Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most popular festivals in India and across the world. It is bright, colourful, and full of joy. The festival is deeply rooted in tradition, but over time, it has also become a global celebration of togetherness and hope.
When is Diwali in 2025?
Diwali's timing is based on the Hindu lunar calendar, so the date changes every year. The main and most important day of Diwali, Lakshmi Puja, will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.
However, Diwali is not just a single day; it is a grand five-day festival, with each day holding a unique significance. The celebrations in 2025 will span from October 19 to October 23.
Why Diwali is Important
Diwali is often seen as a Hindu festival, but it is also celebrated by Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists and Muslims also in a few parts of the world. Each community has its own meaning and story connected to the festival. What unites them is the central theme: the victory of light over darkness, and good over evil.
For Hindus, Diwali also marks the start of a new year. People clean their homes, wear new clothes, and start afresh with prayers for health, happiness, and prosperity.
The Meaning of the Name
The word Diwali comes from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, which means “row of lights.” This explains why lamps and lights are at the heart of the festival. Small oil lamps, called diyas, are lit in homes, temples, and streets. These lamps are more than decoration. They symbolize hope, warmth, and the presence of divine energy.
Goddess Lakshmi and Prosperity
One of the main traditions of Diwali is the worship of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. People believe that Lakshmi visits homes that are clean, bright, and filled with lamps. Lighting diyas and keeping doors open is said to guide her into the house, bringing blessings for the year ahead.
The Five Days of Diwali: A Day-by-Day Guide
While the third day is the most well-known, Diwali is a five-day affair with distinct rituals and meanings for each day.
Day 1: Dhanteras (Saturday, October 18, 2025)
The festival begins with Dhanteras, a day dedicated to wealth and prosperity. It is considered highly auspicious to clean the home and purchase new items, particularly kitchen utensils, gold, or silver. This day marks the worship of Lord Dhanvantari, the physician of the gods, and Goddess Lakshmi.Day 2: Naraka Chaturdasi or Choti Diwali (Sunday, October 19, 2025)
Known as "Small Diwali," this day commemorates Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura, freeing 16,000 captive princesses. The ritual of lighting a single lamp in the evening is a symbol of this victory of light over darkness and good over evil.Day 3: Lakshmi Puja (Monday, October 20, 2025)
This is the main day of Diwali. On the night of the new moon (Amavasya), families gather to perform the Lakshmi Puja, an elaborate prayer to the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Homes are lit with countless diyas, candles, and lights to welcome her blessings. This is the day of grand feasts, fireworks, and exchanging gifts.Day 4: Govardhan Puja or Padwa (Tuesday, October 21, 2025)
This day celebrates the story of Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect the villagers of Vrindavan from the wrath of Lord Indra's torrential rains. Devotees prepare a mountain of food, representing the hill, which is offered to the deity as a sign of gratitude.Day 5: Bhai Dooj (Wednesday, October 22, 2025)
The festival concludes with Bhai Dooj, a day celebrating the special bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters apply a tilak (vermilion mark) on their brothers' foreheads and pray for their long life and happiness, while brothers offer gifts in return.
Different Stories in Different Regions
Diwali is not tied to just one story. Its meaning changes across regions:
In North India, it marks the return of Lord Rama and Sita to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya lit lamps to welcome them home.
In West Bengal, the focus is on the goddess Kali, who is worshipped as the destroyer of evil forces.
In South India and Nepal, the festival is linked to Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura.
These different legends share the same essence: good always wins over evil, and truth always shines brighter than lies.
Celebrations at Home and Beyond
Diwali is much more than a religious occasion. It is also a cultural and social celebration. Families come together to clean and decorate their homes. People prepare sweets and savoury dishes to share with friends and neighbours. Exchanging gifts is another way to strengthen bonds.
Fireworks are an important part of the celebration. Bursting crackers is seen as a way to express joy and drive away evil spirits. However, in recent years, many people have shifted towards eco-friendly celebrations, with fewer fireworks and more focus on lights and family gatherings.
Rangoli: Art on the Floor
Another beautiful Diwali tradition is Rangoli. These are colourful patterns made on the floor at the entrance of homes. People use powders, rice, or even flowers to create intricate designs. Rangoli is not only decorative but also symbolic. It is meant to welcome guests and divine blessings into the home.
