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Diwali

Light up your life on Diwali, the Festival of Lights! Embrace the joy, laughter, and mouthwatering sweets this spectacular occasion offers.

Sunday

November 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATELakshmi Puja / Diwali (drikpanchang)

OBSERVED INIndia

CATEGORYReligion

SUBCATEGORYHindu

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Mark your calendars, because the Festival of Lights, more commonly known as Diwali, is happening on October 31! Diwali traces its roots back to ancient India and is one of the most important holidays of the year in many South Asian countries. It's a joyous celebration of good triumphing over evil, complete with fireworks, feasts, sweets, and the lighting of oil lamps and candles. Diwali's iconic sparkle is its dosens of millions of little lamps, glowing in homes, temples, and public spaces around the world. So join in the fun and bring some radiant positivity into your life on this splendid day! Let's celebrate together and light up the world this Diwali!

TIMELINE

Diwali Timeline

Diwali Mention in Literature

Diwali is mentioned in Sanskrit texts such as the Puranas, indicating its presence since ancient times.

Diwali in Art

Diwali scenes began appearing on ancient Indian art, particularly on murals and sculptures in historic Buddhist sites.

Emperor Hints at Holiday

A reference to Diwali and its significance appears in the autobiography of Mahmud of Ghazni in his invasions of India.

Mughal Recognition

Mughal emperors recognized Diwali as a Hindu festival and allowed the celebration. Emperors like Akbar celebrated it with their courtiers.

British Support

During the British rule in India, the colonial government allowed and often participated in Diwali celebrations.

Diwali at the U.N.

The United Nations recognised Diwali as an international holiday, marking a milestone for Hindu representation globally.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Diwali

Create a Rangoli

Make your home welcoming and festive by creating a Rangoli at your doorstep. Traditionally made using colored powder, they are intricate designs and patterns that bring good luck. This can be a family activity that everyone gets involved in, encouraging creativity and unity.

TAKE

Take part in Puja

Diwali is deeply religious and spiritual, so consider participating in the puja or prayer rituals. These rituals often honor goddess Lakshmi, the deity of prosperity, and provide an excellent opportunity for reflection and gratitude for the blessings received over the past year.

COOK

Cook traditional sweets

Festival of Lights is incomplete without sweets. Try your hand at making some popular Diwali sweets like Gulab Jamun, Jalebi, or Barfi. Not only is cooking these sweets fun, but they make for great gifts to friends and family.

ILLUMINATE

Illuminate your home

The whole essence of Diwali is based on the victory of light over darkness. Enliven the festival by lighting up your home with lots of Diyas, candles, and fairy lights. This not only sets the festive mood but also creates a warm and welcoming environment.

GIVE

Give back to the community

Diwali is a perfect time to express gratitude and give back to the community. Encourage your family to get involved in local charitable events, or consider donating to a cause you are passionate about. It's a great way to spread the Diwali cheer and make a difference.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Diwali

It Encourages Community Involvement and Giving Back

Diwali is a time to express gratitude and help others by giving back to the community. It promotes the spirit of sharing and caring, whether it's by participating in local charitable events or donating to a cause you're passionate about. This active involvement strengthens community ties and makes the celebration even more meaningful.

It's a Celebration of Good Triumphing Over Evil

Diwali signifies the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Joining in the celebration serves as a powerful reminder and affirmation of such triumph, which is particularly uplifting given the challenges we face in our lives.

It Promotes Positivity

Through the traditions and rituals associated with Diwali, from lighting lamps to creating Rangolis, we are invited to fill our lives with radiant positivity. The festival provides an opportunity to foster goodwill and happiness, creating an atmosphere of joy and laughter throughout communities.

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