Lady Lighting a Lamp Lady Lighting a Lamp (20th Century) by Abdur Rahman ChughtaiSalar Jung Museum
Diwali is the five-day festival of lights, celebrated all across the world during the Hindu calendar month of Kartik, bringing people together in many different ways – from feasting to fireworks. Join the celebrations and discover 5 ways people celebrate Diwali today...
Devotees at the ghatSamoolam
1. Spending time together
People often visit their relatives during Diwali to spend time and celebrate the holiday with their loved ones.
Naacho bowl, round jug, brass glasses, brass plate, curved platesPunjabi Thathera Art Legacy (P-TAL)
2. Cooking up a feast
While together, cooking and eating is a way that Diwali is celebrated among family and friends. A variety of sweet and savory Indian delicacies are made and shared between people – find out more about these delicious Diwali dishes.
Devotees lighting lanternsSamoolam
3. Lighting up the holiday
Lights and diyas (lamps) are also lit throughout the streets and in houses to celebrate Diwali. As shown here, lanterns can released into the sky by a group of people as a symbol of celebration.
Radha and Krishna watching fireworks in the night sky (Late 18th Century) by SitaramNational Museum - New Delhi
4. Diwali from day to night
During the night, people also often gather together to watch vibrant firework displays continuing the holiday celebrations after the sun sets.
[Woman Performing Pooja, Bombay] (5-Nov-34) by IndianThe Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
5. Celebrating through giving
Exchanging gifts between loved ones can also be an important part of Diwali celebrations, with sweets, clothing, jewelry, and firecrackers being examples of gifts given during the holiday.
Diwali lightsSamoolam
