When is Diwali in 2025? Your Complete Guide to the Festival of Lights

Diwali (also called the Festival of Lights) is one of the most important festivals in India and Hindus all over the world. Everyone is busy planning events every year, but one of the most frequently asked questions is, “When is Diwali in 2025?” Here we’ll provide a solution to this question and share about the meaning, traditions, and global celebration of Diwali.

When is Diwali in 2025?

Diwali in 2025 falls on 24 October, Friday. This day is celebrated with big glitz, lights, and savoury customs that unite families and communities.

Diwali 2025 Date and Calendar

So here’s the rundown of Diwali in 2025:

Why is Diwali Celebrated?

Diwali is a religious, cultural, and spiritual festival enjoyed by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists, each of whom interprets it differently.

Hindu Belief

In Hindu mythology, Diwali signifies:

• Lord Rama’s Victory: Having defeated Ravana after 14 years, Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya with Sita and Lakshmana. People lit lamps to mark the victory of good over evil.
• Lakshmi’s Visit: Diwali is associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, who is believed to visit clean and well-lit homes.
• Krishna & Narakasura: In South India, Diwali celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura.

Jain Significance

For Jains, Diwali commemorates Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, achieving nirvana (emancipation) in 527 BCE.

Sikh Celebration

In Sikhism, Diwali marks the release of Guru Hargobind Ji, the sixth Guru, from imprisonment and his return to Amritsar.

Buddhist Perspective

Newar Buddhists of Nepal observe Diwali as a festival celebrating King Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism.

How is Diwali Celebrated?

On Diwali 2025, expect colourful festivals that embrace both ancient rituals and contemporary changes.

1. Cleaning and Decoration

• Homes are cleaned, renovated, and decorated with rangoli and torans (door decorations).
• Diyas and candles are placed everywhere to brighten the night.

2. Lakshmi Puja

The main day includes Lakshmi Puja, where households invoke Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha.
Steps include:

• Arranging idols of the gods on a clean altar.
• Filling the altar with flowers, rice, and diyas.
• Chanting mantras and distributing sweets, fruits, and money.

3. Feasts and Sweets

Diwali is synonymous with delicious food. Traditional dishes include:

• Sweets: Gulab jamun, laddoos, kaju katli, and barfis.
• Savories: Samosas, chaklis, and kachoris.
  Families and friends exchange sweets to spread goodwill.

4. Fireworks

The night sky lights up with spectacular fireworks and crackers, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.

5. Gifts and Shopping

It’s a tradition to buy new clothes, gold, and household goods. Common gifts include:

• Chocolates and dry fruits
• Jewelry and home appliances
• Personalized hampers

Diwali Across the World

Diwali’s charm extends beyond India, with celebrations in various countries:

United Kingdom

The Diwali lights in Leicester are among the largest outside India, attracting thousands. Pujas, cultural shows, and fireworks are held at temples and local institutions.

United States

Diwali celebrations feature parades, temple tours, and feasts in cities like New York and San Francisco.

Canada

Temples and cultural parades dominate events in cities such as Toronto.

Singapore and Malaysia

In these countries, Diwali (Deepawali) is a public holiday. Little India neighborhoods come alive with glittering festivities.

Why is Diwali in 2025 on 24 October?

Diwali’s date changes yearly because it is based on the Hindu lunar calendar, which aligns with moon phases. Diwali falls on the Amavasya (new moon day) of Kartik month, usually between late October and early November.

In 2025, the Amavasya falls on 24 October, marking the date of Diwali.

Questions and Answers on Diwali 2025

1. What day of the week is Diwali 2025?

Diwali 2025 is on a Friday, making it a long weekend.

2. Is Diwali a public holiday in the UK?

No, Diwali is not a public holiday in the UK, but cities with significant Hindu and Sikh populations host large celebrations.

3. Can non-Hindus celebrate Diwali?

Absolutely! Diwali’s themes of light, hope, and community transcend religion, making it a celebration for everyone.

4. How can I prepare for Diwali 2025?

• Clean and decorate your home with lights and rangoli.
• Plan your puja and buy diyas, flowers, and sweets.
• Start gift shopping early to avoid the holiday rush.

Tips to Celebrate Diwali Safely

• Eco-Friendly Fireworks: Choose designs that emit low noise and smoke to protect the environment.
• DIY Decorations: Use biodegradable materials for rangoli and other decor.
• Fire Safety: Keep water and a fire extinguisher handy while handling diyas or fireworks.