What is the name given to the 40 days leading up to Easter?

Lent is a significant period in the Christian calendar, marking the 40 days (excluding Sundays) leading up to Easter. It's a time of reflection, repentance, and spiritual preparation for the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The number 40 is symbolic, representing the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert and the 40 years the Israelites wandered in the wilderness. During Lent, many Christians choose to give up certain luxuries or habits as a form of self-discipline and to focus on prayer and charitable works. This practice is meant to help them identify with Jesus's sacrifice and deepen their faith. While Diwali, Hannukah, and Vaisakhi are important religious festivals, they belong to Hinduism, Judaism, and Sikhism respectively, and have no connection to the Christian observance of Easter. Therefore, Lent is the only answer that aligns with the Christian tradition of preparing for Easter.
Lent is like a long 'L' for 'longing' for Easter, a time of reflection before the celebration.