Diwali, the brightest and most cherished festival of India and Hindus around the world. Referring to it as the ‘Festival of Lights’ is not an understatement, for this festival represents the triumph of spiritual light over darkness, of good over evil, and of knowledge over ignorance. The radiance of innumerable diyas (earthen lamps) lighting homes, streets, and temples represents the elimination of darkness and the entry of prosperity, bliss, and peace into one’s life. It is a day of family gathering, indulgence in sweets, gift-giving, and fresh starts.
Confirmed Diwali Date 2025: 20 or 21 October
There is usually a misunderstanding since the new moon stage (Amavasya Tithi) falls on two calendar dates. But the main activity of the festival, the Lakshmi Puja, is mainly done in the Pradosh Kaal (the time immediately after sunset) that starts on October 20th. Thus, in the majority of India, Diwali 2025 is sure to be celebrated on Monday, October 20, 2025.
Diwali Puja Timing
The auspicious time for the main Lakshmi Puja (Muhurat) on October 20th is typically between 7:08 PM and 8:18 PM (timings are approximate and vary by city, but this is the highly auspicious Pradosh Kaal).
Why Is Diwali Celebrated?
The most popular mythological reason for celebrating Diwali is the triumphant return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana. The citizens of Ayodhya were so jubilant that they illuminated the whole city with lakhs of diyas to welcome their dear prince home on the darkest night of the year. This great illumination became an enduring tradition. The festival also commemorates Goddess Lakshmi, who is said to visit and bless the neatest homes on this night, imparting prosperity and good fortune.
The Three Days Festival
Diwali is not a one-day celebration but a grand three-day holiday, each day with its own distinctive rituals and meaning:
Dhanteras (October 18, 2025):
The first day in honor of wealth and health. Buying gold, silver, or new utensils is considered extremely auspicious.
Naraka Chaturdashi / Choti Diwali (October 19, 2025):
Celebrated to commemorate Lord Krishna’s triumph over the demon Narakasura. Individuals rise early for a ritual bath in oil, which is meant to represent cleansing and driving away evil.
Diwali / Lakshmi Puja (October 20, 2025):
The central day of the festival, which is used for worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha for blessings for prosperity and wisdom.
What Color to Wear on Diwali
Diwali is a festival of bright colors, one that represents happiness, prosperity, and energy. Colors to wear during Lakshmi Puja and festivities are: Red: Represents good luck, passion, and the invitation of Goddess Lakshmi.
The Spiritual Meaning Behind Lighting a Diya
Lighting a simple diya carries a very deep spiritual significance. The little flame represents the inner light, the individual self . By igniting the diya, we recognize the primacy of inner light and wisdom over the darkness of ignorance. The ghee or oil in the lamp symbolizes the filth and undesirable qualities greed, jealousy, and ego which are to be “burnt” off by the wick (the self) to yield the light of knowledge and goodness. Diwali is therefore a strong call to look inward and allow one’s inner light to shine so very brightly.
