Have you seen diyas and lights all around you recently? Have you come across houses decorated with fairy lights from head to toe? Well, Diwali is just around the corner and the festive vibe has engulfed everything.
With Diwali comes a great deal of confusion regarding the dates, Muhurats, and festivities. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. If you’re looking to plan your celebrations, this is your ultimate guide for Diwali 2025, from the dates, puja timings, rituals, and little traditions that make the festival so special and memorable.
Diwali 2025 Date, Muhurat, and Panchang Details
- When is Diwali? This year, Diwali falls on Monday, October 20, 2025. The new moon (Amavasya) starts in the afternoon on the 20th and lasts till the next day, but most people will be celebrating the main festival on the 20th.
- Best time for Lakshmi Puja: 7:08 PM to 8:18 PM – this is the perfect window to light diyas and pray for prosperity.
- Pradosh Kaal: From 5:46 PM to 8:18 PM – a great time for puja and family gatherings.
- Vrishabha Kaal: 7:08 PM to 9:03 PM – another auspicious slot for rituals.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Diwali 2025 Date | Monday, October 20, 2025 |
| Amavasya (New Moon) Tithi | Begins in the afternoon on October 20 and continues into the next day. |
| Best Time for Lakshmi Puja | 7:08 PM to 8:18 PM – ideal for lighting diyas and prayers for prosperity. |
| Pradosh Kaal | 5:46 PM to 8:18 PM – considered highly auspicious for evening rituals. |
| Vrishabha Kaal | 7:08 PM to 9:03 PM – another favorable period for performing Lakshmi Puja. |
Rituals and Traditions Followed During Diwali
Diwali is full of little traditions that bring families together. Before the festival, homes are cleaned, decorated with rangoli, flowers, and diyas, and everything is made ready for prayers. On the main night, people perform Lakshmi Puja with offerings of sweets and fruits, while also praying to Lord Ganesha for good luck.
Sharing is a big part of the celebration, friends and family exchange sweets and gifts. After prayers, homes light up with diyas, candles, and sparklers, creating a warm, festive glow. These small rituals are what make Diwali so special, reminding everyone to celebrate joy, togetherness, and positivity.
The Five Days of Diwali Festival Explained
| Day & Date | Festival |
|---|---|
| Day 1: Oct 18, 2025 | Dhanteras |
| Day 2: Oct 20, 2025 (Morning) | Choti Diwali / Naraka Chaturdashi |
| Day 3: Oct 20, 2025 (Evening) | Lakshmi Puja / Main Diwali |
| Day 4: Oct 22, 2025 | Govardhan Puja |
| Day 5: Oct 23, 2025 | Bhai Dooj |
Diwali isn’t just one day, it’s a five-day celebration, and each day brings its own special vibe:
Day 1: Dhanteras (October 18, 2025)
The festival begins by welcoming wealth and prosperity. People buy gold, silver, or new utensils and pray to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari for good health and fortune.
Day 2: Choti Diwali / Naraka Chaturdashi (October 20, morning)
This day marks Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura. Homes are decorated, people take ritual baths, and the festive mood begins to build.
Day 3: Lakshmi Puja / Main Diwali (October 20, evening)
The heart of the festival! Families light diyas and candles, perform Lakshmi Puja, and share sweets and laughter, filling homes with warmth and joy.
Day 4: Govardhan Puja (October 22)
Devotees honor Lord Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill. Special offerings and prayers bring everyone together in celebration. Special food is prepared to offer to Lord Krishna on this day. This is called the Ankut, made with 52 ingredients. It is served along with Kadhi, which is often revered as the favourite food of Lord Krishna.
Day 5: Bhai Dooj (October 23)
A day for brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for their brothers’ well-being, and brothers give gifts, celebrating the bond they share. The sisters pray for their brothers’ long life and health in the morning by remembering and chanting old stories of the gods and goddesses.
Each day of Diwali is about love, togetherness, and joy, making the festival truly memorable.
Regional Celebrations and Cultural Variations
Diwali is celebrated all over India, but each region adds its own unique touch:
North India:
People celebrate Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya, lighting homes and streets with rows of diyas. Sweet treats and family gatherings are a big part of the fun.
West India
In states like Maharashtra and Gujarat, the focus is on Goddess Lakshmi, with elaborate pujas and community festivities. Markets shine with colorful decorations and local sweets.
East India
Diwali often overlaps with Kali Puja, worshipping the fierce Goddess Kali. Homes are decorated, lamps are lit, and families enjoy special regional dishes.
South India
People celebrate Deepavali with Naraka Chaturdashi, marking Krishna’s victory over Narakasura. Traditional sweets, early morning oil baths, and temple visits are common.
Eco-Friendly Diwali: Celebrate with Care
This Diwali, you can enjoy the festivities while being kind to the environment. Small changes make a big difference:
- Use clay diyas or LED lights instead of chemical ones. They look beautiful and are eco-friendly.
- Choose organic colors for rangoli and decorations to avoid harmful chemicals.
- Limit firecrackers or opt for sparkling alternatives to keep the air clean and reduce noise.
- Support local artisans by buying handmade gifts and decorations, it helps communities and adds a personal touch.
- Give sustainable gifts, like reusable items, plants, or handmade goodies, instead of plastic or disposable items.
The Eternal Glow of Diwali
Diwali is more than just lights, sweets, and decorations, it’s about hope, happiness, and coming together with the people you love. Every diya you light, every sweet you share, and every little prayer you offer spreads positivity, not just around you, but inside you too.
This festival reminds us that even in the darkest moments, goodness and light always find a way. It’s your chance to pause, reflect on the past year, forgive, and start fresh.
As your home glows with lamps and laughter fills the air, remember that the real magic of Diwali is in sharing joy, showing kindness, and feeling grateful. Celebrate safely, enjoy every moment, and let the light of Diwali brighten not just your home, but your heart as well.
FAQs on Diwali 2025
