Diwali, or Dipawali, is India‘s biggest and most important holiday of the year. The festival gets its name from the row (avali) of clay lamps (deepa) that Indians light outside their homes to symbolize the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness.
Also known as the “Festival of Lights”, Diwali is a 5-day celebration, wherein friends and families get together, light ‘Diyas’ or earthen lamps in their houses, feast on sweet delicacies, exchange gifts, play games and burn crackers.
Diwali is a public holiday in India. It is a day off for the general population, and schools and most businesses are closed in India.