W H AT I S D I W A L I ?
“THE COMMON THREAD
OF THE DIWALI STORY IS
THE VICTORY OF LIGHT
OVER DARKNESS.”
Diyas are native to India and are lit to represent the triumph of light over
darkness and good over evil. Traditionally made of clay, they are filled with oil,
which acts as fuel, and lit with a cotton wick.
Similar to spring-cleaning in North America, Diwali
sees families cleaning their homes from top to bottom
in preparation for the festival.
Once everything is tidy, families put down their
dishtowels and replace them with handfuls of
colourful powders and sand. With them, they create
beautiful patterns on the ground called rangoli.
Homes are then decorated with diyas – which are
oil lamps often made of clay and other candles.
Families gather together, bringing gifts and well
wishes. They sit down together for large feasts,
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F E S T I V E F L AV O U R S
plenty of sweets, and to watch impressive firework
displays, which are said to scare away evil spirits.
During Diwali, there is also worship to Lakshmi,
the goddess of wealth. People open their doors and
windows, and light lamps to invite Lakshmi in.
Regardless of your beliefs, the festival of lights
stands for a reaffirmation of hope, a renewed
commitment to friendship and goodwill, and a
celebration of all the joys in life.
As part of the Diwali celebration, impressive firework displays are often seen
illuminating cities across India and the world. Young and old alike can ooh
and aah at the vibrant (and often noisy) twinkling displays.
F E S T I V E F L AV O U R S
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