Diwali is otherwise known as the Festival of Light, so it's quite apt that this year Diwali falls when we put the clock back, and the nights suddenly get darker.
Diwali, is celebrated by Hindus, some Buddhists and Sikhs, in a similar way to Christian Christmas, with celebrations over 5 special days:
The first day (October 25, 2019) is known as Dhanteras.
"Dhan" means wealth and "teras" refers to the 13th day of a lunar fortnight on the Hindu calendar. This day is dedicated to celebrating prosperity.
Goddess Lakshmi, goddess of wealth, fortune and prosperity, is believed to have come out of the churning of the ocean on this day and she is welcomed with a special puja (ritual).
Gold is traditionally purchased, and people gather to play cards and gamble.
The second day (October 26, 2019) is known as Naraka Chaturdasi or Chhoti Diwali (small Diwali).
Goddess Kali and Lord Krishna are believed to have destroyed the demon Narakasura on this day, as shown in the image below.
The third day (October 27, 2019) is the new moon day known as Amavasya.
This darkest day of the month is typically the most significant day of the Diwali festival.
Lakshmi is worshiped on this day, with a special puja performed in the evening.
The fourth day (October 28, 2019) has various meanings across India.
In north India, Govardhan Puja is celebrated as the day when Lord Krishna defeated Indra, the god of thunder and rain.
In Gujarat, it's celebrated as the start of a new year.
In Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, the victory of Lord Vishnu over demon king Bali is celebrated as Bali Pratipada or Bali Padyami.
The fifth day (October 29, 2019) is known as Bhai Duj.
It's dedicated to celebrating sisters. Brothers and sisters get together and share food, to honor the bond between them.