Overview
India’s biggest festival, 5-day celebration of light over darkness. North India: Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya with Sita & Lakshmana after 14 years exile & defeating Ravana. People lit diyas to welcome them. South India: Krishna defeated demon Narakasura. Others: Goddess Lakshmi’s birthday/marriage to Vishnu; Mahavira’s nirvana for Jains; Guru Hargobind’s release for Sikhs. Victory of dharma over adharma, knowledge over ignorance. Start of new financial year for many businesses.
Top Highlights
- Entire country lights up with oil lamps, candles, and electric lights. Biggest “festival of lights” globally.
- Biggest fireworks days in India, symbolizing joy of people after Rama’s return.
- New Year for businesses
- 5 day festival namely Dhanteras, Naraka Chaturdashi, Lakshmi Puja, Govardhan Puja, Bhai Dooj
