Celebrating Diwali in the South West 2025

What is Diwali?

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and across many parts of the world. The word “Diwali” comes from the Sanskrit term Deepavali, meaning “a row of lights.”

It usually falls between mid-October and mid-November, depending on the lunar calendar. While it has roots in Hindu tradition, it is also celebrated by Jain, Sikh, and some Buddhist communities, each recognising its own unique significance.

What is the significance of Diwali?

Diwali symbolises the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. It marks renewal, reflection, and new beginnings — a time to let go of negativity and welcome positivity and prosperity.

The festival carries different meanings for various faiths and regions:

• In many Hindu traditions, Diwali celebrates the return of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile.
• In other regions, it marks Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura.
• For Jains, Diwali commemorates the spiritual liberation (nirvana) of Lord Mahavira.
• For Sikhs, it celebrates the release of Guru Hargobind from imprisonment, symbolising freedom and justice.

Beyond its religious meaning, Diwali represents joy, gratitude, and togetherness. It is a time for families and communities to come together and celebrate hope and harmony.

How is Diwali celebrated and observed?

Diwali is celebrated in diverse ways, but the common thread is the celebration of light, renewal, and unity. Typical traditions include:

• Cleaning and decorating homes, workplaces, and community spaces.
• Creating rangoli — colourful floor patterns made from powders, flowers, or rice — to welcome guests and positivity.
• Lighting oil lamps (diyas), candles, or decorative lights to symbolise inner light and the triumph of good.
• Wearing new or festive clothes and sharing sweets, gifts, and meals with family, friends, and neighbours.
• Offering prayers and performing puja (worship), often honouring Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
• Enjoying fireworks and celebrations, although these are now often more mindful of environmental and safety considerations.
• Diwali is also a time for reflection, forgiveness, and setting intentions for the year ahead.

How you can support NHS finance colleagues during Diwali

Diwali is an important time for many colleagues across the NHS, including those in finance teams. Small gestures of understanding and inclusion can make a big difference.

Here are some practical ways to show support:

• Acknowledge the festival – A simple greeting or message recognising Diwali can help colleagues feel valued and seen
• Be mindful of time off – Some colleagues may wish to take leave or finish early to spend time with family or attend religious observances.
• Create inclusive opportunities – Consider hosting a short team gathering, bringing in sweets, or allowing space for colleagues to share their traditions if they wish.
• Show cultural awareness – If decorations are used in shared spaces, ensure they are respectful, safe, and inclusive.
• Encourage learning – Promote awareness of Diwali’s meaning and significance through internal communications or informal team discussions.
• Avoid tokenism – Participation should always be voluntary, and celebrations should focus on inclusion rather than obligation.

By showing understanding and flexibility, NHS finance teams can help create a more inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected and supported during important cultural and religious occasions.

From the South West Finance Academy we wish all those that celebrate a very Happy Diwali.