Diwali 2025: Date, Puja Timings, Festival List, and Significance Explained

As the festival of lights approaches, confusion has arisen among devotees over the exact date of Diwali 2025 — whether it will be celebrated on October 20 or October 21. The difference in Amavasya Tithi timings this year has led to speculation, but astrologers have now confirmed the correct date for observing Lakshmi Puja and celebrating Diwali.

The Confusion Around Diwali 2025 Dates

This year, the Amavasya Tithi begins at 3:44 PM on October 20 and ends at 5:54 PM on October 21, spanning two consecutive days. Since the Amavasya night is crucial for performing Lakshmi Puja, experts suggest that the festival should be celebrated on October 20, 2025, as the evening of that day aligns perfectly with Pradosh Kaal and Vrishabha Kaal, both considered highly auspicious.

Diwali 2025 Puja Timings

According to the Hindu calendar:

• Amavasya Tithi Begins: October 20, 2025 – 3:44 PM

• Amavasya Tithi Ends: October 21, 2025 – 5:54 PM

• Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: October 20, 2025 – 7:08 PM to 8:18 PM

• Pradosh Kaal: October 20, 2025 – 5:46 PM to 8:18 PM

• Vrishabha Kaal: October 20, 2025 – 7:08 PM to 9:03 PM

Thus, devotees are advised to perform Lakshmi Puja on the evening of October 20, when these auspicious periods overlap.

Why Amavasya Is Important on Diwali

The Amavasya Tithi of Kartik month holds deep significance in Hindu belief. It marks the day when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya welcomed him by lighting thousands of diyas, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Since then, lighting diyas on Diwali night has become a sacred tradition.

Diwali 2025 Festival Schedule

The five-day Diwali celebrations will unfold as follows:

• October 18 (Saturday): Dhanteras and Yama Deepam

• October 20 (Monday): Choti Diwali

• October 20 (Monday Evening): Main Diwali – Lakshmi Puja

• October 22 (Wednesday): Govardhan Puja

• October 23 (Thursday): Bhai Dooj

Each day holds its own spiritual importance, but the night of Lakshmi Puja remains the central highlight of the festival.

Rituals and Celebrations Across India

Across India, Diwali is celebrated with grandeur and devotion. Homes are decorated with diyas, candles, and rangolis. Families clean and illuminate their houses to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, the bringer of wealth and prosperity. Many also worship Lord Ganesha for wisdom and Lord Kuber for abundance. Fireworks, sweets, and gift exchanges add joy to the festivities.

Spiritual Significance of Diwali

Beyond celebration, Diwali carries a profound spiritual message — the triumph of good over evil and the removal of ignorance through knowledge. Lighting a diya represents spreading positivity and hope. The festival reminds us that even a small light can dispel great darkness.

Regional Variations in Diwali

While North India celebrates Diwali as the return of Lord Rama, in South India it is observed as the victory of Lord Krishna over Narakasura. In Gujarat, it marks the beginning of a new financial year, and in West Bengal, it coincides with Kali Puja. These regional interpretations show how Diwali connects people across diverse cultures through a shared sense of light and renewal.

Precautions and Eco-Friendly Celebrations

In recent years, environmental concerns have prompted many families to opt for eco-friendly Diwali celebrations. Using earthen diyas, natural colors for rangoli, and limiting firecracker use helps reduce pollution while keeping the festival’s essence intact.

The Joy of Togetherness

Diwali is not only a religious festival but also a celebration of togetherness. It brings families, friends, and communities closer, reminding everyone to share happiness, forgive past grievances, and start anew.

Final Word

This year, Diwali will be celebrated on October 20, 2025, with Lakshmi Puja between 7:08 PM and 8:18 PM. As homes across India glow with diyas, the festival will once again stand as a symbol of hope, unity, and the eternal truth — that light will always conquer darkness.