Deepawali, or Diwali, is my favourite holiday. Also known as "The Festival of Lights", it is observed by Hindus living in India and the Indian Diaspora in October or November, dating back more than 2,500 years ago.

Multiple stories link this celebration. One northern Indian tale tells the story of King Rama, who was one of the avatars for the Hindu god Vishnu. The Ramayana is an ancient epic that recounts Rama's return to his kingdom after 14 years of exile and defeating Ravana, the evil demon who kidnapped Sita. People welcomed him to Ayodhya (his kingdom) by lighting diyas, lamps that light up when he arrives. One famous tale from southern India concerns the Hindu god Krishna who saved sixteen-thousand women against Narakasura, an unjust king. Both stories depict the triumph of good over evil. Diwali also celebrates the goddess Lakshmi.

I love to go to the temple on Diwali day to pray to Mother Lakshmi. For peace, prosperity, wealth, we worship Goddess Lakshmi. I also wear Indian clothing, including a kurta (for men) and a scarf (for women).

Our homes are lit by diyas, oil lamps made of clay. Their flame is ignited using a cotton wick dipped into ghee or oil. This is why Diwali is known as "The Festival of Lights". It signifies victory over evil and the dispelling of all darkness. Our family and friends also enjoy sweets.

My family makes many delicious almond sweets, cashew sweets and milk sweets. But Gulab Jamun is my favourite - -a milk sweet soaked in sugar syrup.

My favourite and the most fun part of Diwali is lighting sparklers with my family. I find the true spirit behind Diwali in the warm light of sparklers and the way my family wishes me "Happy Diwali". Because both of these celebrations are grand, this reminds me of the Fourth of July.

There are many festivals around the globe, including Thanksgiving and Halloween, but my favourite is Diwali. Diwali is a celebration of hope and new beginnings, and it brings us all together in spiritual joy, celebration, and happiness.

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