While there are many festivals throughout the year in India, Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, is one of the most joyous. This year, the five day festival begins on November 3. The day it starts depends on the cycle of the moon. It is celebrated in every part of India. Diwali signifies the start of the Hindu New Year, and in the most basic terms, represents good conqueoring evil. The Sanskrit translation is “a row of lamps”, and bright light is a popular way to symbolize this tradition. Lighting small clay lamps all over the house is common. Diwali has many customs associated with it. On the first day of the celebration, houses are decorated with bright designs to welcome the god of prosperity. On other days, family and friends gather for huge meals, and firecrackers are lit and constantly brighten the night sky.
Traveling in India During the Festival of Lights
Anyone visiting India during Diwali should be aware that most of the country participates in this festival, it lasts for five days and begins as early as 3 in the morning on the first day, when children are given their ritual oil baths before putting on their fancy clothes. One of the best places to experience Diwali is Jaipur in Rajasthan. There is a contest held there every year and a prize is given to the most brightly decorated market. Be aware that there will be many fireworks and firecrackers making loud noise, and the air will be filled with smoke, which could lead to difficulty breathing.
