Diwali Basics
Traditions
Origin Stories
Symbols and Meanings
Dates and Celebrations
100

What does the word "Diwali" mean in Sanskrit?

A row or series of lights."

100

What do people traditionally exchange during Diwali as a sign of good wishes?

Sweets and gifts

100

Which god is celebrated in Southern India for defeating the demon Naraka?

Lord Krishna.

100

What small, traditional lamp is used to decorate homes during Diwali?

Diya (or clay oil lamp).

100

In which two months does Diwali typically fall each year?

Late October or early November.

200

How many days does the Diwali festival usually last?

Five days.

200

What is the popular art form, made with colorful powders, created on floors during Diwali?

Rangoli.

200

Which Hindu deity's return from exile is celebrated as Diwali in Northern India?

Lord Rama.

200

Who is the Hindu goddess associated with wealth and prosperity, worshipped during Diwali?

Goddess Lakshmi.

200

This year, on what date does Diwali start?

October 31 or November 1.

300

Name two faiths, besides Hinduism, that celebrate Diwali.

Sikhism and Jainism (Buddhism is also acceptable).

300

In which part of India do people typically take an early morning oil bath on Diwali

Southern India.

300

Who accompanied Lord Rama on his journey back from exile?

His wife, Sita, and his brother, Lakshmana.

300

Why are fireworks set off during Diwali?

To celebrate and mark the festivities with joy and light.

300

What major holiday overlaps with Diwali this year, leading to some joint celebrations?

Halloween.

400

Why do people celebrate Diwali with lights?

To symbolize the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.

400

What does the tradition of gambling during Diwali symbolize?

The belief that anyone who gambles on Diwali night will prosper throughout the year.

400

What is the shared theme of the different origin stories of Diwali?

The victory of good over evil.

400

What does bathing in warm oil during Diwali represent for some people in Southern India?

Physical and spiritual purification, similar to bathing in the holy River Ganges.

400

Which type of calendar is used to determine the dates for Diwali each year?

The Hindu lunisolar calendar.

500

How many people around the world celebrate Diwali?


  • More than a billion people.

500

What item do people in India often buy on the first day of Diwali, known as Dhanteras, for good luck?

Gold.

500

What was the demon Naraka known for doing to people in his kingdom

Imprisoning women and tormenting his subjects.

500

What are some celebrants using instead of fireworks in places with restrictions?

They use alternative celebrations, such as lighting diyas or making rangoli, to reduce pollution.

500

Why are some states in Northern India, like New Delhi, restricting fireworks this Diwali?

To combat rising pollution levels.

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