Michigan's South Asian American communities — across several faiths — are preparing to mark the festival of lights, which starts this month.

Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains in India, and among communities worldwide, including here in Michigan, with the festival marked by prayers, lighting lamps, shared meals, music and more.

"One of the most-celebrated Hindu festivals, Diwali, or Deepavali, commemorates the victory of good over evil during the course of five days," the Hindu American Foundation says. "The word refers to rows of diyas — or clay lamps — which are put all around homes and places of worship."

The five-day festival begins Oct. 20 and there are plenty of opportunities to join the festivities.

Here's what you need to know about Diwali.

When is Diwali in 2

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