Deepaboli or Diwali

Deepaboli or Diwali, popularly known as the “Festival of Lights”, refers to the celebration of inner light of higher knowledge that dispels all ignorance -- the ignorance that masks one's true nature, not as the body, but as the unchanging, infinite and transcendent reality. During the first phase of Kali Puja, at the festival of Diwali, Hindus light candles in memory of the souls of departed ancestors. Colourfully attired people visit temples, sing, dance, provide proshad (blessed offerings) and perform traditional rituals all night during the festival. The photos were taken at Sutrapur, Shakharibazar, Tatibazar, Goalnagar, Pannitola and other areas of old Dhaka. Photo: Mumit M.