People all around the world celebrate Diwali. In India, the holiday may last four or five days. In the United States and Canada, it is usually only celebrated for one day. Diwali is the Hindu festival of lights. It is a celebration of light over dark and of good over evil. Hindus celebrate this holiday by telling the tale of the prince Rama. During the festival of Diwali, thousands of oil lamps, candles, and colored electric lights shine brightly in Hindu homes, businesses, and temples. It is a joyous occasion when people take to the streets, celebrate with fireworks and sparklers, share food, and enjoy community. Many doorways to homes, shops, and temples are decorated with colorful designs called rangoli. Rangoli is a very old art form that uses materials such as colored flour, sand, or rice to form patterns, pictures, and words on the ground. The festival of lights symbolizes light overcoming darkness – a symbol that resonates with all people, regardless of religious affiliation and cultural background.
