Q: Ok, so i am gonna celebrate diwali this year with my family, but i am Christan so i can't go to a temple, or anything like that. I know it sounds weird, i just love the indian culture, and i want to live there ( no matter how poor the place i want to live is) when i am married. What are the symbols of diwali? how many diya's should i light? what are the best diya's and where could i find them? I do not live anywhere near little india, though. I speak hindi, and love bollywood, my best friend is lucky enough to live in india, and be hindu. Are there any special decorations? Any thing not to do? I know that the tradition is to wear new clothes, but I do not own a one piece sari, should i wear my two piece? Or should i make a one piece? What is the main reason to celebrate diwali for you? What do you do? What gifts should i give, and to who? SHould i make cards? My whole family is christian, (methodist, catholic) But i really want to celebrate diwali. To me it means a new start, and when ever i hear about it, i smile. I have been studying it since first grade, when i met my best friend, sanjana. It is October 23 this year, right? Should i have a party? American girl who wants to be indian. Why shouldn't I? I love america, my cousin is in iraq right now, don't get me wrong, but I just think that their culture is beautiful, and I want to celebrate it. I do not mean to offend anyone. And any ignorant people who say i should not do this because i am christian, and if you call me or anyone from india a terrorist, i will delete your guys's questions. No offence, but they offend ME. Please keep it clean, kids like me go on this site, to. In answer to your question, I learned hindi not from the bollywood films and songs, but from my best friend. She is the one that got me interested in different cultures in first grade, since she was so different. I went to a class, and am going to the class still but i only know a few words, since i just started a few months ago. Thanks again from all of you for the fabulous answers! I don't think i can choose between the first two answers! Sorry to the others, but they were the most detailed, and gave all the information you gave. I have a suspision that one of you read and just listed facts that they had. Thank you!
A: Welcome and Happy Diwali*! You CAN visit a templae if you so desire. No one will stop you. All you do is take off shoes and bow your head. You do not lose your religion . There is no bar. Hindu Religion welcomes everyone. You can wear any new clothes. Salwar suits , saris, western. Modern girls wear western clothing. We light 14 Diyas on 14th day of waning Moon = a day before New Moon. Main Diwali day u can light any amount of diyas and candles. Gifts: any type will do. Like Christmas. Jewelry, clothes, crystals, chocolates... Party: not needed. But if u want to , you can. Fire crackers may be used. for cards and other , see cards on line. e'cards will give u ideas. Also check sify.com, ndtv.com and indiatimes.com for gift and lamp ideas. Have a good time.