History of Diwali in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 21, 2025

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.

2003: First Diwali Celebration at the White House

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.

2007: US Congress Officially Recognizes Diwali

In 2007, the United States Congress officially recognized the religious and historical significance of Diwali, solidifying its importance in the US.

2009: Obama Attends Diwali at the White House

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.

2009: Diwali Celebrations at 10 Downing Street

Since 2009, Diwali has been celebrated annually at 10 Downing Street, the residence of the British Prime Minister, highlighting the festival's growing recognition.

2013: Fireworks sales for Diwali season

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.

2017: Projected Online Shopping Boom

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.

2020: Launch of INDF ETF

In 2020, the INDF ETF was launched to mark the start of Diwali, coinciding with the Diwali Muhurat trading session.

2023: New Delhi's Air Pollution Peak

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.

2023: Guinness World Record for Oil Lamps in Ayodhya

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.