Deepavali, the festival of lights, is one of the biggest holidays in the country. I wanted to have an experience to remember, so I went out exploring the city to see what I could see. I took a walk through the neighborhood, went to a Hindu temple and I hung out with friends. I encountered much more than I bargained for!
Deepavali is a festival celebrated by Indians and Hindus across the world. Some people call it Diwali and others call it Deepavali. Depending on where you are in the world, Deepavali carries a different meaning. In Bengaluru, I've heard the festivities represent light conquering darkness and the value of knowledge. People celebrate it by lighting candles, lighting fireworks, decorating their homes, eating sweets and just being with friends and family. The celebrations can last four or five days depending on where you're from, and it typically falls in late October to early November. The night when the moon is darkest is when the main celebration for Deepavali happens. It's a night of positivity and excitement.
For Hindus it's an important religious event, but for many other Indians I think it's an opportunity to visit family, dress to impress and just have a good time away from work and school. It's a welcome break from the usual hustle and bustle of the city.
