Hyderabad, India, October 27, 2008--His colorful work cut out for him, a vendor strings garlands of marigolds in the southern Indian city of Hyderabad. During the Hindu festival of Diwali, celebrants will don his garlands and offer them to the goddess Laxmi.

Diwali, a five-day festival of lights, has several different mythological traditions. The holiday is celebrated by Jains and Sikhs, as well as Hindus.

Plentiful candy and spectacular fireworks ensure that Diwali is South Asia's most popular festival.