5 Days of Celebrations and the Story Behind the Festival of Lights

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the biggest festivals celebrated in India and by Indian communities around the world.

Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali symbolises the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance.

While many people associate Diwali with fireworks, beautifully decorated homes, delicious food, new clothes and family gatherings, the celebrations traditionally begin before the main Diwali night and continue for five days.

The Five Days of Diwali 2026

Day 1: Dhanteras – Friday, 6 November 2026

Dhanteras marks the beginning of Diwali celebrations. The word comes from 'Dhan', meaning wealth, and 'Teras', referring to the thirteenth day of the lunar fortnight.

The day is associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and Lord Dhanvantari, who is associated with Ayurveda and health.

Buying gold, silver, jewellery, new utensils and other valuable items is considered auspicious on this day. Families also clean their homes, decorate entrances with rangoli and light diyas to welcome prosperity and good fortune.

For many Indian families, Dhanteras is the official start of the festive shopping season!

Day 2: Choti Diwali – Saturday, 7 November 2026

Also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, Choti Diwali celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura.

According to Hindu mythology, Narakasura's defeat represents the triumph of good over evil and the removal of darkness.

Traditions include waking up early, taking a special oil bath, decorating homes and lighting diyas. In some parts of India, people also celebrate with fireworks.

Although it is called Choti Diwali, the day has its own important religious and cultural significance.

Day 3: Diwali – Sunday, 8 November 2026

The main Diwali celebration

This is the biggest and most widely recognised day of the festival.

For many Hindu communities, Diwali commemorates Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over Ravana. According to the Ramayana, the people of Ayodhya welcomed Rama, Sita and Lakshmana by lighting rows of oil lamps.

Another important tradition is Lakshmi Puja, when families worship Goddess Lakshmi for wealth, happiness and prosperity, along with Lord Ganesha for wisdom and the removal of obstacles.

Homes are decorated with colourful rangoli, flowers, fairy lights and rows of diyas. Families dress in new clothes, exchange gifts, share sweets and enjoy festive meals together.

And, of course, fireworks and celebrations light up the night in many communities.

For millions of people around the world, Diwali is a time to reconnect with family, welcome new beginnings and spread happiness.

Bandi Chhor Divas – Sunday, 8 November 2026

A celebration of freedom, courage and compassion

While Hindus celebrate Diwali, the same day holds special significance for Sikh communities, who celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas, meaning the 'Day of Liberation'.

The occasion commemorates the release of the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, from imprisonment at Gwalior Fort in 1619, during the reign of Mughal Emperor Jahangir.

According to Sikh tradition, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji secured the release of 52 Hindu kings who were also imprisoned at the fort. When he was offered his freedom, he insisted that the imprisoned kings should be released alongside him. A condition was set that only those who could hold on to his robe could leave with him. Guru Sahib had a special robe made with 52 tassels, allowing all 52 kings to hold on and walk out alongside him. His release, together with the freedom of the 52 kings, became a powerful symbol of justice, courage, compassion and standing up for the freedom of others.

The Golden Temple in Amritsar is beautifully illuminated, with devotees gathering for prayers, kirtan, celebrations and fireworks. Gurdwaras and homes are also decorated with lights.

For Sikhs around the world, including those living in New Zealand, Bandi Chhor Divas is a reminder that true freedom is not just about securing your own liberty, but also helping others achieve theirs.

Day 4: Govardhan Puja – Monday, 9 November 2026

The fourth day is traditionally associated with Govardhan Puja, also known as Annakut.

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill on his little finger to protect the people of Vrindavan from torrential rain sent by Lord Indra.

The story highlights the importance of faith, humility, gratitude and respect for nature.

Devotees celebrate by preparing elaborate food offerings, known as Annakut, which literally means 'mountain of food'. These offerings are presented to Lord Krishna and later shared as prasad.

In some communities, this day also marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year.

Day 5: Bhai Dooj – Tuesday, 10 November 2026

The final day of the traditional five-day Diwali festival celebrates the beautiful bond between brothers and sisters.

Known as Bhai Dooj, Bhai Tika or Bhau Beej in different regions, the day is dedicated to sibling love and family relationships.

Sisters traditionally apply a tilak to their brothers' foreheads and pray for their long life, happiness and well-being. Brothers, in return, give gifts and promise to support and protect their sisters.

It is a day of family gatherings, shared meals, gifts and celebrations.