10 Facts about Diwali

Diwali, which is often referred to as the 'Festival of Lights' is almost upon us.

Depending on the year, Diwali takes place in October or November. Originating in India, it is a major festival and religious celebration for Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains, marking the spiritual victory of light over darkness. In some traditions, the end of Diwali is also the start of the New Year.

Candles will be lit, prayers will be sent and feasts will be thrown to celebrate honour the occasion. We've put together 10 interesting facts to help you learn more about Diwali.

• Diwali has been celebrated for over 2,500 years, and mentions of it can be found in ancient Sanskrit texts.
• Diwali is the most famous and widely celebrated holiday in India, and takes place over 5 days.
• It's considered auspicious to do a ‘Spring Clean’ before Diwali, to bring positive energy and light to the home.
• Gambling during Diwali is believed to bring good luck and prosperity, as the festival is associated with Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and fortune.
• The 5 days of Diwali each mark a different religious story, and the traditions vary by faith and region. Typically, the third day is the height of the festival, with lights, fireworks, feasts, and celebrations.
• In business terms, Diwali signals a new term for businesses as they open new accounting books and farmers end the harvest season with Diwali signalling the onset of winter.
• Diwali takes its name from diyas which is a symbolic act of removing the darkness and awakening the light. This is where the term ‘Festival of lights’ comes from as shops, restaurants and homes all decorate their properties with earthenware oil lamps. It is thought lamps are lit to help aid Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth as she finds her way into their homes.
• Other traditions include fireworks, the exchanging of gifts including sweets and dried fruits, wearing new clothes and preparing festive meals.
• Diwali celebrates light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance and good over evil.
• Ganesh is seen as the God of good beginnings and the remover of obstacles. Therefore, during Dwiali, he is placed side by side with Lakshmi. Ganesh is then worshipped first, signalling the removal of any obstacles which may interfere with the wealth and prosperity from Lakshmi.