Diwali 2025, the Festival of Lights, will be celebrated on October 20th, and it brings together sparkling traditions, heartfelt family moments, and vibrant festivities across India and the world. Here are 10 fun facts about this magical celebration that make it truly special.
1. Diwali’s Date Changes Every Year
Diwali follows the Hindu lunar calendar and falls on the new moon night of Kartika month; in 2025, celebrations begin on October 20th and continue for five days.
2. Diwali Means “Row of Lights”
The word Diwali comes from the Sanskrit term “Deepavali,” meaning “a row of lights”—symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.
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3. Many Stories, Many Traditions
The festival is rooted in several legends:
- In North India, it honors Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana.
- In South India, it celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura.
- In Jainism, it marks Lord Mahavira’s attainment of nirvana.
- In West India, devotees welcome Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth.
4. Five-Day Celebration
Diwali unfolds over five distinct days—Dhanteras, Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali), Lakshmi Puja (main Diwali), Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj—with each day having unique rituals and customs.
5. Lights, Diyas, and Candles
Homes, temples, and public spaces glow with rows of oil lamps (diyas), candles, and lanterns, believed to welcome prosperity and ward off evil.
6. Rangoli Art
Families create intricate patterns called rangoli using colored powders, flower petals, or rice at entrances to greet guests and invite good fortune.
7. Feasts, Sweets, and Gifts
Diwali is synonymous with sharing traditional sweets like laddus and barfi, enjoying hearty feasts, and exchanging thoughtful gifts among loved ones.
8. Goddess Lakshmi Worship
On the main night, people perform special pujas for Goddess Lakshmi—cleaning and decorating homes to seek her blessings for wealth and happiness.
9. Diwali Around the World
Beyond India, Diwali is joyously celebrated in countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka, Fiji, Malaysia, Australia, England and Canada. Leicester in the UK hosts one of the largest Diwali gatherings outside India.
10. A Lesson in Light and Goodness
Lit earthen Diya or Panati lamp associated with the Dhanteras celebration
The festival’s central theme is the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, reminding families and children about hope, positivity, and kindness each year.
(This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)
