Diwali is one of India's most widely celebrated festivals. It is commonly called Deepavali or the Festival of Lights. Families celebrate by cleaning their homes, lighting diyas, making colorful rangoli patterns, preparing sweets and visiting relatives. It is a time of joy, gratitude and fresh beginnings. Diwali has several religious and cultural associations. In a popular Hindu tradition, it commemorates Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya following his victory over Ravana. Many households perform Lakshmi-Ganesha Puja. Jains remember the nirvana of Lord Mahavira, while many Sikhs observe Bandi Chhor Divas during the same period. These traditions show the diversity of India's cultural life.
