Diwali: The Festival of Light and New Beginnings

Every year, between October and November, millions of lights are turned on across India (and beyond) to celebrate Diwali , one of the most beloved and spectacular holidays in the world. Also known as Deepavali— "row of lamps" in Sanskrit—this festival is a riot of color, scents, sweets, and hope .

📅 When is Diwali?
The date changes every year because it follows the Hindu lunar calendar . It is celebrated on the night of the new moon (Amavasya) in the month of Kartika , which falls between October and November in the Gregorian calendar. It is precisely on that dark night that the lit lamps symbolize the victory of light over darkness.

Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, of good over evil, of knowledge over ignorance . According to Hindu tradition, it celebrates the return of Prince Rama to his city of Ayodhya after defeating the demon Ravana. To welcome him, the residents lit the streets with thousands of oil lamps: hence the luminous heart of the festival.

Today, homes are cleaned and decorated with colorful rangolis , small lamps ( diyas ), and flower garlands. Families exchange sweets and gifts , while fireworks fill the night sky. But beyond external joy, Diwali is also a time of internal renewal : an opportunity to let go of the past and welcome the new year with gratitude according to the Hindu calendar.

In a world often overwhelmed by the darkness of news and fears, the message of Diwali remains powerful and universal:

Lighting a light within yourself is the first step to illuminating everything around us.

Happy Diwali, wherever you are. 🪔✨