It’s that time of the year when the country shimmers as the streets are lit with earthen diyas and fireworks illuminate the evening sky. The much-anticipated five-day-long festival of lights, Diwali or Deepavali, that signifies peace and joy, the victory of good over evil. Diwali is celebrated with love and joy across the globe.

The festival commences with Dhanteras followed by Naraka Chaturdashi. The third day is Lakshmi Puja and the darkest night of the traditional month. In some parts of India, the day after Lakshmi Puja is marked with the Govardhan Puja and Balipratipada (Padwa). Some Hindu communities mark the last day as Bhai Dooj, dedicated to the bond between sister and brother, while other craftsmen communities mark this day as Vishwakarma Puja. It is one of the most symbolic Hindu festivals, and all the communities in the country celebrate it with zest and fervour.