Table of Content
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most celebrated festivals in India and among Indian communities worldwide. Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is a celebration of good triumphing over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. Families come together, homes sparkle with lights, sweets are shared, and joy fills the air.
In 2025, Diwali will be celebrated on Monday, 20th October, following Dhanteras on 18th October and Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali) on 19th October.
Significance of Diwali
The word “Diwali” comes from the Sanskrit term “Deepavali”, which means “a row of lights.” Homes, temples, and public places are decorated with diyas (oil lamps), electric lights, and rangoli designs, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.
Victory of Lord Rama over Ravana
In North India, Diwali commemorates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. People lit rows of lamps to welcome Rama back, celebrating the triumph of good over evil.
Worship of Goddess Lakshmi
Diwali is also dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Families perform Lakshmi Puja on the main day to invite prosperity, success, and happiness into their homes.
Lord Krishna and Narakasura
In South India, Diwali celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, symbolizing the removal of evil forces and darkness from life.
Spiritual Significance
Diwali represents inner light, wisdom, and self-realization. Lighting a lamp symbolizes knowledge, truth, and awareness, dispelling ignorance and fear.
How Diwali is Celebrated
Diwali is a five-day festival, each day with its own importance and rituals:
- Dhanteras (18th October 2025): The first day, associated with wealth and health. People buy gold, silver, or utensils and worship Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi. Homes are cleaned, decorated with rangoli, and diyas are lit to bring prosperity.
- Naraka Chaturdashi / Choti Diwali (19th October 2025): Commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura. People wake up early, take a ritual bath, decorate homes, and light lamps to signify the defeat of evil.
- Diwali / Lakshmi Puja (20th October 2025): Main day dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, worshiped for wealth, prosperity, and well-being. Families perform Lakshmi Puja, light diyas, enjoy sweets, set off fireworks, and exchange gifts.
- Govardhan Puja / Annakut (21st October 2025): Honors Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from floods. People prepare Annakut (food offerings) and perform rituals to show gratitude to nature and divinity.
- Bhai Dooj (23rd October 2025): Celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for their brothers’ long life, while brothers promise protection. Gifts are exchanged, and family ties are strengthened.
Traditional Customs
- Lighting Diyas and Lanterns: Diyas symbolize removing darkness and inviting positivity. Placed in homes, streets, and temples to bring light, joy, and prosperity.
- Rangoli Designs: Colorful patterns at home entrances welcome Goddess Lakshmi and spread beauty and positivity. Made with colored powders, rice, or flowers.
- Worship and Prayers: Devotees perform Lakshmi Puja, offering sweets, flowers, and coins. Lord Ganesha is also worshiped for wisdom and removal of obstacles.
- Fireworks and Sparklers: Fireworks celebrate the triumph of good over evil. Communities enjoy bright displays in the sky.
- Exchanging Gifts and Sweets: Friends and family exchange gifts and festive sweets, strengthening bonds and spreading happiness.
- New Clothes and Home Cleaning: Symbolize purity, renewal, and a fresh start.
Regional Variations
- North India: Focus on Lakshmi Puja, diyas, sweets, and family feasts.
- South India: Emphasis on Naraka Chaturdashi, early morning rituals, and fireworks.
- West India (Gujarat, Maharashtra): Traders perform Chopda Puja, starting new accounting books for business success.
- East India (West Bengal, Odisha): Worship of Goddess Kali, lighting lamps, and community celebrations.
Diwali 2025 Dates
- Dhanteras: 18th October 2025
- Choti Diwali / Naraka Chaturdashi: 19th October 2025
- Diwali / Lakshmi Puja: 20th October 2025
- Govardhan Puja / Annakut: 21st October 2025
- Bhai Dooj: 23rd October 2025
The evening of 20th October 2025 is considered the most auspicious time for Lakshmi Puja, lighting diyas, and celebrating Diwali.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is Diwali?
A1: Diwali is the Festival of Lights, celebrating the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance.
Q2: Who is worshiped during Diwali?
A2: Goddess Lakshmi for wealth and prosperity, and Lord Ganesha for wisdom and success.
Q3: Why do people light diyas?
A3: Diyas symbolize removing darkness and inviting positivity, knowledge, and prosperity.
Q4: Is Diwali celebrated outside India?
A4: Yes, Indian communities worldwide celebrate Diwali in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Singapore, and Australia.
Q5: How many days is Diwali celebrated?
A5: Diwali is celebrated over five days: Dhanteras, Choti Diwali, Lakshmi Puja, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj.
Q6: What are traditional foods during Diwali?
A6: Sweets like laddoos, barfis, kheer, and savory snacks like namkeens and samosas are commonly prepared.
Q7: Can non-Hindus celebrate Diwali?
A7: Yes, anyone can celebrate Diwali by embracing its spirit of light, joy, and togetherness.
Conclusion
Diwali is more than a festival—it is a celebration of life, hope, and happiness. Lights, diyas, rangoli, prayers, sweets, and fireworks all symbolize positivity, knowledge, and prosperity.
It is a time for family gatherings, sharing joy, and spreading love. The festival teaches the importance of goodness, wisdom, and gratitude, reminding us that light always triumphs over darkness.
In 2025, Diwali falls on 20th October, making it a perfect day to celebrate the triumph of light, enjoy festivities, and invite wealth and happiness into our lives.
Also Read:
RBI Keeps Repo Rate Unchanged at 5.5%: What It Means for You
YouTube Premium Lite India Launch — Affordable Ad-Free Plan
Follow Blog’son Instantkhoj for more latest stories and trending topics.
