Diwali (Deepawali), the festival of lights, was celebrated across India on Sunday, 8 November 2026, with traditional enthusiasm and devotion. The festival is observed on Kartik Amavasya (new moon day) of the Hindu lunar calendar and symbolises the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.
- Diwali commemorates the return of Lord Rama, Goddess Sita and Lord Lakshmana to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana.
- People celebrated by lighting earthen lamps (diyas), decorating homes with colourful rangolis and lights, exchanging sweets and gifts, and worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha for happiness, wealth and prosperity.
- The five-day Diwali festivities began with Dhanteras on 6 November and concluded with Bhai Dooj on 11 November 2026.
