Hindu calendar").) The darkest night is the apex of the celebration. The festival climax is on the third day and is called the main Diwali. It is an official holiday in a dozen countries, while the other festive days are regionally observed as either public or optional restricted holidays in India.[\[50\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-about-56) In Nepal, it is also a multiday festival, although the days and rituals are named differently, with the climax being called the [Tihar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tihar_$festival$ "Tihar (festival)") festival by Hindus and [Swanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swanti_$festival$ "Swanti (festival)") festival by Buddhists.[\[51\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-57)[\[52\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-58) History The five-day long festival originated in the [Indian subcontinent](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_subcontinent "Indian subcontinent") and is likely a fusion of harvest festivals in ancient [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India "India").[\[46\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253-51) It is mentioned in early [Sanskrit](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanskrit_literature "Sanskrit literature") texts, such as the [Padma Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Padma_Purana "Padma Purana") and the [Skanda Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skanda_Purana "Skanda Purana"), both of which were composed between the 7th and 10th centuries.[\[53\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-l796-59)[\[54\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-60) The diyas (lamps) are mentioned in Skanda Kishore Purana as symbolising parts of the sun, describing it as the cosmic giver of light and energy to all life and which seasonally transitions in the Hindu calendar month of Kartik.[\[55\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61)[\[56\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELochtefeld2002355-62) Emperor [Harsha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harsha "Harsha") refers to Deepavali, in the 7th-century Sanskrit play [Nagananda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nagananda "Nagananda"), as Dīpapratipadotsava (dīpa = light, pratipadā = first day, utsava = festival), where lamps were lit and newly engaged brides and grooms received gifts.[\[57\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-bnsharma-63)[\[58\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-yaksha-64) [Rajasekhara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajashekhara_$Sanskrit_poet$ "Rajashekhara (Sanskrit poet)") referred to Deepavali as Dipamalika in his 9th-century Kavyamimamsa, wherein he mentions the tradition of homes being whitewashed and oil lamps decorated homes, streets, and markets in the night.[\[57\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-bnsharma-63) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/75/Radha_and_Krishna_watching_fireworks_in_the_night_sky.jpg/250px-Radha_and_Krishna_watching_fireworks_in_the_night_sky.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Radha_and_Krishna_watching_fireworks_in_the_night_sky.jpg) Radha and Krishna celebrating Diwali by Sitaram. [Kishangarh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kishangarh_State "Kishangarh State"), late 18th-century. [National Museum, New Delhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Museum,_New_Delhi "National Museum, New Delhi") Diwali was also described by numerous travellers from outside India. In his 11th-century memoir on India, the Persian traveller and historian [Al Biruni](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ab%C5%AB_Ray%E1%B8%A5%C4%81n_al-B%C4%ABr%C5%ABn%C4%AB "Abū Rayḥān al-Bīrūnī") wrote of Deepavali being celebrated by Hindus on the day of the New Moon in the month of Kartika.[\[59\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-65) The Venetian merchant and traveller [Niccolò de' Conti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niccol%C3%B2_de%27_Conti "Niccolò de' Conti") visited India in the early 15th century and wrote in his memoir, "on another of these festivals they fix up within their temples, and on the outside of the roofs, an innumerable number of oil lamps ... which are kept burning day and night" and that the families would gather, "clothe themselves in new garments", sing, dance, and feast.[\[60\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEEraly2015315%E2%80%93316-66)[\[61\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESewell200685%E2%80%9386-67) The 16th-century Portuguese traveller [Domingo Paes](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Domingo_Paes "Domingo Paes") wrote of his visit to the Hindu [Vijayanagara Empire](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vijayanagara_Empire "Vijayanagara Empire"), where Dipavali was celebrated in October with householders illuminating their homes, and their temples, with lamps.[\[61\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESewell200685%E2%80%9386-67) It is mentioned in the [Ramayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramayana "Ramayana") that Diwali was celebrated for only 2 years in [Ayodhya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayodhya_$Ramayana$ "Ayodhya (Ramayana)").[\[62\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-S_A_NEWS-2020-68) Islamic historians of the [Delhi Sultanate](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi_Sultanate "Delhi Sultanate") and the [Mughal Empire](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal_Empire "Mughal Empire") era also mentioned Diwali and other Hindu festivals. A few, notably the [Mughal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal_Empire "Mughal Empire") emperor [Akbar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar "Akbar"), welcomed and participated in the festivities,[\[63\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEEaton1996159%E2%80%93160_with_footnotes-69)[\[64\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMelville2012526-70) whereas others banned such festivals as Diwali and [Holi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holi "Holi"), as [Aurangzeb](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurangzeb "Aurangzeb") did in 1665.[\[65\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOkita201428%E2%80%9329-71)[\[66\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389-72)[\[g\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-75)[\[h\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-76) Publications from the time of the [British Raj](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Raj "British Raj") also made mention of Diwali, such as the note on Hindu festivals published in 1799 by [Sir William Jones](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Jones_$philologist$ "William Jones (philologist)"), a philologist known for his early observations on Sanskrit and [Indo-European languages](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indo-European_languages "Indo-European languages").[\[69\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-jone1799p263-77) In his paper on The Lunar Year of the Hindus, Jones, then based in [Bengal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengal "Bengal"), noted four of the five days of Diwali in the [autumn](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Autumn "Autumn") months of Aswina-Cartica \[[sic](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sic "Sic")\] as the following: Bhutachaturdasi Yamaterpanam (2nd day), Lacshmipuja dipanwita (the day of Diwali), Dyuta pratipat Belipuja (4th day), and Bhratri dwitiya (5th day). The Lacshmipuja dipanwita, remarked Jones, was a "great festival at night, in honour of Lakshmi, with illuminations on trees and houses".[\[69\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-jone1799p263-77)[\[i\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-78) Epigraphy [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/81/1867_CE_chromolithograph%2C_Diwali%2C_feast_of_lamps%2C_by_William_Simpson.jpg/250px-1867_CE_chromolithograph%2C_Diwali%2C_feast_of_lamps%2C_by_William_Simpson.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:1867_CE_chromolithograph,_Diwali,_feast_of_lamps,_by_William_Simpson.jpg) William Simpson labelled his chromolithograph of 1867 as "Dewali, feast of lamps". It showed streets lit up at dusk, with a girl and her mother lighting a street corner lamp.[\[70\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-79) Sanskrit inscriptions in stone and copper mentioning Diwali, occasionally alongside terms such as Dipotsava, [Dipavali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dipawali_$Jainism$ "Dipawali (Jainism)"), Divali and Divalige, have been discovered at numerous sites across India.[\[71\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-80)[\[72\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-81)[\[j\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-82) Examples include a 10th-century Rashtrakuta empire copper plate inscription of [Krishna III](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna_III "Krishna III") (939–967 CE) that mentions Dipotsava,[\[73\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-83) and a 12th-century mixed Sanskrit-Kannada Sinda inscription discovered in the Isvara temple of [Dharwad](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dharwad "Dharwad") in Karnataka where the inscription refers to the festival as a "sacred occasion".[\[74\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-84) According to [Lorenz Franz Kielhorn](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lorenz_Franz_Kielhorn "Lorenz Franz Kielhorn"), a German Indologist known for translating many Indic inscriptions, this festival is mentioned as Dipotsavam in verses 6 and 7 of the Ranganatha temple Sanskrit inscription of the 13th-century [Venad](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Venad_$Kingdom$ "Venad (Kingdom)") Hindu king [Ravivarman Samgramadhira](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ravivarman_Kula%C5%9B%C4%93khara "Ravivarman Kulaśēkhara"). Part of the inscription, as translated by Kielhorn, reads: > the auspicious festival of lights which disperses the most profound darkness, which in former days was celebrated by the kings Ila, Kartavirya and Sagara, (...) as Sakra (Indra) is of the gods, the universal monarch who knows the duties by the three Vedas, afterwards celebrated here at Ranga for Vishnu, resplendent with Lakshmi resting on his radiant lap.[\[75\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-kielhorn1896-85)[\[k\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-86) Jain inscriptions, such as the 10th-century Saundatti inscription about a donation of oil to Jinendra worship for the Diwali rituals, speak of Dipotsava.[\[76\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-87)[\[77\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-88) Another early 13th-century Sanskrit stone inscription, written in the Devanagari script, has been found in the north end of a mosque pillar in [Jalore](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jalore "Jalore"), [Rajasthan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajasthan "Rajasthan") evidently built using materials from a demolished Jain temple. The inscription states that Ramachandracharya built and dedicated a drama performance hall, with a golden cupola, on Diwali.[\[78\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Hultzsch1268-89)[\[79\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-90)[\[l\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-91) Religious significance [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a6/Raja_Ravi_Varma%2C_Goddess_Lakshmi%2C_1896.jpg/250px-Raja_Ravi_Varma%2C_Goddess_Lakshmi%2C_1896.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Raja_Ravi_Varma,_Goddess_Lakshmi,_1896.jpg) Diwali is commonly celebrated in the honour of [Lakshmi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi "Lakshmi"), the goddess of wealth. The religious significance of Diwali varies regionally within India. One tradition links the festival to legends in the Hindu epic [Ramayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramayana "Ramayana"), where Diwali is the day Rama, Sita, [Lakshmana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshman "Lakshman"), and [Hanuman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman "Hanuman") reached [Ayodhya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayodhya_$Ramayana$ "Ayodhya (Ramayana)") after a period of 14 years in exile after Rama's army of good, defeated demon king [Ravana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ravana "Ravana")'s army of evil.[\[80\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691-92) Throughout the epic, Rama's decisions were always in line with [dharma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dharma "Dharma") (duty) and the Diwali festival serves as a reminder for followers of Hinduism to maintain their dharma in day-to-day life.[\[81\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-93) Per another popular tradition, in the [Dvapara Yuga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dvapara_Yuga "Dvapara Yuga") period, [Krishna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna "Krishna"), an [avatar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avatar "Avatar") of [Vishnu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishnu "Vishnu"), killed the demon [Narakasura](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narakasura "Narakasura"), who was the evil king of [Pragjyotishapura](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pragjyotishapura "Pragjyotishapura"), near present-day Assam, and released 16000 girls held captive by Narakasura. Diwali was celebrated as a signifier of triumph of good over evil after Krishna's Victory over Narakasura. The day before Diwali is remembered as Naraka Chaturdashi, the day on which Narakasura was killed by Krishna.[\[82\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-94) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/2a/Diwali_Lakshmi_Poojan.jpg/250px-Diwali_Lakshmi_Poojan.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diwali_Lakshmi_Poojan.jpg) A picture of Lakshmi and [Ganesha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha "Ganesha") worship during Diwali [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/57/Diwali_Ganesh_Laxmi_Puja_001.jpg/250px-Diwali_Ganesh_Laxmi_Puja_001.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diwali_Ganesh_Laxmi_Puja_001.jpg) Diwali Ganesh Laxmi Puja Many Hindus associate the festival with Goddess [Lakshmi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi "Lakshmi"), the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and wife of Vishnu. According to Pintchman, the start of the 5-day Diwali festival is stated in some popular contemporary sources as the day goddess Lakshmi was born from [Samudra Manthana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samudra_manthan "Samudra manthan"), the churning of the cosmic ocean of milk by the [Devas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deva_$Hinduism$ "Deva (Hinduism)") (gods) and the [Asuras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asuras "Asuras") (demons) – a Vedic legend that is also found in several [Puranas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puranas "Puranas") such as the [Padma Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Padma_Purana "Padma Purana"), while the night of Diwali is when Lakshmi chose and wed Vishnu.[\[55\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61)[\[83\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Karen_Pechilis_2007_pp_273-275-95) Along with Lakshmi, who is representative of [Vaishnavism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaishnavism "Vaishnavism"), [Ganesha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha "Ganesha"), the elephant-headed son of [Parvati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parvati "Parvati") and [Shiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva "Shiva") of [Shaivism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaivism "Shaivism") tradition, is remembered as one who symbolises ethical beginnings and the remover of obstacles.[\[80\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691-92) Hindus of eastern India associate the festival with the Goddess Kali, who symbolises the victory of good over evil.[\[84\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEAmazzone2012-96)[\[85\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-97)[\[86\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-98) Hindus from the Braj region in northern India, parts of [Assam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assam "Assam"), as well as southern Tamil and Telugu communities view Diwali as the day the god Krishna overcame and destroyed the evil demon king Narakasura, in yet another symbolic victory of knowledge and good over ignorance and evil.[\[87\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECoogan2003152%E2%80%93153-99)[\[88\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEVemsani2016190%E2%80%93191-100) Trade and merchant families and others also offer prayers to [Saraswati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saraswati "Saraswati"), who embodies music, literature and learning and [Kubera](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kubera "Kubera"), who symbolises book-keeping, treasury and wealth management.[\[55\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61) In western states such as Gujarat, and certain northern Hindu communities of India, the festival of Diwali signifies the start of a new year.[\[87\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECoogan2003152%E2%80%93153-99) Mythical tales shared on Diwali vary widely depending on region and even within Hindu tradition,[\[89\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-vasudha31-101) yet all share a common focus on righteousness, self-inquiry and the importance of knowledge,[\[90\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-102)[\[91\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-103) which, according to Lindsey Harlan, an Indologist and scholar of Religious Studies, is the path to overcoming the "darkness of ignorance".[\[92\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESalamone2004112,_Article_on_Divali_by_Lindsey_Harlan-104) The telling of these myths is reminiscent of the Hindu belief that good ultimately triumphs over evil.[\[93\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-105)[\[10\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12) Other religions Originally a Hindu festival, Diwali has transcended religious lines.[\[94\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJohnson200771%E2%80%9379-106) Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Newar Buddhists,[\[2\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2) although for each faith it marks different historical events and stories, but nonetheless the festival represents the same symbolic victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Heiligman31-7)[\[6\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-htoday-8)[\[95\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-107)[\[96\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-108) Jainism [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/47/Mahavira_Nirvan_Kalyanak_Diwali.jpg/330px-Mahavira_Nirvan_Kalyanak_Diwali.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Mahavira_Nirvan_Kalyanak_Diwali.jpg) [Lord Mahavir](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahavira "Mahavira") in meditation before attaining nirvana, the day is celebrated by [Jains](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jains "Jains") as Dipalikaya In Jain religion, Diwali is celebrated in observance of "Mahavira Nirvana Divas", the physical death and final nirvana of [Mahavira](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahavira "Mahavira"), the 24th [Tirthankar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tirthankar "Tirthankar") of current time cycle. Nirvana is considered to be the state of a soul when it escapes from the cycle of birth and death, while experiencing its true nature of boundless bliss and infinite knowledge.[\[97\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Jacobi_1895-109) The Jain Diwali celebrated in many parts of India has similar practices to the Hindu Diwali, such as the lighting of lamps. However, the focus of the Jain Diwali remains the dedication to Mahavira.[\[98\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELong200926,_42-110) According to the Jain tradition, this practice of lighting lamps first began on the day of Mahavira's nirvana in 527 BCE,[\[m\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-113) when 18 kings who had gathered for Mahavira's final teachings issued a proclamation that lamps be lit in remembrance of the "great light, Mahavira".[\[101\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMelton2011255-114)[\[102\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELong200942-115) This traditional belief of the origin of Diwali, and its significance to Jains, is reflected in their historic artworks such as paintings.[\[103\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJainFischer197813-116) Sikhism [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f4/A_hukamnama_from_the_tenth_Sikh_guru%2C_Guru_Gobind_Singh%2C_requesting_all_of_the_Sikh_congregation_to_convene_in_his_presence_on_the_occasion_of_Diwali.jpg/250px-A_hukamnama_from_the_tenth_Sikh_guru%2C_Guru_Gobind_Singh%2C_requesting_all_of_the_Sikh_congregation_to_convene_in_his_presence_on_the_occasion_of_Diwali.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:A_hukamnama_from_the_tenth_Sikh_guru,_Guru_Gobind_Singh,_requesting_all_of_the_Sikh_congregation_to_convene_in_his_presence_on_the_occasion_of_Diwali.jpg) A [hukamnama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hukamnama "Hukamnama") from the tenth Sikh guru, [Guru Gobind Singh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Gobind_Singh "Guru Gobind Singh"), requesting all of the Sikh congregation to convene in his presence on the occasion of Diwali Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas in remembrance of the release of [Guru Hargobind](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Hargobind "Guru Hargobind") from the [Gwalior Fort](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gwalior_Fort "Gwalior Fort") prison by the Mughal emperor [Jahangir](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jahangir "Jahangir") and the day he arrived at the Golden Temple in Amritsar.[\[104\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-117) According to J.S. Grewal, a scholar of Sikhism and Sikh history, Diwali in the Sikh tradition is older than the sixth Guru Hargobind legend. [Guru Amar Das](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Amar_Das "Guru Amar Das"), the third Guru of the Sikhs, built a well in Goindwal with eighty-four steps and invited Sikhs to bathe in its [sacred waters](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sacred_waters "Sacred waters") on Baisakhi and Diwali as a form of community bonding. Over time, these spring and autumn festivals became the most important of Sikh festivals and holy sites such as Amritsar became focal points for annual pilgrimages.[\[105\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGrewal199850%E2%80%9351,_60,_73%E2%80%9378,_93-118) The festival of Diwali, according to Ray Colledge, highlights three events in Sikh history: the founding of the city of Amritsar in 1577, the release of Guru Hargobind from the Mughal prison, and the day of Bhai Mani Singh's martyrdom in 1738 as a result of his failure to pay a fine for trying to celebrate Diwali and thereafter refusing to convert to Islam.[\[106\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEColledge2017276%E2%80%93278-119)[\[107\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESinghLouis_E._Fenech2014431%E2%80%93433-120)[\[n\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-123) Buddhism Diwali is not a festival for most Buddhists, with the exception of the [Newar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newar_people "Newar people") people of Nepal who revere various deities in [Vajrayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vajrayana "Vajrayana") Buddhism and celebrate Diwali by offering prayers to Lakshmi.[\[2\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2)[\[22\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Prem_Saran_2012_175-24) Newar Buddhists in Nepalese valleys also celebrate the Diwali festival over five days, in much the same way, and on the same days, as the Nepalese Hindu Diwali-Tihar festival.[\[110\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-124) According to some observers, this traditional celebration by Newar Buddhists in Nepal, through the worship of Lakshmi and Vishnu during Diwali, is not [syncretism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Syncretism "Syncretism") but rather a reflection of the freedom within [Mahayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahayana "Mahayana") Buddhist tradition to worship any deity for their worldly betterment.[\[2\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-diwaliBuddhist-2) Celebrations \| \| \| \|---\|---\| \| \| \| \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/5c/Diwali_Festival.jpg/250px-Diwali_Festival.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diwali_Festival.jpg)Hindu girls lighting [diyas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diya_$light$ "Diya (light)") in Bangladesh \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/49/Glowing_Swayambhu_%283005358416%29.jpg/250px-Glowing_Swayambhu_%283005358416%29.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Glowing_Swayambhu_$3005358416$.jpg)Decorations in [Kathmandu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kathmandu "Kathmandu") for [Tihar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tihar_$festival$ "Tihar (festival)") (Diwali in Nepal) \| \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/73/Diyas_Diwali_Decor_India.jpg/250px-Diyas_Diwali_Decor_India.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diyas_Diwali_Decor_India.jpg)Diwali lamps arranged in the pattern of [Om](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Om "Om") \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/2f/Fireworks_Diwali_Chennai_India_November_2013_b.jpg/250px-Fireworks_Diwali_Chennai_India_November_2013_b.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Fireworks_Diwali_Chennai_India_November_2013_b.jpg)Deepavali night fireworks over [Chennai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chennai "Chennai") \| \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/7/70/Diwali_Pujan_at_Haridwar.jpg/250px-Diwali_Pujan_at_Haridwar.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diwali_Pujan_at_Haridwar.jpg)Indoor Diwali decorations in front of an altar in [Haridwar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haridwar "Haridwar") \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/ae/United_States_Diwali_Dance_San_Antonio_2011_b.jpg/250px-United_States_Diwali_Dance_San_Antonio_2011_b.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:United_States_Diwali_Dance_San_Antonio_2011_b.jpg)Dance event for Diwali in [Texas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Texas "Texas"), US \| \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/38/Divalinagar.jpg/120px-Divalinagar.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Divalinagar.jpg)[Divali Nagar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divali_Nagar "Divali Nagar") celebration in Trinidad and Tobago \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f2/Diwali_Festival._Jpg.jpg/250px-Diwali_Festival._Jpg.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diwali_Festival._Jpg.jpg)Diyas lit for Diwali at [Golden Temple](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harmandir_Sahib "Harmandir Sahib"), Punjab \| \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/7e/Diwali_offerings_to_god_in_Tamil_Nadu_JEG2437.jpg/250px-Diwali_offerings_to_god_in_Tamil_Nadu_JEG2437.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diwali_offerings_to_god_in_Tamil_Nadu_JEG2437.jpg)Diwali sweets and snacks \| [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0b/DiwaliKarnal.JPG/250px-DiwaliKarnal.JPG)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:DiwaliKarnal.JPG)Decorative lights for Diwali on a house in Haryana \| In the lead-up to Diwali, celebrants prepare by cleaning, renovating, and decorating their homes and workplaces with diyas (oil lamps) and [rangolis](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rangoli "Rangoli") (colourful art circle patterns).[\[112\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Raat-126) During Diwali, people wear their finest clothes, illuminate the interior and exterior of their homes with saaki (earthen lamp), diyas and rangoli, perform worship ceremonies of [Lakshmi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi "Lakshmi"), the goddess of prosperity and wealth,[\[o\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-128) light fireworks, and partake in family feasts, where mithai ([sweets](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Asian_sweets "South Asian sweets")) and [gifts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gift "Gift") are shared. The height of Diwali is celebrated on the third day coinciding with the darkest night of Ashvin or Kartika. The common celebratory practices are known as the festival of light, however there are minor differences from state to state in India. Diwali is usually celebrated twenty days after the [Vijayadashami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vijayadashami "Vijayadashami") festival, with [Dhanteras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhanteras "Dhanteras"), or the regional equivalent, marking the first day of the festival when celebrants prepare by cleaning their homes and making decorations on the floor, such as [rangolis](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rangoli "Rangoli").[\[114\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-129) Some regions of [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India "India") start Diwali festivities the day before Dhanteras with [Govatsa Dwadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Govatsa_Dwadashi "Govatsa Dwadashi"). The second day is [Naraka Chaturdashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naraka_Chaturdashi "Naraka Chaturdashi"). The third day is the day of [Lakshmi Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi_Puja "Lakshmi Puja") and the darkest [night](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Night "Night") of the [traditional month](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K%C4%81rtika_$month$ "Kārtika (month)"). In some parts of [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India "India"), the day after [Lakshmi Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi_Puja "Lakshmi Puja") is marked with the [Govardhan Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Govardhan_Puja "Govardhan Puja") and [Balipratipada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balipratipada "Balipratipada") (Padwa). Some [Hindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindus "Hindus") communities mark the last day as [Bhai Dooj](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhai_Dooj "Bhai Dooj") or the regional equivalent, which is dedicated to the bond between sister and brother,[\[115\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-130) while other Hindu and Sikh craftsmen communities mark this day as [Vishvakarma Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishwakarma_Puja "Vishwakarma Puja") and observe it by performing maintenance in their work spaces and offering [prayers](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prayer "Prayer").[\[116\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-haar2009-131)[\[117\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-132) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/5e/Diwali_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg/250px-Diwali_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diwali_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg) Diwali celebrations include [puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puja_$Hinduism$ "Puja (Hinduism)") (prayers) to Lakshmi and Ganesha. Lakshmi is of the Vaishnavism tradition, while Ganesha of the Shaivism tradition of Hinduism.[\[118\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133)[\[119\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKinsley198833%E2%80%9334-134) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/3c/%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%86_%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%9F%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A8%2C_%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%AD%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BF_%E0%A4%93%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AA_%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%97%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%AF.jpg/250px-%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%86_%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%9F%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A8%2C_%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%AD%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BF_%E0%A4%93%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AA_%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%97%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%AF.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%86_%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%9F%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A8,_%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%AD%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BF_%E0%A4%93%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BE_%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AA_%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%97%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%AF.jpg) Chandua lanterns on display for Diwali. Rituals and preparations for Diwali begin days or weeks in advance, typically after the festival of Dusshera that precedes Diwali by about 20 days.[\[80\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691-92) The festival formally begins two days before the night of Diwali and ends two days thereafter. Each day has the following rituals and significance:[\[55\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61) Diwali has become more popular in other countries. In [New York City](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York_City "New York City") lawmakers have passed legislation to make holidays in school. But debates over the holiday push back. In the future Diwali will be a holiday.[\[120\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-135) Dhanteras and Yama Deepam (Day 1) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/1c/DiwaliOilLampCrop.JPG/250px-DiwaliOilLampCrop.JPG)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:DiwaliOilLampCrop.JPG) Dhanteras starts off the Diwali celebrations with the lighting of [Diya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diya_$lamp$ "Diya (lamp)") or Panati lamp rows, house cleaning and floor [rangoli](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rangoli "Rangoli") Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi, is derived from Dhan meaning wealth and teras meaning thirteenth, marks the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Kartik and the beginning of Diwali in most parts of India.[\[121\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136) On this day, many Hindus clean their homes and business premises. They install diyas, small earthen oil-filled lamps that they light up for the next five days, near Lakshmi and Ganesha iconography.[\[121\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136)[\[118\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133) Women and children decorate doorways within homes and offices with rangolis, colourful designs made from rice flour, flower petals, coloured rice or coloured sand,[\[14\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16) while the boys and men decorate the roofs and walls of family homes, markets, and temples and string up lights and lanterns. The day also marks a major shopping day for buying new utensils, home equipment, gold jewellery, firecrackers, and other items.[\[118\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133)[\[55\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61)[\[83\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Karen_Pechilis_2007_pp_273-275-95)[\[122\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-137) On the evening of Dhanteras, families offer prayers (puja) to Lakshmi and Ganesha, and lay offerings of puffed rice, candy toys, rice cakes and batashas (hollow sugar cakes).[\[118\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133) According to Tracy Pintchman, Dhanteras is a symbol of annual renewal, cleansing and an auspicious beginning for the next year.[\[121\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136) The term Dhan for this day also alludes to the [Ayurvedic](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayurvedic "Ayurvedic") icon [Dhanvantari](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhanvantari "Dhanvantari"), the god of health and healing, who is believed to have emerged from the "churning of cosmic ocean" on the same day as Lakshmi.[\[121\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136) Some communities, particularly those active in Ayurvedic and health-related professions, pray or perform [havan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homa_$ritual$ "Homa (ritual)") rituals to Dhanvantari on Dhanteras.[\[121\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360-136) On Yama Deepam (also known as Yama Dipadana or Jam ke Diya), Hindus light a [diya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diya_$lamp$ "Diya (lamp)"), ideally made of wheat flour and filled with sesame oil, which faces south in the back of their homes. This is believed to please [Yama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yama_$Hinduism$ "Yama (Hinduism)"), the god of death, and to ward off untimely death.[\[123\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-drikpanchang1-138) Some Hindus observe Yama Deepam on the second night before the main day of Diwali.[\[124\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-swahainternational1-139)[\[125\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-astroved1-140) Naraka Chaturdashi, Kali Chaudas, Chhoti Diwali, Hanuman Puja, Roop Chaudas, Yama Deepam (Day 2) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/96/Diwali_Food_and_Celebrations_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg/250px-Diwali_Food_and_Celebrations_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diwali_Food_and_Celebrations_in_Sri_Lanka_Culture_and_Sights.jpg) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d1/Hindu_diet%2C_meal_setting_at_festival.jpg/250px-Hindu_diet%2C_meal_setting_at_festival.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Hindu_diet,_meal_setting_at_festival.jpg) Choti Diwali is the major shopping day for festive mithai (sweets) Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as Chhoti Diwali, is the second day of festivities coinciding with the fourteenth day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Kartik.[\[126\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-141) The term "chhoti" means little, while "Naraka" means hell and "Chaturdashi" means "fourteenth".[\[127\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361-142) The day and its rituals are interpreted as ways to liberate any soul from suffering in "Naraka", or hell, as well as a reminder of spiritual auspiciousness. For some Hindus, it is a day to pray for the peace to the manes, or defiled souls of one's ancestors and light their way for their journeys in the cyclic afterlife.[\[128\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361,_63-143) A mythological interpretation of this festive day is the destruction of the asura (demon) [Narakasura](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narakasura "Narakasura") by Krishna, a victory that frees 16,000 imprisoned princesses kidnapped by Narakasura.[\[127\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361-142) It is also celebrated as Roop Chaudas in some North Indian households, where women bathe before sunrise, while lighting a [diya (lamp)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diya_$lamp$ "Diya (lamp)") in the bath area, they believe it helps enhance their beauty – it is a fun ritual that young girls enjoy as part of festivities. Ubtan is applied by the women which is made up of special gram flour mixed with herbs for cleansing and beautifying themselves. Naraka Chaturdashi is also a major day for purchasing festive foods, particularly sweets. A variety of sweets are prepared using flour, semolina, rice, chickpea flour, dry fruit pieces powders or paste, milk solids (mawa or khoya) and clarified butter (ghee).[\[10\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12) According to Goldstein, these are then shaped into various forms, such as [laddus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laddu "Laddu"), [barfis](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barfi "Barfi"), [halwa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Halwa "Halwa"), [kachoris](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kachori "Kachori"), [shrikhand](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shrikhand "Shrikhand"), and [sandesh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandesh_$confectionery$ "Sandesh (confectionery)"), rolled and stuffed delicacies, such as karanji, [shankarpali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shankarpali "Shankarpali"), maladu, susiyam, pottukadalai. Sometimes these are wrapped with edible silver foil ([vark](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vark "Vark")). Confectioners and shops create Diwali-themed decorative displays, selling these in large quantities, which are stocked for home celebrations to welcome guests and as gifts.[\[10\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12)[\[118\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133) Families also prepare homemade delicacies for Lakshmi Pujan, regarded as the main day of Diwali.[\[10\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223-12) Chhoti Diwali is also a day for visiting friends, business associates and relatives, and exchanging gifts.[\[118\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393-133) On the second day of Diwali, Hanuman Puja is performed in some parts of India especially in [Gujarat](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarat "Gujarat"). It coincides with the day of Kali Chaudas. It is believed that spirits roam around on the night of Kali Chaudas, and [Hanuman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman "Hanuman"), who is the deity of strength, power, and protection, is worshipped to seek protection from the spirits. Diwali is also celebrated to mark the return of [Rama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rama "Rama") to [Ayodhya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayodhya_$Ramayana$ "Ayodhya (Ramayana)") after defeating the demon-king Ravana[\[129\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-144) and completing his fourteen years of exile. The devotion and dedication of Hanuman pleased Rama so much that he blessed Hanuman to be worshipped before him. Thus, people worship Hanuman the day before Diwali's main day.[\[130\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-drikpanchang.com-145) This day is commonly celebrated as Diwali in [Tamil Nadu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamil_Nadu "Tamil Nadu"), [Goa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goa "Goa"), and [Karnataka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karnataka "Karnataka").\[[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed "Wikipedia:Citation needed")\] Traditionally, [Marathi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marathi_people "Marathi people") Hindus and South Indian Hindus receive an oil massage from the elders in the family on the day and then take a ritual bath, all before sunrise.[\[131\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394-146) Many visit their favourite Hindu temple.[\[132\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTERodrigues201629-147) Some Hindus observe Yama Deepam (also known as Yama Dipadana or Jam ke Diya) on the second day of Diwali, instead of the first day. A diya that is filled with sesame oil is lit at back of their homes facing in the southern direction. This is believed to please [Yama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yama_$Hinduism$ "Yama (Hinduism)"), the god of death, and to ward off untimely death.[\[123\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-drikpanchang1-138)[\[124\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-swahainternational1-139)[\[125\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-astroved1-140) Lakshmi Pujan, Kali Puja (Day 3) The third day is the height of the festival[\[133\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJacobs201026-148) and coincides with the last day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Kartik. This is the day when Hindu, Jain and Sikh temples and homes are aglow with lights, thereby making it the "festival of lights". The word Deepawali comes from the Sanskrit word दीप (dīpa, "light") and आवलि (āvali, "series, line, row"), where dīpa means an Indian lantern or lamp.[\[47\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9362-52)[\[134\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Mead2008-149) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/7c/Kit_Kat_Firecracker.jpg/250px-Kit_Kat_Firecracker.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Kit_Kat_Firecracker.jpg) A sparkling firecracker, commonly known as 'Kit Kat' in India The youngest members in the family visit their elders, such as grandparents and other senior members of the community, on this day. Small business owners give gifts or special bonus payments to their employees between Dhanteras and Lakshmi Pujan.[\[131\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394-146)[\[135\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011254-150) Shops either do not open or close early on this day allowing employees to enjoy family time. Shopkeepers and small operations perform puja rituals in their office premises. Unlike some other festivals, the Hindus typically do not fast during the five-day long Diwali including Lakshmi Pujan, rather they feast and share the bounties of the season at their workplaces, community centres, temples, and homes.[\[131\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394-146) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/7d/Woman_lighting_the_candles_for_the_Festival_of_Lights_in_India_%28cropped%29.jpg/250px-Woman_lighting_the_candles_for_the_Festival_of_Lights_in_India_%28cropped%29.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Woman_lighting_the_candles_for_the_Festival_of_Lights_in_India_$cropped$.jpg) Woman lighting candles for Diwali. People light candles and clay lamps in their houses and at temples during Diwali night As the evening approaches, celebrants will wear new clothes or their best outfits, teenage girls and women, in particular, wear saris and jewellery.[\[136\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9395-151) At dusk, family members gather for the Lakshmi Pujan,[\[136\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9395-151) although prayers will also be offered to other deities, such as Ganesha, Saraswati, Rama, Lakshmana, Sita, Hanuman, or Kubera.[\[55\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61) The lamps from the puja ceremony are then used to light more earthenware lamps, which are placed in rows along the parapets of temples and houses,[\[137\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200697%E2%80%9398-152) while some diyas are set adrift on rivers and streams.[\[7\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Mead-2008b-9)[\[138\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-153)[\[139\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKlostermaier201459,_69-154) After the puja, people go outside and celebrate by lighting up patakhe (fireworks) together, and then share a family feast and [mithai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mithai_$confectionery$ "Mithai (confectionery)") (sweets, desserts).[\[55\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61) The puja and rituals in the [Bengali Hindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengali_Hindu "Bengali Hindu") community focus on Kali, the goddess of war, instead of Lakshmi.[\[113\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127)[\[140\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTERhodes20101%E2%80%932-155) According to Rachel Fell McDermott, a scholar of South Asian, particular Bengali, studies, in Bengal during Navaratri (Dussehra elsewhere in India) the [Durga puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_puja "Durga puja") is the main focus, although in the eastern and northeastern states the two are synonymous, but on Diwali the focus is on the puja dedicated to Kali. These two festivals likely developed in tandem over their recent histories, states McDermott.[\[113\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127) Textual evidence suggests that Bengali Hindus worshipped Lakshmi before the colonial era, and that the Kali puja is a more recent phenomenon.[\[p\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-156) Contemporary Bengali celebrations mirror those found elsewhere, with teenage boys playing with fireworks and the sharing of festive food with family, but with the [Shakti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaktism "Shaktism") goddess Kali as the focus.[\[141\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDaniel2004253%E2%80%93255-157) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/18/Sparkles_phuljhari_fireworks_on_DIWALI%2C_festival_of_lights.jpg/250px-Sparkles_phuljhari_fireworks_on_DIWALI%2C_festival_of_lights.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Sparkles_phuljhari_fireworks_on_DIWALI,_festival_of_lights.jpg) A child playing with [(fuljhadi) sparklers](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sparkler "Sparkler") during Diwali On the night of Diwali, rituals across much of India are dedicated to Lakshmi to welcome her into their cleaned homes and bring prosperity and happiness for the coming year.[\[142\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363-158)[\[62\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-S_A_NEWS-2020-68) While the cleaning, or painting, of the home is in part for goddess Lakshmi, it also signifies the ritual "reenactment of the cleansing, purifying action of the monsoon rains" that would have concluded in most of the Indian subcontinent.[\[142\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363-158) Vaishnava families recite Hindu legends of the victory of good over evil and the return of hope after despair on the Diwali night, where the main characters may include Rama, Krishna, Vamana or one of the avatars of Vishnu, the divine husband of Lakshmi.[\[142\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363-158)[\[143\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9397-159) At dusk, lamps placed earlier in the inside and outside of the home are lit up to welcome Lakshmi.[\[133\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJacobs201026-148) Family members light up firecrackers, which some interpret as a way to ward off all evil spirits and the inauspicious, as well as add to the festive mood.[\[144\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Firecracker2-160)[\[145\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Firecracker3-161) According to Pintchman, who quotes Raghavan, this ritual may also be linked to the tradition in some communities of paying respect to ancestors. Earlier in the season's fortnight, some welcome the souls of their ancestors to join the family for the festivities with the Mahalaya. The Diwali night's lights and firecrackers, in this interpretation, represent a celebratory and symbolic farewell to the departed ancestral souls.[\[146\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563-162) The celebrations and rituals of the Jains and the Sikhs are similar to those of the Hindus where social and community bonds are renewed. Major temples and homes are decorated with lights, festive foods shared with all, friends and relatives remembered and visited with gifts.[\[135\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEJones2011254-150)[\[98\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELong200926,_42-110) Annakut, Balipratipada (Padwa), New Year's Day, Govardhan Puja (Day 4) The day after Diwali is the first day of the bright fortnight of Kartik.[\[147\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364-163) It is regionally called Annakut (heap of grain), Padwa, Goverdhan puja, Bali Pratipada, Bali Padyami, Kartik Shukla Pratipada and other names.[\[14\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151-16)[\[147\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364-163) According to one tradition, the day is associated with the story of Bali's defeat at the hands of Vishnu.[\[148\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-NarayananKurup1976-164)[\[149\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-165) In another interpretation, it is thought to reference the legend of Parvati and her husband Shiva playing a game of dyuta (dice) on a board of twelve squares and thirty pieces, Parvati wins. Shiva surrenders his shirt and adornments to her, rendering him naked.[\[147\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364-163) According to Handelman and Shulman, as quoted by Pintchman, this legend is a Hindu metaphor for the cosmic process for creation and dissolution of the world through the masculine destructive power, as represented by Shiva, and the feminine procreative power, represented by Parvati, where twelve reflects the number of months in the cyclic year, while thirty are the number of days in its lunisolar month.[\[147\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364-163) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/3a/Annakut.jpg/330px-Annakut.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Annakut.jpg) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/78/Lord_Krishna_and_Goverdhan_parwat_in_his_left_hand%27s_finger.jpg/250px-Lord_Krishna_and_Goverdhan_parwat_in_his_left_hand%27s_finger.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Lord_Krishna_and_Goverdhan_parwat_in_his_left_hand%27s_finger.jpg) Annakut community meals (left), Krishna holding [Govardhan Hill](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Govardhan_Hill "Govardhan Hill") ritually made from cow dung, rice and flowers (right). This day ritually celebrates the bond between the wife and husband,[\[150\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) and in some Hindu communities, husbands will celebrate this with gifts to their wives. In other regions, parents invite a newly married daughter, or son, together with their spouses to a festive meal and give them gifts.[\[150\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) In some rural communities of the north, west and central regions, the fourth day is celebrated as Govardhan puja, honouring the legend of the Hindu god Krishna saving the cowherd and farming communities from incessant rains and floods triggered by Indra's anger,[\[150\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) which he accomplished by lifting the Govardhan mountain. This legend is remembered through the ritual of building small mountain-like miniatures from cow dung.[\[150\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) According to Kinsley, the ritual use of cow dung, a common fertiliser, is an agricultural motif and a celebration of its significance to annual crop cycles.[\[119\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKinsley198833%E2%80%9334-134)[\[151\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200564%E2%80%9365-167)[\[152\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTELodrick1987-168) The agricultural symbolism is also observed on this day by many Hindus as Annakut, literally "mountain of food". Communities prepare over one hundred dishes from a variety of ingredients, which is then dedicated to Krishna before being shared among the community. Hindu temples on this day prepare and present "mountains of sweets" to the faithful who have gathered for darshan (visit).[\[150\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) In Gujarat, Annakut is the first day of the new year and celebrated through the purchase of essentials, or sabras (literally, "good things in life"), such as salt, offering prayers to Krishna and visiting temples.[\[150\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166) In Gujarat [New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_New_Year%27s_days "Indian New Year's days") is celebrated after the day of Diwali. In the early morning people take showers, do prayer at home, visit temples for worship and children in the evening visit neighbour's houses to say happy new year, shake hands, get mukhvas for dessert, and chocolate. Bhai Duj, Bhau-Beej, Vishwakarma Puja (Day 5) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/82/Diwali_%28Bhaiya_Dweej_%29.JPG/250px-Diwali_%28Bhaiya_Dweej_%29.JPG)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diwali_$Bhaiya_Dweej_$.JPG) A sister ritually feeding her brother on Bhai Duj-Diwali The last day of the festival, the second day of the bright fortnight of Kartik, is called Bhai Duj (literally "brother's day"[\[153\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-169)), Bhau Beej, Bhai Tilak or Bhai Phonta. It celebrates the sister-brother bond, similar in spirit to [Raksha Bandhan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raksha_Bandhan "Raksha Bandhan") but it is the brother that travels to meet the sister and her family. This festive day is interpreted by some to symbolise Yama's sister [Yamuna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yamuna_in_Hinduism "Yamuna in Hinduism") welcoming Yama with a tilaka, while others interpret it as the arrival of Krishna at his sister [Subhadra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subhadra "Subhadra")'s place after defeating Narakasura. Subhadra welcomes him with a tilaka on his forehead.[\[150\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTECrump2014112%E2%80%93113-166)[\[154\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200566%E2%80%9369-170) The day celebrates the sibling bond between brother and sister.[\[155\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-171) On this day the womenfolk of the family gather, perform a puja with prayers for the well-being of their brothers, then return to a ritual of feeding their brothers with their hands and receiving gifts. According to Pintchman, in some Hindu traditions the women recite tales where sisters protect their brothers from enemies that seek to cause him either bodily or spiritual harm.[\[154\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPintchman200566%E2%80%9369-170) In historic times, this was a day in autumn when brothers would travel to meet their sisters or invite their sister's family to their village to celebrate their sister-brother bond with the bounty of seasonal harvests.[\[55\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-tp-61) The artisan Hindu and Sikh community celebrates the fourth day as the Vishwakarma puja day.[\[q\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-173) Vishwakarma is the presiding Hindu deity for those in architecture, building, manufacturing, textile work and crafts trades.[\[116\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-haar2009-131)[\[r\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-175) The looms, tools of trade, machines and workplaces are cleaned and prayers offered to these livelihood means.[\[158\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-176) Other traditions and significance During the season of Diwali, numerous rural townships and villages host [melas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mela_Festival "Mela Festival"),[\[159\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Kadowala1998-177) or fairs, where local producers and artisans trade produce and goods. A variety of entertainments are usually available for inhabitants of the local community to enjoy. The women, in particular, adorn themselves in colourful attire and [decorate](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mehndi "Mehndi") their hands with [henna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henna "Henna"). Such events are also mentioned in Sikh historical records.[\[160\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994188%E2%80%93190_with_footnote_96-178)[\[s\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-179) In the modern day, Diwali mela are held at college, or university, campuses or as community events by members of the Indian diaspora. At such events a variety of music, dance and arts performances, food, crafts, and cultural celebrations are featured.[\[161\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-180)[\[162\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-181)[\[92\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTESalamone2004112,_Article_on_Divali_by_Lindsey_Harlan-104) In October 2025, the state of California made Diwali an official state holiday.[\[163\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-182) Economics Diwali marks a major shopping period in India,[\[28\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-wsj-30) and is comparable to the Christmas period in terms of consumer purchases and economic activity.[\[164\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEKlostermaier201459-183) It is traditionally a time when households purchase new clothing, home refurbishments, gifts, gold, jewelry,[\[165\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-184)[\[166\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-185) and other large purchases particularly as the festival is dedicated to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and such purchases are considered auspicious.[\[167\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-186)[\[168\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-187) According to Rao, Diwali is one of the major festivals where rural Indians spend a significant portion of their annual income, and is a means for them to renew their relationships and social networks.[\[169\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTERao200171%E2%80%9395-188) Other goods that are bought in substantial quantities during Diwali include confectionery and fireworks. In 2013, about ₹25 billion (US\$300 million) of fireworks were sold to merchants for the Diwali season, an equivalent retail value of about ₹50 billion (US\$590 million) according to The Times of India.[\[170\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-189)[\[t\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-192) [ASSOCHAM](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ASSOCHAM "ASSOCHAM"), a trade organisation in India, forecasted that online shopping alone to be over ₹300 billion (US\$3.5 billion) over the 2017 Diwali season.[\[173\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-193) About two-thirds of Indian households, according to the ASSOCHAM forecast, would spend between ₹5,000 (US\$59) and ₹10,000 (US\$120) to celebrate Diwali in 2017.[\[174\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-194) Stock markets like NSE and BSE in India are typically closed during Diwali, with the exception of a Diwali Muhurat trading session for an hour in the evening to coincide with the beginning of the new year.[\[175\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-195) In 2020, the INDF ETF was launched to mark the start of Diwali.[\[176\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-196) Politics Diwali has increasingly attracted cultural exchanges, becoming occasions for politicians and religious leaders worldwide to meet Hindu or Indian origin citizens, diplomatic staff or neighbours. Many participate in other socio-political events as a symbol of support for diversity and inclusiveness. The Catholic dicastery [Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pontifical_Council_for_Interreligious_Dialogue "Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue"), founded as Secretariat for non-Christians by Pope Paul VI, began sending official greetings and the Pope's message to the Hindus on Diwali in the mid-1990s.[\[177\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBarbato201793%E2%80%9397-197)[\[u\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-198) Many governments encourage or sponsor Diwali-related festivities in their territories. For example, the Singaporean government, in association with the [Hindu Endowments Board](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_Endowments_Board "Hindu Endowments Board") of Singapore, organizes many cultural events during Diwali every year.[\[178\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-199) National and civic leaders such as [the former Prince Charles](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_III "Charles III") have attended Diwali celebrations at prominent Hindu temples in the UK, such as the [Swaminarayan Temple in Neasden](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neasden_Temple "Neasden Temple"), using the occasion to highlight contributions of the Hindu community to British society.[\[179\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-200)[\[180\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-201) Additionally, cities across the UK show support of the celebrations through Diwali lights, decorations, and cultural festivities such as dance performances, food stalls and workshops.[\[181\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-202) Since 2009, Diwali has been celebrated every year at [10 Downing Street](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/10_Downing_Street "10 Downing Street"), the residence of the British Prime Minister.[\[182\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-203) Diwali was first celebrated in the [White House](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_House "White House") by [George W. Bush](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_W._Bush "George W. Bush") in 2003, and its religious and historical significance was officially recognized by the [United States Congress](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Congress "United States Congress") in 2007.[\[183\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-204)[\[184\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-205) [Barack Obama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barack_Obama "Barack Obama") became the first president to personally attend Diwali at the White House in 2009. On the eve of his first visit to India as President of the United States, Obama released an official statement sharing his best wishes with "those celebrating Diwali".[\[185\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-206) President [Donald J. Trump](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donald_Trump "Donald Trump") posted an official statement celebrating Diwali in October 2025.[\[186\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-207)[\[187\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-208) A similar message posted online by Trump administration [FBI](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federal_Bureau_of_Investigation "Federal Bureau of Investigation") [Director](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Director_of_the_Federal_Bureau_of_Investigation "Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation") [Kash Patel](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kash_Patel "Kash Patel") was met with a flood of [racist](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Racism "Racism") and [xenophobic](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xenophobia "Xenophobia") invective from [Christian nationalists](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_nationalism "Christian nationalism") and other [MAGA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Make_America_Great_Again "Make America Great Again")\-aligned individuals.[\[188\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-209)[\[189\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-210) As of October 2025, Diwali was an official holiday in three U.S. states: [California](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California "California"), [Connecticut](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Connecticut "Connecticut"), and [Pennsylvania](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pennsylvania "Pennsylvania").[\[190\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-211)[\[191\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-212) Every year during Diwali, Indian forces approach their [Pakistani](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pakistani "Pakistani") counterparts at the border bearing gifts of traditional Indian confectionery, a gesture that is returned in kind by the Pakistani soldiers who give Pakistani sweets to the Indian soldiers.[\[192\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-213)[\[v\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-217)[\[196\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-218) Hazards The use of [firecrackers](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Firecracker "Firecracker") on Diwali increases the concentration of [dust](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dust "Dust") and [pollutants](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pollutant "Pollutant") in the air. After firing, the fine dust particles get settled on the surrounding surfaces which are packed with chemicals like [copper](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Copper "Copper"), [zinc](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zinc "Zinc"), [sodium](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sodium "Sodium"), [lead](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lead "Lead"), [magnesium](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnesium "Magnesium"), [cadmium](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cadmium "Cadmium") and pollutants like [oxides of sulfur](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sulfur_oxide "Sulfur oxide") and [nitrogen](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nitrogen_oxide "Nitrogen oxide").[\[197\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-219) These invisible yet harmful particles affect the environment and in turn, put people's health at stake.[\[198\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-220) The smoke created by firecrackers lit up on Diwali causes smog which sometimes takes days to clear.[\[199\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-221) During Diwali, the levels of suspended particulate matter increase. When people are exposed to these pollutant particles, they may suffer from eye, nose, and throat-related problems. To produce colours when crackers are burst, [carcinogenic](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carcinogen "Carcinogen") and poisonous elements are used.[\[200\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-222) During the 2023 celebration, [New Delhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Delhi "New Delhi") briefly took the top spot in the world for [air pollution](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_pollution "Air pollution") with an [air quality index](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_quality_index "Air quality index") of 680 on one night.[\[201\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-223) The use of fireworks during Diwali can also lead to burn injuries. One particular firework called anar (fountain) has been found to be responsible for 65% of such injuries, with adults being the typical victims. Most of the injuries sustained are Group I type burns (minor) requiring only outpatient care. Experts urge precaution around candles and fires and ask for children to be kept a safe distance from flames and to enjoy the festivity of Diwali.[\[202\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-224)[\[203\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-225) Guinness World Record In October 2025, a Diwali celebration in [Ayodhya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayodhya "Ayodhya"), Uttar Pradesh, India, broke the [Guinness World Record](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guinness_World_Records "Guinness World Records") for the largest display of oil lamps with 2,617,615 displayed on the eve of Diwali.[\[204\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-r576-226) UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage Diwali has been inscribed on [UNESCO’s](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UNESCO "UNESCO") List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, becoming the 16th Indian tradition to receive global honour joining the ranks of [Durga Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Puja "Durga Puja") and [Yoga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga "Yoga") in international recognition.[\[205\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-227) See also - [Bandna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandna "Bandna") – Agrarian festival that coincides with Diwali - [Bandi Chhor Divas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandi_Chhor_Divas "Bandi Chhor Divas") – Sikh festival that coincides with Diwali - [Candlemas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Candlemas "Candlemas") – the [Christian](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian "Christian") celebration involving candles, celebrating the [Presentation of Jesus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presentation_of_Jesus "Presentation of Jesus") - [Chinese New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_New_Year "Chinese New Year") - Chinese celebration, one of the most important holidays in Chinese culture - [Day of the Little Candles](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Day_of_the_Little_Candles "Day of the Little Candles") – the Colombian Catholic festival of candles - [Diwali (Jainism)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali_$Jainism$ "Diwali (Jainism)") – Diwali's significance in Jainism - [Guy Fawkes Night](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guy_Fawkes_Night "Guy Fawkes Night") – the British festival of bonfires and fireworks held on the fifth of November. In towns with a large [British Asian](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Asians "British Asians") community, Diwali and Guy Fawkes festivities are often combined. - [Hanukkah](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanukkah "Hanukkah") – the Jewish festival of lights - [Jashn-e-Chiragah](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jashn-e-Chiragah "Jashn-e-Chiragah") - the Mughal celebration of Diwali - [Kali Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali_Puja "Kali Puja") – Diwali is most commonly known as Kali Puja in West Bengal or in Bengali dominated areas - [Karthika Deepam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karthika_Deepam "Karthika Deepam") – the festival of lights observed by [Tamils](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamils "Tamils") of [Tamil Nadu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamil_Nadu "Tamil Nadu"), [Puducherry](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puducherry_$union_territory$ "Puducherry (union territory)"), [Kerala](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kerala "Kerala"), [Sri Lanka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_Lanka "Sri Lanka") and elsewhere - [Lehyam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lehyam "Lehyam"), often prepared on the occasion of Deepavali to aid the digestion - [Lantern Festival](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lantern_Festival "Lantern Festival") – the Chinese festival of lanterns - [Loy Krathong](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loy_Krathong "Loy Krathong") – the Thai festival of lights - [Nowruz](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nowruz "Nowruz") – the Persian new year and festival of lights - [Saint Lucy's Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Lucy%27s_Day "Saint Lucy's Day") – the Christian festival of lights - [Swanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swanti_$festival$ "Swanti (festival)") – Newar version of Diwali - [Tihar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tihar_$festival$ "Tihar (festival)") – Nepali version of Diwali - [Walpurgis Night](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walpurgis_Night "Walpurgis Night") – the German festival of bonfires Notes 1. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-4) Also spelled as Dipawali, Deepavali, or Deepawali. 2. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-6) Related to [Jain Diwali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali_$Jainism$ "Diwali (Jainism)"), [Bandi Chhor Divas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandi_Chhor_Divas "Bandi Chhor Divas"), [Tihar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tihar_$festival$ "Tihar (festival)"), [Swanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swanti_$festival$ "Swanti (festival)"), [Sohrai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sohrai "Sohrai") and [Bandna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandna "Bandna") 3. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-35) except [Sarawak](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarawak "Sarawak") 4. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-46) Also spelled as Divali or Dewali.[\[4\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Mead-2008a-5)[\[42\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEShattuck199951,_124-45) 5. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-50) The holiday is known as dipawoli in [Assamese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assamese_language "Assamese language"): দীপাৱলী, dīpabolī or dipali in [Bengali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengali_language "Bengali language"): দীপাবলি/দীপালি, dīvāḷi in [Gujarati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarati_language "Gujarati language"): દિવાળી, divālī in [Hindi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindi_language "Hindi language"): दिवाली, dīpavaḷi in [Kannada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kannada_language "Kannada language"): ದೀಪಾವಳಿ, [Konkani](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Konkani_language "Konkani language"): दिवाळी, dīpāvalī in [Maithili](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maithili_language "Maithili language"): दीपावली, [Malayalam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malayalam_language "Malayalam language"): ദീപാവലി, [Marathi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marathi_language "Marathi language"): दिवाळी, dīpābali in [Odia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Odia_language "Odia language"): ଦୀପାବଳି, dīvālī in [Punjabi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punjabi_language "Punjabi language"): ਦੀਵਾਲੀ, diyārī in [Sindhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindhi_language "Sindhi language"): दियारी, tīpāvaḷi in [Tamil](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamil_language "Tamil language"): தீபாவளி, and [Telugu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telugu_language "Telugu language"): దీపావళి, [Galungan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galungan "Galungan") in [Balinese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balinese_language "Balinese language") and [Swanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swanti_$festival$ "Swanti (festival)") in [Nepali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepali_language "Nepali language"): स्वन्ति or [tihar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tihar_$festival$ "Tihar (festival)") in [Nepali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepali_language "Nepali language"): तिहार and Thudar Parba in [Tulu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tulu_language "Tulu language"): ತುಡರ್ ಪರ್ಬ. 6. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-55) Historical records appear inconsistent about the name of the lunar month in which Diwali is observed. One of the earliest reports on this variation was by Wilson in 1847. He explained that though the actual Hindu festival day is the same, it is identified differently in regional calendars because there are two traditions in the Hindu calendar. One tradition starts a new month from the new moon, while the other starts it from the full moon.[\[49\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-54) 7. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-75) According to Audrey Truschke, the Sunni Muslim emperor Aurangzeb did limit "public observation" of many religious holidays such as Hindu Diwali and Holi, but also of Shia observance of Muharram and the Persian holiday of Nauruz. According to Truschke, Aurangzeb did so because he found the festivals "distasteful" and also from "concerns with public safety" lurking in the background.[\[67\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTETruschke201774%E2%80%9375-73) According to Stephen Blake, a part of the reason that led Aurangzeb to ban Diwali was the practice of gambling and drunken celebrations.[\[66\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389-72) Truschke states that Aurangzeb did not ban private practices altogether and instead "rescinded taxes previously levied on Hindu festivals" by his Mughal predecessors.[\[67\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTETruschke201774%E2%80%9375-73) John Richards disagrees and states Aurangzeb, in his zeal to revive Islam and introduce strict [Sharia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sharia "Sharia") in his empire, issued a series of edicts against Hindu festivals and shrines.[\[68\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Richards1995p175-74) According to Richards, it was Akbar who abolished the discriminatory taxes on Hindu festivals and pilgrims, and it was Aurangzeb who reinstated the Mughal era discriminatory taxes on festivals and increased other religion-based taxes.[\[68\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Richards1995p175-74) 8. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-76) Some Muslims joined the Hindu community in celebrating Diwali in the Mughal era. Illustrative Islamic records, states Stephen Blake, include those of 16th-century Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi who wrote, "during Diwali.... the ignorant ones amongst Muslims, particularly women, perform the ceremonies... they celebrate it like their own Id and send presents to their daughters and sisters,.... they attach much importance and weight to this season \[of Diwali\]."[\[66\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389-72) 9. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-78) Williams Jones stated that the Bhutachaturdasi Yamaterpanam is dedicated to Yama and ancestral spirits, the Lacshmipuja dipanwita to goddess Lakshmi with invocations to Kubera, the Dyuta pratipat Belipuja to Shiva-Parvati and Bali legends, and the Bhratri dwitiya to Yama-Yamuna legend and the Hindus celebrate the brother-sister relationship on this day.[\[69\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-jone1799p263-77) Jones also noted that on the Diwali day, the Hindus had a mock cremation ceremony with "torches and flaming brands" called Ulcadanam, where they said goodbye to their colleagues who had died in war or in a foreign country and had never returned home. The ceremony lit the path of the missing to the mansion of Yama.[\[69\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-jone1799p263-77) 10. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-82) Some inscriptions mention the festival of lights in Prakrit terms such as tipa-malai, sara-vilakku and others. 11. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-86) The Sanskrit inscription is in the Grantha script. It is well preserved on the north wall of the second prakara in the [Ranganatha temple](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ranganathaswamy_Temple,_Srirangam "Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam"), Srirangam island, Tamil Nadu.[\[75\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-kielhorn1896-85) 12. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-91) The Diwali-related inscription is the 4th inscription and it includes the year Vikrama Era 1268 (c. 1211 CE).[\[78\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-Hultzsch1268-89) 13. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-113) Scholars contest the 527 BCE date and consider Mahavira's biographical details as uncertain. Some suggest he lived in the 5th-century BCE contemporaneously with the Buddha.[\[99\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEPotter200735%E2%80%9336-111)[\[100\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEDundas200222-112) 14. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-123) Sikhs historically referred to this festival as Diwali. It was in early 20th-century, states Harjot Oberoi, a scholar of Sikh history, when the Khalsa Tract Society triggered by the [Singh Sabha Movement](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Singh_Sabha_Movement "Singh Sabha Movement") sought to establish a Sikh identity distinct from the Hindus and the Muslims.[\[108\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994346%E2%80%93349-121) They launched a sustained campaign to discourage Sikhs from participating in Holi and Diwali, renaming the festivals, publishing the seasonal greeting cards in the Gurmukhi language and relinking their religious significance to Sikh historical events.[\[109\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994347%E2%80%93349-122) While some of these efforts have had a lasting impact for the Sikh community, the lighting, feasting together, social bonding, sharing and other ritual grammar of Sikh celebrations during the Diwali season are similar to those of the Hindus and Jains.[\[109\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994347%E2%80%93349-122) 15. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-128) Hindus of eastern and northeastern states of India associate the festival with the goddess [Durga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga "Durga"), or her fierce avatar [Kali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali "Kali") ([Shaktism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaktism "Shaktism")).[\[84\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEAmazzone2012-96) According to McDermott, this region also celebrated the Lakshmi puja historically, while the Kali puja tradition started during the British Raj and was particularly prominent from the 1920s.[\[113\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127) 16. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-156) According to McDermott, while the Durga Puja is the largest Bengali festival and it can be traced to the 16th-century or earlier, the start of Kali puja tradition on Diwali is traceable to no earlier than about the mid-18th-century during the reign of Raja Krishnacandra Ray.[\[113\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127) McDermott further writes that the older historic documents of the Bengal confirm that the Bengali Hindus have long celebrated the night of Diwali with illuminations, firecrackers, foods, new account books, Lakshmi (not Kali), inviting their friends (including Europeans during the colonial era) and gambling.[\[113\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127) The Kali sarbajanin tradition on Diwali, with tantric elements in some locations, grew slowly into a popular Bengali tradition after the mid-1920s.[\[113\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188-127) 17. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-173) According to a Government of Himachal Pradesh and India publication, the Vishvakarma puja is observed on the fourth day of Diwali in the Himalayan state.[\[156\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-172) 18. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-175) The Vishwakarma puja day is alternatively observed in other Hindu communities in accordance with the Hindu solar calendar, and this falls in September.[\[157\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEMelton2011908%E2%80%93909-174) 19. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-179) [Max Macauliffe](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Max_Arthur_Macauliffe "Max Arthur Macauliffe"), who lived in northwest Punjab area during the colonial era and is known for his work on Sikh literature and history, wrote about Diwali melas to which people visited to buy horses, seek pleasure, pray in nearby Amritsar temples for the prosperity of their children and their souls, and some on "errands, more or less worthy or unworthy character".[\[160\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994188%E2%80%93190_with_footnote_96-178) 20. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-192) A 2017 estimate states 50,000 tons (100 million pounds) of fireworks are exploded annually in India over the Diwali festival.[\[171\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-190) As a comparison, Americans explode 134,000 tons (268 million pounds) of fireworks for 4 July celebrations in the United States.[\[172\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-191) 21. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-198) The Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue was founded as Secretariat for non-Christians by Pope Paul VI. It began sending official greetings and message to Muslims in 1967 on Id al-Fitr. About 30 years later, in the mid-1990s the Catholic authorities began sending two additional annual official greetings and message, one to the Hindus on Diwali and the other to the Buddhists on Buddha's birthday.[\[177\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-FOOTNOTEBarbato201793%E2%80%9397-197) 22. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-217) Diwali was not a public holiday in Pakistan from 1947 to 2016. Diwali along with Holi for Hindus, and Easter for Christians, was adopted as public holiday resolution by Pakistan's parliament in 2016, giving the local governments and public institutions the right to declare Holi as a holiday and grant leave for its minority communities, for the first time.[\[193\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-214)[\[194\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-215) Diwali celebrations have been relatively rare in contemporary Pakistan, but observed across religious lines, including by Muslims in cities such as Peshawar.[\[195\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_note-216) References 1. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-1) Townsend, Charles M (2014). The Oxford Handbook of Sikh Studies. Oxford University Press. p. 440. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-19-969930-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-969930-8 "Special:BookSources/978-0-19-969930-8") . 2. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-3) [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-diwaliBuddhist_2-4) Todd T. Lewis (7 September 2000). [Popular Buddhist Texts from Nepal: Narratives and Rituals of Newar Buddhism](https://books.google.com/books?id=whZ5kAPSwl8C&pg=PA118). State University of New York Press. pp. 118–119\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-7914-9243-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7914-9243-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-7914-9243-7") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170102030235/https://books.google.com/books?id=whZ5kAPSwl8C&pg=PA118) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016. 3. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-3)* ["Diwali 2025 Date: When is Diwali? All About the 5 Days Festival of Lights"](https://www.indiatimes.com/events/diwali-2024-date-when-is-diwali-5-days-long-diwali-holidays-620859.html). 16 November 2023. 4. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead-2008a_5-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead-2008a_5-1) Mead, Jean (February 2008). [How and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?](https://books.google.com/books?id=QJyZKOtHWg4C&dq=deepavali+hinduism&pg=PA5). Evans Brothers. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-237-53412-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-237-53412-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-237-53412-7") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20231111150755/https://books.google.com/books?id=QJyZKOtHWg4C&dq=deepavali+hinduism&pg=PA5#v=onepage&q=deepavali%20hinduism&f=false) from the original on 11 November 2023. Retrieved 5 August 2022. 5. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Heiligman31_7-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Heiligman31_7-1) Vasudha Narayanan; Deborah Heiligman (2008). [Celebrate Diwali](https://books.google.com/books?id=rdTJJEQsDHoC&pg=PA31). National Geographic Society. p. 31. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-4263-0291-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-4263-0291-6 "Special:BookSources/978-1-4263-0291-6") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170102023011/https://books.google.com/books?id=rdTJJEQsDHoC&pg=PA31) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016. "All the stories associated with Deepavali, however, speak of the joy connected with the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil." 6. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-htoday_8-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-htoday_8-1) Tina K Ramnarine (2013). [Musical Performance in the Diaspora](https://books.google.com/books?id=yTiPAQAAQBAJ&pg=PA78). Routledge. p. 78. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-317-96956-3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-317-96956-3 "Special:BookSources/978-1-317-96956-3") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170102013829/https://books.google.com/books?id=yTiPAQAAQBAJ&pg=PA78) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016. "Light, in the form of candles and lamps, is a crucial part of Diwali, representing the triumph of light over darkness, goodness over evil and hope for the future." 7. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead-2008b_9-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead-2008b_9-1) Mead, Jean (February 2008). How and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?. Evans Brothers. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-237-53412-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-237-53412-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-237-53412-7") . 8. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-melton252_10-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-melton252_10-1) [Jones 2011](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFJones2011), pp. 252–255 9. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-OED-Diwali_11-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-OED-Diwali_11-1) The New Oxford Dictionary of English* (1998) [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-19-861263-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-861263-6 "Special:BookSources/978-0-19-861263-6") – p. 540 "Diwali /dɪwɑːli/ (also Diwali) noun a Hindu festival with lights...". 10. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-3) [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGoldstein2015222%E2%80%93223_12-4) [Goldstein 2015](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFGoldstein2015), pp. 222–223. 11. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-13)* [Diwali](https://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/166786/Diwali) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20150501153023/https://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/166786/Diwali) 1 May 2015 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine") Encyclopædia Britannica (2009) 12. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-14) ["Diwali 2020 Date in India: When is Diwali in 2020?"](https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/life-style/diwali-2020-date-in-india-when-is-diwali-in-2020-7013223/). The Indian Express. 11 November 2020. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20201116074618/https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/life-style/diwali-2020-date-in-india-when-is-diwali-in-2020-7013223/) from the original on 16 November 2020. Retrieved 13 November 2020. 13. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-15) ["Diwali 2024: When is Diwali in 2024? All you need to know its Significations - Global Times 18"](https://globaltimes18.com/when-is-diwali/). Global Times 18. 23 October 2024. Retrieved 24 October 2024. 14. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-3) [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-4) [f](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFieldhouse2017150%E2%80%93151_16-5) [Fieldhouse 2017](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFFieldhouse2017), pp. 150–151. 15. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-17)* Stent, David (22 October 2013). Religious Studies: Made Simple. Elsevier. p. 137. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-4831-8320-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-4831-8320-6 "Special:BookSources/978-1-4831-8320-6") . 16. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-dhcd_18-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-dhcd_18-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-dhcd_18-2) Deborah Heiligman, Celebrate Diwali, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-7922-5923-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7922-5923-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-7922-5923-7") , National Geographic Society, Washington, D.C. 17. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Suzanne_Barchers_2013_19-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Suzanne_Barchers_2013_19-1) Suzanne Barchers (2013). The Big Book of Holidays and Cultural Celebrations, Shell Education, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-4258-1048-1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-4258-1048-1 "Special:BookSources/978-1-4258-1048-1") 18. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Sharma2006_20-0)* Sharma, S.P.; Gupta, Seema (2006). [Fairs and Festivals of India](https://books.google.com/books?id=wPPr9HdmnHcC&q=diwali+mahavira+527&pg=PA79). Pustak Mahal. p. 79. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-223-0951-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-223-0951-5 "Special:BookSources/978-81-223-0951-5") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210126200725/https://books.google.com/books?id=wPPr9HdmnHcC&q=diwali+mahavira+527&pg=PA79) from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 10 November 2020. 19. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-N._Upadhye,_Review_1982_pp._231%E2%80%93232_21-0) Upadhye, A.N. (January–March 1982). Cohen, Richard J. (ed.). "Mahavira and His Teachings". Journal of the American Oriental Society. 102 (1): 231–232\. [doi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doi_$identifier$ "Doi (identifier)"):[10\.2307/601199](https://doi.org/10.2307%2F601199). [ISSN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISSN_$identifier$ "ISSN (identifier)") [0003-0279](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/0003-0279). [JSTOR](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/JSTOR_$identifier$ "JSTOR (identifier)") [601199](https://www.jstor.org/stable/601199). 20. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-22) Geoff Teece (2005). [Sikhism](https://books.google.com/books?id=kJO1WIABhPQC&pg=PA23). Smart Apple Media. p. 23. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-58340-469-0](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-58340-469-0 "Special:BookSources/978-1-58340-469-0") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170102024403/https://books.google.com/books?id=kJO1WIABhPQC&pg=PA23) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016. 21. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-MK72_23-0) McDermott and Kripal p.72 22. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Prem_Saran_2012_175_24-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Prem_Saran_2012_175_24-1) Prem Saran (2012). [Yoga, Bhoga and Ardhanariswara: Individuality, Wellbeing and Gender in Tantra](https://books.google.com/books?id=5-DfCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA175). [Routledge](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Routledge "Routledge"). p. 175. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-136-51648-1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-136-51648-1 "Special:BookSources/978-1-136-51648-1") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170102021020/https://books.google.com/books?id=5-DfCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA175) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016. 23. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-YustJohnson2006_25-0)* Karen-Marie Yust; Aostre N. Johnson; Sandy Eisenberg Sasso (2006). [Nurturing Child and Adolescent Spirituality: Perspectives from the World's Religious Traditions](https://books.google.com/books?id=_dWh0l-iXHUC&pg=PA223). Rowman & Littlefield. pp. 232–233\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-7425-4463-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7425-4463-5 "Special:BookSources/978-0-7425-4463-5") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120611/https://books.google.com/books?id=_dWh0l-iXHUC&pg=PA223) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 29 August 2018. 24. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-jgl_26-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-jgl_26-1) [Lochtefeld 2002](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFLochtefeld2002), pp. 200–201 25. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJohnsonTeuscherSabean2011300%E2%80%93301_27-0)* [Johnson, Teuscher & Sabean 2011](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFJohnsonTeuscherSabean2011), pp. 300–301. 26. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEShah199541%E2%80%9344_28-0) [Shah 1995](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFShah1995), pp. 41–44. 27. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-29) Diane P. Mines; Sarah E. Lamb (2010). [Everyday Life in South Asia, Second Edition](https://books.google.com/books?id=iczwAAAAQBAJ). Indiana University Press. p. 243. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-253-01357-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-253-01357-6 "Special:BookSources/978-0-253-01357-6") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210702103809/https://books.google.com/books?id=iczwAAAAQBAJ) from the original on 2 July 2021. Retrieved 25 September 2018. 28. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-wsj_30-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-wsj_30-1) [India Journal: ‘Tis the Season to be Shopping](https://web.archive.org/web/20130421024513/http://blogs.wsj.com/indiarealtime/2010/08/23/india-journal-tis-the-season-to-be-shopping/) Devita Saraf, The Wall Street Journal (August 2010) 29. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJohnson200771%E2%80%9373_31-0)* [Johnson 2007](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFJohnson2007), pp. 71–73. 30. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKelly198840%E2%80%9355_32-0) [Kelly 1988](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFKelly1988), pp. 40–55. 31. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-33) [Public Holidays](http://www.fiji.gov.fj/Events/2016-FIJI-PUBLIC-HOLIDAYS.aspx) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20180916055429/http://www.fiji.gov.fj/Events/2016-FIJI-PUBLIC-HOLIDAYS.aspx) 16 September 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), Government of Fiji 32. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-34) [Public Holidays](https://publicholidays.gy/) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20171019163247/https://publicholidays.gy/) 19 October 2017 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), Guyana 33. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-36) [Public Holidays](http://www.hrdf.com.my/wps/portal/PSMB/MainEN/Resources/Public-Holiday) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20190305093432/http://www.hrdf.com.my/wps/portal/PSMB/MainEN/Resources/Public-Holiday) 5 March 2019 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), Government of Malaysia 34. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-37) [Public Holidays](https://evisa.moip.gov.mm/public_holiday.aspx) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20180817060609/https://evisa.moip.gov.mm/public_holiday.aspx) 17 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), Government of Myanmar 35. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-38) [Public Holidays](http://www.mos.com.np/holidaylist.php) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20171019163545/http://www.mos.com.np/holidaylist.php) 19 October 2017 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), Government of Nepal 36. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-39) [Pakistan parliament adopts resolution for Holi, Diwali, Easter holidays](http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/pakistan/Pakistan-parliament-adopts-resolution-for-Holi-Diwali-Easter-holidays/articleshow/51423609.cms) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20180306175436/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/pakistan/Pakistan-parliament-adopts-resolution-for-Holi-Diwali-Easter-holidays/articleshow/51423609.cms) 6 March 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), The Times of India (16 March 2016) 37. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-40) [Public Gazetted Holidays](http://www.mom.gov.sg/newsroom/press-releases/2016/0405-singapore-public-holidays-2017) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20171019215719/http://www.mom.gov.sg/newsroom/press-releases/2016/0405-singapore-public-holidays-2017) 19 October 2017 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), Government of Singapore 38. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-41) [Official Public Holidays](https://www.ttconnect.gov.tt/gortt/portal/ttconnect/!ut/p/a1/jdDBDoIwDAbgp-FKC8tUvHFARUwMGBV2MWjmwCAjY4KPL3ozKNpbm-9P_hQYxMDKtMlFqnNZpsVzZ6NDENpIfYfgOkQH7ci3PKQBmY9JB5I3EM1nHfCotQh2BBH_y-OXcX_mN7yEPbBBtqQ90K_5AgM9lsBEIY-vnyRueSQTAUzxM1dcmTfVnTOtq3pqoIFt25pCSlFw8ySvBn6KZLLWEL9LqK7b-O5faNGs3AdjOzzp/dl5/d5/L2dBISEvZ0FBIS9nQSEh/?WCM_GLOBAL_CONTEXT=/gortt/wcm/connect/gortt+web+content/ttconnect/non-national/role/anationalabroad/generalinformation/official+public+holidays) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210303062241/https://www.ttconnect.gov.tt/gortt/portal/ttconnect/!ut/p/a1/jdDBDoIwDAbgp-FKC8tUvHFARUwMGBV2MWjmwCAjY4KPL3ozKNpbm-9P_hQYxMDKtMlFqnNZpsVzZ6NDENpIfYfgOkQH7ci3PKQBmY9JB5I3EM1nHfCotQh2BBH_y-OXcX_mN7yEPbBBtqQ90K_5AgM9lsBEIY-vnyRueSQTAUzxM1dcmTfVnTOtq3pqoIFt25pCSlFw8ySvBn6KZLLWEL9LqK7b-O5faNGs3AdjOzzp/dl5/d5/L2dBISEvZ0FBIS9nQSEh/?WCM_GLOBAL_CONTEXT=%2Fgortt%2Fwcm%2Fconnect%2Fgortt+web+content%2Fttconnect%2Fnon-national%2Frole%2Fanationalabroad%2Fgeneralinformation%2Fofficial+public+holidays) 3 March 2021 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), Government of Trinidad & Tobago 39. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-42) [Cal. Government Code § 6700 subd. (a)(9)](https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=GOV&sectionNum=6700) 40. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-43) ["Full list of USA states that recognise Diwali as a state holiday"](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/full-list-of-usa-states-that-recognise-diwali-as-a-state-holiday/articleshow/114586236.cms). The Times of India. 25 October 2024. [ISSN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISSN_$identifier$ "ISSN (identifier)") [0971-8257](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/0971-8257). Retrieved 25 October 2024. 41. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-44) Karmarkar, Richa (10 October 2025). ["Three US states now recognize Diwali as a holiday"](https://religionnews.com/2025/10/10/three-states-now-recognize-diwali-as-a-holiday/). Religion News Sercice. Retrieved 19 October 2025. 42. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEShattuck199951,_124_45-0) [Shattuck 1999](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFShattuck1999), pp. 51, 124. 43. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFrazierFlood2011255_47-0) [Frazier & Flood 2011](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFFrazierFlood2011), p. 255. 44. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-48) Monier Monier Williams (2008 updated, Harvard University), Sanskrit English dictionary, दीप, [p. 481](http://www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de/scans/MWScan/2014/web/webtc/servepdf.php?page=481) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20180817230340/http://www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de/scans/MWScan/2014/web/webtc/servepdf.php?page=481) 17 August 2018 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine") 45. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-49) Monier Monier Williams (2008 updated, Harvard University), Sanskrit English dictionary, आवलि, [p. 155](http://www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de/cgi-bin/monier/serveimg.pl?file=/scans/MWScan/MWScanjpg/mw0155-Avarjaka.jpg) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20190327103005/https://www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de/cgi-bin/monier/serveimg.pl?file=%2Fscans%2FMWScan%2FMWScanjpg%2Fmw0155-Avarjaka.jpg) 27 March 2019 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine") 46. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253_51-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253_51-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011252%E2%80%93253_51-2) [Jones 2011](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFJones2011), pp. 252–253. 47. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9362_52-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9362_52-1) [Pintchman 2005](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 61–62. 48. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561_53-0)* [Pintchman 2005](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), p. 61. 49. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-54) H.H. Wilson (1847). "Religious festivals of the Hindus". Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland. 9: 61. 50. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-about_56-0) ["Indian Government Holiday Calendar"](http://india.gov.in/calendar/calendar.php). National Portal of India. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20181225122630/https://www.india.gov.in/calendar/calendar.php) from the original on 25 December 2018. Retrieved 16 November 2016. 51. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-57) Robert Isaac Levy; Kedar Raj Rajopadhyaya (1990). [Mesocosm: Hinduism and the Organization of a Traditional Newar City in Nepal](https://books.google.com/books?id=ngacsMPGJPcC). University of California Press. pp. 411–417\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-520-06911-4](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-520-06911-4 "Special:BookSources/978-0-520-06911-4") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210112124529/https://books.google.com/books?id=ngacsMPGJPcC) from the original on 12 January 2021. Retrieved 20 August 2018. 52. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-58) Shrestha, Bal Gopal (July 2006). ["The Svanti Festival: Victory over Death and the Renewal of the Ritual Cycle in Nepal"](http://himalaya.socanth.cam.ac.uk/collections/journals/contributions/pdf/CNAS_33_02_03.pdf) (PDF). Contributions to Nepalese Studies. 33 (2): 206–221\. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20131213034438/http://himalaya.socanth.cam.ac.uk/collections/journals/contributions/pdf/CNAS_33_02_03.pdf) (PDF) from the original on 13 December 2013. Retrieved 20 August 2018. 53. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-l796_59-0) Doniger, W. (2010). [The Hindus: An Alternative History](https://books.google.com/books?id=nNsXZkdHvXUC). OUP Oxford. p. 370. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-19-959334-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-959334-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-19-959334-7") . Retrieved 29 October 2024. 54. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-60) Clothey, F.W. (1978). [The Many Faces of Murukan̲: The History and Meaning of a South Indian God](https://books.google.com/books?id=0AevljBmCRQC&pg=PA224). Religion and society. Mouton. p. 224. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-90-279-7632-1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-90-279-7632-1 "Special:BookSources/978-90-279-7632-1") . Retrieved 29 October 2024. 55. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-3) [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-4) [f](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-5) [g](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-6) [h](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-7) [i](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-tp_61-8) [Pintchman 2005](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 59–65 56. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELochtefeld2002355_62-0)* [Lochtefeld 2002](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFLochtefeld2002), p. 355. 57. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-bnsharma_63-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-bnsharma_63-1) BN Sharma, Festivals of India, South Asia Books, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-8364-0283-4](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-8364-0283-4 "Special:BookSources/978-0-8364-0283-4") , pp. 9–35 58. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-yaksha_64-0)* Varadpande, Manohar Laxman (1987). History of Indian Theatre, Volume 1. Abhinav Publications. p. 159. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-7017-221-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-7017-221-5 "Special:BookSources/978-81-7017-221-5") . 59. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-65) R.N. Nandi (2009), in A Social History of Early India (Editor: B. Chattopadhyaya), Volume 2, Part 5, Pearson Education, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-317-1958-9](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-317-1958-9 "Special:BookSources/978-81-317-1958-9") , pp. 183–184 60. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEEraly2015315%E2%80%93316_66-0) [Eraly 2015](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFEraly2015), pp. 315–316. 61. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESewell200685%E2%80%9386_67-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESewell200685%E2%80%9386_67-1) [Sewell 2006](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFSewell2006), pp. 85–86. 62. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-S_A_NEWS-2020_68-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-S_A_NEWS-2020_68-1) ["Diwali Festival 2020 India:Date,Story,Celebration,Diwali Special Gift"](https://news.jagatgururampalji.org/diwali-festival-2020-special-gift/). S A NEWS. 12 November 2020. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20201114053744/https://news.jagatgururampalji.org/diwali-festival-2020-special-gift/) from the original on 14 November 2020. Retrieved 14 November 2020. 63. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEEaton1996159%E2%80%93160_with_footnotes_69-0)* [Eaton 1996](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFEaton1996), pp. 159–160 with footnotes. 64. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMelville2012526_70-0) [Melville 2012](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFMelville2012), p. 526: "He \[Mahmud b. Amir Vali\] gives a very detailed account of the celebration of the ten days of Moharram, which he witnessed in Lahore in 1965, as well as Hindu festivals such as Diwali (...)." 65. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOkita201428%E2%80%9329_71-0) [Okita 2014](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFOkita2014), pp. 28–29. 66. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389_72-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389_72-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBlake201387%E2%80%9389_72-2) [Blake 2013](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFBlake2013), pp. 87–89. 67. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTETruschke201774%E2%80%9375_73-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTETruschke201774%E2%80%9375_73-1) [Truschke 2017](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFTruschke2017), pp. 74–75. 68. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Richards1995p175_74-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Richards1995p175_74-1) John F. Richards (1995). [The Mughal Empire](https://books.google.com/books?id=HHyVh29gy4QC). Cambridge University Press. pp. 38–40, 175–176\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-521-56603-2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-521-56603-2 "Special:BookSources/978-0-521-56603-2") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20160529043831/https://books.google.com/books?id=HHyVh29gy4QC) from the original on 29 May 2016. Retrieved 23 August 2018. 69. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-jone1799p263_77-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-jone1799p263_77-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-jone1799p263_77-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-jone1799p263_77-3) [Sir William Jones](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Jones_$philologist$ "William Jones (philologist)") (1799). "The Lunar Year of the Hindus". Asiatic Researches. 3: 263–267, context: 257–293, note the mention of Brahmaputra and Ganges rivers, immersion ceremony on Durga puja. 70. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-79)* John William Kaye; William Simpson (1867). India ancient and modern: a series of illustrations of the Country and people of India and adjacent territories. Executed in chromolithography from drawings by William Simpson. London Day and Son. p. 50. [OCLC](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/OCLC_$identifier$ "OCLC (identifier)") [162249047](https://search.worldcat.org/oclc/162249047). 71. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-80) Dineschandra Sircar (1966). [Indian Epigraphical Glossary](https://books.google.com/books?id=pySCGvdyYLIC). Motilal Banarsidass. p. 98. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-208-0562-0](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-208-0562-0 "Special:BookSources/978-81-208-0562-0") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210126200729/https://books.google.com/books?id=pySCGvdyYLIC) from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 21 August 2018. 72. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-81) E. Hultzsch (1899). [Epigraphia Indica and Record of the Archæological Survey of India, Volume V](https://books.google.com/books?id=TcIUAAAAYAAJ). Office of the Superintendent of Government Printing, India. p. 13. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120608/https://books.google.com/books?id=TcIUAAAAYAAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018. 73. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-83) Dineschandra Sircar (1971). [Studies in the Religious Life of Ancient and Medieval India](https://books.google.com/books?id=mh1y1eMgGBMC). Motilal Banarsidass. pp. 128–129\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-208-2790-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-208-2790-5 "Special:BookSources/978-81-208-2790-5") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210815132825/https://books.google.com/books?id=mh1y1eMgGBMC) from the original on 15 August 2021. Retrieved 21 August 2018. 74. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-84) R.S. Panchamukhi (1933). Hirananda Sastri (ed.). [Epigraphia Indica, Volume XX](https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.69982). Archaeological Society of India. pp. [117](https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.69982/page/n151), 121, see Lines 44–52. 75. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-kielhorn1896_85-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-kielhorn1896_85-1) F. Kielhorn (1896). E. Hultzsch (ed.). [Epigraphia Indica, Volume IV](https://books.google.com/books?id=vqZCAAAAYAAJ). Archaeological Society of India. pp. 148–151\. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120611/https://books.google.com/books?id=vqZCAAAAYAAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018. 76. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-87)* Ramendra Nath Nandi (1973). [Religious Institutions and Cults in the Deccan, c. A.D. 600–A.D. 1000](https://books.google.com/books?id=7HRgstuWe6EC). Motilal Banarsidass. p. 38. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-8426-0564-9](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-8426-0564-9 "Special:BookSources/978-0-8426-0564-9") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120609/https://books.google.com/books?id=7HRgstuWe6EC) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018. 77. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-88) Madhusudan A. Dhaky; Michael W. Meister (1996). [Encyclopaedia of Indian temple architecture, Volume 1, Part 3](https://books.google.com/books?id=TXIYAQAAMAAJ). American Institute of Indian Studies. pp. 255–257\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-86526-00-2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-86526-00-2 "Special:BookSources/978-81-86526-00-2") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120610/https://books.google.com/books?id=TXIYAQAAMAAJ) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018. 78. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Hultzsch1268_89-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Hultzsch1268_89-1) E. Hultzsch (1980). [Epigraphia Indica, Volume XI](https://archive.org/stream/EpigraphiaIndicaXI/Epigraphia%20Indica%20XI#page/n71). Archaeological Society of India. pp. 52–55\. 79. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-90)* Manohar Laxman Varadpande (1983). [Religion and Theatre](https://books.google.com/books?id=SISkCN6L0nUC&pg=PA23). Abhinav Publications. p. 23. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-391-02794-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-391-02794-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-391-02794-7") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120611/https://books.google.com/books?id=SISkCN6L0nUC&pg=PA23) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2018. "The most important reference is to the setting up of the golden cupola in the newly built central hall for dramatic performances on the occasion of Dipotsava Dana in v.s. 1268. The inscription written in Sanskrit clearly points out a tradition, in the Jain Viharas of performing plays on festive occasions before the idol of Mahavira." 80. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691_92-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691_92-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200691_92-2) [Bahadur 2006](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), p. 91. 81. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-93)* Campbell, Mason (2022). Diwali and Its Origins. OUACHITA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY. p. 2. 82. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-94) ["Krishna Killed Narakasur – The Narakasur Legend of Diwali – Diwali Legend"](http://www.diwalicelebrations.net/diwali-legends/krisna-narakasur.html). diwalicelebrations.net. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20190227121743/http://www.diwalicelebrations.net/diwali-legends/krisna-narakasur.html) from the original on 27 February 2019. Retrieved 17 December 2018. 83. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Karen_Pechilis_2007_pp_273-275_95-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Karen_Pechilis_2007_pp_273-275_95-1) Pechilis, Karen (2007). "Guests at God's Wedding: Celebrating Kartik among the Women of Benares". The Journal of Asian Studies. 66* (1): 273–275\. [doi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doi_$identifier$ "Doi (identifier)"):[10\.1017/S0021911807000460](https://doi.org/10.1017%2FS0021911807000460). 84. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEAmazzone2012_96-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEAmazzone2012_96-1) [Amazzone 2012](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFAmazzone2012). 85. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-97)* Buck, C. (2008). Hindu Festivals, Festivals in Indian Society (2 Vols. Set), Vol 1, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-8324-113-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-8324-113-7 "Special:BookSources/978-81-8324-113-7") 86. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-98) Holm, Jean (2006). "Growing Up in Hinduism". British Journal of Religious Education. 6 (3): 116–120\. [doi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doi_$identifier$ "Doi (identifier)"):[10\.1080/0141620840060303](https://doi.org/10.1080%2F0141620840060303). 87. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECoogan2003152%E2%80%93153_99-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECoogan2003152%E2%80%93153_99-1) [Coogan 2003](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFCoogan2003), pp. 152–153. 88. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEVemsani2016190%E2%80%93191_100-0)* [Vemsani 2016](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFVemsani2016), pp. 190–191. 89. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-vasudha31_101-0) Vasudha Narayanan; Deborah Heiligman (2008). [Celebrate Diwali](https://books.google.com/books?id=rdTJJEQsDHoC). National Geographic. p. 31. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-4263-0291-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-4263-0291-6 "Special:BookSources/978-1-4263-0291-6") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170102030400/https://books.google.com/books?id=rdTJJEQsDHoC) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016. 90. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-102) [Hindu Festivals](http://www.hinduismtoday.com/modules/wfchannel/index.php?wfc_cid=39) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20151011182204/http://www.hinduismtoday.com/modules/wfchannel/index.php?wfc_cid=39) 11 October 2015 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine") Hinduism Today (2010) 91. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-103) Carol Plum-Ucci (2007). Celebrate Diwali, Enslow Publishers, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-7660-2778-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7660-2778-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-7660-2778-7") , pp. 39–57 92. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESalamone2004112,_Article_on_Divali_by_Lindsey_Harlan_104-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESalamone2004112,_Article_on_Divali_by_Lindsey_Harlan_104-1) [Salamone 2004](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFSalamone2004), p. 112, Article on Divali by Lindsey Harlan. 93. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-105)* [Bridget Brereton](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bridget_Brereton "Bridget Brereton") (1996). [An Introduction to the History of Trinidad and Tobago](https://books.google.com/books?id=uNrUU360mzsC&pg=PA113). Heinemann. p. 113. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-435-98474-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-435-98474-8 "Special:BookSources/978-0-435-98474-8") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120611/https://books.google.com/books?id=uNrUU360mzsC&pg=PA113) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 19 August 2018. 94. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJohnson200771%E2%80%9379_106-0) [Johnson 2007](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFJohnson2007), pp. 71–79. 95. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-107) [Diwali – Celebrating the triumph of goodness](http://www.hinduismtoday.com/pdf_downloads/pagers/Hindu-Festival_Diwali_broadsheet-color.pdf) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20150924041444/http://www.hinduismtoday.com/pdf_downloads/pagers/Hindu-Festival_Diwali_broadsheet-color.pdf) 24 September 2015 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine") Hinduism Today (2012) 96. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-108) Jean Mead, How and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-237-53412-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-237-53412-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-237-53412-7") , pp. 8–12 97. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Jacobi_1895_109-0) Jacobi, Hermann; Ed. F. Max Müller (1895). [Uttaradhyayana Sutra, Jain Sutras Part II, Sacred Books of the East, Vol. 45](http://www.sacred-texts.com/jai/sbe45/index.htm). Oxford: The Clarendon Press. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20090704214930/http://www.sacred-texts.com/jai/sbe45/index.htm) from the original on 4 July 2009. Retrieved 19 December 2007. 98. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELong200926,_42_110-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELong200926,_42_110-1) [Long 2009](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFLong2009), pp. 26, 42. 99. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPotter200735%E2%80%9336_111-0)* [Potter 2007](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFPotter2007), pp. 35–36. 100. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEDundas200222_112-0) [Dundas 2002](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFDundas2002), p. 22. 101. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMelton2011255_114-0) [Melton 2011](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFMelton2011), p. 255. 102. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELong200942_115-0) [Long 2009](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFLong2009), p. 42. 103. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJainFischer197813_116-0) [Jain & Fischer 1978](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFJainFischer1978), p. 13. 104. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-117) H.S. Singha (2000). [The Encyclopedia of Sikhism (over 1000 Entries)](https://books.google.com/books?id=gqIbJz7vMn0C&pg=PA62). Hemkunt Press. p. 62. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-7010-301-1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-7010-301-1 "Special:BookSources/978-81-7010-301-1") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170102024429/https://books.google.com/books?id=gqIbJz7vMn0C&pg=PA62) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 6 April 2016. 105. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGrewal199850%E2%80%9351,_60,_73%E2%80%9378,_93_118-0) [Grewal 1998](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFGrewal1998), pp. 50–51, 60, 73–78, 93. 106. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEColledge2017276%E2%80%93278_119-0) [Colledge 2017](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFColledge2017), pp. 276–278. 107. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTESinghLouis_E._Fenech2014431%E2%80%93433_120-0) [Singh & Louis E. Fenech 2014](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFSinghLouis_E._Fenech2014), pp. 431–433. 108. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994346%E2%80%93349_121-0) [Oberoi 1994](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFOberoi1994), pp. 346–349. 109. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994347%E2%80%93349_122-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEOberoi1994347%E2%80%93349_122-1) [Oberoi 1994](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFOberoi1994), pp. 347–349. 110. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-124)* Jon Burbank (2002). [Nepal](https://books.google.com/books?id=EaWLU6Blh_sC&pg=PA111). Marshall Cavendish. pp. 111–112\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-7614-1476-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7614-1476-6 "Special:BookSources/978-0-7614-1476-6") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170102013443/https://books.google.com/books?id=EaWLU6Blh_sC&pg=PA111) from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2016. 111. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-fs_125-0) Frank Salamone (2004). Encyclopedia of Religious Rites, Rituals and Festivals, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-415-88091-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-415-88091-6 "Special:BookSources/978-0-415-88091-6") , Routledge, pp. 112–113, 174, 252 112. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Raat_126-0) Pramodkumar (2008). [Meri Khoj Ek Bharat Ki](https://books.google.com/books?id=6A9EZRQIT9kC&pg=PA109). Lulu.com. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-4357-1240-9](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-4357-1240-9 "Special:BookSources/978-1-4357-1240-9") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120623/https://books.google.com/books?id=6A9EZRQIT9kC&pg=PA109) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 26 October 2011. "It is extremely important to keep the house spotlessly clean and pure on Diwali. The goddess [Lakshmi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi "Lakshmi") likes cleanliness, and it is believed that she will visit the cleanest house first. Lamps are lit in the evening to welcome the goddess. They are believed to light up her path." 113. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-3) [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-4) [f](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDermott2011183%E2%80%93188_127-5) [McDermott 2011](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFMcDermott2011), pp. 183–188. 114. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-129)* Karen Bellenir (1997). Religious Holidays and Calendars: An Encyclopedic Handbook, 2nd Edition, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-7808-0258-2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7808-0258-2 "Special:BookSources/978-0-7808-0258-2") , Omnigraphics 115. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-130) Rajat Gupta; Nishant Singh; Ishita Kirar. [Hospitality & Tourism Management](https://books.google.com/books?id=DatDDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA84). Vikas. p. 84. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-93-259-8244-4](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-93-259-8244-4 "Special:BookSources/978-93-259-8244-4") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120612/https://books.google.com/books?id=DatDDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA84) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 13 August 2018. 116. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-haar2009_131-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-haar2009_131-1) Kristen Haar; Sewa Singh Kalsi (2009). [Sikhism](https://books.google.com/books?id=YOI1nB_zTyAC). Infobase Publishing. pp. 98–99\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-4381-0647-2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-4381-0647-2 "Special:BookSources/978-1-4381-0647-2") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20200208123615/https://books.google.com/books?id=YOI1nB_zTyAC) from the original on 8 February 2020. Retrieved 13 August 2018. 117. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-132)* Shobhna Gupta (2002). [Festivals of India](https://books.google.com/books?id=g4TtrdejbTEC&pg=PA84). Har-Anand. p. 84. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-241-0869-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-241-0869-7 "Special:BookSources/978-81-241-0869-7") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120607/https://books.google.com/books?id=g4TtrdejbTEC&pg=PA84) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 13 August 2018. 118. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-3) [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-4) [f](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200692%E2%80%9393_133-5) [Bahadur 2006](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 92–93. 119. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKinsley198833%E2%80%9334_134-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKinsley198833%E2%80%9334_134-1) [Kinsley 1988](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFKinsley1988), pp. 33–34. 120. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-135)* Closson, Troy (26 June 2023). ["Diwali Is Set to Become a School Holiday in New York City"](https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/26/nyregion/diwali-school-holiday-nyc.html). The New York Times. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20230804020242/https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/26/nyregion/diwali-school-holiday-nyc.html) from the original on 4 August 2023. Retrieved 2 August 2023. 121. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-3) [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200559%E2%80%9360_136-4) [Pintchman 2005](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 59–60. 122. 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Retrieved 28 August 2021. 124. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-swahainternational1_139-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-swahainternational1_139-1) ["The 'Yam-deep' or 'Jam ke Deeya' – SWAHA International"](http://www.swahainternational.org/the-yam-deep-or-jam-ke-deeya/). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120618/http://www.swahainternational.org/the-yam-deep-or-jam-ke-deeya/) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 11 November 2020. 125. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-astroved1_140-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-astroved1_140-1) ["Significance of Yama Deepam on Diwali Eve"](https://www.astroved.com/blogs/significance-yama-deepam-diwali-eve). AstroVed.com. 29 December 2021. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210419040402/https://www.astroved.com/blogs/significance-yama-deepam-diwali-eve) from the original on 19 April 2021. Retrieved 10 January 2022. 126. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-141)* ["Choti Diwali 2020 date: Kali Chaudas significance, when and how to celebrate"](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/astrology/rituals-puja/choti-diwali-2020-date-kali-chaudas-significance-when-and-how-to-celebrate/articleshow/79203502.cms). The Times of India. 13 November 2020. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20201114134308/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/astrology/rituals-puja/choti-diwali-2020-date-kali-chaudas-significance-when-and-how-to-celebrate/articleshow/79203502.cms) from the original on 14 November 2020. Retrieved 14 November 2020. 127. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361_142-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361_142-1) [Pintchman 2005](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 60–61. 128. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200560%E2%80%9361,_63_143-0)* [Pintchman 2005](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 60–61, 63. 129. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-144) ["Ravana \\| King of Lanka, Demon King, Ten-Headed \\| Britannica"](https://www.britannica.com/topic/Ravana). Encyclopædia Britannica. 24 June 2023. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20230602165102/https://www.britannica.com/topic/Ravana) from the original on 2 June 2023. Retrieved 28 July 2023. 130. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-drikpanchang.com_145-0) ["2020 Hanuman Puja date and time during Diwali for New Delhi, NCT, India"](https://www.drikpanchang.com/diwali/hanuman-puja/hanuman-puja-date-time.html?year=2020). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20211103035611/https://www.drikpanchang.com/diwali/hanuman-puja/hanuman-puja-date-time.html?year=2020) from the original on 3 November 2021. Retrieved 6 November 2020. 131. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394_146-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394_146-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200693%E2%80%9394_146-2) [Bahadur 2006](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 93–94. 132. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTERodrigues201629_147-0)* [Rodrigues 2016](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFRodrigues2016), p. 29. 133. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJacobs201026_148-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJacobs201026_148-1) [Jacobs 2010](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFJacobs2010), p. 26. 134. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Mead2008_149-0)* Jean Mead (February 2008). [How and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?](https://books.google.com/books?id=QJyZKOtHWg4C&pg=PA4). Evans Brothers. pp. 4–. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-237-53412-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-237-53412-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-237-53412-7") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120611/https://books.google.com/books?id=QJyZKOtHWg4C&pg=PA4) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 25 March 2019. 135. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011254_150-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones2011254_150-1) [Jones 2011](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFJones2011), p. 254. 136. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9395_151-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9395_151-1) [Bahadur 2006](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 94–95. 137. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200697%E2%80%9398_152-0)* [Bahadur 2006](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 97–98. 138. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-153) John Bowker, ed., Oxford Concise Dictionary of World Religions (Oxford UP, 2000), See Festivals 139. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKlostermaier201459,_69_154-0) [Klostermaier 2014](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFKlostermaier2014), pp. 59, 69. 140. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTERhodes20101%E2%80%932_155-0) [Rhodes 2010](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFRhodes2010), pp. 1–2. 141. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcDaniel2004253%E2%80%93255_157-0) [McDaniel 2004](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFMcDaniel2004), pp. 253–255. 142. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363_158-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363_158-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200561%E2%80%9363_158-2) [Pintchman 2005](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 61–63. 143. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEBahadur200694%E2%80%9397_159-0)* [Bahadur 2006](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFBahadur2006), pp. 94–97. 144. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Firecracker2_160-0) Petrillo, Valerie (28 May 2007). [Asian American History](https://books.google.com/books?id=GErOyV7FBNUC&pg=PA175). Chicago Review Press. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-55652-634-3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-55652-634-3 "Special:BookSources/978-1-55652-634-3") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110120612/https://books.google.com/books?id=GErOyV7FBNUC&pg=PA175) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 26 October 2011. "There are firecrackers everywhere to scare off evil spirits and contribute to the festive atmosphere." 145. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-Firecracker3_161-0) DeRocco, David; Dundas, Joan; Ian Zimmerman (1996). [The International Holiday & Festival Primer](https://books.google.com/books?id=TRyb8XqB7dEC&pg=SA9-PA1). Full Blast Productions. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-895451-24-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-895451-24-5 "Special:BookSources/978-1-895451-24-5") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20231111153321/https://books.google.com/books?id=TRyb8XqB7dEC&pg=SA9-PA1#v=onepage&q&f=false) from the original on 11 November 2023. Retrieved 26 October 2011. "But as well as delighting the spectators, the fireworks are believed to chase away evil spirits." 146. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563_162-0) [Pintchman 2005](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), p. 63. 147. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364_163-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364_163-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364_163-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPintchman200563%E2%80%9364_163-3) [Pintchman 2005](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#CITEREFPintchman2005), pp. 63–64. 148. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#cite_ref-NarayananKurup1976_164-0)* M.G.S. Narayanan; K.K.N. Kurup (1976). [Historical Studies in Kerala](https://books.google.com/books?id=mvELAAAAIAAJ). Department of History, University of Calicut. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20140103135407/http://books.google.com/books?id=mvELAAAAIAAJ) from the original on 3 January 2014. Retrieved 12 October 2014. 149. 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[JSTOR](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/JSTOR_$identifier$ "JSTOR (identifier)") [40873556](https://www.jstor.org/stable/40873556). - Shattuck, Cybelle T. (1999). [Hinduism](https://books.google.com/books?id=Z2ARAQAAIAAJ). Prentice Hall. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-13-266255-0](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-13-266255-0 "Special:BookSources/978-0-13-266255-0") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210126200724/https://books.google.com/books?id=Z2ARAQAAIAAJ) from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 17 August 2018. - Sewell, Robert (2006). [A Forgotten Empire (Vijayanagar): A Contribution to the History of India](https://books.google.com/books?id=TDOZ6A4HRz0C). Echo. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0716521372](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0716521372 "Special:BookSources/978-0716521372") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220110121003/https://books.google.com/books?id=TDOZ6A4HRz0C) from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 17 August 2018. - Singh, Pashaura; Louis E. Fenech (2014). [The Oxford Handbook of Sikh Studies](https://books.google.com/books?id=8I0NAwAAQBAJ). Oxford University Press. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-19-969930-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-969930-8 "Special:BookSources/978-0-19-969930-8") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20190504190932/https://books.google.com/books?id=8I0NAwAAQBAJ) from the original on 4 May 2019. Retrieved 18 August 2018. - Truschke, Audrey (2017). [Aurangzeb: The Life and Legacy of India's Most Controversial King](https://books.google.com/books?id=oUUkDwAAQBAJ). Stanford University Press. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-5036-0259-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-5036-0259-5 "Special:BookSources/978-1-5036-0259-5") . - Vemsani, Lavanya (2016). [Krishna in History, Thought, and Culture: An Encyclopedia of the Hindu Lord of Many Names: An Encyclopedia of the Hindu Lord of Many Names](https://books.google.com/books?id=4fw2DAAAQBAJ). ABC-CLIO. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-61069-211-3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-61069-211-3 "Special:BookSources/978-1-61069-211-3") . [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20171206083031/https://books.google.com/books?id=4fw2DAAAQBAJ) from the original on 6 December 2017. Retrieved 17 August 2018. External links - [The Ancient Origins of Diwali, India's Biggest Holiday](https://www.history.com/news/the-ancient-origins-of-indias-biggest-holiday)—Becky Little (2017) - [Deepawali](https://web.archive.org/web/20170910153209/http://knowindia.gov.in/culture-and-heritage/festivals/deepawali.php) at Know India (archived) - [Winter air pollution around Diwali and Asthma](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/winter-air-pollution-around-diwali-and-asthma-what-you-need-to-know/articleshow/104929975.cms?from=mdr)
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