Diwali (Hindu)
Diwali is held at the start of the Hindu New Year, in the Hindu month of Karthika (October/November). It marks both a new moon and a new year. Families light many small lamps in their homes in honour of Lakshmi, the goddess of fortunes. Hindus around the world visit friends and relations and give each other cards and presents. They let off fireworks, to chase away the spirits of the deceased, and have special feasts. Business people visit the local temple and pray for goodluck in the coming year.
The rich merchant communities of western India celebrate this festival in great style and throughout India all traders open new account books for the coming year on this day.
