Dev Diwali
Dev Deepawali in 2025 falls on Wednesday, November 15. Also known as “the Diwali of the Gods”, it is one of the most beautiful festivals celebrated in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Dev Diwali is celebrated on Kartik Purnima which is basically the full moon day in the month of Kartika according to the Hindu calendar. In the Gregorian calendar, this usually falls during the month of November-December, fifteen days after Diwali.
On this auspicious night, several hundred lamps light up the ghats of the Holy Ganges, transforming the view of the river into a divine spectacle honoring the Ganges and the presence of the Supreme Lord.
The Origin of Dev Deepawali and It's Mythological Significance
According to Hindu mythology, Dev Deepawali marks the day when the Gods celebrated their victory over the demon Tripurasura. It’s believed that on this night, celestial beings descend to the Earth to bathe in the holy Ganges symbolizing divine purity and renewal.
This is why the festival is also called Tripura Purnima Snan in some regions. The modern-day tradition of lighting millions of lamps along the ghats was revived in 1991 by Pandit Kishori Raman Dubey, making it a grand public celebration once again.
Rituals and Traditions of Dev Deepawali
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Lighting of Lamps: During Dev Deepawali, over a million diyas (earthen lamps) are set ablaze on the ghats along the Ganges, from Ravidas Ghat to Raj ghat, creating a radiant sea of light. This spectacle honors the holy river Ganga and her goddess. Homes are decorated with oil lamps and rangolis, and fireworks light up the sky, while processions with adorned deities bring vibrancy to the festival.
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Kartik Snan and Deepdan: Devotees perform Kartik Snan, a holy bath in the Ganges, and Deepdan, an offering of lighted lamps to the river. Thousands participate in these rituals, believing the bath brings blessings and cleanses the soul. In the evening, the Ganga aarti is performed, led by 21 Brahmin priests and 24 women, with hymns, drumbeats, conch shells, and brass lamps creating a captivating scene.
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Honoring Martyrs: Dev Deepawali also pays tribute to fallen martyrs, with ceremonies held at Dashashwamedh and Rajendra Prasad Ghats. Officials from the Varanasi District, Gorkha Training Centre, CRPF, Air Force, NCC, and BHU participate in a remembrance ceremony, laying wreaths at Amar Jawan Jyoti and singing patriotic songs and bhajans. The last post is performed, and sky lamps are lit in honor of the nation's defenders.
Ganga Mahotsav
Ganga Mahotsav, a vibrant five-day celebration from Prabodhini Ekadashi to Kartik Poornima, coincides with Dev Deepawali and showcases the deep cultural heritage of Varanasi.
With classical music, folk dances, a lively country boat race, and a shilp mela featuring traditional crafts, sculptures, and martial arts, the festival honors both the sacred Ganges and the traditions it sustains.
On the final night of Kartik Poornima, millions of lamps illuminate the ghats, merging ancient rituals with the city’s artistic energy.
Dev Deepawali and Tourism
Dev Deepawali is a major attraction for tourists, attracting thousands of visitors and pilgrims every year who gathers on the ghat to witness the serenity.
The local government makes sure to ensure safety protocols and provide tight security for the huge crowd.
Visitors also enjoy boat rides along the river, where they can view the entire stretch of ghats lit up in celebration, accompanied by the sights and sounds of the grand aarti. Watching the riverfront from a boat under the full moon, with the ghats aglow, is a unique experience and an unforgettable highlight of the festival.
Tips for Visitors
- Best viewing spots: Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, Raj Ghat.
- Best experience: Evening boat ride during Ganga Aarti.
- Book early: Hotels and boats get sold out quickly.
- Respect local customs: Remove footwear, and avoid littering.
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