Diwali 2025: Illuminating the Festival of Lights – Dates, Significance, and Timings for All Celebrations

Digital Desk

As the crisp autumn air fills with anticipation, Diwali 2025 beckons with its timeless glow, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Falling on October 20 this year, the festival spans five vibrant days, blending ancient rituals, family bonds, and joyous festivities. From Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj, each day carries profound cultural and spiritual weight.

With homes decked in rangolis and diyas, and markets buzzing with gold buys, Diwali isn't just a holiday it's a renewal. Here's your ultimate guide to Diwali 2025 dates, significance, timings, and traditions, ensuring you're ready to embrace the prosperity and peace.

The Diwali extravaganza kicks off on October 18 with Dhanteras , the auspicious dawn of wealth. Derived from "Dhan" (wealth) and "Teras" (13th day), this Trayodashi Tithi honors Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari, the deity of Ayurveda. Devotees flock to jewelers for gold, silver, and utensils believed to invite fortune. The puja muhurat runs from 7:17 PM to 8:20 PM. That evening, light Yama Deepam from 5:49 PM to 7:05 PM, a mustard-oil lamp for Lord Yama to ward off untimely death. It's a day of health and abundance, setting a prosperous tone.

Fast-forward to October 20, the heart of Diwali , doubling as Choti Diwali (Narak Chaturdashi) and the main Lakshmi Puja. Start with Abhyang Snan at dawn (5:12 AM to 6:25 AM), a ritual oil bath commemorating Lord Krishna's victory over demon Narakasura signifying purification and demon-slaying resolve. As Amavasya Tithi begins at 3:44 PM, twilight brings Lakshmi Puja from 7:08 PM to 8:18 PM (Pradosh Kaal: 5:46 PM to 8:18 PM). Families invoke Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity, lighting diyas to banish gloom. Vrishabha Kaal (7:08 PM to 9:03 PM) is ideal for the ritual. Amid the sparkle, note the buzz on X: ETMarkets highlights Muhurat Trading sessions for stock market new beginnings, a modern twist on tradition.

The festivities continue on October 22 with Govardhan Puja , Pratipada Tithi's ode to environmental gratitude. This Pratipada Tithi recalls Lord Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill to shelter villagers from Indra's wrath, promoting humility and nature's bounty. Prepare annakut (mountain of food) offerings. Muhurats: morning 6:26 AM to 8:42 AM, evening 3:29 PM to 5:44 PM. It's a reminder to cherish the earth, especially timely with Supreme Court easing Delhi-NCR firecracker norms for green bursts only during designated Diwali hours, balancing joy and eco-care.

Capping the week is October 23's Bhai Dooj , Dwitiya Tithi's sibling celebration (muhurat: 1:13 PM to 3:28 PM). Echoing Yamraj-Yamuna's bond, sisters apply tilak to brothers for longevity, receiving gifts in return. It's pure familial love, underscoring protection and harmony.

Beyond India, Diwali 2025 shines globally—California hosts grand temple events and street fairs, fostering diaspora unity. Astrologers on X decode cosmic energies, with Sun-Moon alignments amplifying prosperity vibes. Even GST filings get a festive nod, as professionals seek extensions amid the revelry.

Diwali 2025, rooted in the Kartik month's Amavasya, transcends religion, uniting in hope. Cleanse your space, share sweets, and let the lights guide you. May this festival bring endless joy, wealth, and unbreakable bonds. Happy Diwali!