Monday 24 October, in celebration of the Hindu festival of Diwali, which represents the triumph of light over darkness, people lit up their houses and streets with brilliant earthen oil lamps and dazzling, colourful lights.
Diwali is a national holiday in India, and people often get together and exchange gifts with family and friends to mark the occasion. As part of the festivities, many people burn candles or earthen oil lamps, and fireworks are also released. The Hindu goddess Lakshmi, who is credited with bringing luck and prosperity, is honoured with a special prayer in the evening.
