What does Diwali symbolize in Hinduism?

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance in Hinduism. This theme is integral to the celebration, where the lighting of oil lamps (diyas) in homes and public spaces represents the illumination that knowledge and goodness bring into the world while dispelling the gloom of negativity and harm.

The festival is rooted in various mythological stories, the most common being the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana, which epitomizes the triumph of righteousness. Diwali also coincides with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, signifying prosperity and well-being, reinforcing the notion that light brings positivity and hope.

While the arrival of spring, the harvest season, and the beginning of the new year are significant in various cultural and religious contexts, they do not encapsulate the overarching theme of Diwali. Instead, the festival's essence lies primarily in celebrating the light that represents positivity and moral victory.