Diwali, The Festival of Lights

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most important and joyful festivals in India. It is often called the Festival of Lights because people light lamps and candles to celebrate the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. The word “Deepavali” comes from Sanskrit and means “a row of lights.”

The festival usually takes place in October or November, depending on the Hindu lunar calendar. Diwali is celebrated by millions of people across India and in many other countries, including Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, and the United Kingdom. It is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and some Buddhists, each community having its own beliefs and traditions related to the festival.

For Hindus, Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama to his kingdom Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana. To welcome Rama, people in Ayodhya lit rows of oil lamps. This is why lighting lamps has become an important part of the celebration. In other parts of India, people also worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, hoping for happiness and success in the coming year.

The celebration of Diwali usually lasts five days. Each day has its own meaning and customs. On the first day, people clean and decorate their homes. On the second day, they start preparing sweets and snacks. The third day is the main day of Diwali. Families gather to perform prayers to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, light oil lamps called diyas, and decorate their houses with rangoli—beautiful patterns made on the floor using colored powders or flowers. Fireworks fill the sky, and children enjoy bursting crackers. The fourth and fifth days are for visiting friends and relatives, exchanging gifts, and sharing festive meals.

Diwali is not only a religious festival but also a time to strengthen relationships and spread joy. It brings families and communities together. People forgive past misunderstandings and start fresh with hope and positivity.

In modern times, many people also celebrate Diwali in an eco-friendly way, by using fewer fireworks and natural decorations to protect the environment.

Diwali is a festival that teaches important values—goodness, kindness, unity, and hope. It reminds everyone that no matter how dark life seems, light will always find a way to shine.

Diwali in the United Kingdom

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals among Indian communities in the United Kingdom. Every year, thousands of people from different backgrounds come together to celebrate this colorful and joyful event. It is a time to share happiness, light, and hope, and to celebrate the victory of good over evil.

The celebration of Diwali in the UK reflects the country’s rich cultural diversity. People of Indian, Nepali, Sri Lankan, and other South Asian origins celebrate the festival, along with many British people who enjoy taking part in the festive spirit. Diwali usually falls in October or November, depending on the lunar calendar.

Across the UK, Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The biggest and most famous celebrations take place in Leicester, which is often said to host the largest Diwali celebration outside India. The city’s “Golden Mile” is beautifully decorated with lights and colorful displays. Thousands of people gather there to enjoy traditional music, dance performances, delicious Indian food, and a spectacular fireworks show. The atmosphere is full of joy and togetherness.

In London, Diwali celebrations are also very popular. Trafalgar Square becomes a lively festival space where people enjoy cultural performances, Indian dance, music, and food stalls. Families light candles and lamps, and many temples across London hold special prayers and events. The Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Neasden, one of the largest Hindu temples in Europe, organizes beautiful Diwali programs and attracts visitors from all over the country.

Other cities, such as Birmingham, Manchester, and Glasgow, also host Diwali events, including parades, light displays, and community gatherings. Schools, universities, and workplaces often organize activities to teach others about the meaning and traditions of Diwali.

For many families in the UK, Diwali is not only about religion but also about community and togetherness. It’s a chance to decorate homes, share sweets, exchange gifts, and spend time with loved ones. It also provides an opportunity for people from different cultures to learn from one another and celebrate diversity.

Diwali in the UK has become a beautiful example of how traditions can connect people across cultures. The lights of Diwali shine brightly across Britain, reminding everyone that joy, hope, and kindness can bring people together, no matter where they come from.

The Festival of Lights in Leicester

Leicester, a city in the East Midlands of England, is known for having one of the biggest Diwali celebrations outside India. Every year, thousands of people from different backgrounds come together to enjoy this beautiful Festival of Lights. The celebration shows the city’s diversity and strong community spirit.

Most events take place on Belgrave Road, also called the Golden Mile, which is famous for its Indian restaurants and shops. The area is decorated with colorful lights and banners, creating a festive atmosphere. The celebrations usually last for about two weeks, starting with the Diwali lights switch-on and ending with Diwali Day.

During the switch-on event, people enjoy traditional music, dance, and delicious Indian food from street stalls. When the lights are turned on, the whole street shines with thousands of bright bulbs. On Diwali Day, families visit temples, wear their best clothes, and gather to watch a fireworks display that lights up the night sky.

The festival is organized by the city council and local community groups. Everyone is welcome to join, no matter their religion or background. It is a time to celebrate togetherness, friendship, and joy.

Diwali in Leicester is more than just a festival. It is a symbol of hope, unity, and light. Every year, it reminds people that goodness always wins over darkness, and that sharing happiness brings communities closer together.