The festival is believed to mark new beginnings and a renewal of commitment to family values. It also represents the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness, with the word 'Diwali', or 'Deepavali', meaning 'a row of lamps'.
Celebrations often include fireworks, the lighting of candles and small earthenware oil lamps called divas and cooking special meals for family and friends.
How to wish somebody a happy Diwali
The most common greeting for those observing the religious celebration is ‘happy Diwali’, however, there are several other wishes you can express to anyone celebrating the festival:
- ‘Shubh Diwali’ - happy Diwali in Hindi
- ‘Wishing you a Diwali that brings happiness, prosperity, and joy to you and all your family’
- ‘May your life be as colourful, shimmering and magical as the lights of Diwali’
- ‘May every aspect of your life be as luminous and wonderful as the lights on the lamps of Diwali’
During this special time for many in our communities and our employees we wish you happy Diwali!
Did you know?
According to the 2021 Census, the size over the Hindu and Sikh community in Derby and Derbyshire is more than 18,000 people (12,825 in Derby and 5,444 in Derbyshire).
For further information support and advice, please email equalityanddiversity@derbyshire.gov.uk