Diwali 2025 Dates and Traditions: What You Need to Know
Indianapolis is gearing up for a significant cultural occasion as it celebrates its inaugural Diwali event. Diwali, known as the festival of lights, is a prominent holiday observed by various South Asian religious communities, including Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism. This year’s Diwali festivities will commence on October 18 and last for five days. The main day of Diwali will be celebrated on October 20, marking a vibrant culmination of traditions and rituals.
Diwali 2025 Dates and Traditions: What You Need to Know
Diwali 2025 is scheduled for October 20, falling on a Monday. The festival begins with Dhanteras on October 18, which starts the preparation period leading to Diwali’s main festivities. The holiday will be celebrated over five days, with significant events occurring each day.
Diwali Celebration Schedule
- Dhanteras: October 18
- Kali Chaudas: October 19
- Diwali (Main Day): October 20
- Govardhan Puja: October 21
- Bhai Dooj: October 22
Diwali’s date is determined by the lunar calendar and typically occurs in the fall, usually between late October and early November. This year, the celebration spans the 13th day of the dark half of the lunar month Ashvina to the second day of the light half of Kartik.
Understanding Diwali: The Festival of Lights
The term “Diwali” is derived from the Sanskrit word “Deepavali,” meaning “row of lights.” This festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. During Diwali, households illuminate their surroundings with diyas (small clay lamps) and colorful rangoli designs crafted from rice, sand, or flower petals. These practices are meant to invite the goddess Lakshmi into homes, bringing blessings of prosperity and success.
Religious Observances
Celebrations vary among different communities. The most common Hindu practice involves lighting diyas on the night of the new moon to honor Goddess Lakshmi. Diyas are often arranged in rows outside homes, temples, or set afloat on local rivers.
As Indianapolis embraces this vibrant tradition, the city joins many others across the country in celebrating the cultural diversity and rich heritage that Diwali represents.
