Wishing a joyful Diwali!

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 11:20:01 -0400

The Festival of Lights, Diwali, is a five-day celebration that began this year on Saturday, October 18, 2025.

The festival's main night of Lakshmi Puja is on Monday, October 20, 2025, and is a profound spiritual observance symbolizing the universal triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.

Diwali is primarily celebrated by those of the Hindu, Sikh, and Jain faiths, along with some Buddhists, but its message of hope and renewal is shared by communities worldwide.

During this special time, homes are illuminated with colorful lights and traditional clay lamps, or diyas. The lighting of these lamps, along with celebratory fireworks meant to ward off evil spirits, signifies a spiritual awakening and the coming of prosperity. It is a time for family gatherings, sharing traditional sweets and savory foods, and strengthening bonds with loved ones.

The Five Days of Diwali

1. Dhanteras (Oct 18)

2. Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali (Oct 19)

3. Lakshmi Puja (The main day: Oct 20)

4. Goverdhan Puja, Balipratipada, or Annakut (Oct 21 or 22, depending on region)

5. Bhai Dooj, Bhai Tika, or Bhai Bij (Oct 22 or 23, depending on region)

Some snacks or foods you may find during Diwali are:

Ladoo/Laddu: Round sweet balls made from various flours, nuts, and ingredients. Popular varieties include Besan Laddu (chickpea flour), Nariyal Laddu (coconut), and Rava Laddu (semolina).

Barfi/Burfi: A dense, fudge-like sweet. Common flavors are Kaju Katli (cashew-based, often cut into diamond shapes and covered with edible silver leaf), Badam Barfi (almond), and Coconut Barfi.

Gulab Jamun: Soft, spongy balls made from milk solids (khoya), deep-fried, and soaked in a rose-scented sugar syrup.

Chakli / Murukku: Spiral-shaped, crunchy snacks made from rice flour, gram flour (besan), and spices.

Mathri: Flaky, savory crackers often spiced with carom seeds (ajwain), perfect for having with tea.

Chaats: A general term for a variety of savory street snacks that are often served during gatherings, such as Dahi Puri or Aloo Tikki Chaat (spiced potato patties topped with chutneys and yogurt).

From all of us at the Mosaic, we wish you and your loved ones a Diwali that brings warmth, peace, and lasting prosperity. Have a joyful Festival of Lights!