Diwali

Diwali is known as the Festival of Lights. It is a religious celebration in the Hindu, Sikh and Jain faith. It originated in ancient times to celebrate the end of the harvest season and signifies the triumph of light over darkness. For Hindus it’s the most important annual festival when they celebrate New Year and give thanks to the Goddess of Wealth, Lakshmi. Sikhs celebrate the release from imprisonment of the sixth Guru, Hargobind. For Jains, it’s the day when, in 527BC, the sage Mahavira gave his last teachings and achieved ultimate liberation.

Who celebrates?

Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains around the world.

How do people celebrate?

• Each day of Diwali has different traditional activities from giving gifts to creating chalk art called rangoli
• The main day of the festival is celebrated with feasts and fireworks
• Homes and public places are decorated with Divas (small oil lamps)

What should I know?

• Diwali is celebrated over 5 days and the dates change each year
• Thousands of people in the UK celebrate every year and there are usually street festivals across the UK

How can I support others?

• Ask people if they or their families will be celebrating Diwali
• Remember that Sikhs and Jains also celebrate as well as Hindu’s
• Be aware that some team members may wish to take holiday during this time
• Encourage celebrations internally and externally for example by sharing an online feast or learning how to create a rangoli.

How Diwali is celebrated around the world: https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/diwali-when-date-hindu-sikh-jain-festival-lights-india-uk-celebrate-a9168076.html

Diwali recipes: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/food-news/20-best-traditional-diwali-recipes/articleshow/66473975.cms

Rangoli tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXI_3l9P-TY

BBC Goodfood: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/what-is-diwali-and-how-is-it-celebrated