“The Diwali ceremony
can be observed in the temple by illuminating hundreds of candles, in different parts of the temple, and offering special prasada to the Deity. This ceremony was observed by the inhabitants of Ayodhya, the kingdom of Lord Ramachandra, after Lord Ramachandra was out of His kingdom due to His fourteen years banishment by the order of His father. His younger stepbrother Bharata took charge of the kingdom, and the day on which Lord Ramachandra took back the charge from His brother and was seated on the throne is observed as Diwali. This is the original idea of Diwali, or Dipavali. Dipavali means the same thing—Dipa means candles, and vali means numerous. When numerous candles are lighted it is called Dipavali. In India, this Dipavali function is celebrated as a special auspicious occasion. This Dipavali function can be observed on 21st October, and prasada can be distributed on the 22nd October, during daytime, which is known as the Govardhana Puja and Annakuta ceremony. In India, in all Vaishnava temples, this ceremony is observed, and hundreds of people are given prasada according to the capacity of the temple.”
—Srila Prabhupada letter, October 10, 1968
