Diwali, the festival of lights, illuminated India on October 20, 2025, with a dazzling display of unity and tradition stretching from the northern city of Ayodhya to Kanyakumari at the country's southern tip. The celebrations marked the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance, resonating deeply across the nation.
Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, was a focal point of the Diwali festivities. The city, newly adorned with the completed Ram Temple, hosted a spectacular Deepotsav, aiming to light over 3 million diyas along the Saryu River ghats and the Ram Mandir complex. The event recreated the historic moment of Lord Rama's return after 14 years of exile, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The Deepotsav featured Ramayana-themed cultural performances, laser shows, and fireworks, drawing devotees and tourists from around the globe. Ayodhya set two Guinness World Records during Deepotsav 2025: one for the most people performing simultaneous diya rotations, and the other for the largest display of oil lamps, with 2,617,215 diyas lit by the Department of Tourism, district administration, and Ayodhya authorities.
In Tamil Nadu, Deepavali was celebrated with traditional fervor, even amidst heavy rains. Residents donned new attire and lit up their homes. The Southern Railway operated special trains from Chennai to Kanyakumari to accommodate the festive rush. While the northern part of India commemorates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya, South India celebrates Lord Krishna's victory over Narakasura.
Across India, families came together for Lakshmi Puja, with auspicious timings carefully calculated for each city. In New Delhi, the Lakshmi Puja Muhurat was observed from 7:08 PM to 8:18 PM. The celebrations commenced with Dhanteras on October 18, a day for worshiping Lord Kuber and Goddess Lakshmi and purchasing new items like jewelry and gold. Homes were cleaned and illuminated to welcome prosperity. Narak Chaturdashi, or Choti Diwali, followed on October 19, with the ritual Abhyang Snan (holy oil bath) performed before sunrise. Govardhan Puja was celebrated on October 21, and Bhai Dooj on October 22, celebrating the bond between siblings.
The celebrations extended beyond religious rituals, with cultural events, music, dance, and community gatherings in cities like Jaipur, Varanasi, and Mumbai. Markets buzzed with shoppers buying sweets, gifts, and new clothes. Despite concerns about air pollution, people celebrated responsibly by using LED lights, sparklers, and green firecrackers.
Diwali 2025 showcased India's rich cultural tapestry and the enduring spirit of its people, as light triumphed over darkness in a spectacular nationwide celebration.
