Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most awaited celebrations in India and across the world. However, every year confusion arises regarding its exact date due to differences in lunar calculations. In 2025, many people are wondering — Will Diwali be celebrated on October 20 or October 21? Let’s clear this confusion with authentic Panchang and astrology-based details.
When Is Diwali in 2025?
According to the Hindu lunar calendar, Diwali is celebrated on the Amavasya (New Moon) night of the Kartik month.
In 2025, the Amavasya Tithi will begin on October 20 at 3:44 PM and end on October 21 at 5:54 PM.
Even though the tithi continues till October 21, the combination of Amavasya with the Pradosh and Nishith Kaal (evening and midnight period) occurs only on the night of October 20.
Hence, Diwali 2025 will be celebrated on October 20 (Monday night) as per most Hindu Panchangs.
Why Diwali Will Be on October 20
Diwali is considered a night festival associated with Maa Lakshmi Puja, which must be performed during Pradosh Kaal — the time after sunset when Amavasya is active.
On October 21, though Amavasya continues till 5:54 PM, there is no Pradosh or Nishith Kaal alignment, so the main Lakshmi Puja cannot be performed that night.
Thus, October 20, 2025, marks the most auspicious evening for Deepdan and Lakshmi Puja.
Significance of Pradosh and Nishith Kaal
According to ancient scriptures, the Pradosh Kaal is considered the ideal time to worship Maa Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Kuber.
It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi roams the Earth during this period, blessing devotees who light lamps and perform the puja with sincerity and devotion.
- Pradosh Kaal: 5:45 PM to 8:00 PM (approx.)
- Nishith Kaal: 11:45 PM to 12:35 AM
Worshiping during these hours is said to bring immense prosperity and happiness.
Amavasya Tithi Timing
- Start: October 20, 2025, at 3:44 PM
- End: October 21, 2025, at 5:54 PM
As Diwali is a night festival, the tithi active during the evening decides the date. Since Amavasya aligns with Pradosh on the 20th, that is the correct and auspicious day for Diwali celebrations.
Why Some People Observe Puja on October 21
In some workplaces and business establishments, Lakshmi Puja is also performed on October 21 in the morning, during Amavasya’s continuation.
However, this is considered a symbolic ritual for professional purposes.
The main Diwali Puja, involving Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and Deepdan, must be performed on October 20 night.
The Spiritual Significance of Diwali
Diwali is not just about lighting diyas and bursting fireworks; it represents the victory of light over darkness, wisdom over ignorance, and good over evil.
It also commemorates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over Ravana.
In many regions, it is also associated with Maa Lakshmi’s incarnation and Lord Vishnu’s blessings for wealth, happiness, and peace.
Lakshmi Puja Rituals on Diwali Night
Here’s a step-by-step guide to performing Lakshmi Puja on October 20, 2025:
- Clean the House:
Thoroughly clean your home to welcome Goddess Lakshmi. Purity attracts divine energy. - Decorate with Rangoli & Diyas:
Make colorful rangolis and place oil lamps (diyas) at the entrance to invite prosperity. - Set the Puja Altar:
Place idols or photos of Maa Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Kuber on a clean cloth. - Offerings:
Present flowers, fruits, sweets, rice, turmeric, kumkum and coins. - Chant the Lakshmi Mantra:
“Om Shreem Maha Lakshmyai Namah”
or
“Om Hreem Shreem Lakshmibhyo Namah” - Perform Aarti:
Offer camphor and ghee lamps while singing Lakshmi and Ganesha Aarti. - Distribute Prasad & Light Diyas:
Share sweets and light lamps across your house to eliminate darkness and negativity.
Difference Between Udaya Tithi and Ratri Puja
Most Hindu festivals are celebrated according to the Udaya Tithi (sunrise-based) calculation.
However, Diwali is a unique festival, celebrated at night based on the Amavasya Tithi active during the evening.
That’s why despite Amavasya continuing till October 21, the night of October 20 remains the true time for Diwali Puja.
Astrological Significance
Diwali is considered an ideal time to begin new ventures, investments, and spiritual practices.
Astrologers believe that lighting lamps and performing puja during Amavasya balances negative planetary effects, especially those of Shani (Saturn) and Rahu-Ketu.
This divine night removes darkness not just from surroundings but also from one’s life path.
Do’s and Don’ts for Diwali 2025
Do’s:
- Clean and purify your house before Puja.
- Light ghee diyas during Pradosh Kaal.
- Offer sweets and kheer to Goddess Lakshmi.
- Chant Mahalakshmi and Vishnu mantras.
- Donate food or clothes to the needy.
Don’ts:
- Avoid lending or borrowing money during Diwali night.
- Do not keep the house dark or messy.
- Avoid arguments, anger, or negative speech.
- Refrain from eating non-vegetarian food or alcohol.
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