India, Nov. 5 -- In parts of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, Diwali is celebrated weeks after the rest of the country. Known as Budhi Diwali or Igas Bagwal, the festival has its own stories and customs, rooted in local folklore, farming traditions and community life.

Budhi Diwali, which means "Old Diwali," is celebrated in several Himalayan villages. Depending on local traditions, the festival falls 11 days to a month after the usual Diwali. In Uttarakhand, particularly in Garhwal, it is known as Igas Bagwal, while parts of Himachal Pradesh celebrate it as Budhi Diwali or Manshaari.

The news of Lord Rama's return: According to local folklore, news of Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana took longer to reach remote moun...