A Kandeel is a lantern with a wooden framework and covered in coloured matte or glossy papers. These lanterns are hung in front of homes during the Hindu festival of lights Diwali.[1] Kandeel in Sanskrit is known as Akasha Deepa (lantern of the sky). Hindus in earlier days set Kandeels afloat high, a gesture to invite the spirits of their ancestors moving around to come back home and be with them during the festival time. Hence the name AkashaDeepa (lantern of the sky).
Kandeels are hung for around a month from the first day of Diwali. These are traditionally built in a crystal shape with tails at the bottom. In recent times, creativity has given way to different shapes such as stars, globes and airplanes. Opaque papers cut into a complex design give more beauty to a Kandeel by blocking some of the light behind it.
Diwali involves the lighting of small clay lamps (diyas or dīpas) filled with oil to signify the triumph of good over evil.
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