Shining Lights for Diwali
Warm lights glow in windows and along front walkways. Bright shapes shine on the floor near open doors.
For many people around the world, it is time for Diwali. In some places, this special holiday is called Deepavali.
Both names mean a row of lights. Diwali is an important religious and cultural festival.
Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and some Buddhists celebrate this holiday. Because it follows a lunar calendar, the date changes each year.
It happens in the autumn, usually in October or November. For many families, the festival lasts for five days.
Customs can look different from one home to the next. Before the holiday starts, many families clean their homes.
They hang strings of lights and bright marigold flowers by the door. Some people make floor art called rangoli near the entrance.
They use colored rice, sand, or flower petals to make patterns. These bright designs welcome guests into the home.
Small clay lamps called diyas are an important part of the holiday. Adults place diyas in safe spots along steps and windows.
The warm glow stands for goodness and hope. It reminds people that light is stronger than darkness.
Food and family are also a big part of the celebration. Many people put on new clothes and visit relatives and neighbors.
- festival:
- A special time or event when people gather to celebrate.
- autumn:
- The season of the year between summer and winter, also called fall.
- entrance:
- A door, gate, or opening where you go into a place.
- patterns:
- Shapes, lines, or colors that repeat in a nice design.
- relatives:
- Members of your family, like aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents.
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Preview questions from this passageShowHide
- 1What do the names Diwali and Deepavali both mean?
- 2During which season and months does Diwali usually happen?
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About this informational passage for Lower Elementary
“Shining Lights for Diwali” is a informational reading passage about Diwali and Deepavali, written for Lower Elementary. It takes about 2 minutes to read (244 words) and comes with an interactive quiz and a printable worksheet with comprehension questions and an answer key.