What does the word 'Diwali' mean?

The word Diwali refers to a traditional Hindu holiday known as the festival of lights. Diwali, which can also be referred to as Deepavali, is celebrated in every autumn and focuses on a celebration of literal and figurative light.

Diwali is a celebration of actual, physical light, such as the light generated by the sun or a burning candle, but it is also a celebration of good over evil, or metaphorical light over darkness. As a festival celebration of light, the lighting of lamps (known as diyas) is a central part of Diwali celebrations, along with the exchange of gifts, feasting and setting off fireworks.