Many families light oil lamps in their homes during the nights of Diwali.

Udayaditya Barua on Unsplash 

Diwali Through the Eyes of EBHS

BY AASMI BORA

NOVEMBER 26, 2025, 8:01 A.M.

Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most widely celebrated Hindu festivals. It is one of the most vibrant celebrations within South Asian communities, and high school students play a significant role in preserving its traditions while giving the holiday their own modern touch.

Once the school day ends, the heart of Diwali unfolds at home. High schoolers gather with their families to light small oil lamps called diyas, decorate entryways, and prepare festive foods such as “laddoo and jalebi, a diwali staple” as Senior Navika Reddy said.  

Junior Vaishnavi Muturi shares that her favorite part of the festival is “helping set out candles or diyas, hanging colorful decorations like string lights, and making colorful rangoli designs outside.” As part of Diwali festivities, many families hold a small prayer, or puja, to welcome prosperity and good fortune into the new year.

One of the most exciting parts of the celebration for teens is the firecrackers and fireworks, which fill the streets with light, sound, and laughter. 

Junior Shipra Patil said, “I love the firecrackers. They are my favorite part of Diwali.” These firecrackers also symbolize the triumph of light over darkness. Students often gather in groups with friends and family to enjoy the colorful displays, creating a sense of excitement and camaraderie. 

Junior Yashvi Singh said, “I love the sense of community Diwali brings. We all get to come together and especially have a great time lighting fireworks.”

For high schoolers, Diwali is more than just a cultural celebration. It’s a moment to slow down from their demanding schedules and reconnect with their heritage, bringing a little more light into their lives.