Celebrating Diwali at home this year

Diwali tea light

For millions of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the world, Diwali, the five-day festival of lights, celebrates new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil, and light over darkness. With a new national lockdown in place, celebrations be very different this year.

With a new national lockdown, celebrations for Diwali, the festival of lights, will be very different this year.

For millions of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the world, the five-day festival of Diwali celebrates new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil, and light over darkness.

In 2020 Diwali begins on Thursday 12 November and lasts for five days, with the main day of celebrations taking place on Saturday 14 November.

Traditionally, the festival involves visits to temples and gurdwaras, huge firework displays, parties and families getting together in their homes.

But tougher restrictions mean that people must stay at home and there will be no mixing with anyone they don’t live with (support bubbles excepting). Instead, celebrations are being held virtually

Read more about how celebrations are being held virtually

Kashmira Sangle, BAME Committee Member said:

“This Diwali will be unlike one we have ever experienced before. While big gatherings and family visits won’t be possible this year, households across the country are preparing to mark this year’s celebrations, albeit differently.  

“The pandemic reminds us that its more important than ever to remember why we celebrate Diwali.

“Light will triumph over darkness and this storm will pass.”

We wish all our staff and patients a safe and happy Diwali.

Find out more

Our staff networks

Our networks are open to all staff members who want to help promote equality.

Find out more about our staff networks