The festival of lights, Diwali 2025, is almost here! As homes across India glow with diyas, decorations, and festive cheer, one big question is on everyone’s mind — when exactly is Diwali this year? With the Amavasya Tithi stretching across both October 20 and 21, 2025, there’s been some confusion about the correct day for Lakshmi Puja and celebrations.
In this Article
Quick Answer:
Diwali 2025 will be celebrated on Monday, October 20, across most parts of India, as the Amavasya Tithi begins before sunset on that day. The Lakshmi Puja Muhurat falls between 7:08 PM and 8:18 PM. Cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Gurugram will celebrate on October 20, while Kolkata and Bhubaneshwar will observe it on October 21 due to earlier sunsets.
When Is Diwali in 2025?
According to the Hindu Panchang and reports from The Times of India, Diwali — or Deepavali — is celebrated on the Amavasya (new moon) of the Kartik month.
In 2025, the Amavasya Tithi begins at 3:44 PM on October 20 and ends at 5:54 PM on October 21.
Because the Amavasya starts before sunset on October 20, most regions in India will mark Diwali and perform Lakshmi Puja that evening.
Key Timings (for October 20, 2025):
- Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: 7:08 PM – 8:18 PM
- Pradosh Kaal: 5:46 PM – 8:18 PM
- Vrishabha Kaal: 7:08 PM – 9:03 PM
These times are considered most auspicious for performing Lakshmi Puja, the central ritual of Diwali celebrations.
Must Read: Diwali 2025 – Ultimate Celebration Guide With Dates, Powerful Significance & Auspicious Rituals
City-Wise Diwali Dates and Lakshmi Puja Timings
Below is the full list of city-wise Diwali 2025 dates and puja muhurats based on Drik Panchang calculations:
| City | Date | Lakshmi Puja Muhurat |
|---|---|---|
| New Delhi | October 20 | 7:08 PM – 8:18 PM |
| Mumbai | October 20 | 7:41 PM – 8:41 PM |
| Gurugram | October 20 | 7:09 PM – 8:19 PM |
| Pune | October 20 | 7:38 PM – 8:37 PM |
| Hyderabad | October 20 | 7:21 PM – 8:19 PM |
| Bengaluru | October 20 | 7:31 PM – 8:25 PM |
| Chennai | October 20 | 7:20 PM – 8:14 PM |
| Ahmedabad | October 20 | 7:36 PM – 8:40 PM |
| Jaipur | October 20 | 7:17 PM – 8:25 PM |
| Chandigarh | October 20 | 7:06 PM – 8:19 PM |
| Kolkata | October 21 | 5:06 PM – 5:54 PM |
| Bhubaneshwar | October 21 | 5:19 PM – 5:54 PM |
Why the Confusion About Diwali’s Date?
The confusion arises because Amavasya Tithi overlaps two days — October 20 and 21.
Astrologers like Sidhharrth S. Kumaar (NumroVani) explain that:
- Cities where sunset is after 5:30 PM will celebrate on October 20.
- Cities where sunset occurs before 5:30 PM will celebrate on October 21.
Thus, most Indian states, including Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, will observe Diwali on October 20, while West Bengal and Odisha will mark it a day later.
Significance of Diwali and Amavasya
Diwali, or Deepavali, marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
It is believed that Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya on this day after defeating Ravana and completing his 14-year exile. To welcome him, the people of Ayodhya lit oil lamps, symbolizing the start of Diwali.
The Amavasya night represents the darkest phase of the lunar cycle — making it the perfect backdrop to celebrate light, hope, and renewal.
Traditions and Celebrations Across India
While Diwali’s essence remains the same, the way it’s celebrated differs across regions:
- North India: Celebrates Lord Rama’s return and performs Lakshmi-Ganesha Puja.
- West India: Worships Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
- East India: Observes Kali Puja, honoring Goddess Kali.
- South India: Marks the defeat of Narakasura by Lord Krishna as Naraka Chaturdashi.
Across the nation, homes are cleaned, decorated with rangolis, diyas, and flowers, and families exchange sweets and gifts.
Diwali Food, Sweets & Decor
No Diwali celebration is complete without traditional food and sweets!
Families prepare and share laddoos, barfis, kaju katli, gujiyas, and chaklis, among others.
Homes glow with clay diyas, LED lights, and rangoli, while eco-friendly decorations are now replacing chemical-based ones.
Pro Tip: Try using biodegradable diyas, natural flower décor, and minimal firecrackers for an environmentally responsible celebration.
Eco-Friendly Diwali 2025: A Brighter, Greener Celebration
In recent years, many Indians are embracing eco-conscious celebrations.
Here’s how you can make a difference this Diwali 2025:
- Use clay diyas instead of plastic or chemical ones.
- Avoid loud crackers; opt for silent fireworks or none at all.
- Gift plants, handmade items, or sustainable décor.
- Donate to local charities to share the light of Diwali with those in need.
When is Diwali 2025 in India?
Diwali will be celebrated on October 20, 2025, across most Indian states. Some eastern cities like Kolkata and Bhubaneshwar will celebrate on October 21.
What time is Lakshmi Puja on Diwali 2025?
The Lakshmi Puja Muhurat is between 7:08 PM and 8:18 PM on October 20, 2025.
Why do some cities celebrate Diwali a day later?
Because the Amavasya Tithi spans two days, the puja date depends on sunset timing in each city.
What rituals are performed on Diwali?
People worship Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Kuber, light diyas, make rangoli, and exchange sweets and gifts.
How can I celebrate Diwali in an eco-friendly way?
Use natural décor, reduce cracker usage, and choose sustainable gifts to protect the environment.
This year, Diwali 2025 will be celebrated mainly on October 20, symbolizing hope, renewal, and the triumph of light over darkness. Whether it’s Lakshmi Puja, decorating your home, or sharing sweets, the festival reminds us that kindness and gratitude make every celebration brighter.
Wishing everyone a joyous, safe, and eco-friendly Diwali from the Indian.Community family! ✨
