India Diwali 2025

When is it Celebrated?

Diwali falls on the new moon night of Kartika (October-November), symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.

Diwali Historical Data (2023 - 2027)

Know about the Complete List of Public Holidays in India this year including National and Regional holidays.

Purpose

Diwali represents prosperity, good fortune and the victory of good over evil. It is a time for renewal, gratitude and celebration.

How Is It Celebrated?

Homes are cleaned and decorated with rangoli and diyas to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. Families perform Lakshmi Puja, light fireworks and exchange gifts.

Markets bustle with people buying sweets, clothes and gold. In North India, Diwali commemorates Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, while in South India, it marks Lord Krishna's victory over Narakasura.

Temples glow with thousands of lamps and festive feasts feature mithai (sweets) like kaju katli, gulab jamun and laddoos. Business owners close old accounts and start new financial records.

History

Diwali's origins trace back to multiple legends—Rama's return, Krishna's victory and Goddess Lakshmi emerging from the ocean during the churning of the sea. Diwali, the Festival of Lights, has multiple legends associated with its celebration. One of the most popular stories is the return of Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana to Ayodhya after their 14-year exile and victory over Ravana. The people of Ayodhya lit oil lamps (diyas) to welcome them, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.

In other traditions, Diwali is linked to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. It is believed that she emerged from the ocean during the churning of the cosmic sea (Samudra Manthan). Diwali is also significant in Jainism, marking Lord Mahavira's attainment of nirvana and in Sikhism, commemorating Guru Hargobind's release from imprisonment

Focus

The focus is on prosperity, happiness and light.

Activities

• Lighting Diyas and Lamps: Homes and public spaces are illuminated with oil lamps (diyas), candles and electric lights to symbolize the victory of light over darkness.
• Worshiping Deities: Prayers and rituals are performed, especially to Goddess Lakshmi (the goddess of wealth) and Lord Ganesha (the remover of obstacles), seeking prosperity and blessings.
• Decorating Homes: Houses are cleaned thoroughly and decorated with rangoli (intricate patterns made with colored powders or flower petals) and garlands to invite positive energy.
• Bursting Firecrackers: Firecrackers and sparklers are lit as part of the festivities, adding excitement and charm to the celebration.
• Puja: Performing prayers and pujas
• Exchanging Gifts and Sweets: Friends, neighbors and family members exchange gifts and share traditional Indian sweets like laddoos, barfis and kaju katli.
• Family Feasts: Families come together to enjoy festive meals, often featuring an array of delicious dishes and desserts.
• Shopping and New Clothes: Many people purchase new clothes and jewelry and it's common for markets to be abuzz with Diwali shoppers.
• Charity and Giving Back: Acts of charity, such as donating to the less fortunate, are encouraged to spread happiness and share the festive spirit.

Facts

• Diwali is celebrated in many countries, including Nepal, Malaysia and the UK.
• The festival lasts five days, with each day having special significance.

Modern-day Celebrations

Eco-friendly Diwali with less pollution, LED lights and digital gifts is gaining popularity.

What do people do?

People pray, decorate homes, burst crackers and enjoy festive delicacies.