People from all around the world are celebrating the Diwali festival.

What is Diwali?

Diwali is a festival that is celebrated by many different religious communities, including Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and some Buddhists. It is one of the most widely celebrated religious festivals globally, with many celebrating across the United Kingdom.

While it means different things to different people, Diwali for Hindus is a celebration around the story of Rama's return home to the kingdom of Ayodhya, after spending 14 years in exile and slaying the demon Ravana.

When is Diwali This Year?

This is the third day of the five-day Diwali Festival that can fall on dates in October or November, depending on the lunar calendar.

In 2021, the five days are:

• November 2: Dhanteras
• November 3: Choti Diwali
• November 4: Diwali
• November 5: Padwa
• November 6: Bhai Duj

How People Celebrate Diwali Amid the Covid-19 Pandemic?

For the second year in a row though, celebrations will be very different to usual because of the coronavirus pandemic.

A time for feasts, prayers and fireworks, Diwali is one of the most important festivals in India. It is known as the festival of lights as people illuminate oil lamps or candles to symbolise the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

Diwali is typically celebrated by socializing and exchanging gifts with family and friends. Many light oil lamps or candles symbolize a victory of light over darkness, and fireworks are set off as part of the celebrations.

Why is Diwali Important?

For some, Diwali marks the beginning of a new year. It is also the social highpoint for Indians as people - buoyed by festive cheer - throw parties, meet friends and family and exchange gifts.

The exact dates of the festival change each year and are determined by the position of the moon, but it typically falls between October and November. This year, Diwali is being celebrated on Thursday.

Government officials have been urging people to maintain social distancing and to wear masks during the festive season.

Ahead of Diwali, several states ordered complete or partial bans on the use of firecrackers. In the past though, similar bans have often been flouted.