Diwali (Deepawali)
दीपावली
October 29, 2026
Significance
The festival of lights — celebrates the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and defeating Ravana. Citizens lit diyas to welcome him. Also marks Lakshmi Puja for wealth and prosperity.
Story & Mythology
When Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of vanvas (exile) and victory over the demon king Ravana, the people of Ayodhya lit thousands of earthen lamps (diyas) to illuminate his path and celebrate his homecoming. This tradition continues as Diwali. On the Amavasya (new moon) night, Goddess Lakshmi visits clean and well-lit homes to bless them with wealth. In South India, Diwali celebrates Lord Krishna's victory over demon Narakasura.
Puja Vidhi & Rituals
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Day 1 (Dhanteras): Clean house, buy gold/silver/utensils, light 13 diyas for Dhanvantari (god of health)
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Day 2 (Narak Chaturdashi/Choti Diwali): Oil bath before sunrise, light diyas in evening, firecrackers
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Day 3 (Diwali/Lakshmi Puja): Main day — Ganesh-Lakshmi puja at Pradosh Kaal (after sunset). Draw rangoli, light diyas in every corner, perform aarti with Om Jai Lakshmi Mata
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Day 4 (Govardhan Puja/Padwa): Worship Govardhan mountain (Krishna lifted it). Husbands honor wives.
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Day 5 (Bhai Dooj): Sisters apply tilak on brothers' foreheads, pray for their long life