...DIWALI...

Diwali is a five day festival that represents the start of the new Hindu Year. It's known as the "festival of lights" for all the fireworks, small clay lamps and candles that are lit during the celebration. these lights are said to be symbol of victory of good over evil, and brightness over darkness. the candle light makes Diwali very warm and a atmospheric festival, and it's observed with much joy and happiness...
It also marks te start of winter. Diwali is actually celebrated in honour of Lord Rama and his wife Sita returning to their kingdom of Ayodhya, following Rama and monkey god Hanuman's defeat the demon king Ravana and rescue of Sita from his evil clutches..
When is Diwali Celebrated??
In October or November depending upon the cycle of the moon. On this day traditionally people buy gold. Each day of the festival have the different meaning.
Merchants open fresh account for the new year, and offers prayer. On the fifth and the last day, brother and sister get together and share food, to honour the bnd between them.
Where is the festival celebrated?
Throughtout the whole of India. However, the festival is not widely celebrated in the state of kerla. The question is often asked as to why this is it. The answer seems to be simple that the festival has never really evolved there, as it is not the part of state's social fabric and distinctive culture. An alternate explanation is that Diwali is the festival for merchants, and the Hindus of Kerla have never freely engaged in trade as the state is a communist ruled once.The main festival that is celebrated in Kerla, and which is specific to the state is Onam.
How is the festival Celebrated?
On the third day lot of clay lamps called Diyas and candles are lit and placed in house, and fireworks are let off everywhere, giving diwali its name "The festival of Lights". People also clean and decorate their home with Rangoli(Hindu folk art), buy new clothes, gamble, and give each other gifts and sweets during the festival.
What Rituals are performed during the festival?
The rituals vary according to the region. However special blessings are giving to Laxhmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. The goddess Laxhmi is believed to have been created from the churning of the ocean on the main Diwali day, and that she'll visit every home during the Diwali period, bringing with her prosperity ad good fortune. It is said that she visit the cleanest house first, therefore people make sure that their house are spotless before lightning lamp to invite her in. Small statues of Goddess are also wordhipped in people's homes.
What to expect during the Diwali?
The candlelight make the Diwali very warm and atmospheric festival, and it's observed with much joys and happiness. However, be prepared for the lots of loud noise from the firework and firecrackers going off. The air also become filled with smoke from the firecrackers, which can add to breathing difficulties.