Photo by Udayaditya Barua on Unsplash ISHA wish all our residents a happy and safe Diwali, filled with joy smiles and light. What is Diwali? Diwali began on Sunday 12 November, and will continue until Thursday 16 November. Diwali (Deepavali, Divali), begins on the 15th day of the Hindu month of Kartik and will be celebrated for five days around the world by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists. Often referred to as the Festival of Lights because celebrations often involve big, bold displays of light and colour, Diwali symbolises the spiritual "victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance". Blessing of health, wealth and prosperity Those celebrating the festival will typically decorate their homes with lights and rangolis, elaborate patterns made from materials including rice, coloured sand and flowers. One of the most significant rituals of this festival is the Lakshmi Puja. Devotees pray to the Goddess of Wealth on this day for blessing them with health, wealth, and prosperity. People also visit their families, relatives, and friends on this day to offer them gifts and sweets. Here are some more lovely Diwali greetings you can share this week: "May every aspect of your life be as luminous and wonderful as the lights on the lamps of Diwali." "May your life be as colourful, shimmering and magical as the lights of Diwali." Read more news stories Return to Graphics Version