What is Diwali, the Festival of Lights, and how is it celebrated?

Diwali is the most important festival of the year in India, particularly for Hindus, and widely marked by prayers, family gatherings and the lighting of fireworks.

More than one billion people across faiths celebrate it in the world’s most populous nation and its diaspora.

The name Diwali comes from “Deepavali,” meaning “a row of lights.” Celebrants place rows of traditional clay oil lamps outside their homes to symbolize the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.

The festival follows the Hindu lunar calendar, typically falling in late October or early November. This year, Diwali falls on Nov. 8.

While Diwali is a major religious festival for Hindus, it is also observed by Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists. Its origin stories vary by region but share a theme: the victory of good over evil.

In southern India, Diwali celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Naraka, who is said to have imprisoned women and tormented his subjects. In northern India, it honors the triumphant return of Lord Rama, his wife, Sita, and his brother, Lakshmana, after 14 years of exile in the forest.

Traditions vary by region but commonly include lights, fireworks, feasting, new clothes and prayers.

In southern India…

Original source: https://www.nbcnews.com/world