Deepavali

Deepavali (Diwali) spreads throughout the island’s various regions, but mostly observable in the North, East and hill country. However, the annual celebration of Deepavali, among the Tamil Hindus of Lanka, is one of the most famous festivals in Sri Lanka. This ‘Festival of Lights’ signifies warding off darkness and bringing light into one’s life and home.

The Tamil community in Sri Lanka celebrates Deepavali with great splendor by lighting lamps, bursting firecrackers, singing, dancing, wearing new clothes, visiting Hindu temples, exchanging gifts and meeting their loved ones over lavish meals. The idea behind lighting oil lamps is to seek blessings from the Goddess Lakshmi (goddess of wealth).

Where: Throughout Sri Lanka

When: October or November