October 20 or 21? When is Diwali?
The Festival of Lights is here! But there’s a slight confusion about when exactly Lakshmi Puja is this year. We tell you
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Dhanteras marks the beginning Diwali and this year it falls on October 18. It’s a day to pray to Lord Kuber and Goddess Lakshmi to bless everyone with prosperity and good fortune. Buying gold, silver, brass, copper or new home appliances and goods are considered auspicious on this day. The best time to buy is anywhere between from 7:15 pm to 8:45 pm on October 18. File Image/Reuters
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Choti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi falls on the eve of Diwali. This year, the auspicious time to celebrate Choti Diwali is from 5:12 am to 6:25 am. The day marks Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, which signifies the elimination of darkness and negativity from the world. File image/PTI
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There has been some confusion over Diwali day across the country. In some parts, it will be celebrated on October 20 while others will celebrate it on October 21. The Amavasya Tithi is observed from 3:44 pm on October 20, 2025, to 5:54 pm on October 21. Since the Tithi is active before sunset on October 20, that evening is when the major Diwali celebrations and the Lakshmi Puja will take place. Diwali celebrates the homecoming of Lord Ram, Goddess Sita and Lord Lakshman to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and is celebated with lights, firecrackers and diyas. File image/PTI
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Govardhan Puja will be observed on October 22 this year. The auspicious timing for puja will be from 3:29 pm to 5:44 pm. This day honours Lord Krishna raising Govardhan Parvat to shield the people of Mathura from torrential rains due to Lord Indra’s fury. Celebrated a day after Diwali, devotees worship Govardhan with food offerings, cow rituals, and prayers, symbolising gratitude to nature and divine protection. File image/PTI
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Bhai Dooj marks the end of the five-day Diwali festival. The day honours the relation between siblings and will be celebrated on October 23. Sisters apply a ceremonial tilak on their brothers’ foreheads, pray for their long life, and exchange gifts. In return, brothers promise protection and affection, symbolising love, trust, and family unity in Indian tradition. File image/PTI
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