SAN FRANCISCO (DIYA TV) — As Diwali, or Deepavali, begins to wind down, the Festival of Lights celebration marks new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness.

The origin of the word, which means “rows of lighted lamps,” is illustrated by millions of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains as they decorate their homes and other spaces with diya lamps.

This year in Ayodhya, the rows of diya lamps stretched far and beyond as a new Guinness record was set with 300,150 lit up for five minutes.

Rajesh Kumar Singh/Associated Press

According to the New York Times, it took thousands of volunteers to light the lamps, which were placed alongside Sarayu River and throughout the town squares.

Observed usually between October and November, the festival also marks the beginning of a the New Year for millions of Hindus, Jains and Sikhs around the world. Diwali as a whole shares a commonality — the victory of good over evil.

Messages of warm wishes were shared by many public figures, whether from high profile tech CEOs like Apple’s Tim Cook or Google’s Sundar Pichai.

Additionally, celebrities also spread their thoughts to those celebrating like actress Priyanka Chopra.

Regardless of faith, Diwali has become a national festival throughout the world.

In the U.S., landmarks such as Disneyland and Times Square have seen the streets filled with vibrant colors and shows to connect with the general public.

The U.S. Postal Service began to commemorate Diwali in 2016 with a “Forever” stamp, showcasing the diaspora in the West.

Even President Trump during this time stated that Diwali “is a special opportunity” to reflect on U.S.-Indian relations as he’ll be hosting a celebration at the White House.
“The President will be celebrating Diwali with a ceremonial lighting of the diya (lamp) in the Oval Office next Tuesday,” Deputy Assistant to the president Raj Shah said in a statement on Thursday.