Diwali, the "Festival of Lights," is one of the most widely celebrated festivals, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Rooted in Hindu traditions, Diwali, also known as Deepavali, has transcended borders and religions, uniting millions across continents in celebration, prayer, and joy. This year, the auspicious festival falls on October 20, 2025, with Lakshmi Puja being the main highlight.

Date and Timings

While the main day of Diwali in 2025 is expected to be October 20, some regions may observe it on October 21 due to the lunar calendar's Amavasya period spanning two days and varying sunset times. The Amavasya Tithi begins at 3:44 PM on October 20, 2025, and ends at 5:54 PM on October 21, 2025 (IST).

The Lakshmi Puja muhurat, an auspicious window for worship, falls on October 20, 2025. City-specific timings include Delhi (7:08 PM – 8:18 PM), Chennai (7:20 PM – 8:14 PM) and Mumbai (7:41 p.m. to 8:40 p.m.). For those in the US and Canada, the most auspicious time for Lakshmi Puja corresponds to the morning hours of October 20, 2025 (around 6:30–10:45 AM local time).

The Five Days of Diwali

Diwali is not just a day-long affair but a five-day festival, each day holding its own significance.

• Dhanteras (October 18, 2025): Marks the beginning of Diwali. The day involves the worship of Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi.
• Naraka Chaturdashi/Kali Chaudas (October 19, 2025): Also known as Choti Diwali, this day celebrates Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura.
• Lakshmi Puja (October 20, 2025): The main Diwali night, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and Kuber.
• Govardhan Puja/Annakut (October 21, 2025): Celebrates Lord Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill to protect his devotees.
• Bhai Dooj/Yama Dwitiya (October 22, 2025): Celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters.

Significance and Celebrations

Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Newar Buddhists, each with their own historical events and stories attached to the festival. However, the core symbolic victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil remains the same.

The religious significance of Diwali varies regionally within India. In North India, it commemorates Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. In Gujarat, it marks the end of the financial year. South India celebrates Lord Krishna's victory over Narakasura. In Bengal and Odisha, Diwali coincides with Kali Puja, invoking Goddess Durga. Jains observe Mahavira's Nirvana, while Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas, marking Guru Hargobind Ji's release from prison.

Diwali is commonly celebrated in honor of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Trade and merchant families also offer prayers to Saraswati, the goddess of music, literature, and learning, and Kubera, who symbolizes wealth management. Homes are decorated with diyas (oil lamps), candles, and colorful rangoli designs. People exchange gifts, wear new clothes, feast, and set off fireworks.

Whether you celebrate Diwali on October 20 or October 21, the essence remains the same: light over darkness, devotion over doubt, and renewal over routine.