Diwali Basics
What does the word "Diwali" mean in Sanskrit?
A row or series of lights."
What do people traditionally exchange during Diwali as a sign of good wishes?
Sweets and gifts
Which god is celebrated in Southern India for defeating the demon Naraka?
Lord Krishna.
What small, traditional lamp is used to decorate homes during Diwali?
Diya (or clay oil lamp).
In which two months does Diwali typically fall each year?
Late October or early November.
How many days does the Diwali festival usually last?
Five days.
What is the popular art form, made with colorful powders, created on floors during Diwali?
Rangoli.
Which Hindu deity's return from exile is celebrated as Diwali in Northern India?
Lord Rama.
Who is the Hindu goddess associated with wealth and prosperity, worshipped during Diwali?
Goddess Lakshmi.
This year, on what date does Diwali start?
October 31 or November 1.
Name two faiths, besides Hinduism, that celebrate Diwali.
Sikhism and Jainism (Buddhism is also acceptable).
In which part of India do people typically take an early morning oil bath on Diwali
Southern India.
Who accompanied Lord Rama on his journey back from exile?
His wife, Sita, and his brother, Lakshmana.
Why are fireworks set off during Diwali?
To celebrate and mark the festivities with joy and light.
What major holiday overlaps with Diwali this year, leading to some joint celebrations?
Halloween.
Why do people celebrate Diwali with lights?
To symbolize the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.
What does the tradition of gambling during Diwali symbolize?
The belief that anyone who gambles on Diwali night will prosper throughout the year.
What is the shared theme of the different origin stories of Diwali?
The victory of good over evil.
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.
Which type of calendar is used to determine the dates for Diwali each year?
The Hindu lunisolar calendar.
How many people around the world celebrate Diwali?
What item do people in India often buy on the first day of Diwali, known as Dhanteras, for good luck?
Gold.
What was the demon Naraka known for doing to people in his kingdom
Imprisoning women and tormenting his subjects.
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.
Why are some states in Northern India, like New Delhi, restricting fireworks this Diwali?
To combat rising pollution levels.