When it comes to Mumbai, and more particularly, India as a whole, one of the most popular cultural celebrations is Diwali. Diwali is a widely known term used all over the world, but the celebration is also popularly known as "Row of Lights," "Festival of Lights," and "Deepavali." Deepavali is the actual name of the celebration, but the term was shortened to Diwali. The celebration is celebrated by all kinds of religions, including Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism, and others. While Diwali is popular amongst all kinds of religions, it is probably more popular, as well as important, among the Hindu faith; being an official holiday in many different countries.

For anybody following the Hindu faith, or at least residing in India, knows about the epic tale, "The Ramayana." In the story, essentially, Lord Rama is ultimately banished for fourteen years; however, Diwali is the celebration that jubilates over the coming home of Rama. In other religions, Diwali is usually based upon a person (divine or not), and what he or she did. Jainism followers celebrate Diwali because they believe that it marks Mahavira's achieving of nirvana. The celebration is usually different from religion to religion, but is still is a symbolic celebration for most.

The main stable of a Diwali celebration lies with the diya. A diya is a small, usually oil-lit lamp. During Diwali, a multitude of these diyas are lit, just as they were when Lord Rama made his return. The entire celebration lasts for five days, with each day commemorating something different. From a more contemporary standpoint, Diwali is extremely significant for businesses in India as most will begin a new year financially on the beginning of Diwali. Ultimately, the last day of Diwali, Yama Divitiya, is a day in which brothers are invited to the homes of their sisters.