What is Deepavali?
Deepavali (more commonly known as Diwali) is the Indian Festival of Lights. It is a festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil by the the lighting of candles, lights and other fire-crackers. Diwali is a time for celebration, gift-giving and wearing new clothes. Families, friends, and accquaintances get together, exchange gifts and strengthen ties.
It is also an important festival, since it is considered to be the beginning of the Hindu new year in a large part of India. Most schools, government institutions and other enterprises have a holiday on Diwali.
One of the most popular aspects of Diwali is the bursting of firecrackers. Everyone gets into this part of the celebration, and apart from larger firecracker shows sponsored by groups of companies, associations, etc, many smaller communities and streets get together in common areas like an empty plot of land and burst a lot of colorful and exciting firecrackers.