However, apart from India’s chances of beating the Kangaroos in the upcoming ODI series down under, the other raging debate among Indians is when actually it is Diwali. Well, to one’s surprise, it’s a matter of perspective, as are most things in life.
According to the Hindu calendar, Amavasya Tithi in the Kartik month is when Lord Ram came back from his 14-year exile, which is celebrated as Diwali. In 2025, Amavasya Tithi falls on two days, from October 20 to October 21. Tithi starts at 3:44 PM on October 20 and ends at 5:54 PM on October 21.
In the USA, Diwali and the related festival days in 2025 are:
- Dhanteras: October 18
- Choti Diwali: October 19
- Diwali (main day): October 20
- Govardhan Puja: October 21
- Bhai Dooj: October 22
Diwali date and puja timings
As per the holy Panchang calculations , technically Sunday, October 20 is the day of Amavasya, making Monday, October 21, 2025, as the main day for Diwali and Lakshmi Puja. The best time for Lakshmi Puja is from 7:08 PM to 8:18 PM. Pradosh Kaal is from 5:46 PM to 8:18 PM, and Vrishabha Kaal is from 7:08 PM to 9:03 PM.
It is considered that Diwali is a time for a fresh start and to be thankful. People pray to Goddess Lakshmi for wealth, Lord Ganesha for wisdom. Homes are cleaned and decorated with flowers, rangoli, and diyas. This shows a new beginning and removes bad energy. Families meet to share sweets, give gifts, and enjoy happy times. Many people also give clothes, food, or money to those in need.
Here’s a simple explanation of what each of the five days of Diwali means:
Diwali 2025 will be celebrated over five days according to the Almanac:
Day 1 – Dhanteras (Oct 18): People buy gold, utensils, and clean their homes.
Day 2 – Choti Diwali / Kali Chaudas (Oct 19): People take early baths, light lamps, and start fireworks.Day 3 – Diwali main day (Oct 20): People pray, light diyas, eat sweets, and celebrate with family.Day 4 – Govardhan Puja (Oct 21): People remember Lord Krishna, make food, and worship cows.
Day 5 – Bhai Dooj (Oct 22): Sisters pray for their brothers and give gifts and sweets.
During this time many people arrange a pooja at their house to welcome Goddess Laxmi and there is a specific time when this pooja is conducted. This year’s time is 3:44 PM on October 20 to 5:54 PM on October 21. And the most auspicious time to do this pooja is between 7:08 PM to 8:18 PM on October 20, as stated in the report by TOI. Diwali is a public holiday in many Indian states. Some states also give holidays for all five days so families can celebrate fully.
FAQs
Q1. When is Diwali 2025?Diwali 2025 will be celebrated on October 20, with celebrations spanning five days from October 18 to October 22.
Q2. What are the 5 days of Diwali 2025?
The five days are Dhanteras (Oct 18), Choti Diwali (Oct 19), Diwali main day (Oct 20), Govardhan Puja (Oct 21), and Bhai Dooj (Oct 22).
