Skipton International celebrates the festival of light
From all of us to all of you, an invitation to discover the Festival of Lights that illuminates
a billion hearts around the world..
years of tradition, celebrating Diwali each autumn with glowing lights, festive sweets and cherished moments with family.
people worldwide celebrate Diwali each year, including vibrant communities across the UK, Guernsey and Jersey.
Known as the “Festival of Lights”, takes its name from Deepavali, meaning“row of lamps”. Families illuminate their homes with traditional clay lamps called diyas, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance and good over evil.
🪔 Millions of handcrafted diyas shine together, transforming homes, streets and communities into a beautiful celebration of golden light.
Diwali is a vibrant tapestry of faiths. Embraced by Hindu, Sikh, and Jain communities, each distinct tradition contributes its own radiant spark to a global celebration of light.
Celebrates the return of Prince Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana to their kingdom of Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. The homecoming follows Rama’s victory over the 10-headed demon king Ravana, who had abducted Sita. The people of Ayodhya lit rows of clay lamps (diyas) along the streets to guide their righteous king and queen home.
Celebrates the day Lord Krishna (an avatar of Vishnu), along with his wife Satyabhama, defeated the tyrannical demon Narakasura, who had terrorized the heavens and earth and imprisoned thousands of women. Celebrated as Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali) with oil baths, fireworks, and lamps to mark liberation from fear.
Diwali commemorates the nirvana (enlightenment and liberation/moksha) of Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara (spiritual teacher) of Jainism, who attained ultimate spiritual freedom on this day in 527 BCE. It is believed that as Mahavira attained final liberation, 18 kings and gods gathered and lit lamps so that the light of his spiritual wisdom would continue to shine even after his physical presence departed.
✦ Also celebrated by Buddhists in some regions — one date, many meanings, one shared glow ✦
Keep scrolling — walk through Diwali day by day.
Day of fortune
The festival opens with shopping for gold, silver and new utensils — a symbol of prosperity for the year ahead. Homes are cleaned and decorated from top to bottom.
Choti Diwali
Known as “Little Diwali”. Families bathe at dawn, light a few early lamps, and share the first sweets — celebrating the defeat of the demon Narakasura.
Diwali night
The heart of the festival. Homes glow with rows of diyas, families gather for prayers to Lakshmi (goddess of prosperity), fireworks light the sky, and feasts run late into the night.
Annakut
Families honour the bond between nature and nourishment. In temples, “mountains” of food are stacked in gratitude — a festival of sharing at its most generous.
Day of siblings
The closing day celebrates the love between brothers and sisters — gifts, blessings and a final family meal before the lamps are peacefully rested for another year.
Food is at the heart of Diwali celebrations, bringing families and friends together. From colourful mithai and traditional favourites to savoury snacks and festive meals, discover some of the flavours enjoyed during the Festival of Lights.
Diwali is a time for sharing mithai, traditional Indian sweets given to family, friends and loved ones. From kaju katli (silver-leafed cashew fudge), and barfi to besan ladoo, these colourful treats are a much-loved part of the celebrations.
From soft, syrup-soaked Gulab jamun to crisp, golden jalebisweet treats add an unmistakable touch of indulgence to Diwali celebrations. Every family and region has its own favourites to enjoy and share.
Diwali isn't only about sweets. Samosas, namkeen, chaat and other savoury favourites bring spice, crunch and variety to festive gatherings, balancing the sweetness of the celebrations.
Diwali meals bring family and friends together around the table. From puris and fragrant rice dishes to paneer, vegetable curries and regional specialities, festive menus vary from home to home, making every celebration unique.
Diwali is a celebration of light, togetherness and new beginnings. We warmly invite everyone to share in the occasion, discover its traditions and celebrate together. There’s a place for everyone in the glow of Diwali. ✷
Add a Splash of Colour
Brighten the celebration with a touch of colour. Wear something colourful or festive and help bring the joyful spirit of Diwali to the day.
Share the Celebration
Diwali is about connection and togetherness. Share a meal, enjoy a sweet treat or simply take a moment to discover the traditions that make the Festival of Lights so special.
Spread the Light
Carry the spirit of Diwali beyond the celebration through kindness, positivity and togetherness. A small gesture can brighten someone’s day.
✦ Happy Diwali from Skipton International ✦