Diwali also known as the "festival of lights", is an ancient Hindu festival celebrated in autumn every year. Diwali is widely celebrated in India and is observed by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Newar Buddhists around the world.. Programming includes lawn games, guided walking tours, as well as free admission to local history and art museums. The five-day festival of lights is one of the most Updates? Cost. In Delaware, sparklers, ground-based displays and a selection of other nonairborne, nonexplosive novelty items regulated by the federal government are allowed But amid the festivities, there are also concerns about air pollution caused by Diwali firecrackers. Independence Day Boat Parade & Lewes Fireworks Show The story tells the story of Rama, the prince of Ayodhya who was ordered into exile by his father, King Dasharatha, and come back after living in the forest for 14 years. Diwali is the festival of lights celebration for Hindus. Since the 18th century, Diwali has been celebrated in Sikhism as the time of Guru Hargobinds return to Amritsar from captivity in Gwalioran echo of Ramas return to Ayodhya. Most populous nation: Should India rejoice or panic? The Indian authorities in several states have banned the sale and use of fireworks during Diwali celebrations, but enforcement of the ban has been weak. All consumer fireworks are prohibited in Delaware. While Diwali stories and rituals differ between the faiths, they all honour the same thing: that good triumphs over evil. A report by Centre for Science and Environment, an NGO based in Delhi, showed that the concentration of PM2.5 particles rose during Diwali in each of the last four years up to 2021. This is what you need to know, Regions call for 'certainty' as Rex Airlines reduces multiple flight routes, Live: MasterChef judge Jock Zonfrillo dies, aged 46, Pair arrested after cars stolen, allegedly used to ram raid two Darwin businesses. Fireworks Express at the Wilmington & Western Railroad In the northern Indian temple town of Ayodhya, authorities lit about a million such lamps along the banks of a river. What celebrates American culture more than rooting for the home team? WebThis Delaware Festival will have fine craft, crafts, flea market, homegrown products and antique/collectibles exhibitors, and 12 food booths. Besides the contemporary led-lights, candles, and fireworks, people also use the conventional earthen-lamps (diyas) for embellishing their homes. Prayers are offered to goddess Laxmi and lord Ganesha on Diwali night. Diwali is really a fabulous festival and fireworks play a significant role in increasing its charm among all age-groups. Blue Rocks vs. Rome Braves: Fireworks Extravaganza! On the second day, houses are decorated with vibrant clay lamps called diyas, to upend the darkness with goodness and purity., Rangolis an elaborate design of colourful powders, flowers and rice are also drawn outside the entrance of homes to welcome gods and attract good luck., The highlight of the festival falls on the third day., Families gather to pray for prosperity and rid the darkness and evil forces with an extravagant display of lights, candles, firecrackers and fireworks., The fourth day is all about the spirit of gift-giving as relatives, friends and neighbours exchange presents and best wishes.. During the defense's cross-examination of E. Jean Carroll, Trump's attorney asked the writer why she "did not scream" when she was "supposedly raped.". However, closer to Diwali, the numbers of fires have begun to increase, according to India's official air quality warning system. But Ravana, the demon king of the island kingdom Lanka, abducted his wife and took her to Lanka. hide caption. Air pollution in Delhi has been blamed on a number of factors: But how much do each of these contribute? The lighting of the lamps celebrates the light of Mahaviras holy knowledge. SCOTUS Now Just Another Congressional Committee, Secret Chinese Police Stations in Europe Are 'Tip of the Iceberg', Trump's Attorney Just Blew Carroll Rape Case, King Charles Says Royals Require 'Acting Ability', Ukraine Will Regain 'Significant Territory' From Russia, Florida GOP Paves the Way to Help Ron DeSantis Challenge Trump. The doors and windows of houses are kept open in the hope that Lakshmi will find her way inside and bless the residents with wealth and success. Diwali also known as Deepavali is the annual Festival of Lights. People light earthen lamps on the banks of the river Sarayu during Deepotsav celebrations on the eve of the Hindu festival of Diwali in Ayodhya on November 3, 2021. (a) A person may not store, sell, offer or expose for sale, or have in possession with intent to sell or to use, Diwali is an important festival in Jainism. On 16 October, air quality began deteriorating as farm fires started up after a spell of rain earlier in the month that had dampened down pollution levels, and prevented farmers from burning off stubble. Last year, Delaware legalized a few types of fireworks on July 4 and New Years Eve, as well as, in an amendment to the fireworks code signed in June, on the third day of Diwali in October or November. Many people in India will light these lamps outside their homes to symbolize the inner light that protects them from spiritual darkness, in tune with a holiday that is an ode to the triumph of good over evil. Heres a breakdown of your options: By the way, the allowance of ground fireworks and sparklers is a three-year test period, so play nice. The second day, called NarakaChaturdashiorChotiDiwali, commemorates Krishnas destruction of Narakasura; prayers are also offered for the souls of ancestors. The fifth day, called Bhai Dooj, Bhai Tika, or Bhai Bij, celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. The Smyrna/Clayton July 4th iew. The display will launch from the beach near Brooklyn Avenue. Tags. concentration of PM2.5 particles rose during Diwali in each of the last four years up to 2021. As a result, in the month of October, the amount that stubble burning contributed to Delhi's PM 2.5 levels was less than 5%. In states like Punjab and Haryana, farm fires increased significantly over the weekend ahead of Diwali, going by Nasa's Fire Information for Resource Management System, which uses satellite data to identify fire hotspots. People light earthen lamps on the banks of the river Sarayu during Deepotsav celebrations on the eve of the Hindu festival of Diwali in Ayodhya. The five-day festival celebrates the victory of light over darkness. The show will launch at dusk "Fireworks are a modern phenomenon and usually in traditional Hindu/or other Indian homes the clay lamps are lit and placed in the front courtyard to mark the joyous occasion of light symbolizing optimism and hope for the future," Dr. Bihani Sarkar, departmental lecturer in Sanskrit at the University of Oxford, told Newsweek. Celebrate the Fourth of July this year by attending one of Delawares spectacular regional fireworks displays! 2023 BBC. (The corresponding dates in the Gregorian calendar usually fall in late October and November.) Read about our approach to external linking. This year, the number of farm fires across north India has so far been fewer than last year. Enjoy the views of spectacular fireworks over the campus of the University of Delaware! Freedom Fireworks at the UD Athletic Complex, Fireworks Express at the Wilmington & Western Railroad. Fireworks have been banned by several states - but people continue to use them on Diwali, Pollution levels in Delhi began rising in the second week of October, View of Delhi's iconic Red Fort with heavy smog and foggy weather last year. In Delaware only sparklers and ground-based fireworks are legal and that's only for four Diwali, or Deepawali, gets its name from the Sanskrit word deepavali, which means "row of clay lamps." Spectate as Lewes locals mosey their patriotically-decorated boats down the Canal for the Independence Day Boat Parade! Diwali in Dubai: Where to watch the citys best firework displays. The impact of the seasonal burning of farm stubble varies on a daily basis, going by government data. hide caption. This article was most recently revised and updated by, https://www.britannica.com/topic/Diwali-Hindu-festival, Ancient Origins - The Diwali Festival of Lights: A Celebration of Freedom and Good Triumphing over Evil, Diwali - Children's Encyclopedia (Ages 8-11), Diwali - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up). In the first two weeks of November last year, the states of Haryana and Punjab (north of Delhi) recorded 57,000 farm fires, the highest number since 2012. In two out of the four years, crop burning did not coincide directly with Diwali celebrations, making it easier to isolate the effect of fireworks. Diwali, also spelled Divali, one of the major religious festivals in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism, lasting for five days from the 13th day of the dark half of the lunar This year, Diwali begins on Tuesday, November 2, but the main celebration falls on Thursday, November 4. Independence Day The name is derived from the Sanskrit term dipavali, meaning row of lights. The festival generally symbolizes the victory of light over darkness. As Diwali is marked, people remember this victory and what it means to those who practice the Hindu faith. India's capital Delhi has witnessed "very poor" air quality after Diwali celebrations this week, but the pollution wasn't as bad as feared. Ritually, in honour of Lakshmi, the female player always wins. Huge banquets, family gatherings and prayers also are part of the celebrations. Laborers transport an idol of the Hindu goddess Kali to a place of worship on the eve of Diwali at Kumortuli, the traditional potters' quarter in northern Kolkata, on Wednesday. For the Jain community, the festival commemorates the enlightenment and liberation (moksha) of Mahavira, the most recent of the Jain Tirthankaras, from the cycle of life and death (samsara). WebAll sparklers and legal fireworks bought within the permitted period are rendered illegal to possess on July 5. We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we live, learn, and work. You can send them a text or say it in personeven better if you can bring them a festive treat like jalebi or gulab jamun. On the third day, Lakshmi Puja, families seek blessings from Lakshmi to ensure their prosperity; light diyas, candles, and fireworks; andvisittemples. Celebrate Independence Day beach-style at Paradise Grill in Long Neck! The origin of Diwali is disputed. The most well-known story behind the celebration is in the Ramayana, one of the two important legends of Hinduism. Cat-and-mouse chase with China in hotly contested sea, Explore in 3D: The dazzling crown that makes a king. hide caption. Sunday, July 3 Rehoboth Beach Fireworks Festivities in Rehoboth begin at 8 p.m. Fireworks are scheduled to start at 9:30 p.m., but may begin before or after depending on sunset time and weather conditions. Red, white, and BOOM! hide caption. It also centers on traditions such as buying new kitchen utensils to help bring good fortune, as well as other practices to attract the goodwill of spirits. Powered by Localist Event Calendar Software UD ISA Diwali Celebration This is a past event University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19711, USA. Projectiles Fireworks have been on sale for a couple of weeks now at supermarkets and pharmacies, which is the easiest way to make sure your personal fireworks show is legal. Event Type. These community events include celebration of major Hindu festivals like Ugadi, Rama Navami, Ganesh Utsav, Dasara, Diwali, July 4th Fireworks display, India Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions. This year, however, the festival was celebrated several weeks earlier than usual - in October rather than early November - so the weather was not as cold as it would be normally. There will be 1 stage with Regional What are the other factors causing pollution? In North India the festival also celebrates the royal homecoming of Rama (along with Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman) to the city of Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, the 10-headed king of the demons, thus connecting the festival with the holiday of Dussehra. Rehoboth Beachs fireworks are set to begin around 9:30 p.m. July 3. 2) Diwali takes place annually and lasts for five days, marking the start of the Hindu New Year. (715) 477-2205 or st-germain.com July 3-4 Land O Lakes: Fireworks 10 p.m. July 3; parade at noon July 4. City Council & Mayor Becker will adjudicate and announce the winners shortly after the last boat pulls into the Savannah Road Drawbridge. Enjoy an incredible firework display from the comfort of your own car this year! Enjoy a game against the Rome Braves at Frawley Stadium, and stick around after the game for an incredible fireworks display, presented by The Casino at Delaware Park. The five-day festival of lights is one of the most popular holidays in India, and Thursday is the main day of festivities, when the faithful pray to the Hindu goddess of wealth. The most important holiday on the Hindu calendar is coming up this week. Indian officials wife distraught as his killer is freed, The secret mine that hid the Nazis' stolen treasure. Homes are decorated, and floors inside and out are covered with rangoli, consisting of elaborate designs made of colouredrice, sand, or flower petals. Fireworks are a more modern phenomenon when it comes to Diwali celebrations, first emerging in 1400 AD when gunpowder came to be used in Indian warfare, historian PK Gode said in his book History of Fireworks in India between 1400 and 1900, published in 1950. Our editors will review what youve submitted and determine whether to revise the article. Sparklers and other non-exploding, non airborne fireworks are legal in Delaware on July 4, New Year's and Diwali. In many Hindu homes, Lord Ganesha is also worshipped as the symbol of Wisdom. It is also a day in which she is honored. Experts say wind speed and direction and generally favourable weather conditions are the main reasons behind the air quality not reaching the "severe" category, despite fireworks over Diwali and farmers burning stubble. Blue Rocks vs. Rome Braves: Fireworks Extravaganza! WebJune 28 St. Germain: 5K run 8 a.m. (registration 7:30 a.m.), craft fair 10 a.m., parade at 3 p.m., rides, games, fireworks at dusk. People light oil lamps on the eve of Diwali at the Akshardham Hindu temple in Gandhinagar, India, on Wednesday. Merchants perform religious ceremonies and open new account books. Fireworks Plus is happy to provide Delaware's state laws so you Diwali, also spelled Divali, one of the major religious festivals in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism, lasting for five days from the 13th day of the dark half of the lunar month Ashvina to the second day of the light half of the lunar month Karttika. Community, Special Events. Here at MyLondon, we've rounded up all the best places to see the fireworks celebrating Diwali 2022. Wholesale Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, Cookie Policy, and Copyrights. In Hindu culture, light and fire are believed to ward off evil spirits. Diwali (or Deepawali, Deepavali) is an ancient Hindu festival that is celebrated in autumn every year. Discover the Importance of India, Major Festivals of India (National, Religious, Harvest and Seasonal). It needs to be added that some of these toxic substances can also be produced by vehicle emissions, and vehicle traffic does increase during Diwali when people go out to buy gifts and visit family and friends. In West Bengal, the Diwali festival is celebrated for the worship of Goddess Kali, the Goddess of Strength. Phantom Fireworks has a wide variety of fireworks and novelties for the Diwali celebration. From sparklers and lanterns, to special noiseless fountains such as the Festival of Lights Fountain and Flower Pot Fountain. Phantom Fireworks has over 75 locations nationwide open year round. Visit our location page to find a showroom near you. The study focused on five locations across Delhi, and looked at data gathered between 2013 and 2016. It is a religious festival that commemorates Lord Krishnas victory over the evil King Narakaasura. The revelers set off thousands of fireworks for a number of hours. It is held on the darkest night of the Hindu lunar calendar and ushers in new beginningsjust before the arrival of the new moon. Across India, celebrations include fireworks and devotional music. Sikhs, Jains and even Buddhists have their own lore surrounding the holiday you can read about it here. Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. The name "Diwali" is a combination of the Sanskrit term "dpval" which means "lamps" (dpa) "in a row" (val). 1) Diwali is an important religious festival originating in India. What's happened to air pollution in Delhi? Since the 18th century, Diwali has been celebrated in Sikhism as the time of Guru Hargobinds return to Amritsar from captivity in Gwalior, an echo of Lord Ramas return to Ayodhya. Selling or possessing fireworks; exceptions. This year, the festival will be celebrated on October 24, with the final of the five Diwali days falling on October 25. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. This year, Diwali begins on Tuesday, November 2, but the main celebration falls on Thursday, November 4., The five-day event is usually held between October and November, with the third day being the most important., Each of the five days hold their own significance as faith, food, fireworks, family and charity come together as one during the festive season.. People celebrate Diwali by setting off firecrackers But Covid is not the only issue. Laborers transport an idol of the Hindu goddess Kali to a place of worship on the eve of Diwali at Kumortuli, the traditional potters' quarter in northern Kolkata, on Wednesday. The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal reminds all citizens and visitors of Delaware that fireworks can cause serious injuries or death. When is Diwali 2021? Festivities in Rehoboth begin at 8 p.m. Fireworks are scheduled to start at 9:30 p.m., but may begin before or after depending on sunset time and weather Dress your best either in ethnic wear or whatever Diwali also marks the last harvest before the northern winter. The holiday overlaps with the Hindu New Year and as a result is associated with a chance to reset and start anew. Comet o decorate diyas, draw rangoli, and eat delicious food! And their use is limited to certain days: Diwali ends with a feast of traditional meals and sweet delicacies to celebrate the bond between siblings. Communal violence dampens Diwali celebrations for Bangladeshis in Australia, The Festival of Lights once hidden, now lit large in this seaside village, Pioneering Australian musician and The Dingoes frontman Broderick Smith dies aged 75, 'I don't buy that one bit': Next AFL CEO denies claims of a boys' club after promotion from general counsel, How Heather Mitchell survived a 'testosterone, cocaine and alcohol-fuelled' workplace, Hundreds of 'completely underfunded' Coalition-era infrastructure projects on the chopping block, The public will be asked to pledge allegiance to King Charles III. Keep up with the latest ASX and business news, MasterChef judge Jock Zonfrillo dies at age of 46. In Bengal the goddess Kali is worshipped. This piece was first published in November 2018 and has been updated to reflect recent studies and pollution data. Hindus across the world are celebrating Diwali. On the day after the Diwali festival, although it was still in the "very poor" category, it was the best it has been in the last four years. People light earthen lamps on the banks of the river Sarayu during Deepotsav celebrations on the eve of the Hindu festival of Diwali in Ayodhya. People watch a laser show on the banks of the river Sarayu during Deepotsav celebrations on the eve of the Hindu festival of Diwali in Ayodhya on Wednesday. A report by Centre for Science and Environment, an NGO based in Delhi, showed that the concentration of PM2.5 particles rose during Diwali in each of the last four years up to 2021. Already, pollution in the capital, New Delhi, has risen to its worst this season. The five-day festival celebrates the victory of light over darkness. Video, The secret mine that hid the Nazis' stolen treasure, wind speed and direction and generally favourable weather conditions. Grab an ice cream cone, take a seat on a boardwalk bench, and enjoy the views of fireworks over the ocean while enjoying live music by The Funsters at the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand. Fireworks Show at Paradise Grill In Jainism, Diwali is celebrated as an event of Lord Mahavira attaining the nirvana, an eternal bliss. The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal reminds all citizens and visitors of Delaware that fireworks can cause serious injuries or death. Projectiles from exploded fireworks can cause eye injuries, burns, and amputations of fingers. WebBuy Diwali Fireworks Online! "But since modern times, (hard to pin down exactly when it became part of it) the festival began to include fireworks. (Photo by Flickr user Matej, used under a Creative Commons license), You can check out Delawares full fireworks code here. The festival spiritually signifies the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil, and hope over despair. It is the main day of the Diwali festival. Subscribe for free today and stay up to date with news and tips you need to grow your career and connect with our vibrant tech community. People celebrate Diwali by lighting little earthen oil lamps to mark the victory of light over darkness. Although Diwali is mainly seen as a Hindu festival, Jaines and Sikhs also celebrate it. Rehoboth Beach Independence Day Fireworks Show, A Celebration of Independencein the Capital of the First State - Dover, Independence Day Boat Parade & Lewes Fireworks Show, Love Seed Mama Jump Concert & Fireworks in Bethany Beach. Farmers in northern India usually do this every year to prepare the ground for the next round of crops. WebFireworks. UK chip giant Arm files for blockbuster share sale, Adidas sued by investors over Kanye West deal, US principal visits David sculpture after nudity row, US bank makes last ditch bid to find rescuer, Pope urges Hungarians to 'open doors' to migrants. Factoring the weather conditions into their calculations, they found increases in concentrations of PM2.5 - one of the most harmful particles to human health - of almost 40% by the second day of the festival. Spectate incredible fireworks and ride on an antique locomotive! University of Delaware events, updated every day. Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Open daily, 10am-12am, Crescent Dr Dubai Festival City Dubai. Official figures show that in November 2021, a week after Diwali, farm fires contributed 48% of PM 2.5 levels - the harmful small particles which can be inhaled. Although not a primary festival of Buddhism, Diwali is celebrated by some Buddhists as a commemoration of the day when Emperor Ashoka converted to Buddhism in the 3rd century bce. Love Seed Mama Jump Concert & Fireworks in Bethany Beach Diwali is one of the major religious festivals in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism. Visitors walk along the Raisina Hills at Rajpath amid smoggy conditions in New Delhi on Thursday. People often think of Diwali as a Hindu festival, but it is also celebrated by Sikhs and Jains .*. It should also be pointed out that not all fireworks produce a lot of PM2.5 particles, although the bigger ones tend to have larger concentrations. The course of the five days includes cleaning house, buying new furnishings and exchanging gifts with loved ones. Fireworks will be launched from South of Rehoboth Avenue, and will be visible along the beach and boardwalk. Residents of Amritsar lit lamps throughout the city to celebrate the occasion. [We've gotten] several complaints that they're occurring after midnight." The first day, which is seen as auspicious, is devoted to prayers and preparations.. For the Jain community, the festival commemorates the enlightenment and liberation (moksha) of Mahavira, the most recent of the Jain Tirthankaras, from the cycle of life and death (samsara). WebJuly 2nd Freedom Fireworks at the UD Athletic Complex Enjoy the views of spectacular fireworks over the campus of the University of Delaware! A Celebration of Independencein the Capital of the First State - Dover VideoThe secret mine that hid the Nazis' stolen treasure, LGBT troops take love for Eurovision to front line. The name is derived from the Sanskrit term dipavali, meaning row of lights. The festival generally symbolizes the victory of light over darkness. A beautiful fireworks display will commence following a performance by the 287thArmy Band of the Delaware National Guard. They celebrate by lighting lamps, decorating temples and monasteries, and worshipping the Buddha. Is climate change killing Australian wine? Some celebrate it because of the marriage of Goddess Lakshmi with the Lord Vishnu. WebThis year, Diwali falls on Monday October 24th, 2022 The five days of Diwali consist of special decorations, exchanging gifts, family gatherings and other special activities. diwali celebration fireworks lights diya diwali diya diwali festival celebration india happy diwali festival holi christmas diwali light rangoli diwali crackers diwali background. It is observed by the Vajrayana Buddhist minority among the Newarpeople of Nepal. The concert starts at 7:30 PM, and fireworks display will follow at 9:15 PM. Lakshmi is the focus of worship on that day. They are not necessary, and the festival does not lose its significance in any way if they are absent.". the burning of farm stubble in neighbouring states, fireworks used during the Diwali festival. Pack a cooler, bring a blanket or chairs, and invite the family for a celebratory train ride, followed by a stop in Hockessin to enjoy the fireworks show. UD Students: $7 for 1,$12 for 2 , Non-UD Diwali, the Hindu festival of light, begins this year on October 24. Get a Britannica Premium subscription and gain access to exclusive content. How do Diwali fireworks affect air quality? The five-day festival celebrates the victory of light over darkness. The First State Heritage Park presents Independence Day, colonial-style! Listen. Enjoy ringing of the Old State House bell, a red, white, and blue parade, live music, and of course fireworks. Diwali is also an important festival in Jainism. Many Hindus also celebrate Diwali in joy of return of Lord Rama along with his wife, Sita and with his brother Lakshman in Ayodha. Lord Rama returned to the capital of his Kingdom, Ayodhya, after spending 14 yrs in forest and defeating the demon King Ravana. Residents of Ayodhya lit up their houses with earthen lamps (dpa), burst crackers and decorated the entire city when they found out Rama had returned home, marking the day of Diwali. Over five days, people celebrate Diwali by exchanging gifts, spending time with loved ones, eating and praying. Old Dover Independence Day Student Centers. People light oil lamps on the eve of Diwali at the Akshardham Hindu temple in Gandhinagar, India, on Wednesday. The dates for Diwali change each year, but it usually falls in October or Click here to read more. They are expected to increase further in the coming weeks. Corrections? Chaos at port as thousands rush to leave Sudan, Air strikes pound Sudan capital as truce extended, Suspected IS chief killed in Syria, Turkey says. The show will launch at dusk (approximately 9:15 PM) and will be visible from the free parking lots at the UD Athletic Complex. In Sikhism, Diwali is celebrated as Bandi Chhor Divas. A 2018 law allowed Delawareans to buy fireworks at stores and pop up tents, but only certain ground-based kinds are available. When is Diwali this year and how to celebrate the Festival of Lights? Diwali is generally a time for visiting, exchanging gifts, wearing new clothes, feasting, feeding the poor, and setting off fireworks (though such displays have been restricted to limit noise and other environmental pollution). Residents of Amritsar lit lamps throughout the city to celebrate the occasion. These firework types can be purchased by a person 18 or over between June 4 and July 4; and Dec. 1 and Jan 1. Although there are month-long purchase periods, the Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal stressed that permitted types of fireworks may only be used on July 4, Dec. 31 and Jan 1. The fourth day, known as GoverdhanPuja,Balipratipada,or Annakut, commemorating Krishnas defeat of Indra, the king of the gods, is also the first day of Karttika and the start of the new year in the Vikrama (Hindu) calendar. Videos. What is it all about? This then falls back to existing background levels soon after the end of Diwali. "The embarrassment is just going to keep growing over this," Laura Harth, the campaign director at Safeguard Defenders, told Newsweek. 6901. Welcome to the celebration of the Festival of Lights! They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors.