Why do families light little lamps every autumn? Here is the story, told simply for kids.
Long ago in the city of Ayodhya lived a kind prince, Rama, with his wife Sita and his brother Lakshmana.
Rama had to leave home and live in the forest for fourteen years. Sita and Lakshmana went with him.
One day Ravana, a ten-headed king, carried Sita away to his island kingdom of Lanka. Rama was heartbroken.
Hanuman, the brave monkey, found Sita. The monkey army built a bridge of stones across the sea to Lanka.
Rama defeated Ravana and rescued Sita. Good had won over evil, and it was finally time to go home.
The night they returned was dark, with no moon. So the people of Ayodhya lit rows of lamps to welcome them home.
That is why it is called Deepavali, "a row of lamps". Today families light diyas to welcome light into their homes.
Diyas and fairy lights, colourful rangoli at the door, new clothes, sweets to share and prayers to Goddess Lakshmi.
Hindus, Sikhs and Jains all celebrate Diwali, each with their own stories. Tell this one tonight, in English or Hindi.