Diwali or also known as the Festival of Lights is the name by which the great festival of India is known: where the entrance of the Hindu new year is celebrated. This celebration takes place between mid-October and mid-November, based on the lunar calendar. It is a religious festival that takes place in various religions in India, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism. This word has specifically Sanskrit origin word 'Deepavali', which means "row of lighted lamps", reason why it is known as the "festival of lights". This is considered as the most famous festival in all of Asia.
There are several theories regarding its origins, as well as festivities related to this festival: many maintain the belief that it is the celebration of the marriage celebrated between La Skhm with Vishnu. But on the other hand in the Bengal region, the festival is dedicated to the dark goddess of strength, Kali, as well as Ganesha, the god-headed elephant, who symbolizes good omen and knowledge, is also paid tribute in most Hindu homes during the course of these festivities.
For its part in Jainism, Diwali has a slightly more special importance so to speak, since it is associated with Lord Mahavira, since it is the day when he achieves nirvana.
Another reason for celebration is the commemoration of the return of Rama, together with Sita and Lakshmana and after 14 years of exile and also of his victory over the demon Ravana. During the euphoric celebration of the return of their king, the people of Ayodhya, illuminated the kingdom with oil lamps and fireworks.
Dentro de la cultura hindú, esta celebración representa uno de los días más importantes del año, y por esa razón se trata de pasar el día en compañía de la familia y para llevar a cabo actividades tradicionales. Algunas de las tradiciones más importantes son, limpiar las casas completamente de manera que cuando se enciendan las lámparas, el dios Lakshmi vea digno el entrar en sus casas y les ofrezca su bendición con suerte durante el año venidero.
