What do Diwali candles represent?
A diya, diyo, deya, divaa, deepa, deepam, deep , deepak or saki (in Assamese) is an oil lamp usually made from clay, with a cotton wick dipped in ghee or vegetable oils. Diyas are native to the Indian subcontinent often used in Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain and Zoroastrian religious festivals such as Diwali or the Kushti ceremony.
Clay Diyas are often used temporarily as lighting for special occasions, while diyas made of brass are permanent fixtures in homes and temples. Especially in Diwali, diyas represent enlightenment, knowledge, or wisdom. Diyas are a part of Indian culture, as a representative or sakshi for auspicious reasons, as well as an indicator of light that destroys darkness. They are also used as decoration during the festival of lights - Diwali. Traditionally, Indians light a diya every morning and evening.