TACA announces its 2027 Silver Cup Award honorees

Diwali, the festival of lights, is the most important celebration for Hindus in India and is widely observed by Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, and the Indian diaspora. The name derives from Deepavali and symbolically represents the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance through rows of clay lamps. The festival follows the Hindu lunar calendar and typically falls in late October or early November; this year Diwali is on November 8. Traditions vary by region: in southern India, an early-morning oil bath symbolizes purification, while in the north the focus is on the goddess Lakshmi, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. Gambling is traditionally associated with Diwali night, and Dhanteras marks a gold-buying occasion. Decorations often include rangoli, geometric or floral designs drawn with colored powders, and families exchange sweets and gifts. Other faiths mark their own aspects of the celebration: Jains honor Mahavira’s nirvana, Sikhs commemorate Bandi Chhor Divas, and some Buddhists note Emperor Ashoka’s conversion. Diaspora celebrations across North America in 2026 included Disney World in Florida hosting extensive Diwali festivities and Times Square Diwali Eve in New York, with additional events in Jersey City, the Hudson River, San Francisco, and Vancouver. California recently became the third U.S. state to recognize Diwali as an official holiday. AP coverage notes support from Lilly Endowment Inc.