What to know about Diwali, the Festival of Lights

CNN —

More than a billion Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists around the world are celebrating Diwali, the festival of lights.

Diwali, also called Deepavali, is one of the biggest festivals in India. It’s also widely celebrated in Nepal, Malaysia, Fiji and other countries with large South Asian diasporas. Homes, businesses and public spaces are lit up with diyas, or oil lamps made from clay, and fireworks displays abound. People gather with their families, eat sweets and exchange gifts.

Despite its deep religious significance, Diwali today is also a cultural festival observed by people regardless of faith.

Here’s what to know about the holiday.

What is Diwali?

Customers buy paper lanterns and other decorative items at a shop in Mumbai ahead of Diwali in 2023.

Diwali comes from the Sanskrit word deepavali, meaning “row of lights.”

It marks the triumph of light over darkness, of good over evil. Though Diwali traditions vary according to region and religion, the myths and historical stories behind the holiday share themes of justice and liberation.

When is Diwali?

Diwali is celebrated every year in autumn, usually falling between October and November. The festival lasts five days, with the main celebration occurring on the third day. This year, Diwali will be observed on October 31.

These are the five days of Diwali:

• Dhanteras: People typically mark the first day of Diwali by purchasing gold and silver jewelry, utensils and other new household items for good luck. Many clean their homes to invite the blessings of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Others also honor Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, and Yamaraj, the god of death, on this day.

People often mark Dhanteras, the first day of the Diwali