Dev Deepawali, also known as the “Festival of Lights of the Gods,” is one of the most magnificent celebrations in Kashi (Varanasi). According to Hindu belief, on this sacred day, gods themselves descend to Earth to take a holy dip in the River Ganga and worship Lord Shiva by lighting lamps. The entire city of Banaras shines brightly with thousands of earthen lamps, creating a divine and mesmerizing atmosphere.
Let’s know when Dev Deepawali will be celebrated this year, the auspicious time for rituals, and the correct way to perform the worship.
When is Dev Deepawali in 2025?
According to the Hindu calendar, Kartik Purnima will begin at 10:36 PM on November 4, 2025, and end at 6:48 PM on November 5, 2025. Since the Purnima Tithi will be in effect during the sunrise on November 5, Dev Deepawali will be celebrated on that day. On this day, grand celebrations will take place at the ghats of the Ganga in Banaras and in Shiva temples across the country.
Auspicious Time for Worship
The Pradosh Kaal period is considered the most auspicious for the Dev Deepawali puja and lamp offering. This period will last from 5:15 PM to 7:50 PM, a total of 2 hours and 35 minutes. As per religious beliefs, during this sacred period, divine beings descend to Earth, and the light of countless lamps along the Ganga River illuminates the entire universe.
Rituals and How to Celebrate Dev Deepawali
On this day, devotees wake up early during Brahma Muhurat and take a holy dip in the Ganga, which is believed to be highly virtuous. If visiting the river is not possible, one can bathe at home by mixing a few drops of Ganga water in regular water. After bathing, devotees clean their home temples and offer prayers to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and other deities with full devotion.
After the puja, light lamps and decorate the temple, house entrance, and courtyard. In the evening, during Pradosh Kaal, perform special worship of Lord Shiva by offering fruits, flowers, milk, and incense. After completing the aarti, offer deepdan (lamp offering) with the family.
It is believed that lighting and floating lamps in the River Ganga on this day destroys sins and brings happiness, peace, and prosperity into one’s life. Dev Deepawali symbolizes devotion, light, and divine energy. The sight of millions of lamps illuminating the ghats of Kashi on this sacred night is said to reflect the brilliance of the universe itself. Devotees believe that even gods come down to witness and worship Lord Shiva in his eternal city.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on general religious beliefs, astrology, the Hindu calendar, and sacred texts. We do not claim responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of this information.
