T HE festival of lights is known as Deepavali (deep translates as lamp and vali as array). This is the name of the festival in Pakistan and India more commonly known as Diwali. In both countries and for Hindus around the world, the celebration revolves around the triumph of good over evil, purity over impurity, light over darkness.

It is one of the most important Hindu festivals with over 800 million people celebrating it in various ways. Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama, who was the seventh incarnation of Vishnu, after a 14-year exile.

It takes place on the darkest night (first night of the new moon) in the month of Kartik in the Hindu calendar. Streets and temples are decorated with spectacular light displays and colourful garlands.

In their homes, people light small oil lamps called diyas. It is believed that deceased relatives return to visit their families on earth during this festival and the lights are a way to guide the spirits home.

The sound of firecrackers exploding is common as the noise is said to drive away evil spirits.

Sunny Kumar Dawira Madeji, SindhT HE festival of lights is known as Deepavali (deep translates as lamp and vali as array). This is the name of the festival in Pakistan and India more commonly known as Diwali. In both countries and for Hindus around the world, the celebration revolves around the triumph of good over evil, purity over impurity, light over darkness.

It is one of the most important Hindu festivals with over 800 million people celebrating it in various ways. Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama, who was the seventh incarnation of Vishnu, after a 14-year exile.

It takes place on the darkest night (first night of the new moon) in the month of Kartik in the Hindu calendar. Streets and temples are decorated with spectacular light displays and colourful garlands.

In their homes, people light small oil lamps called diyas. It is believed that deceased relatives return to visit their families on earth during this festival and the lights are a way to guide the spirits home.

The sound of firecrackers exploding is common as the noise is said to drive away evil spirits.

Sunny Kumar Dawira Madeji, Sindh