Ashwin, Amavasya
Diwali, the festival of lights, marks Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after exile. Homes and temples are lit with rows of diyas, and Lakshmi Pujan is performed in the evening for prosperity. On the same night Bengal and eastern India celebrate Kali Puja, and in much of South India the festival is known as Deepavali.
Festival calendar
Other festivals in the calendar.
Narak Chaturdashi / Choti Diwali
Ashwin, Krishna Chaturdashi
Narak Chaturdashi marks Lord Krishna's victory over Narakasura. It is observed before dawn with abhyanga snan, a ritual oil bath, and the lighting of lamps.
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Bali Pratipada / Govardhan Puja
Kartik, Shukla Pratipada
Govardhan Puja, observed on Kartik Shukla Pratipada just after Diwali, marks Lord Krishna lifting Govardhan hill to shelter the people of Vraj from Lord Indra's storm. Devotees prepare an Annakut, a large offering of food. The same day is also celebrated as Bali Pratipada, honouring King Bali.
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Skanda Sashti / Soorasamharam
Kartik, Shukla Pratipada – Shashthi
Skanda Sashti is six days of fasting and prayer at Murugan temples, closing with Soorasamharam, which marks Lord Murugan's victory over the asura Surapadman.
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