Art and Literature
In R.K. Narayan's book "The Guide," what festival does the protagonist encounter and celebrate in the village of Mangal?
Diwali
What rhythmic, traditional dance form is performed during Diwali, involving the use of colorful sticks?
Garba
Which Hindu festival that celebrates the bond of love and affection between brothers and sisters?
Bhai Dooj or Bhai Beej
What does the word "Diwali" mean in Sanskrit?
Row of lights or series of lights
What famous holiday follows Diwali, where people exchange greetings and good wishes and ... resolutions?
New Year's Day
Which Indian filmmaker directed the movie "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham" featuring a memorable Diwali celebration scene?
Karan Johar
What energetic dance form, typically performed in a circle, is a significant part of the Diwali celebrations in Punjab?
Bhangra
What is the traditional practice of cleaning and decorating homes before Diwali known as? Hint: there's tons of memes about it!
Diwali Ki Safai
What spiritual concept is celebrated during Diwali, signifying the awakening of one's inner light?
Inner enlightenment or self-realization
Name a traditional dress worn by women during Diwali celebrations?
Sari / Suit / Lehenga
The devotional songs written in praise of deities, often sung during Diwali celebrations, belong to what classical poetic form in Indian literature?
Bhajan
Which musical instrument, commonly played during Diwali celebrations, consists of a pair of small drums?
Dhol / Dholak
What ritual involves lighting clay lamps and placing them around the house during Diwali?
Deepa Puja
Which principle of Hindu philosophy does Diwali particularly emphasize, focusing on the virtue of righteous and ethical living?
Dharma
Which city in India is renowned for its grand and spectacular Diwali celebrations? Hint: it has a golden temple!
Amritsar
This Indian epic, attributed to the sage Valmiki, narrates the life of Prince Rama and is often recited during Diwali. What is the title of this ancient Sanskrit poem?
Ramayana
Which traditional dance form originated in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu that is known for its intricate footwork, expressive hand gestures?
Bharatanatyam
What sacred mantra is chanted during Diwali to invite positive energies into the house?
Gayatri Mantra
What fundamental belief does Diwali reinforce, representing the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness?
Victory of righteousness
Diwali is often marked by the bursting of tons of colorful fireworks. What is the Hindi word for fireworks commonly used during the festival?
Patakha
Which famous Indian poet wrote the poem "Diwali" celebrating the festival's essence and significance?
Rabindranath Tagore
What traditional dance, involving the balancing of decorated pot(s) on the head, is performed by women during Diwali?
Matki
Which ceremony marks the beginning of the Diwali festival, symbolizing the victory of good over evil?
Dhanteras or Dhanatrayodashi
Diwali is also known as the "Festival of Lights." What broader significance do these lights symbolize in human life?
Hope, knowledge, and the dispelling of ignorance
What is the significance of the release of sky lanterns during Diwali celebrations in some regions?
Symbol of releasing worries and bringing hope