IAGY plans celebration of Diwali

Commonly known as theFestival of Lights, the event signifies renewal of life and the start of winter.
YOUNGSTOWN -- The India Association of Greater Youngstown is sponsoring a Diwali celebration at 6 p.m. Saturday at Stambaugh Auditorium, 1000 Fifth Ave.
The cost is 15 for adults, 25 for nonassociation members; 10 for college students with ID; and 10 for children under 12.
Diwali begins today, coinciding with the moonless night. This is perhaps the most well-known of the Indian festivals, says a press release from IAGY.
It is celebrated throughout India as well as in Indian communities throughout the diaspora. It usually takes place 18 days after Dusshera. It is colloquially known as the "Festival of Lights," for the common practice is to light small oil lamps called diyas and place them around the home, in courtyards, verandas and gardens, and on rooftops and outer walls.
The festival is accompanied by the exchange of sweets and the explosion of fireworks. It signifies many things to people across the country, the association says.
It signifies the renewal of life, and accordingly, it is common to wear new clothes on the day of the festival. It also heralds the approach of winter and the beginning of the sowing season.
Food will be catered from a leading Indian restaurant in Cleveland, and cultural dances will be performed from each part of India.