Diwali
12 - November 22, Tuesday – Friday
Diwali is typically celebrated over five days, starting from the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight of the month of Ashwin (October-November) according to the lunar calendar. The festival concludes on the second day of the bright fortnight of the month of Kartika. The main day of celebration occurs on the third day, which is considered the culmination of the festival.
The Five Days of Diwali:
Dhanteras. The first day of the festival is dedicated to worshiping the god of health and prosperity, Dhanteras. People buy gold, silver, or new kitchen utensils to bring good fortune to their homes.
Naraka Chaturdashi. The second day symbolizes the victory of Krishna over the demon Narakasura. On this day, people light the first lamps and decorate their homes with lights and flowers.
Lakshmi Puja. The third and most important day of Diwali is dedicated to worshiping the goddess of prosperity, Lakshmi. In the evening, families gather for prayers, asking for blessings of success and well-being. Thousands of lights are lit on this day, and homes are decorated with garlands and lamps.
Govardhan Puja. The fourth day commemorates the victory of the god Krishna over Indra and is associated with the worship of the Govardhan Hill. In northern India, this day is also known as the New Year according to local calendars.
Bhai Dooj. The fifth and final day of Diwali is dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for the health and well-being of their brothers, while brothers promise to protect their sisters.
The history of Diwali is rooted in many mythological stories, each adding special significance to the festival:
Hinduism. In the Indian epic Ramayana, the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana to the city of Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and victory over the demon Ravana is described. The townspeople joyfully welcomed Rama by illuminating the streets with oil lamps (diyas). Hence, the name Deepavali, meaning “row of lamps.” This episode symbolizes the victory of good over evil.
Northern India. In some regions, Diwali is associated with the worship of the god Vishnu and his incarnation as Rama, symbolizing the triumph of justice.
Western India. The festival is also linked to Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, symbolizing the destruction of evil.
Southern India. In southern India, Diwali is celebrated in honor of Vishnu and his victory over the demon Bali.
Jainism. Jains celebrate Diwali as the day of enlightenment (nirvana) of Mahavira, their last spiritual teacher.
Sikhism. Sikhs celebrate this day as the moment of liberation of Guru Hargobind from prison in 1619.
Diwali in other years
- 2022 October 24 - November 3, Monday – Thursday
- 2023 12 - November 22, Sunday – Wednesday
- 2025 20 - October 30, Monday – Thursday