Traditionally, Diwali is four days of celebration.
Beginning with Dhantraiyodashi, little clay lamps are lit as an offering to God to ward off evil spirits and to usher prosperity.
The second day is Narak Chaturdashi. It was on this day that the evil demon Naraksura was slayed by Lord Krishna.
Laxmi Pujan is celebrated on the third day when the family gets together to pray and thanks god for all the blessings of the previous year. This is also to welcome the new year the following day, when businessmen start new account books. Families visit relatives and friends and exchange gifts and sweets. It is an auspicious day for new beginnings and also marks the beginning of the wedding season.