Diwali 2026: The Festival of Lights

The festival of lights

Diwali (Deepavali) is the five-day festival celebrating the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Homes are lit with diyas, and Lakshmi puja is performed on the main night to invite prosperity.

The five days

1. Dhanteras — buying metals, honouring wealth
2. Naraka Chaturdashi — cleansing and early baths
3. Lakshmi Puja — the main night of lights and worship
4. Govardhan Puja — gratitude for nature's bounty
5. Bhai Dooj — celebrating the bond of siblings

Significance

Lighting lamps symbolises the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness, and the renewal of hope and goodwill.