One of the biggest religious holidays in Hinduism will take place later this month.

The festival of lights, Diwali, will take place on Sunday, November 12.

What is Diwali?

Diwali typically falls in either October or November and coincides with the Hindu New Year.

For Hindus, the festival symbolises the triumph of good over evil, and light over darkness.

According to the mythology, on this day Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after his 14-year exile.

Sita who had been abducted by King Ravana of Lanka was saved by the deity and to celebrate his triumph the kingdom was illuminated.

What traditions take place?

In keeping with its name, the festival of lights, many Hindus light candles and lanterns in their homes.

They also decorate interiors and exteriors with Indian floor art called Rangoli and perform special prayers to the goddess Lakshmi.

In doing so they will hope to receive good fortunes from the deity of wealth and prosperity.

How is it celebrated?

On the day of Diwali, many Hindus will dress in their best clothes and exchange gifts between family, friends and loved ones.

A feast of food will be cooked and Indian sweets called Mithai will be eaten.

Often fireworks will be set off too.

What events will there be across Kent?

There will be celebrations at St George’s Church, Gravesend, on November 10.

The event hosted by Cohesion Plus and partners will start at 6.30pm and will feature a DJ, live entertainment and an Indian buffet.

Tickets cost £5. For more information click here.

The arts charity will also be co-hosting an event with the borough council in Dartford on November 24.

Festivities will begin at 7pm at Dartford Football Club in Princes Road.

Tickets cost £15 – click here.

There will also be a fireworks display at the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara in Gravesend on November 12.

They will be lit at 8pm to celebrate both Bandi Chhor Divas [Sikh festival] and Diwali.

Local temples will be open as usual. In Gravesend, the Hindu Temple is in Manor Road.

Medway Hindu Mandir in Canterbury Street, Gillingham, will also be open for Diwali from 10am to midday and 4pm to 8pm.