Fireworks, candles and lanterns brightened up night skies across the world as Hindus, Sikhs and Jains all celebrated Diwali, the festival of lights.
Cows were worshipped, thought to be a reincarnation of the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi. Even police dogs joined in the fun in Nepal, with policeman placing garlands of marigold round their necks to thank them for providing security.
The start of a new year in the traditional Hindu calendar, it also marks the start of a new business year in the accounting world. Some historians believe the five day celebration performs a kind of harvest festival function, celebrating the end of a fruitful season.
It’s traditional to gamble on Diwali, as legend as it that Lady Parvati played dice with her husband Lord Shiv on this day. Gamble on Diwali and you will be rewarded have luck throughout the year.
Diwali brings India together, a country with 18 major languages and 1600 regional dialects. Lighting up the darkness, Huffington Post UK takes a look at pictures from Diwali in South Asia: