Diwali Festival 2025

Full Date

20 October 2025 Afternoon 3:44 PM – 21 October 2025 Evening 5:54 PM

Muhurat Timings in India

• Start of Amavasya Tithi

  Amavasya (new moon) tithi begins, marking the start of Diwali period.

  20 October 2025 Afternoon 3:44 PM – 20 October 2025 Afternoon 3:44 PM

• Lakshmi Puja Muhurat

  Auspicious time period to perform Lakshmi Puja on Diwali day.

  21 October 2025 5:10 PM – 21 October 2025 8:30 PM

• Pradosh Kaal

  Sacred period before new moon, ideal for worship and meditation.

  21 October 2025 6:00 PM – 21 October 2025 7:45 PM

• End of Amavasya Tithi

  End of Amavasya tithi, concluding Diwali day and lunar period.

  21 October 2025 Evening 5:54 PM – 21 October 2025 Evening 5:54 PM

Introduction

Diwali, the festival of lights, symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Celebrated nationwide with lamps, sweets, gifts, and worship of Goddess Lakshmi, it encompasses cultural programs and community festivities.

Other Names

Deepavali, Festival of Lights, Dipawali

Pooja Vidhi

• Thoroughly clean the house before Diwali day.
• Set up an altar decorated with flowers, rangoli, and offerings for Goddess Lakshmi.
• Light diyas and incense sticks around the pooja area.
• Offer flowers, sweets, fruits, coins, and new clothes to the goddess.
• Chant Lakshmi mantras and perform aarti in the evening.
• Distribute prasad to family and guests after the puja.

Rituals

• Clean and decorate homes with rangoli and oil lamps (diyas).
• Perform Lakshmi Puja in the evening during the auspicious period.
• Light fireworks and burst crackers in celebration.
• Exchange gifts and sweets with family and friends.
• Prepare and share traditional festive meals.
• Visit temples and participate in cultural programs and community events.

Regional Highlights

• In West Bengal, Diwali is celebrated primarily with Kali Puja on the same day.
• Gujarat celebrates it as New Year’s Day (Bestu Varas) with special rituals and festivities.
• Southern states focus on lighting oil lamps, temple visits, and preparing signature sweets like Mysore Pak.
• Northern India hosts grand Lakshmi-Ganesha pujas and vibrant fireworks displays lasting late hours.

History

Originating in ancient Hindu traditions, Diwali commemorates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana. It also celebrates Goddess Lakshmi, harvest season, and regional myths, fostering themes of renewal, prosperity, and family.

Additional Information

• Diwali is also significant in Jainism, Sikhism, and Buddhism, each with its own traditions and meanings.
• Environmental initiatives encourage eco-friendly celebrations with minimal use of crackers and sustainable decorations.
• The festival has inspired broad cultural expressions in Indian art, literature, music, and cinema centered on light, hope, and prosperity.