Diwali, the festival of lights, falls between October and November, but the exact date changes each year as it is marked by the Hindu lunar calendar.
It lasts five days in total, with the festival of lights falling on the third days of celebrations, which is marked on the 15th day of the Hindu month Kartik.
This year that falls on 19 October.
Also known as Deepavali, a Sanskrit word meaning “rows of lighted lamps”, it is one of the most popular Hindu festivals celebrated across South Asia. But it is also celebrated by Jains and Sikhs.
The festival of lights that celebrates the victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance.
It sees millions of earthenware oil lamps, called diyas, light up people’s homes, shops, public spaces and places of worship as part of celebrations which marks the start of the Hindu new year.
Take a look at one of the most significant festivals in Indian culture, Diwali, featured at The Independent.