When Is Diwali 2025? Your Complete Guide to Dates, Rituals & Timings

Day 1: Dhanteras – Saturday, October 18

Dhanteras marks the beginning of Diwali festivities and is traditionally associated with health, wealth, and well-being. Historically, it is the day when Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician, emerged during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) holding a pot of amrit (nectar of immortality). As such, it’s an auspicious day for purchasing gold, silver, utensils, or electronics, signifying prosperity. Many also light lamps to drive away evil and invoke good fortune in homes and businesses.

Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi / Choti Diwali – Sunday, October 19

Choti Diwali, or Naraka Chaturdashi, commemorates Lord Krishna's triumph over the demon Narakasura, who had imprisoned 16,000 women. Krishna’s triumph during Naraka Chaturdashi represents the restoration of righteousness and protection of the innocent, showcasing the victory of light over darkness. Traditionally, people clean their homes, decorate them with rangoli and lamps, and burst crackers early in the morning. In South India, this day is the main Diwali day, featuring oil baths, sweets, and religious rituals.

Day 3: Lakshmi Puja / Main Diwali Day – Monday, October 20 (Evening into Oct 21)

The main day of Diwali is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, who emerged from the ocean on this day during Samudra Manthan. Families perform Lakshmi Puja to seek her blessings for wealth, prosperity, and peace. The day also recalls Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, when the city was lit with oil lamps to celebrate his homecoming.

Among Sikhs, this day is also significant as Bandi Chhor Divas, marking the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji along with 52 kings from Mughal imprisonment. The Golden Temple in Amritsar is beautifully illuminated, and the Sikh community celebrates it with prayer, kirtan, and fireworks. Bandi Chhor Divas is cherished as a reminder of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji’s courage and compassion, symbolizing the power of justice, selflessness, and spiritual liberation.

Day 4: Govardhan Puja / Bali Pratipada – Tuesday, October 22

This day celebrates the Govardhan legend, where Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan hill on his little finger to protect villagers from torrential rains sent by Lord Indra. Devotees build small hillocks of cow dung symbolizing Govardhan and decorate them with flowers. In parts of India like Maharashtra and Gujarat, it is observed as Bali Pratipada, celebrating the return of the benevolent demon king Bali, who was granted a yearly visit to Earth by Lord Vishnu’s Vamana avatar. The day symbolizes victory of dharma (righteousness) over ego.

Day 5: Bhai Dooj – Wednesday, October 23

Bhai Dooj, also known as Bhau Beej or Bhai Tika in different regions, is a day dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters. Historically, it is believed that Yamraj, the god of death, visited his sister Yamuna on this day, who welcomed him with aarti and a feast. He blessed her and declared that brothers who receive tilak from their sisters on this day will have long, healthy lives. Sisters apply a ceremonial tilak on their brothers’ foreheads, pray for their prosperity, and receive gifts in return. 

Puja Timings & Muhurat to Note

Amavasya Tithi and Pradosh Kaal

The Amavasya tithi begins on the evening of October 20 and continues into October 21. Most astrologers recommend performing the Lakshmi Puja during the Pradosh Kaal, which typically falls between 6:10 PM and 8:10 PM (local time) on October 21, depending on your city.

City-specific Example: Lakshmi Puja Muhurat

• Mumbai: 6:14 PM to 8:12 PM
• Delhi: 6:08 PM to 8:06 PM
• Kolkata: 5:50 PM to 7:48 PM

Make sure to check your local Panchang for exact muhurat times.

Nishita Kaal and Additional Considerations

Some traditions also observe Nishita Kaal (midnight) puja or continue worship into the night, especially among Vaishnavite communities

Cultural Significance & Regional Variation

North India – Return of Lord Rama

In states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Delhi, Diwali celebrates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over Ravana. People light diyas, decorate their homes, and organize Ramlila performances to honor this epic event. Bursting fireworks and sharing sweets remain joyous customs, expressing collective happiness, gratitude, and the spirit of togetherness during Diwali.

South India – Victory of Lord Krishna or Narakasura

In Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, Diwali (Deepavali) is observed as the day Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura. The day starts early with oil baths, rituals, and bursting of crackers before sunrise. It’s more spiritual and family-focused than the northern version.

Western India – New Year and Lakshmi Worship

In Gujarat and Maharashtra, Diwali marks the beginning of a new financial year. Lakshmi Puja is performed to invite prosperity, especially by merchants and business families. The markets are vibrant, and people worship their accounting books and ledgers (Chopda Pujan).

Eastern India – Kali Puja

In states like West Bengal, Odisha, and Assam, Diwali aligns with Kali Puja—a powerful night dedicated to Goddess Kali, revered not only for her fierce form but as a symbol of protection, inner strength, and the destruction of ego and negativity. It involves night-long rituals, tantric traditions, and vibrant idol installations, reflecting a different spiritual focus compared to other regions.

Sikh Tradition – Bandi Chhor Divas

For Sikhs, Diwali is also Bandi Chhor Divas, the day Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji was released from imprisonment along with 52 Hindu kings. The Golden Temple in Amritsar is illuminated beautifully, and the day represents freedom, justice, and compassion.

Jain Community – Nirvana of Mahavira

Jains observe Diwali as the day Lord Mahavira, their 24th Tirthankara, attained nirvana (liberation) at Pavapuri. The focus is on spiritual awakening, fasting, and reading scriptures, making it a solemn yet sacred occasion.

Global Celebrations – A Festival Beyond Borders

Diwali is celebrated with grandeur in countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, Fiji, the UK, the US, and Canada. Local Indian communities organize parades, pujas, and cultural shows—showcasing how the festival of lights has become a global celebration of Indian culture.

Traditions, Customs & Festival Tips

Lighting Diyas & Decorations

One of the most iconic traditions of Diwali is lighting diyas (oil lamps) and candles to dispel darkness and invite prosperity. Homes are adorned with colorful lights, torans (door hangings), and rangoli (vibrant floor patterns made with colored powders, flowers, or rice). Decorating homes with vibrant colors, glowing lamps, and rangoli designs isn’t just for beauty—it reflects the inner joy, positivity, and hopes for a bright future that Diwali brings.

Home Cleaning & Preparation

Weeks before Diwali, families start deep-cleaning their homes — a practice rooted in the belief that Goddess Lakshmi only visits clean and pure spaces. This tradition has a spiritual as well as practical significance: it symbolizes letting go of negativity and making space for fresh beginnings.

Festive Shopping & New Clothes

Diwali is synonymous with shopping! Markets brim with traditional clothes, sweets, jewelry, and home decor. Wearing new outfits on Diwali is believed to bring good luck and is also a celebration of renewal. Many families buy utensils or gold on Dhanteras, the first day of Diwali week, as it’s considered highly auspicious.

Exchanging Sweets & Gifts

A big part of Diwali is sharing joy through sweets and gifts Sweet treats—whether lovingly made at home or picked up from a local shop—like besan laddus, creamy barfis, and cashew-rich kaju katlis are shared generously, spreading smiles and togetherness across communities. Gifting is not only a cultural practice but also a way to strengthen relationships and express gratitude.

Fireworks & Celebrations

No Diwali is complete without fireworks. Although cracker use has become controversial due to pollution, many still light sparklers and enjoy safe firework displays. Communities come together to organize cultural shows, dance, and music, making it a lively social celebration.

Rituals & Prayers

The most sacred part of Diwali is the Lakshmi Puja, performed on the main day of Diwali. Families worship Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and sometimes Kubera (god of wealth) to seek blessings for prosperity and success. Rituals include chanting mantras, offering sweets, lighting incense, and placing coins and symbolic items on the altar.

Festival Tips

• Eco-Friendly Tip: Embrace sustainability by using energy-saving LED lights and traditional clay diyas, reducing both your carbon footprint and electricity bills.
• Sweet Moderation: Diwali is a time for indulgence—balance it out with healthy snacks and hydration.
• Fire Safety: Always keep water nearby while lighting fireworks and supervise children.
• Gifting Smart: Personalized or handmade gifts are often more appreciated than generic items.
• Local Shopping: Support artisans and small businesses during the festive season.

Travel & Planning During Diwali Week

Planning to Experience Diwali in a Big City Like Mumbai?

Experiencing Diwali in a bustling city like Mumbai, Delhi, Jaipur, or Varanasi can be magical — with illuminated streets, firecrackers, sweets on every corner, and vibrant markets. But it also comes with its travel challenges due to the festive rush.

Avoid Peak Travel Dates (October 18–23, 2025)

The days surrounding Lakshmi Puja (Oct 20) see heavy domestic travel as people return to their hometowns or head to popular destinations. Roadways, trains, and flights will be overbooked, and prices often surge. If you’re traveling during this week:

• Book your flights and hotels by September
• Avoid road travel on Dhanteras (Oct 18) and Choti Diwali (Oct 19), when shopping traffic is at its peak
• Check for train ticket availability via IRCTC well in advance

Use Public Transport During Local Festivities

In cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore, local transport services may run late due to heavy congestion. But metros, suburban railways, and app-based cabs are often more efficient than driving yourself. Walking in festive neighborhoods — like Girgaon, Chandni Chowk, or Charminar — also gives you an authentic local feel.

Internal Travel Guide Links:

• Budget-Friendly Mumbai Trip

• Explore Mumbai Street Food During Diwali

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Light of Diwali 2025

Diwali is not just about lights and sweets—it’s about cleansing the soul, starting fresh, and connecting with loved ones. Whether you're lighting diyas to welcome prosperity, sharing sweets with neighbors, or reflecting on your personal growth, Diwali invites all of us—regardless of faith or background—to embrace light over darkness.

As you prepare for Diwali 2025, take time to understand its traditions, history, and regional beauty. From spiritual practices to joyful gatherings, this season connects us to our roots and to each other. Whether you're at home with family or exploring India’s cultural richness, may your Diwali be filled with peace, gratitude, and radiant joy.

So mark your calendar, prep your diyas, and let your heart shine—because this Diwali, you’re not just celebrating a festival... you're celebrating life itself.