Diwali 2134: Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Diwali (Deepawali, the "row of lights") is the most widely celebrated festival in the Hindu world, falling on Amavasya, the new-moon night (Ashwin Amavasya under the amavasyant month reckoning used across South and West India, Kartika Krishna Amavasya under the purnimant reckoning used across North India). For one night the darkness of Amavasya is turned inside out by millions of clay diyas, electric lights, fireworks, and the collective resolve of every household to welcome Goddess Lakshmi into their lives.

The festival's most universal story is the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over Ravana. The people of Ayodhya lit rows of lamps (deepawali) to welcome him home in the dark of Amavasya. In South India the day commemorates Krishna's defeat of Narakasura (the demon of darkness) and his liberation of 16,100 women held captive. In West Bengal and Odisha, Kali Puja is performed on this night.

The central ritual is Lakshmi Puja, performed at Pradosh Kaal (evening twilight) or Nishita Kaal (midnight), depending on the tradition. The goddess of wealth and auspiciousness is invited into a spotlessly clean, lamp-lit home. New account books (in merchant families), gold, silver, and gifts are placed before her image. The puja is followed by prasad, firecrackers, and exchange of sweets with neighbours.