Diwali is almost here, and the festive excitement is everywhere. Markets are full of lights and decorations, homes are being cleaned and decorated, and people are getting ready to celebrate one of India’s most loved festivals– the festival of lights. It’s the time when diyas glow in every corner, families come together, and happiness and positivity fill the air.This year, many people are confused about the exact date of Diwali 2025. The Amavasya Tithi, which decides the main day of Diwali, falls over two days, so it’s unclear which day is the main celebration. In this guide, we’ll explain the correct Diwali date, the best time for performing puja, and why this festival is so important and special for everyone.
When is Diwali in 2025?
According to the Hindu calendar and as mentioned in a report by The Times of India, Diwali is celebrated on the Amavasya Tithi of the Kartik month. In 2025, this Amavasya Tithi starts at 3:44 PM on October 20 and ends at 5:54 PM on October 21.Since the Amavasya begins before sunset on October 20, most Panchang calculations mark Monday, October 20, 2025, as the day for Diwali and Lakshmi Puja.
Here are the key timings for the day:
Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: 7:08 PM – 8:18 PMPradosh Kaal: 5:46 PM – 8:18 PMVrishabha Kaal: 7:08 PM – 9:03 PMThese times are considered most auspicious for performing the Lakshmi Puja, which is the central ritual of Diwali celebrations.
The importance of Amavasya on Diwali
The new moon night, or Amavasya, holds special spiritual meaning during Diwali. According to Hindu beliefs, this is the day when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana and completing fourteen years of exile. To celebrate his return, the people of Ayodhya lit oil lamps all over the city, starting the tradition of Diwali.Since then, lighting diyas on Amavasya has come to represent the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. The festival reminds us that even in the darkest times, faith and positivity can guide the way forward.
The meaning and traditions of DiwaliDiwali is more than just a festival– it is a time for renewal, reflection, and gratitude. On this day, people worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, along with Lord Ganesha and Lord Kuber, seeking blessings for happiness and abundance.Homes are cleaned and decorated with flowers and rangoli, symbolizing a fresh start. Diyas are lit to welcome prosperity and remove negativity. Families come together to share sweets, exchange gifts, and enjoy the joy of being together.The festival also carries cultural significance, teaching generosity and compassion. Many devotees donate clothes, food, or money to those in need, spreading the light of Diwali to every home.How Diwali is celebrated across IndiaWhile the core meaning of Diwali stays the same, the traditions differ across regions. In North India, it celebrates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya. In Western India, the focus is on worshipping Goddess Lakshmi, while in Eastern India, it is celebrated as Kali Puja.
People decorate their homes, cook special festive dishes, and wear new clothes. The night lights up with diyas and lamps, and many families now choose eco-friendly diyas and candles instead of fireworks to celebrate responsibly.Diwali food and sweetsDuring Diwali, people enjoy lots of delicious sweets. Some popular ones are ladoos, barfis, kaju katli, and other regional treats. Cooking these sweets and sharing them with family and friends is a big part of the festival. It brings families closer and makes the celebrations even sweeter.Decorations and rangoli designsHomes are decorated with rangoli, flowers, diyas, and lanterns during Diwali. Rangoli designs are made at the entrance to welcome good luck and happiness. Nowadays, people also use LED lights and eco-friendly decorations to make their homes bright and colourful in a safe and modern way.Eco-friendly celebrationsMore people are now choosing eco-friendly ways to celebrate Diwali. This includes using fewer firecrackers, lighting clay diyas instead of chemical ones, and giving sustainable gifts. These small steps help protect the environment while keeping the festive spirit alive.
The deeper message of DiwaliAt its heart, Diwali is more than just a festival– it shows us that light always wins over darkness. The festival teaches that goodness, truth, and hope can overcome even the hardest times. It is also a time for thinking about ourselves, forgiving others, and starting fresh, making it a moment for both spiritual and emotional renewal.This year, as diyas light up homes on October 20, 2025, Diwali will once again bring peace, happiness, and prosperity to everyone.In short, Diwali is a time to celebrate light, positivity, and togetherness. Whether through prayers, sweets, or decorations, the festival reminds us to embrace goodness, share joy, and start anew. This Diwali, on October 20, 2025, let the diyas light up not just homes, but hearts too.It’s also a perfect time to reconnect with loved ones and create lasting memories. Many use this festival to reflect on personal growth and set positive intentions for the year ahead. Children enjoy the fun of festive games and stories, keeping traditions alive for future generations. Above all, Diwali reminds us that even small acts of kindness and light can make a big difference in the world around us.
