Every year, around October or November, homes across India and around the world glow with little oil lamps called diyas. Families cook sweets, clean their homes, wear festive clothes, and pray for peace, joy, and prosperity. This is Diwali, also known as Deepavali in many parts of India.
It’s a festival of light, not just the kind you see, but the kind you feel. It celebrates the idea that even a small light can chase away deep darkness.
What is Diwali or Deepavali?
The name Deepavali comes from Sanskrit: deepa (lamp) and avali (row), meaning “a row of lights.”
Diwali symbolizes many things:
- Victory of good over evil
- Hope over despair
- Knowledge over ignorance
- Light over darkness
For millions of people – Hindu, Jain, Sikh, and others – it’s a time to come together with loved ones and celebrate life.
When is Diwali?
Diwali follows the lunar calendar and usually falls in October or November. In 2025, the main Diwali night will be on October 20th.
Click to find the date for the current year (if you are from the future)
The 5 Days of Diwali
Diwali isn’t just one day. It’s a series of five celebrations each with its own meaning and traditions.
Day 1: Dhanteras, Welcoming Health & Prosperity
Dhanteras marks the start of Diwali. People clean their homes, buy new things (often metal, silver, or gold), and prepare to welcome Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.
This day is also connected to Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda making it a day for wellness too.
Traditions include:
- Buying new kitchenware or coins
- Lighting a lamp at the entrance
- Beginning home decorations and rangoli
Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi / Chhoti Diwali: Cleansing & Light
This day remembers the story of Krishna defeating Narakasura, a demon king. In many regions, it’s also called Chhoti Diwali (Little Diwali).
In South India, people take an early oil bath, wear new clothes, and light diyas symbolizing inner and outer cleansing.
Day 3: Lakshmi Puja:The Main Diwali Night
This is the heart of Diwali.
Homes sparkle with diyas, families gather for puja (rituals), and prayers are offered to Goddess Lakshmi for peace, wealth, and well-being.
Main rituals:
- Lighting diyas around every room and doorway
- Drawing rangoli to invite good fortune
- Lakshmi Puja with flowers, sweets, coins, and incense
- Sharing gifts and sweets with friends and family
- Bursting firecrackers (though many now choose quiet or eco-friendly celebrations)
In Gujarat, this night marks New Year’s Eve, and business owners start fresh account books.
Day 4: Govardhan Puja / Annakut – Gratitude & Nature
This day recalls the story of Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from a storm.
Families prepare large spreads of vegetarian food (annakut) as an offering to nature and the divine.
In some regions, this day is also celebrated as Padwa focusing on the bond between husband and wife.
Day 5: Bhai Dooj – Celebrating Siblings
Bhai Dooj is all about sibling love. Sisters apply a tilak (sacred mark) on their brothers’ foreheads and pray for their happiness. Brothers give gifts and promise protection.
It’s similar in spirit to Raksha Bandhan, but with different rituals.
Diwali Across India 🇮🇳
| Region | Traditions |
|---|---|
| North India | Celebrates Rama’s return to Ayodhya; homes lit with diyas |
| South India | Honors Krishna’s victory; morning oil baths |
| Gujarat | Day 3 is New Year’s Eve; grand Lakshmi Puja |
| West Bengal | Worships Goddess Kali instead of Lakshmi |
| Maharashtra | Starts with Vasu Baras (cow worship); 4-day festival |
| Nepal (Tihar) | Includes worship of crows, dogs, cows, and siblings |
Diwali Around the World
Diwali is now a global celebration — observed by Indian communities across the UK, US, Canada, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Fiji, and more.
In cities like Leicester (UK) and Singapore, there are public light-ups, cultural events, and fireworks. Even non-Indians join the fun.
Sweets & Snacks
Diwali food is all about sharing joy.
Popular sweets:
- Laddoo, barfi, kaju katli, gulab jamun
- Karanji / gujiya – sweet dumplings
- Chakli, murukku, sev – savory snacks
Many families make them at home and exchange boxes with neighbors and friends.
A Greener Diwali
Today, many celebrate a more mindful Diwali:
- Using clay diyas or LED lights instead of plastic
- Avoiding loud crackers to reduce noise and pollution
- Homemade decorations from paper or flowers
- Gifting plants or handmade items instead of plastic
It’s a way to honor the spirit of Diwali — without harming others or the environment.
FAQs
Q: Is Diwali religious or cultural?
Both — it has spiritual roots but is widely celebrated as a cultural festival.
Q: What’s the difference between Diwali and Deepavali?
They refer to the same festival. Deepavali is more traditional and used in South India; Diwali is the common spoken form across India.
Q: Do Jains and Sikhs celebrate Diwali?
Yes — for different reasons. Jains mark Lord Mahavira’s liberation. Sikhs commemorate the release of Guru Hargobind.
Q: When is Diwali in 2025?
The main day (Lakshmi Puja) is on October 20, 2025.
Q: How long does Diwali last?
Traditionally 5 days — but events and feelings can stretch for weeks!
Q: How do you wish someone on Diwali?
“Happy Diwali!” or “Happy Deepavali!” or “Shubh Deepavali!”
At its heart, Diwali is about hope, light, family and community. Whether you’re celebrating with thousands in a city square or lighting a single diya at home, the spirit is the same, to welcome joy, let go of the past, and step into hope and brightness.
Wishing you and your loved ones a bright, happy, healthy, prosperous and beautiful Diwali!