Millions of Indians celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights

Millions of Indians celebrated Diwali on Monday as lamps illuminated homes and streets across the country to mark the Hindu festival symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.

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OVER 2.6 million oil lamps are lighted along the Saryu River in Ayodhya, India, Sunday, on the eve of Diwali.

RAJESH KUMAR SINGH Associated Press

Diwali, derived from the word “Deepavali,” meaning “a row of lights,” is typically celebrated by socializing and exchanging gifts. The dates of the festival are based on the Hindu lunar calendar, typically falling in late October or early November.

Shoppers crowded markets to buy flowers, lanterns and candles.