Harshvardhan Mishra
Introduction
Diwali, or Deepavali, is India’s most celebrated festival — a grand celebration of light triumphing over darkness and good conquering evil. This festival of lights unites millions of people across religions, cultures, and regions. Homes sparkle with diyas, candles, and fairy lights, families come together to worship Goddess Lakshmi, and the air fills with joy, laughter, and the aroma of festive sweets.
But Diwali is not just one day — it’s a five-day festival, each with its own cultural and spiritual meaning. From Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj, every day tells a story of devotion, love, and renewal.
Here’s the complete Diwali 2025 calendar and the significance of each day according to the Hindu Drik Panchang.
🪔 Diwali 2025 Calendar: Important Dates
| Date | Day | Festival |
|---|---|---|
| October 18, 2025 | Saturday | Dhanteras |
| October 19, 2025 | Sunday | Choti Diwali (Narak Chaturdashi) |
| October 20, 2025 | Monday | Diwali and Lakshmi Puja |
| October 22, 2025 | Wednesday | Govardhan Puja |
| October 23, 2025 | Thursday | Bhai Dooj |
Day 1: Dhanteras — October 18, 2025 (Saturday)
The Diwali festivities begin with Dhanteras, a day dedicated to wealth, prosperity, and well-being. The word “Dhanteras” comes from Dhan (wealth) and Teras (the thirteenth day of the lunar month).
On this day, devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of fortune, and Lord Dhanvantari, the god of medicine and health. It is considered highly auspicious to buy gold, silver, or new utensils, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.
Homes are cleaned and illuminated with diyas to welcome the divine energies. Families perform Lakshmi and Kuber Puja in the evening, praying for abundance and happiness in the coming year.
Day 2: Choti Diwali — October 19, 2025 (Sunday)
The second day, also known as Narak Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali, celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura — symbolizing the triumph of light and goodness over evil and darkness.
Devotees begin the day with a sacred ritual bath called Abhyang Snan, taken before sunrise using herbal oils. This ritual is believed to wash away negativity and bring spiritual purity.
As evening falls, homes are decorated with rangolis, diyas, and fragrant flowers. The festive spirit truly begins, with families lighting fireworks, exchanging greetings, and preparing for the grand night of Diwali.
Day 3: Diwali (Lakshmi Puja) — October 20, 2025 (Monday)
The main Diwali day falls on Amavasya Tithi, the new moon day — the darkest night of the lunar month, which is illuminated by millions of diyas across India.
This day is devoted to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha. People believe that Goddess Lakshmi visits clean, well-lit homes and blesses them with wealth and prosperity. The Lakshmi Puja is performed during the Pradosh Kaal, the most auspicious time after sunset.
Homes glow with lights and decorations, families wear new clothes, exchange gifts and sweets, and share festive meals together. The night sky bursts into colors as fireworks symbolize the victory of good over evil.
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Day 4: Govardhan Puja — October 22, 2025 (Wednesday)
The fourth day of the festival, Govardhan Puja (also called Annakut), commemorates Lord Krishna’s divine act of lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from torrential rains sent by Lord Indra.
Devotees express gratitude to nature and the divine by preparing an Annakut (mountain of food) consisting of various dishes and sweets offered to Lord Krishna. Temples across India organize grand feasts, and the food is later shared as prasad.
In Gujarat and some northern regions, Govardhan Puja also marks the New Year of the Vikram Samvat calendar, symbolizing renewal and fresh beginnings.
Day 5: Bhai Dooj — October 23, 2025 (Thursday)
The final day of the Diwali festival, Bhai Dooj, celebrates the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters perform aarti, apply a ceremonial tilak on their brothers’ foreheads, and pray for their long life and happiness. Brothers, in return, give gifts and promise to protect their sisters.
This heartwarming tradition strengthens family ties and mirrors the spirit of Raksha Bandhan, but with its own rituals and customs. The day usually ends with family reunions and shared festive meals, marking a joyful conclusion to the Diwali celebrations.
Conclusion
Diwali 2025, beginning on October 18 and ending on October 23, is more than a festival — it’s a celebration of faith, light, and unity. Each day carries its own spiritual message, reminding us to seek light even in darkness, share happiness, and nurture our relationships.
May this Diwali bring you peace, prosperity, and boundless joy.
Wishing you all a sparkling and prosperous Diwali 2025!
