The festival is widely observed by more than a billion people across India and its diaspora.
The five-day Hindu celebration of Diwali this year falls on October 24.
The ancient holiday is more than 2,000 years old. The name « Diwali » is a combination of the Sanskrit term « dīpāvalī » which means « lamps » (dīpa) « in a row » (āvalī).
It is celebrated with the lighting of lamps and clay candles (diwas) and often fireworks, sparklers and crackers.
Huge meals, family gatherings and prayer also are part of the celebrations.
Although Diwali is mainly seen as a Hindu festival, Jains and Sikhs also celebrate it. The festival is widely observed by more than a billion people across India and its diaspora.
It is a time for well wishes and greetings.
Here are 32 well wishes and greetings for you to say your family and loved ones:
Shubha Diwali! (Happy Diwali)
Happy Diwali!
I extend my festival greetings to all Hindus and other Diwali celebrators as it is a festival of hope and optimism.
