In Mauritius, we celebrate 'Diwali', the festival of lights, which symbolizes the victory of good over evil, the triumph of light over darkness, justice over injustice and intelligence over ignorance.
On this occasion, people of hindu faith renovate their houses by cleaning, washing, painting where required and decorating with colourful lights. The whole significance of 'Diwali' resides in the lamp. Lighting the lamp symbolises lighting the Soul.
But in pure tradition, they light what is called a 'diya', a small lamp made of clay fitted with cotton dipped in oil or vegetable ghee. We also cook sweet cakes and share them among our neighbours, relatives and friends. Here in Mauritius, the most popular cake is "gateau patate", in other words, 'sweet potato cake'.