One of the rituals traditionally associated with Diwali is gambling. Families and friends get together to indulge in dice or cards. It is believed that on this day Goddess Parvati played dic... Read more

The fifth day of Diwali, ie two days after Diwali on Kartika Dwiteeya, the second day after the new moon, is celebrated as Bhaiya Dooj, also know as Bhai Dooj. Legend has it that Lord Yama,... Read more

With so many mythological legends behind it, Diwali is both a festival of traditional poojas and calibrations. Houses are cleaned and white washed, new clothes, ornaments and utensils are bo... Read more

The day before Diwali is celebrated as Choti Diwali / Narak Chaturdasi.  According to Hindu scriptures, the demon king Narakasura, ruler of Pragjyotishpur (Modern Assam) defeated Lord Indra... Read more

Dhanteras falls two days before Diwali on Trayodashi – the 13th lunar day. On this day, Dhanvantari, an incarnation of Vishnu, the God of health and welfare is worshipped. People buy n... Read more

Diwali, or Deepavali, the most colourful Hindu festival, is celebrated on the Amavasya or New Moon, just before the start of Kartika month, which falls during October/November. This year it... Read more