Diwali

Diwali is one of the most popular and significant Hindu festivals celebrated throughout India. Every year, as Diwali comes, it fills people with joy, enthusiasm, and devotion. Diwali is also popularly called Deepawali, meaning the Festival of Lights. Around this time, people clean their homes, celebrate, and pray for brighter days ahead.   

The history of Diwali can be traced back to ancient times. It is celebrated with different meanings in different parts of the country. 

• For instance, in North India, the Diwali festival marks the homecoming of Lord Rama after his 14 years of vanvas and Ravana’s defeat. It symbolises the victory of good over evil.
  
  

• In Gujarat, Diwali is celebrated by worshipping Maa Lakshmi and praying for prosperity.
  
  

• In Bengal, people link the Deepawali celebration with Goddess Kali. 

There are several other stories related to Diwali. However, each story highlights a single message: light prevails over darkness, and hope triumphs over despair. 

The festival of Diwali is filled with joy and tradition. In many places, it is a 5-day celebration filled with various rituals, customs, and numerous traditions. 

Here are more details on the five days of Diwali. 

1. Dhanteras

Dhanteras is the first day of the Diwali festival. It is dedicated to wealth and prosperity. People buy a wide range of goods, including gold and silver, on this day. 

2. Choti Diwali

Also known as Narak Chaturdashi, this day celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna over the Rakshasa Narakasura. On this day, people clean their houses and wait for the big day. 

3. Badi Diwali

Badi Diwali is the day of Lakshmi Puja, dedicated to Maa Lakshmi. People engage in puja and rituals to please Maa Lakshmi. They also light diyas, firecrackers, exchange sweets, and more. 

4. Govardhan Puja

Govardhan Puja celebrates the day on which Lord Krishna lifted Govardhan Parvat and protected his village. Devotees organise feasts and cherish nature and food. 

5. Bhai Dooj

This is the last day of Diwali, a festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. 

There is often confusion about the exact date of Diwali in 2025. Here are the Diwali 2025 dates based on Drik Panchang. 

Doing Diwali Puja during the right muhurat is considered auspicious. Here are more details on the Puja muhurat: 

Diwali is all about joy and decor. Here are some Diwali decoration ideas for the home:

• Make Rangoli: You can use beautiful colours or flowers to create rangoli patterns. These are generally drawn at entrances. 

• Diwali Decoration Items: You can use Diwali decoration items like diyas, candles, and decorate your house corners, balconies, and other areas.

• Flowers: Flowers such as marigolds, roses, mango leaves, and others can be used for Diwali decorations. 

• Fairy Lights: Fairy lights are also used and wrapped around windows, curtains, and plants to give a festive vibe.

• DIY: You can also use DIY ideas, like reusing glass jars, painting diyas, or making paper lanterns for fun and creativity. 

On the occasion of Diwali, friends and families meet. Here are some fun activities to do this Diwali to make it more memorable. 

• Play Games

You can play different games like cards, carrom, or antakshari, and have a fun night. 

• Cook and Share

You can also cook your family's traditional recipes and share them with your friends and relatives. 

• Gratitude Notes

You can also write thank-you letters to the people you love. This can also be a healing experience. 

• Diwali Photos 

Click pictures with your friends and family and create a photo corner. This way, you create a memorable day. 

Wanting to give something more than the sweet boxes this Diwali? Here are some Diwali gift ideas:

• Indoor Plants

These are some of the best Diwali gifts that symbolise nature and life. 

• Eco-friendly Diyas

Go sustainable this Diwali with handcrafted items like diyas. 

• Donations or Charity 

You can also make someone's Diwali more special and happy by offering charity or donations. 

• Personalised Gifts 

Personalised items like diaries and photo frames can be gifted with a personal touch. 

Here are some popular destinations you may visit to celebrate Diwali this year. 

1. Varanasi 

Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world. People celebrate Diwali by floating diyas on the Ganges and watching the ghats glowing with a beautiful light. 

2. Amritsar

Thousands and thousands of devotees visit the Golden Temple at Amritsar. Diwali is celebrated with devotion and fireworks. 

3. Ayodhya 

The Diwali story started in Ayodhya. Thousands of devotees visit the city, illuminating diyas and celebrating spirituality. 

4. Jaipur

For people wanting to have a more vibrant experience, Jaipur is an ideal choice to visit this Diwali. From colourful markets to forts, everything is decorated to create a festive vibe. 

How to Reach?

Here is how to reach these popular destinations:

• By Road

UPSTRC buses are easily available for Varanasi and Ayodhya and can be conveniently booked with redBus. 

• By Rail

Easy and direct connectivity to these cities from major states via rail routes. Tickets can be booked with redRail. 

• By Air

You can also book flights for convenience and comfort.