diwali dates 2025 October 20, 2025, at 3:44 PM and ends on October 21, 2025, at 5:54 PM
diwali dates 2025 October 20, 2025, at 3:44 PM and ends on October 21, 2025, at 5:54 PM
Diwali 2025: The Complete Guide to Dates, Significance, and Celebrations
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is India’s grand festival of lights, symbolizing the spiritual victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. It’s a time when families come together for prayers, feasting, and joyous celebrations. If you’ve been wondering, “When is Diwali in 2025?” you’re not alone. A unique celestial alignment has caused some confusion this year. This comprehensive guide will provide clarity on the Diwali 2025 schedule, the significance of its rituals, and tips for a joyful, modern celebration.
diwali dates 2025
Diwali 2025 at a Glance: Key Dates and Muhurat
The five-day festival of Diwali is a vibrant tapestry of traditions, each day with its own unique rituals and significance. Here is the complete schedule for Diwali 2025:
| Date | Day | Festival | Key Rituals and Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 18 | Saturday | Dhanteras | Auspicious day for buying gold, silver, or utensils; worship of Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi. |
| Oct 19 | Sunday | Narak Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali) | Celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura; ritual oil bath before sunrise. |
| Oct 20 | Monday | Lakshmi Puja (Main Diwali) | Primary celebration day; worship of Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and Kuber; homes illuminated with diyas. |
| Oct 22 | Wednesday | Govardhan Puja | Worship of Lord Krishna who lifted Govardhan Hill; celebrated with Annakut (mountain of food) offerings. |
| Oct 23 | Thursday | Bhai Dooj | Celebrates sibling bonds; sisters apply tilak on brothers’ foreheads and pray for their longevity. |
🪔 Clarifying the Main Diwali Date Confusion
In 2025, a cosmic peculiarity has led to uncertainty about the main day of Diwali. The Amavasya Tithi (new moon day), which is central to Diwali, begins on October 20 at 3:44 PM and ends on October 21 at 5:54 PM. Despite this two-day span, the most auspicious time for Lakshmi Puja falls on October 20, 2025.
Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: 6:59 PM to 8:32 PM IST on October 20. Other sources suggest a slightly different Muhurat of 7:08 PM to 8:18 PM IST. This period during Pradosh Kaal is considered the most auspicious for worship.
For the Indian Diaspora: The celebration date varies by timezone. For those in the US, Diwali and Lakshmi Puja are largely observed on October 20, with specific Muhurat timings adjusted for different time zones.
The Deeper Meaning: Why Do We Celebrate Diwali?
Diwali holds immense spiritual and cultural significance across Hindu, Jain, Sikh, and Buddhist communities. The stories behind the festival vary by region, adding to its rich tapestry:
North India: Commemorates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana. The citizens celebrated by lighting rows of diyas to light his path.
South India: Celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura, symbolizing the destruction of evil.
Gujarat: Marks the end of the financial year. Businesses perform Chopda Pujan—the sanctification of new account books.
Bengal & Odisha: Coincides with Kali Puja, invoking the fierce form of Goddess Durga.
Jainism: Observes the Nirvana (liberation) of Lord Mahavira on this night.
Sikhism: Celebrated as Bandi Chhor Divas, marking the release of Guru Hargobind Ji from Mughal imprisonment.
How to Celebrate: Traditions and Modern Tips
Traditional Celebrations
Lakshmi-Ganesha Puja: Prayers are offered for prosperity, wisdom, and the removal of obstacles.
Lighting Diyas and Decorations: Homes are illuminated with oil lamps (diyas) and decorated with rangoli, flowers, and lights to invite divine blessings and drive away darkness.
Feasting and Sweets: Families prepare and share homemade mithai like laddus, barfi, and kheer.
Charity (Daan): Donating food, clothes, or money is an integral part of Diwali dharma.
Tips for a Sustainable and Safe Diwali
Go Eco-Friendly: Use eco-friendly diyas and natural rangoli colors to reduce environmental impact.
Mindful Celebrations: Opt for green firecrackers or focus more on spiritual practices, bonding, and community service (seva) rather than materialism.
Gift Thoughtfully: Consider gifting handmade or local artisan products to support communities and add a personal touch.
diwali dates 2025
FAQs About Diwali 2025
Is Diwali 2025 a public holiday in India?
Yes, the main Diwali day on October 20, 20.25, is a gazetted public holiday in India. Some states also observe restricted holidays for Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj.
When is Choti Diwali in 2025?
Choti Diwali, also known as Narak Chaturdashi, will be celebrated on Sunday, October 19, 20.25.
What is the 5-day schedule of Diwali?
The festival spans five days: Dhanteras (Oct 18), Narak Chaturdashi (Oct 19), Lakshmi Puja (Oct 20), Govardhan Puja (Oct 22), and Bhai Dooj (Oct 23).
Diwali is much more than a festival; it’s a celebration of life, hope, and togetherness. However you choose to celebrate, may this Diwali bring you and your loved ones immense joy, prosperity, and spiritual light.
✨ Diwali 202.5 Dates and Celebration Guide
diwali dates 2025
