Diwali, also called Deepawali, is one of the most celebrated and spiritually significant festivals in Hinduism. Symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, it brings families together to celebrate with diyas, rangoli, sweets, and lights.
As per the Hindu lunar calendar, Diwali is observed on the 15th day of Kartik month, which is the darkest new moon night of the year. The festival spans five days, each day carrying its own religious and cultural importance.
In 2025, Diwali falls on Tuesday, October 21, with festivities beginning from October 18. Let’s take a closer look at all five days of celebration.
🪙 Day 1: Dhanteras – October 18, 2025
-
Tithi: Trayodashi
-
Begins: 12:18 PM on October 18
-
Ends: 01:51 PM on October 19
The Diwali celebrations officially begin with Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi. This day is considered extremely auspicious for buying gold, silver, utensils, and other valuables as it symbolizes the welcoming of wealth and prosperity into homes. It is also believed to be the day when Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician, emerged from the ocean during Samudra Manthan.
🌕 Day 2: Choti Diwali – October 20, 2025
-
Tithi: Chaturdashi
-
Begins: 01:51 PM on October 19
-
Ends: 03:44 PM on October 20
The second day, known as Choti Diwali or Naraka Chaturdashi, celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. Homes are illuminated with oil lamps, and people perform rituals early in the morning to cleanse away negativity and welcome positivity ahead of the main Diwali day.
Also read: Diwali Vastu Tips: दीपावली पर घर लाएं ये खास चीजें, मां लक्ष्मी कृपा करेंगी
✨ Day 3: Diwali (Lakshmi Puja) – October 21, 2025
-
Tithi: Amavasya
-
Begins: 03:44 PM on October 20
-
Ends: 05:54 PM on October 21
The third day marks the main Diwali celebration — the Festival of Lights. Devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.
Homes and temples glow with the warm light of diyas, candles, and decorative lamps. Families gather to perform Lakshmi Puja, exchange sweets, light fireworks, and share festive meals. It’s a day of joy, devotion, and gratitude.
🏔️ Day 4: Govardhan Puja – October 22, 2025
-
Tithi: Pratipada
-
Begins: 05:54 PM on October 21
-
Ends: 08:16 PM on October 22
The fourth day is dedicated to Govardhan Puja, also known as Annakut. Devotees prepare a variety of vegetarian dishes and offer them to Lord Krishna, commemorating how he lifted the Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from torrential rain. This day highlights gratitude towards nature and divine protection.
👩❤️👨 Day 5: Bhai Dooj – October 23, 2025
-
Tithi: Dwitiya
-
Begins: 08:16 PM on October 22
-
Ends: 10:46 PM on October 23
The five-day festivities conclude with Bhai Dooj, a special occasion celebrating the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform aarti, apply tilak on their brothers’ foreheads, and pray for their long life and well-being, while brothers offer gifts and blessings in return. It’s similar in spirit to Raksha Bandhan, but with unique rituals and heartfelt family moments.
🕯️ Diwali 2025 Summary – All Key Dates at a Glance
| Festival Day | Date | Tithi |
|---|---|---|
| Dhanteras | October 18, 2025 | Trayodashi |
| Choti Diwali | October 20, 2025 | Chaturdashi |
| Diwali (Main Day) | October 21, 2025 | Amavasya |
| Govardhan Puja | October 22, 2025 | Pratipada |
| Bhai Dooj | October 23, 2025 | Dwitiya |
In 2025, Diwali will be celebrated on October 21, with festivities starting from October 18. The five days of Deepawali not only mark mythological significance but also represent the values of light, unity, faith, and renewal.
So, get ready to illuminate your homes, hearts, and lives with positivity and joy this Diwali season!
Disclaimer:
This article is based on popular beliefs and traditional calculations of the Hindu lunar calendar. Actual dates and timings may vary slightly depending on regional and local Panchang readings.
