Tamil Foods
What are some common breakfast items/snacks in Tamil cuisine?
samosas, idli, vadai, appam, pongal
Name some traditional garments/clothing commonly worn by women during Diwali.
Sarees, Half sarees, lehenga cholis, and Anarkali suits, etc.
What is the name of the elephant-headed deity who is prayed to at the start of celebrations for good fortune?
Lord Ganesha
What does the word "Diwali" mean?
Row of lights
What is a "diya"?
An oil lamp
What is a thin, savory crepe-like dish made from rice and lentil batter?
Dosa
What is the small, decorative mark worn on the forehead by women during the festival called?
Pottu/Bindi
Which prince and princess returned to their kingdom after 14 years in exile, whom villagers lit lamps to guide them home?
Lord Rama and Sita
What victory does Diwali celebrate?
Good over Evil
Name some popular Diwali traditions.
Lighting fireworks, lighting Diyas, making kolams, preparing sweets and snacks
What is a traditional hot and sour soup-like dish made with tamarind broth and spices?
Rasam
What are the traditional, auspicious colors often associated with Diwali?
Red, yellow, green
Which Goddess of wealth, fortune and prosperity is primarily worshipped during Diwali?
Lakshmi
How many days does the Diwali festival traditionally last?
5 days
What are the colourful designs or patterns made on the floor called?
Rangoli/Kolam
What is the Tamil festival dish made from jaggery, rice, and milk, cooked in the open under the sun symbolizing prosperity?
Pongal
What is the name for the type of men's outfit that typically includes a long tunic and matching trousers?
A Kurta Set
What traditional flower garland is hung over doors and worship areas during the festival?
Marigold
Which Hindu month is Diwali celebrated in?
Karthika
What is the first thing that many Hindus do on the first day of Diwali?
Clean and decorate the house
In Tamil Nadu, both “Sakkarai Pongal” and “Ven Pongal” are popular dishes made during festivals.
What is the main difference between these two types of Pongal?
Sakkarai Pongal is sweet, while Ven Pongal is savory
Why is wearing new clothes a tradition during Diwali?
New clothes are believed to ward off negative energy and invite blessings, especially from Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.
In southern traditions, Diwali celebrates Lord Krishna defeating which demon king?
Narakasura
Approximately how many people around the world celebrate Diwali?
1.25 billion
Which oil is used to light diya during Diwali?
Mustard