Hindu ‘Festival of Lights’

Divali, also spelled Dipawali, will be observed Sunday by Hindus. Called the “festival of lights,” it culminates a festive period of nearly two weeks.

TRADITION: Although Hinduism varies in traditions and celebrations according to regional and language differences, most Hindus consider Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, as the main patroness of the festival. Merchants, for whom the holiday is especially important, begin their new year from this point.

OBSERVANCES: The central ritual is the lighting of lamps and lights inside and outside homes. A temporary altar containing symbols of wealth--coins, ornaments and shells--is built to welcome Lakshmi inside one’s home. Gifts of candy and other sweets are exchanged. Rites will be performed at most Hindu temples today and Sunday.