Diwali (Deepavali) Description
Diwali, also spelled Deepavali, is the most important and widely celebrated festival in India — the festival of lights — celebrating the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over Ravana. In 2026, Diwali falls on approximately November 8th (provisional date — the new moon day, Amavasya, of the month of Kartika). It is a gazetted holiday nationwide. The five-day festival begins with Dhanteras (November 6th), when buying gold, silver, or new utensils is considered auspicious — jewelry stores and electronics shops see their highest sales of the year. Naraka Chaturdasi (Choti Diwali) falls the day before and involves early morning oil baths. On Diwali night itself, homes and streets are illuminated with millions of diyas (clay oil lamps), electric lights, and candles. Families perform Lakshmi Puja to welcome the goddess of wealth into their homes. Fireworks displays illuminate the night sky across the country, though many cities now regulate their use due to air pollution concerns. Elaborate feasts feature sweets like kaju katli, jalebi, gulab jamun, and savory snacks. Families exchange gifts, and children light sparklers and small firecrackers. Government offices, banks, and schools close. Most businesses also close, though retail shops remain busy during the festival period. The day after Diwali (November 9th) is Govardhan Puja, and the fifth day (November 10th) is Bhai Dooj — a brother-sister celebration. Air pollution levels spike dramatically in Delhi-NCR and other North Indian cities due to firecrackers and seasonal crop burning.
