Dating back to ancient times, Diwali is one of the oldest, biggest and brightest holidays of India, signifying knowledge and light’s victory over ignorance and darkness.
It is believed the festival (also called Deepavali) originated as a festival held after the summer harvest season, during the Hindu month of Kartika. The event has been mentioned in scriptures written more than 2,000 years ago, though today its spiritual importance varies region to region. Even Sikhs and Jains celebrate the holiday to mark significant events in their own communities.

Ganesh scripting the Mahabharata, Shaktinagara Gopalakrishna Temple, Mangalore © Mahantesh C Morabad | Dreamstime
For some Hindus, Diwali is a festival honoring the return of Rama, who after 14 years of exile, rescued his wife from the demon Ravana, as told in the ancient epic, Ramayana. For others, it marks the return of the Pandavas who, after being unjustly banished to the forest, began the Kurukshetra War against the Kauravas, the story of which is depicted in Mahabharata.
One of the more common Diwali festivals is the worship of Lakshmi, goddess of wealth and prosperity, who on the first day of Diwali festivities was born out of samudra manthan, the churning of the cosmic ocean of milk. The night of Diwali marks Lakshmi’s commitment to Vishnu, while devotees make offerings to Ganesha, the remover of obstacles; Saraswati, goddess of art and knowledge; and Kubera, symbol of financial wisdom.

Diwali in Chandigarh © Harpreet Singh | Flickr
For Sikhs, Deepavali marks the Bandi Chhor Divas. The festival is celebrated by lighting up the Golden Temple in Amritsar, honoring the return of the 17th-century Guru Har Gobind and his fellow Hindu princes after being imprisoned at Fort Gwalior. Jains, on the other hand, honor Mahavira, who attained Nirvana Oct. 15, 527 BCE.
This year’s Diwali will take place Nov. 11, with festivities all over the world. With about 3 million Hindus living in America, there are sure to be celebrations taking place near you too.
Read This Next
Books to Read Before You Go To India
Destination
Mar 21, 2015#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Jul 17, 20255 U.S. Cities for Digital Nomads Who Want Roots, Not Resorts
With the digital nomad way of life continuing to trend, we wanted to put a list of often overlooked U.S. cities offering connectivity, lifestyle balance and room to grow on your radar.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Next MICE Destination
Seoul has rapidly become a leading global MICE hub, known for its rich culture, advanced technology and strong economy. As the capital of South Korea, it offers a strategic location in East Asia and a booming cultural influence through K-pop, K-movies, Korean cuisine and K-dramas. With its vibrant atmosphere and business-friendly environment, Seoul is increasingly the top choice for MICE organizers and corporate travelers seeking connection and collaboration.
Hotel
Jul 17, 2025Travel with Artfarm Around the World
Founded in 2014 by the Swiss owners of international gallery Hauser & Wirth, Artfarm is a hospitality group known for art- and design-forward hotels, restaurants and bars spanning various vibrant cities.
Surveys
Jul 16, 2025Survey Finds Travelers Prefer Skipping Front Desk Check-In
Do you look forward to checking in at your hotel, conversing with front desk staff and maybe getting a few local travel recommendations? Or do you just want to get to your guestroom as quickly as possible? A new survey from hospitality platform provider Mews found, if you’re in the former camp, you might be alone.
Hotel
Jul 16, 2025What’s New at Guarda Golf, an Alpine Switzerland Resort
There’s plenty of reasons to visit Guarda Golf, an alpine resort in Switzerland. Where alpine meets golf boutique, this resort in Crans-Montana offers a space to relax and unwind this summer, as well as a variety of exciting happenings and new experiences.
Hotel
Jul 16, 2025The Revolution Hotel Introduces Two Packages for USA’s 250th Anniversary
As the country prepares for the American Revolution’s 250th anniversary, Boston’s The Revolution Hotel recently launched two offers honoring the city’s founding legacy. History buffs, especially, will enjoy the new packages pairing immersive tours with thoughtful details.
ShareThis