Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a major Hindu festival of lights celebrated also in Jainism and Sikhism. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. Celebrated during the Hindu months of Ashvin and Kārtika (mid-September to mid-November), the celebrations typically span five to six days.
In 2003, Diwali was first celebrated at the White House by George W. Bush, marking a significant step in recognizing the festival in the United States.
In 2007, the United States Congress officially recognized the religious and historical significance of Diwali, solidifying its importance in the US.
In 2009, Barack Obama became the first president to personally attend Diwali celebrations at the White House, further emphasizing the festival's importance and recognition.
Since 2009, Diwali has been celebrated annually at 10 Downing Street, the residence of the British Prime Minister, highlighting the festival's growing recognition.
In 2013, approximately ₹25 billion (US$290 million) worth of fireworks were sold to merchants for Diwali, equating to a retail value of around ₹50 billion (US$580 million), according to The Times of India.
In 2017, ASSOCHAM forecasted online shopping to exceed ₹300 billion (US$3.5 billion) during the Diwali season, with approximately two-thirds of Indian households expected to spend between ₹5,000 (US$58) and ₹10,000 (US$120) on Diwali celebrations.
In 2020, the INDF ETF was launched to mark the start of Diwali, coinciding with the Diwali Muhurat trading session.
During the 2023 Diwali celebration, New Delhi experienced a severe spike in air pollution, briefly holding the top spot worldwide with an air quality index of 680 on one night.
In 2023, a Diwali celebration in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India, achieved a Guinness World Record for the largest display of oil lamps, with 2,223,676 lamps lit on the eve of Diwali.
India officially the Republic of India is a South Asian...
The White House located at Pennsylvania Avenue NW in Washington...
George W Bush served as the rd President of the...
Fireworks are pyrotechnic devices primarily used for entertainment and aesthetic...
The Air Quality Index AQI is a tool used by...
Barack Obama the th U S President - was the...
30 minutes ago Megan Thee Stallion Flaunts Figure at Coachella, Parties with Justin Bieber
30 minutes ago Pavel Dorofeyev shines, scores goal and prepares for playoffs with Golden Knights.
31 minutes ago Carl's Jr.: Exploring the best burger and the significance of 4/20 holiday.
31 minutes ago Kardashian-Jenners host lavish Easter 2025 celebrations; some siblings snub the event.
31 minutes ago Mike Dunleavy extends Curry's window; Draymond Green finalist for Defensive Player; NBA awards.
32 minutes ago Cameron Brink's Expected Return to Sparks in June: Major Announcement and Anticipation
The Real ID Act of is a US federal law...
Bernard Bernie Sanders is a prominent American politician currently serving...
Michael Jordan also known as MJ is a celebrated American...
Pamela Jo Bondi is an American attorney lobbyist and politician...
Donald John Trump is an American politician media personality and...
Marco Rubio is an American politician who served as a...