Forget old grudges, eat and distribute some sweets (what South Asian event does not involve eating!), light up your home with some candles and dress to impress — Diwali, the "Festival of Lights" is a lively holiday celebrated all over India. It is one of the most well-known Indian festivals around and, this year, Diwali falls on November 12th. Fireworks light up the sky and people get together to celebrate.

Hindus mark this occasion for the return of Ram to the kingdom Ayodhya after completing his 14-year exile. King Ram’s reuniting with his wife signifies the triumph of divine forces over wickedness. Another version of the story is that Sri Lanka's King Ravan abducted India’s King Ram's beautiful wife Sita. King Ram fought King Ram to rescue his wife and Diwali marks her return.

Hindus use the occasion to honor the Mahaa Lakshmi, goddess of Wealth and Prosperity. Accordingly, the business community opens their New Year's account on this day. Lord Ganesha, the symbol of auspiciousness and wisdom, is also worshipped in most Hindu homes on Diwali.

Sikhs also celebrate the holiday as it marks the anniversary of one of their sacred religious leaders, Guru Har Gobind’s, release from captivity.

Overall, Diwali is about starting a new year with positive change. It’s an opportunity to clean house, get that outfit you’ve been wanting, or resolve your disputes. Diwali is a time to get together with your loved ones and start the New Year right.