Diwali 2025: Meaning, Significance, Celebration Tips & Whether It Falls on 20th or 21st October 2025 -

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Diwali, also called Deepavali, is one of the most important and widely celebrated Hindu festivals in India and across the world. The word Deepavali comes from Sanskrit —

“Deepa” means lamp or light and

“Avali” means a row.

Thus, Deepavali means “a row of lights.”

It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Houses, temples, streets, and public places are illuminated with countless diyas (oil lamps) and lights, creating a divine and joyful atmosphere.

Diwali is not just a one-day festival — it is a five-day celebration, beginning with Dhanteras and ending with Bhai Dooj.

Diwali, or Deepavali, is one of the most sacred and joyful Hindu festivals, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness, truth over falsehood, and good over evil.

The term Deepavali in Sanskrit means “a row (avali) of lamps (deepa).”

It is celebrated with lamps, lights, prayers, sweets, and togetherness — representing the awakening of the inner light that dispels ignorance.

There are several divine stories and reasons for celebrating Diwali across India, but all connect to the theme of hope, renewal, and divine light.

Lord Rama’s Return to Ayodhya:
- According to the Ramayana, after defeating the demon king Ravana and completing 14 years of exile, Lord Rama, along with Mata Sita and Lakshmana, returned to Ayodhya.
- The citizens lit lamps (diyas) to celebrate the end of darkness and the return of righteousness (dharma).
- This marks the central reason for Diwali in North India.
Birth of Goddess Lakshmi:
- During the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), Goddess Lakshmi emerged on this day, symbolizing wealth, fortune, and prosperity.
- Thus, Lakshmi Puja is the main ritual of Diwali night.
Victory of Lord Krishna over Narakasura:
- In South India, Diwali commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, freeing thousands of imprisoned women.
- This signifies the destruction of ignorance and ego.

Diwali is both a spiritual and festive celebration. The rituals are meant to cleanse the mind, home, and soul — inviting prosperity and peace.

Morning: Purification and Preparation:
- Clean and decorate the house — it signifies removing negativity.
- Create rangoli — at the entrance to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.
- Wear new clothes — at the entrance to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.
Afternoon: Charity and Shopping:
- Donate food, clothes, or money to the needy — this brings divine blessings.
- Buy new items (gold, silver, utensils, or symbolic items) to attract abundance.
Evening: Lakshmi & Ganesha Puja:
- The most important ritual of Diwali.
- Lord Ganesha is worshipped for wisdom and obstacle removal.
- Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped for wealth and prosperity.
- Offer flowers, sweets, coins, and chant mantras like:
  
  “Om Shreem Maha Lakshmyai Namah”
- Perform Aarti and light diyas in every corner of your home.
Night: Celebration & Joy:
- Light diyas and candles — symbolizing the removal of darkness.
- Share sweets, visit relatives, and enjoy festive meals.
- Celebrate with fireworks responsibly and eco-consciously.

Know the Dates:
- In 2025, Diwali falls on Monday, 20th October (main day of Lakshmi Puja) in most regions, but some calendars may consider 21st October for regional variations.
- Mark your calendar to plan pujas, decorations, and shopping in advance.
- In my Point of View, Diwali should celebrate on 21st October, it is better to celebrate on that day.
Clean and Decorate Your Home:
- Deep cleaning is essential; it symbolizes the removal of negativity and prepares your home for Goddess Lakshmi.
- Decorate with rangoli, flowers, and lights.
- Use eco-friendly diyas and LED lights to reduce fire hazards and pollution.
- Create a sacred space for puja, keeping it clean and elevated.