Diwali is a significant Hindu festival celebrated by people in India and globally. It involves lighting small lamps known as diyas and creating vibrant rangoli art. The festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. The celebration commemorates Lord Rama’s return to his home after defeating the evil king Ravana, with people lighting lamps to welcome him. Additionally, Diwali honors Goddess Lakshmi, who represents wealth and good fortune, prompting people to clean their homes and illuminate them with diyas to invite her presence. In 2025, Diwali will be observed on Monday, October 20, coinciding with the year’s darkest night. Devotees will pray to Lakshmi and Ganesha, lighting lamps and decorating their homes in preparation.
The festival spans five days: Day 1 (Dhanteras on October 18) involves purchasing new items such as gold and utensils, along with home cleaning; Day 2 (Choti Diwali on October 19) features early morning baths, lamp lighting, and fireworks; Day 3 (Diwali on October 20) is the main celebration day, marked by prayers, lighting diyas, enjoying sweets, and festivities; Day 4 (Govardhan Puja on October 22) honors Lord Krishna through food offerings and cow worship; Day 5 (Bhai Dooj on October 23) is dedicated to sisters praying for their brothers, accompanied by gift-giving and sweet exchanges.
The optimal time for puja (prayers) in 2025 begins at 3:44 PM on October 20 and concludes at 5:54 PM on October 21, with the best prayer time being from 7:08 PM to 8:18 PM on October 20, when devotees seek wealth, peace, and happiness. Diwali is recognized as a public holiday in various Indian states, with some states extending the holiday to cover all five days, allowing families to fully embrace the festival. Wishing everyone a joyful and prosperous Diwali 2025 filled with light and love.
