Each year on the dawn of Ammavaasa in the month Kartik the glittering diyas ,the dazzling fireworks, sounds of crackers announces the arrival of the most vibrant festival of India-Diwali. The word Diwali has its origin in the Sanskrit word "Deepavali" which means "rows of light". This 5 day long Hindu festival is celebrated throughout the world with great zeal and fanaticism .Diwali or deepavali is the festival signifying the victory of good against evil.

People from all religions forget their differences and get together to celebrate this vivacious festival of lights. Every home, be it a hut or a mansion is decorated with illuminating Diyas and candles. The entrances are ornamented with flowers and rangolis to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. People wear new clothes, exchange gifts and sweets with each other.

Diwali is considered auspicious for shopping, inaugurations of new homes, business deals or for starting any new ventures and projects.

Dhanteras sets the beginning of the festival. Then comes Narakachaturdasi, which symbolizes Lord Krishna's victory over Narakasur. The main Diwali day is devoted to the worship of Goddess lakshmi. The forth day is celebrated as Padwa or the New Year Day. The last day or Bhai Duj is observed as a symbol of love between sisters and brothers.

Diwali reminds us of mouthwatering, delicious sweets such as Kheer, Barfi , Pedas, Rasgullas, Laddos etc. On the whole this is a people-oriented festival when enmities are forgotten, families and friends meet, enjoy and establish a word of closeness.

Diwali 2009
In 2009 Diwali will fall on October 17th