Diwali is a five-day festival widely known as the Hindu New Year, and comes from the Sanskrit word dipavali (dipa-- lights, vali-- numerous). The festival is commonly observed by illuminating candles or other lights in homes, temples and public spaces, and by offering opulent preparations of food to the deity.

In ancient times, Diwali was first observed by the citizens of Ayodhya to celebrate the joyful return of King Rama, an incarnation of Krishna. In another era, this was also the day when Lord Krishna performed His Damodara childhood pastime of breaking the pots of yogurt and letting Himself be bound by Mother Yashoda. Devotees remember these pastimes during this auspicious month known as Karttika.