In Sri Lanka, festivals and celebrations are at the heart of people’s lives. One of the most-celebrated festivals is Diwali, a five-day festival that represents the start of the Hindu New Year. It is celebrated on the 15th day of Kartika (October/November) in the Hindu calendar. It is also known as the Festival of Lights. Fireworks, small clay lamps and candles are lit during the celebration. These lights are said to represent the victory of good over evil and brightness over darkness. It’s a festival of joy, splendor, happiness and prosperity.

A large number of Tamil inhabitants are living in Sri Lanka, hence Diwali celebration are very much like the celebrations in Tamil Nadu (a state in Southern India). Homes are illuminated with traditional earthen lamps, and people enjoy traditional India delicacies and set off firecrackers. 

It’s a wonderful way to celebrate intercultural understanding and the start of the new year through music, food, dance and light.