Diwali is celebrated by billions of people worldwide, but remains unknown to many across the U.S.

COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI)-

Diwali is a holiday and festival celebrated by roughly a billion people worldwide, but it remains relatively unknown in many areas of our country.

Some area residents are working to change that.

Dr. Ghanshyam Heda of Mississippi University for Women is also a board member of the India Interest Group of the Fulbright Program.

Fulbright is the flagship international academic exchange program run by the U.S. State Department.

Dr. Heda, members of Lowndes County’s Indian and Hindu community, and the Columbus Lowndes Public Library teamed up to bring a a Diwali celebration to Columbus.

The five-day Festival of Light celebrates the victory of light over darkness or good over evil.

Each of the five days celebrates a different value: Wealth, Health, Wisdom, Community Service, and Family.

Dr. Heda says the observance of Diwali has been somewhat limited in the U.S., but it is gaining notice and acceptance.

“Like, you can see also Diwali is now being celebrated in the White House as well, thanks to President Obama. President Obama, then President Trump came in and President Biden came, and now Trump’s second term, we have celebrated it in the White House at a great fanfare. So, there is more awareness of that.”

Monday was Day four of Diwali, in the modern observance, it recognizes service to the community.