India is aglow as millions across the nation celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights, on October 20, 2025. This auspicious festival, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and light over darkness, is being marked with vibrant displays of lights, traditional earthen oil lamps (diyas), elaborate feasts, fervent prayers, and the exchange of gifts.
Diwali, derived from the Sanskrit word "Deepavali" meaning "a row of lights,” is not just a Hindu festival; it's a celebration embraced by Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, and people of various faiths throughout India and within the diaspora. The five-day festival, rooted in the Hindu lunar calendar, brings with it unique traditions that vary by region. In North India, the worship of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi, the deities of prosperity and wealth, is central to Diwali celebrations. Meanwhile, in southern India, many begin the day with a traditional early morning warm oil bath, symbolizing purification.
Across the country, homes and streets are adorned with colorful lights and diyas, creating a spectacular charm and festive atmosphere. Setting off firecrackers remains a cherished tradition for many, although concerns about rising pollution levels have led to partial or total bans on fireworks in some northern states, including New Delhi. However, the Supreme Court has permitted the sale of "green fireworks," which are believed to be less polluting.
The spirit of Diwali is also evident in the bustling markets and the special arrangements made by public transportation services to accommodate the festive rush. Metro services in several cities are operating on special schedules, and traffic police are implementing diversions to manage the increased traffic. Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has announced revised train timings for the Diwali holidays on October 20 and 21.
Ayodhya, the city of Lord Rama, has once again become a focal point of Diwali celebrations. The city broke its own record by lighting over 26 lakh diyas (2,600,000), creating a mesmerizing spectacle on the banks of the Saryu River. The event, known as Deepotsav, earned the city two Guinness World Records: one for the largest display of oil lamps and another for the most people simultaneously performing diya rotation (aarti). Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath received the certificates in recognition of this achievement. The Deepotsav celebration in Ayodhya has grown significantly over the years, from 1.71 lakh lamps in 2017 to over 26.17 lakh in 2025, symbolizing the city's cultural vibrancy and development.
The celebrations in Ujjain's Baba Mahakal Temple are also in full swing, with special worship and aarti performed using sparklers. Army officers in remote border areas are celebrating Diwali with local children, fostering unity and joy. The Howrah Bridge in Kolkata is dazzling with colorful lights, adding to the nationwide festive spirit.
The festival's universal appeal is also reflected in the growing recognition of Diwali in other parts of the world. California recently became the third U.S. state to designate Diwali as an official state holiday, following Pennsylvania and Connecticut. This move acknowledges the significance of Diwali for many communities and allows public schools and community colleges to close in observance of the holiday.
