Diwali
Diwali is celebrated to commemorate Lord Rama’s victory over Ravan and his return to Ayodhya.
Diwali: Celebrating the Festival of Lights in All Its Glory
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals in India and among Hindu communities worldwide. Derived from the Sanskrit words “deep” meaning lamp and “avali” meaning row, Diwali literally translates to “a row of lamps.” This festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. It is a time when homes are illuminated with diyas (earthen lamps), colorful rangoli designs adorn doorsteps, fireworks light up the night sky, and families come together to share Diwali sweets (mithai) and feasts.
Diwali
In this comprehensive blog, we’ll explore every aspect of Deepawali, ensuring we cover all elements from its mythological origins to modern celebrations. We’ll delve into the five-day festival structure, including Dhanteras (Dhantrayodashi), Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Deepawali), the main Deepawali day with Lakshmi Puja, Govardhan Puja (Annakut/Balipratipada), and Bhai Dooj (Bhai Duj/Bhai Tika). We’ll also discuss regional variations like Kali Puja in Bengal, Jain Diwali commemorating Mahavira’s moksha, and Bandi Chhor Divas for Sikhs. Additionally, we’ll touch on the Hindu calendar / tithi (Ashvin–Kartika), Diwali puja vidhi / Lakshmi aarti, Dhanteras gold buying, Diwali dates (including the Diwali 2025 date), Diwali gifts & shopping,
The Origins and Significance of Diwali (Deepavali)
Diwali’s roots trace back thousands of years to ancient Indian scriptures and epics. The most popular legend associates Diwali with Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya from his 14-year exile, as described in the epic Ramayana. According to the Ramayana, Rama, along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, defeated the demon king Ravana, who had abducted Sita. Upon their victorious return, the people of Ayodhya lit diyas to illuminate the path and celebrate the triumph of righteousness. This event marks the core theme of Diwali: the defeat of evil forces and the restoration of dharma (righteousness).
But Diwali’s significance extends beyond Hinduism. For Jains, Diwali commemorates Mahavira’s moksha, the attainment of nirvana by Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, in 527 BCE. Jains celebrate by lighting lamps to symbolize the light of knowledge that Mahavira spread, dispelling ignorance. Similarly, Sikhs observe Bandi Chhor Divas on the same day, marking the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib and 52 other princes from imprisonment by Mughal Emperor Jahangir in 1619. Guru Hargobind’s return to Amritsar was celebrated with lights, aligning with Diwali’s theme of freedom and enlightenment.
In Bengal and parts of eastern India, Diwali coincides with Kali Puja, where Goddess Kali is worshipped for protection against evil. Kali Puja involves intense rituals, including animal sacrifices in some traditional practices (though increasingly symbolic today), and is performed on the new moon night.
These diverse interpretations highlight Diwali’s universal appeal, uniting people across religions in a shared celebration of positivity.
Deepawali and the Hindu Calendar / Tithi (Ashvin–Kartika)
Deepawali is governed by the Hindu lunar calendar, specifically falling in the months of Ashvin and Kartika. The festival spans the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) of Ashvin and the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) of Kartika. The main day is on Amavasya (new moon) tithi of Kartika, which is why dates vary each year according to the lunar cycle.
Diwali
The Hindu calendar is lunisolar, combining lunar phases with solar positions. Tithis are lunar days, and Diwali’s timing is calculated based on these. For instance, Dhanteras falls on the 13th tithi of Krishna Paksha in Kartika, Naraka Chaturdashi on the 14th, Diwali on Amavasya, Govardhan Puja on Pratipada (first day of Shukla Paksha), and Bhai Dooj on Dwitiya (second day). This calendar system ensures Deepawali aligns with auspicious astronomical alignments, emphasizing harmony with nature.
Understanding these tithis helps in planning puja rituals, as each day has specific muhurats (auspicious timings) for worship.
Diwali Dates: Focus on Diwali 2025 Date and the Five-Day Schedule
Diwali dates fluctuate annually due to the lunar calendar. In 2025, Diwali falls on Monday, October 20, with Lakshmi Puja as the main highlight. The festival typically lasts five days, each with unique rituals and significance. Here’s the 2025 schedule based on reliable sources:
- Dhanteras (Dhantrayodashi): Saturday, October 18, 2025. This marks the start, focusing on wealth and health.
- Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Deepawali): Sunday, October 19, 2025. A day for cleansing and warding off evil.
- Diwali (Deepavali, Lakshmi Puja): Monday, October 20, 2025. The pinnacle with lights and prayers.
- Govardhan Puja (Annakut/Balipratipada): Tuesday, October 21, 2025. Honoring nature and abundance.
- Bhai Dooj (Bhai Duj/Bhai Tika): Thursday, October 23, 2025. Celebrating sibling bonds (note the gap due to tithi timings).
These dates allow ample time for preparations like shopping and decorating. Always consult a panchang for exact muhurats in your region.
The Five Days of Diwali: A Day-by-Day Breakdown
Day 1: Dhanteras (Dhantrayodashi)
Dhanteras, or Dhantrayodashi, kicks off Diwali on the 13th day of the dark half of Kartika. “Dhan” means wealth, and “teras” refers to the 13th day. This day is dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, and Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity.
A key tradition is Dhanteras gold buying. People purchase gold, silver, utensils, or new items to invite wealth. It’s believed that investments made on this day multiply. Homes are cleaned, and a small puja is performed with diyas lit in the evening. Shopping for Diwali gifts begins here, with markets bustling with deals on jewelry and appliances.
Expand on customs: Families buy new brooms to sweep away negativity, and some perform Yama Deepam to ward off untimely death.
Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali)
Known as Choti Deepawali or Naraka Chaturdashi, this falls on the 14th tithi. It commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over demon Narakasura, symbolizing the removal of laziness and evil.
Rituals include Abhyang Snan (oil bath) at dawn for purification. Homes are decorated with rangoli designs and diyas, though on a smaller scale than the main day. Fireworks start lightly, and sweets are shared. It’s a preparatory day for the grand celebrations ahead.
Day 3: Deepawali Main Day with Lakshmi Puja (Lakshmi Pujan)
The heart of Deepawali is Amavasya, when Lakshmi Puja is performed. Goddess Lakshmi, deity of wealth, is worshipped alongside Lord Ganesha for obstacle removal and Lord Kuber for treasure.
The evening puja involves lighting diyas everywhere to guide Lakshmi home. Families gather for Deepawali sweets (mithai) & feasts, featuring laddoos, barfis, and savory snacks like chakli. Fireworks (firecrackers) explode in joyous displays, though eco-friendly options are increasingly popular.
Rangoli designs, intricate patterns made with colored powders, rice, or flowers, welcome prosperity. Diyas (earthen lamps) are essential, symbolizing inner light.
Day 4: Govardhan Puja (Annakut/Balipratipada)
Govardhan Puja, also called Annakut or Balipratipada, honors Lord Krishna’s lifting of Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from Indra’s wrath. It emphasizes gratitude to nature.
Rituals include preparing Annakut (a mountain of food offerings) with various dishes. Cows are worshipped, and havan (yajna) may be performed. Feasts continue, reinforcing community bonds.
Day 5: Bhai Dooj (Bhai Duj/Bhai Tika)
Bhai Dooj celebrates sibling love, similar to Raksha Bandhan. Sisters apply tilak on brothers’ foreheads, pray for their longevity, and exchange gifts. Brothers vow protection.
The legend ties to Yama (god of death) visiting his sister Yamuna. Sweets and feasts mark the day, wrapping up Diwali.
Regional Variations: Kali Puja (Bengal), Jain Diwali, and Bandi Chhor Divas
While pan-Indian, Deepawali varies regionally. In Bengal, Kali Puja dominates the Amavasya night, with tantric rituals honoring Goddess Kali. Temples like Dakshineswar buzz with devotees.
Jain Deepawali focuses on Mahavira’s moksha, with temple visits, fasting, and lamp lighting for spiritual enlightenment.
Sikhs’ Bandi Chhor Divas involves gurdwara illuminations and kirtans, commemorating freedom.
Traditions That Make Diwali Magical
Diyas (Earthen Lamps)
Diyas are Deepawali’s soul, made from clay and filled with oil or ghee. They represent enlightenment, placed on windowsills and balconies to banish darkness.
Rangoli Designs
Rangoli, or kolam, are geometric or floral patterns symbolizing prosperity. Materials include rice flour, colors, and flowers, often with themes from nature or deities.
Fireworks (Firecrackers)
Fireworks add thrill, but awareness of pollution has led to green alternatives like laser shows.
Deepawali Sweets (Mithai) & Feasts
Mithai like gulab jamun, jalebi, and peda are staples. Feasts include puri-sabzi, biryani, and regional delicacies, fostering family unity.
Deepawali Gifts & Shopping
Gifting dry fruits, clothes, or gadgets is common. Shopping sprees during Dhanteras and Diwali boost economies.
Deepawali Puja Vidhi / Lakshmi Aarti and Havan (Yajna) / Puja Rituals
Deepawali puja vidhi is elaborate, focusing on Lakshmi Puja. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on traditional practices:
Preparations:
- Clean the house and puja area.
- Gather materials: Lakshmi idol, flowers, diyas, sweets, fruits, incense, betel leaves, gold/silver coins, etc.
- Set up an altar with Lakshmi and Ganesha images.
Step-by-Step Puja Vidhi:
- Dhyanam (Meditation): Meditate on Lakshmi, chanting mantras like “Ya Sa Padmasanastha…”
- Avahanam (Invocation): Invite Lakshmi with “Aagachchha Devi Deveshi…”
- Asanam (Seat Offering): Offer a seat with flowers.
- Padyam, Arghyam, Snanam: Offer water for feet, hands, and bath.
- Vastram, Abhushanam: Offer clothes and jewelry.
- Gandham, Pushpam: Offer sandalwood and flowers.
- Dhupam, Deepam: Light incense and lamps.
- Naivedyam: Offer food and fruits.
- Tamboolam, Dakshina: Offer betel and gifts.
- Aarti: Sing Lakshmi Aarti.
- Pradakshina: Circumambulate the altar.
- Havan (Yajna): If performed, offer ghee and mantras into fire for purification (optional but auspicious).
Diwali
Lakshmi Aarti Lyrics (English Transliteration):
Om Jai Lakshmi Mata, Maiya Jai Lakshmi Mata. Tumko Nishdin Sevat, Har Vishnu Dhyavat. Om Jai Lakshmi Mata.
Uma Rama Brahmani, Tum Hi Jag Mata. Surya Chandrama Dhyavat, Narad Rishi Gata. Om Jai Lakshmi Mata.
(Full aarti continues as per traditional verses, ending with devotion to Lakshmi for blessings).
Havan involves fire rituals with Vedic chants, symbolizing offerings to gods.
what is Deepawali, actually?
A: At its heart, Deepavali is the Hindu “Festival of Lights.” It’s one of the most significant holidays in India and for Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists around the world. The word “Deepawali” comes from the Sanskrit word “Deepavali,” which means “row of lamps.” The festival symbolizes the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.
It’s a five-day celebration filled with prayer, feasts, fireworks, family gatherings, and, of course, countless flickering oil lamps (called diyas).
Q2: Why is it celebrated? What’s the story behind it?
A: This is the beautiful part—Diwali celebrates several stories of victory, depending on one’s region and tradition. The most well-known is the Hindu epic, the Ramayana.
The Return of Lord Rama: After 14 years in exile, Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and brother Lakshmana defeated the demon king Ravana and returned triumphant to their kingdom of Ayodhya. The overjoyed citizens welcomed them by lighting rows of oil lamps to illuminate their path in the dark night. This is why lighting diyas is the central tradition of Diwali.
Other reasons for celebration include:
Goddess Lakshmi: Diwali is also dedicated to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. It is believed she visits clean, well-lit homes and blesses them with fortune.
Lord Krishna: In some regions, it marks the day Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura.
Sikhs celebrate Diwali to mark the release of Guru Hargobind Ji from imprisonment.
Jains celebrate to mark the attainment of moksha (liberation) by Lord Mahavira.
Q3: How do people celebrate? What are the key traditions?
A: The celebrations are a vibrant mix of spiritual and social activities:
Cleaning and Decorating: Homes are thoroughly cleaned and renovated. This is not just spring cleaning; it’s a way to invite Goddess Lakshmi into a pure environment. They are then decorated with rangoli (colorful art patterns made on the floor with colored powder, rice, or flowers) and strings of marigolds.
Lighting Diyas and Lamps: As night falls, families light countless diyas and place them around their homes, on windowsills, and balconies. Today, electric string lights also add to the brilliant display.
Puja (Prayers): Families gather for a Lakshmi Puja, offering prayers to the goddess for health, wealth, and prosperity in the coming year.
Fireworks: The night sky erupts in a spectacular display of fireworks, a symbolic way to ward off evil spirits and express joy.
Feasting and Sweets: Deepavali is a foodie’s paradise! Families prepare and share elaborate feasts. The real stars are the mithai (sweets) like ladoos, jalebis, and barfis.
New Clothes and Gifts: It’s customary to wear new clothes and visit family and friends to exchange gifts and boxes of sweets.
Q4: What’s with all the sweets and food?
A: Food is a language of love and celebration during Deepavali. Sharing sweets (mithai) symbolizes spreading sweetness and joy in relationships. Savory snacks like chakli, mathri, and namak para are prepared in bulk for guests and family. The feast varies by region but is always a highlight.
Q5: When is Diwali? The date seems to change every year.
A: You’ve noticed correctly! Diwali is celebrated according to the Hindu lunar calendar. It falls on the 15th day of the month of Kartik, which typically aligns with mid-October to mid-November on the Gregorian calendar. This year, Diwali will be celebrated on Friday, November 1, 2024.
Q6: How can I wish someone a “Happy Diwali”?
A: It’s easy and always appreciated! The most common greeting is:
“Happy Deepavali!”
You can also use the traditional Hindi greeting:“Deepavali ki Shubhkamnayein” (दिवाली की शुभकामनाएं) which means “Best wishes for Deepavali.”
A simple message of light and prosperity is always perfect.
The Deeper Meaning: More Than Just a Festival
Beyond the lights, noise, and sweets, Diwali is an inner celebration. It’s a time for reflection—to acknowledge the light within ourselves and others, to let go of past grievances, and to start anew. It’s a reminder that no matter how dark the night, the light of hope, knowledge, and community will always guide us home.
From our family to yours, we wish you a Diwali that is full of light, love, laughter, and endless sweetness. Happy Deepavali!
Hi, I’m chandan kumar, a lifelong devotee and cultural enthusiast based in India. For over 20 years, I’ve been actively involved in organizing community Diwali and charity events at Diwali wishes. My writings stem from a deep personal connection to the traditions and stories of Deepavali, passed down through my family for generations.
