India, Nov. 8 -- Diwali is celebrated across India, but not everyone observes the festival in the same way. While people in Goa burn giant effigies of Narkasur, business families in Gujarat worship their account books. In West Bengal, Diwali coincides with Kali Puja, while in Maharashtra, the day begins with a traditional oil bath. From age-old rituals to regional customs, here are five traditions that highlight the many ways India celebrates Diwali.

In Goa, Diwali celebrations begin with the sight of large Narkasur effigies being paraded through neighbourhoods. Made using bamboo, paper and cloth, these figures often have elaborate designs and colourful faces. Some are built by local groups and displayed before being burnt in the early h...