Hicksville, Nov. 6 -- The world is ushering in Diwali, the Festival of Lights, with prayers, festive gatherings, dazzling decorations, and age-old traditions symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

Also known as Deepavali, the festival will be celebrated on November 8 this year, with festivities unfolding over several days. The celebrations will begin with Dhanteras on November 6, followed by Choti Diwali, Lakshmi Puja, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj, bringing families and communities together in a spirit of joy and renewal.

Across India, preparations are gathering momentum as markets bustle with shoppers, homes are adorned with colorful rangolis and strings of lights, and earthen diyas are being readied to br...