Holiday Ideas in October: Diwali, the Festival of Light, India

Prayers floating off on the Ganges, Varanasi

Probably one of the most well-known Hindu festivals, the word 'Diwali' means 'rows of lighted lamps'. Also known as the 'festival of light', houses, shops and public places are decorated with small earthenware oil lamps called 'diyas'.

For many Diwali honours Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and the lamps are lit to help the goddess find her way to people's homes. The festival celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance, although the legends vary depending on the region in India.

Gifts are exchanged, such as sweets and dried fruits, new clothes are worn, buildings are decorated with lights and fireworks lit. Usually lasting five days, Diwali falls on the one new moon night between mid-October and mid-November.

Further information relating to Diwali, the Festival of Light, India

India

Book a trip to India and enjoy tiger watching holidays in Ranthambhore and Kanha National Parks. Visit Delhi and enjoy wonderful architecture, or spend time in the tea plantations of Darjeeling and Sikkim in north eastern India.

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