Diwali is a major festival observed across South Asia and worldwide by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists. Its names, length, stories, and rituals vary by region and community. Presenting it as the anniversary of one event excludes much of that history.
Hindu traditions
In parts of northern India, Diwali is associated with Rama and Sita returning to Ayodhya. Other communities honor Lakshmi, celebrate Krishna’s defeat of Narakasura, mark Kali worship, or connect the season with the new year and business accounts. Lamps, rangoli, gifts, food, and family worship take local forms.
Jain and Sikh observances
Jains associate the period with Mahavira’s liberation and the illumination of knowledge. Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas, linked with Guru Hargobind’s release from imprisonment, at the same seasonal time. These are not minor versions of a single Hindu origin story.
Calendar and meaning
Dates follow lunisolar calendars and fall in October or November on the Gregorian calendar. Light overcoming darkness is a broad and useful theme, but communities also emphasize prosperity, liberation, duty, kinship, and renewal. Fireworks are a prominent modern practice, not the source of the festival.