Diwali 2014

About

The festival of lights, held on the new moon (Amavasya) of Kartika in the Purnimanta calendar, which is Ashwin Amavasya in the Amanta calendar.

Significance

Marks Rama's return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana and honours Goddess Lakshmi. Jains observe it as the nirvana of Mahavira, and Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas.

How it is celebrated

• Lighting diyas and drawing rangoli at the entrance
• Lakshmi and Ganesha puja during Pradosh Kaal after sunset
• Exchanging sweets and gifts with family and neighbours
• Fireworks, where local rules allow

Panchang on this day (New Delhi)

Diwali in other years