India, Oct. 30 -- From the time we are little children, we are told that Diwali - or Deepawali - is the festival of lights that marks the triumph of good over evil. Families across India celebrate by lighting diyas, illuminating their houses to welcome the Goddess Lakshmi, who is supposed to visit on this occasion.

I am sure this year will be no different. We will all light diyas - or candles - on our balconies, hang fairy lights on the facade of our homes, and add sparkle in many other ways to our lives. But hang on just a moment. What if this year we did something different? What if this year we celebrated Diwali by lighting up other people lives?

If the idea tempts you, then let me list some easy ways in which you can do exactly that...