The word Diwali means ‘rows of lighted lamps’. Diwali is known as the ‘festival of lights’ because houses, shops and public places are decorated with small oil lamps called ‘diyas’.
For many people this five day festival honours Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. Lamps are lit and windows and doors are left open to help Lakshmi find her way into people’s homes.
Other ways that Hindus celebrate the festival include:
- Spring-cleaning the home
- Wearing new clothes
- Exchanging gifts (often sweets and dried fruits) and preparing festive meals
- Decorating buildings with fancy lights
- Huge fireworks displays
We hope that everyone who is celebrating this special festival has an enjoyable time with their family and friends.