How Do Americans Celebrate Diwali?

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year. Many people in the United States celebrate Diwali each year. Various communities in the United States celebrate Diwali as one of the biggest Hindu festivals.

Many schools, community groups, Hindu associations, Indian organizations, and corporate businesses get involved in celebrating Diwali. Politicians, including governors and past presidents, have previously made public announcements expressing their greetings and well wishes to Hindus on Diwali.

Many Indian stores sell jewelry and traditional outfits, such as chiffon saris, as well as statues of Hindu deities and incense sticks used in prayer around this time of the year.

Many women and girls use mehendi, which is a temporary henna decoration, on their palms. It is also common for people to wear fine jewelry and silk outfits to celebrate this joyous festival. Various lights, candles, and sparklers illuminate Diwali. Some businesses celebrate Diwali with Indian sweets and tea.

Many homes that celebrate Diwali have assorted sweets and savories. Some communities organize firework displays, and states such as Utah have proclaimed Diwali as one of their state festivals. Although Diwali is not a nationwide public holiday in the United States, many towns and cities celebrate this large festival. Events held to celebrate Diwali may cause traffic congestion and parking places may be full in those areas.

Some Indian businesses may close early on Diwali. People call Diwali the Festival of Lights and celebrate it to honor Sri Rama-chandra, the seventh avatar (incarnation of the god Vishnu). It is believed that on this day, Rama returned to his people after 14 years of exile during which he fought and won a battle against the demons and the demon king, Ravana.

People lit their houses to celebrate his victory over evil (light over darkness). The goddess Lakshmi, who symbolizes wealth, good fortune, happiness, and prosperity, is also worshiped during Diwali.

People believe that she roams the earth on this day and enters the house that is pure, clean, and bright. Communities may vary in their Diwali celebrations, but its significance and spiritual meaning is generally “the awareness of the inner light.”

Lamps, fireworks, and bonfires illuminate this holiday, as the word “Deepawali” means “a row or cluster of lights” or “rows of diyas (clay lamps).” The festival symbolizes the victory of righteousness and the lifting of spiritual darkness.

Content for this question contributed by Loreen Toth, resident of Belle Vernon, Fayette County, Pennsylvania, USA