Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important and widely celebrated Hindu festivals in India. Spanning five days, it symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. People celebrate by lighting oil lamps (diyas), candles, and decorating homes with colorful rangoli patterns. Fireworks illuminate the night, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Each day of Diwali has its own significance:
1. **Dhanteras**: Marks the beginning, focused on wealth and prosperity.
2. **Naraka Chaturdashi** (or Choti Diwali): Celebrates the defeat of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna.
3. **Diwali** (Main Day): Celebrates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after his 14-year exile; families gather to worship Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.
4. **Govardhan Puja**: Observes the day Krishna lifted the Govardhan hill to protect villagers.
5. **Bhai Dooj**: Celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters.
During Diwali, families exchange gifts and sweets, friends and neighbors visit each other, and many wear new clothes. It's also a time for prayer, with rituals to honor various deities, especially Lakshmi, for blessings of prosperity in the coming year.