With less than a week to go for Diwali 2025 festivities, the atmosphere across the country is vibrant. The streets have already been lit and colourful lanterns have filled the markets bringing traders festive cheer. Diwali, the `festival of lights`, has immense cultural and spiritual importance for millions of Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists across the world.
This year, the main day of Diwali (Lakshmi Puja) will be celebrated on Monday, October 20. The day marks the Amavasya Tithi of the Kartik month as per the Hindu lunar calendar.
Depending on regional traditions and Panchang timings, celebrations may extend slightly into the next day.
Significance
Diwali is a festival celebrated with great joy and exuberance by millions across Indian homes and holds extreme importance as per Hindu beliefs. It signifies the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. In fact, it is not just a festival; it is a time for renewal, forgiveness, and the strengthening of family and social bonds.
Why is Diwali celebrated?
Diwali commemorates the return of Lord Rama, along with Goddess Sita and his brother Lakshmana, to the kingdom of Ayodhya after a 14-year exile and his triumph over the demon-king Ravana. As per Hindu beliefs, the people of Ayodhya illuminated the entire city with oil lamps to celebrate their prince`s return, symbolising the victory of righteousness over evil.
Five days of Diwali 2025
Diwali in India is not just a one-day festival; it is a sequence of auspicious days that embark on worship of Lord Lakshmi, Lord Kuber, the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura as well as his lifting of the Govardhan Hill.
Dhanteras (October 18)
The first day of the Diwali 2025 festivities starts with ‘Dhanteras’. On this auspicious day, people buy gold, silver, and utensils as a symbol of good fortune. Dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari, the god of health and Ayurveda, Dhanteras marks the beginning of prosperity and well-being.
Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali (October 19)
Narak Chaturdashi, which is also referred to as Choti Diwali, holds great significance. The day celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. On Choti Diwali, people light lamps, clean their homes, and prepare sweets.
Diwali (October 20)
The third day of the Diwali celebrations is the main day, which the Hindu community across the globe wait for the entire year. As per Hindu beliefs, the day marks the return of Lord Rama after 14 years of exile and defeating Ravana. People on this day light diyas and decorate their homes to welcome Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Fireworks, sweets, and gatherings mark the height of the festivities, making it one of the most celebrated days of the year.
Govardhan Puja (October 21)
Govardhan Puja, which is celebrated the day after Diwali, also holds great importance. On this day, people across the country honour Lord Krishna for lifting the Govardhan Parvat to protect the villagers.
Bhai Dooj (October 22)
The five-day festivities come to an end on the fifth day, with the Bhai Dooj. A day which holds great importance for all the brothers and sisters. This day is known for the special bond between brothers and sisters. On the last day of Diwali, sisters pray for their brothers’ long life and success, while brothers give gifts and blessings in return, marking an end to a five-day-long celebrations.