India’s night lights up for Diwali

Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, was celebrated on November 8, 2026, across India and among its global diaspora. More than one billion people from various faiths participate in the festivities, which include prayers, family gatherings, and lighting fireworks. Named after "Deepavali," meaning a row of lights, many families place clay oil lamps outside their homes to symbolize triumph over darkness and ignorance. The festival follows the Hindu lunar calendar and typically falls in late October or early November each year. While rooted in Hindu tradition, Diwali is also observed by Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, celebrating the victory of good over evil through feasting, new clothes, rangoli designs, and exchanging sweets and gifts with friends and neighbors.