What is Diwali, the festival of lights, and how will it be celebrated amid coronavirus?

Beginning on Thursday, more than a billion people around the world will began the annual celebration of Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights that many consider to be the start of the new year. …

The celebration lasts five days, during which candles, firecrackers and clay lamps known as diyas are lit to signify the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, Bhalla said. If you want to greet someone who is celebrating you can say “happy Diwali” or “saal mubarak” which means “Happy New Year.”

People will also decorate with rangolis, intricate patterns made from colored powder, rice or flowers, on the floor of their homes. Food is also a major part of the holiday, with traditional sweets and savory items eaten. …

By N’dea Yancey-Bragg, USA Today