Millions of Diyas Are Lit
In India, millions of diyas (small oil lamps) are lit during Diwali to symbolize the victory of light over darkness. Major cities like Varanasi along the Ganges River light up with diyas floating on the water.
It’s Celebrated by Multiple Religions
While Diwali is primarily a Hindu festival, it is also celebrated by Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists for various historical and spiritual reasons.
The Largest Fireworks Display in the World
Diwali is known for its spectacular fireworks. The fireworks symbolize the joy of the people living on Earth, making offerings to the gods, and asking for prosperity and health.
The Largest Diwali Celebration Outside India
Leicester in the UK holds the largest Diwali celebration outside of India, with over 40,000 people attending the switch-on of the lights on Belgrave Road.
Food, Food, and More Food!
Diwali is synonymous with delicious treats! Sweets like laddus, barfis, jalebis, and gulab jamuns are shared among friends and family during the festival.
Video of Diwali celebration in Leicester
(581) Diwali 2023 | Lights-ON 40th Celebration | Leicester | England | UK - YouTube
YouTube video credit: "OUR Connections"