Diwali, also known as Deepawali, is one of the most anticipated and cherished festivals, celebrated annually by Hindus in India and across the world. Popularly called the “Festival of Lights”, it symbolises joy, prosperity, and the triumph of good over evil.
The festival is marked by decorating homes with diyas and candles, wearing new clothes, exchanging gifts, and enjoying festive delicacies. Families also come together to perform rituals, worship deities, and celebrate community bonding.
Diwali is observed over five days, beginning with Dhanteras and concluding with Bhai Dooj. The central celebrations include two days: Chhoti Diwali (Naraka Chaturdashi) and Badi Diwali (Lakshmi Pujan).
According to the Hindu lunisolar calendar, Diwali falls on the Amavasya of Kartik month, the darkest night of the year. In 2025, Diwali will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.
Here’s a breakdown of the five days of Diwali in 2025:
- Dhanteras (October 18th, Saturday):The first day of the festival, people clean their homes and begin preparations.
- Narak Chaturdashi / Choti Diwali (October 19th, Sunday):Homes are decorated with lights, candles, and rangoli to welcome positive energy.
- Lakshmi Poojan / Main Diwali Day (October 20th, Monday):This is the main day of Diwali, where families worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha for good fortune, wealth, and happiness.
- Govardhan Pooja (October 21st, Tuesday):Celebrated after Diwali, this day commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over Indra and is marked by offering special vegetarian food to the deities.
- Bhai Dooj (October 22nd, Wednesday):The final day of the five-day celebration, this day honors the love and bond between brothers and sisters.