Dev Diwali

History of Dev Diwali

Most people are familiar with Diwali – a festival celebrated by Hindu communities in India. Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama with his wife Sita and brother Laxman after 14 years of exile. They come back victorious after slaying the demon Ravana. Diwali is one of the biggest festivals in India. People light their homes with diyas (earthen lamps) and lights. Eating mithai or sweets is the order of the day, as is a lot of food and card (taash) parties.

The celebrations don’t stop, since Dev Deepawali takes place 15 days after. It’s the Diwali of the Gods and also known as ‘Kartik Purnima.’ To experience the festival’s serenity, one must visit the ghats of Varanasi. Thousands of lamps illuminate the steps, their light reflected in the river’s shimmering waters. There’s hymn chanting, conch shell blowing, and rhythmic drum beating all around. It’s hard not to feel the presence of divine forces. Thousands of devotees take a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges. People believe that bathing in the waters washes your sins away, bringing you closer to the gods.

Dev Deepawali honors Lord Shiva who defeated and killed three powerful demons: Vidyunmali, Tarakaksha, and Viryavana, together known as Tripurasura. Such a feat called for a divine celebration, no less, which is why the gods themselves revel in Shiva’s victory each year. It’s fitting that the celebrations happen in Varanasi, long considered the city of Lord Shiva.

Dev Diwali timeline

100 B.C. — 1001 B.C.

Dev Deepawali Is Documented

A holy text called the “Shiv Purana” first documents the significance of Dev Deepawali.

300 B.C.

The Earliest Mention of Diwali

Vātsyāyana’s Kama Sutra first mentions Diwali celebrations.

1200 B.C.

The Origins of Varanasi

A holy city begins its foundations as the first settlements arrive in Varanasi.

1985

The Tradition of Lighting Lamps Begins

Devotees first light lamps at the Panchganga Ghat, a tradition that would become central to Dev Deepawali celebrations.

Dev Diwali FAQs

When is Dev Diwali?

Dev Diwali 2026 falls on Tuesday, November 24, celebrating the full moon night of the Hindu month of Kartika. It’s a spectacular display of devotion and light.

What is the significance of Dev Diwali?

Dev Diwali, also known as the ‘Diwali of the Gods,’ commemorates Lord Shiva’s victory over the demon Tripurasura. It is believed that on this day, the gods descend to Earth to bathe in the Ganges River in Varanasi.

How is Dev Diwali celebrated in Varanasi?

In Varanasi, Dev Diwali is celebrated with unparalleled grandeur. Millions of earthen lamps (diyas) illuminate the 84 ghats along the Ganges River, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Elaborate Ganga Aarti ceremonies are performed.

Is Dev Diwali the same as Diwali?

No, Dev Diwali is distinct from Diwali, though both are festivals of lights. Diwali is celebrated by mortals, while Dev Diwali, occurring 15 days later, is considered the festival of the gods, primarily observed in Varanasi.

How to Observe Dev Diwali

Visit Varanasi

Take a trip to Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh and get the most out of the festival. Don’t miss out on the magical evening Arti, a ritual where people offer incense and light to deities.

Read up

Curious but not sure where to start? Pick up a book on mythology for fascinating stories on Hindu gods, goddesses, and demons.

Light some lamps

Dev Deepawali celebrates the victory of good over evil. Wherever you are, that’s a cause for celebration. If you can’t be in Varanasi, light candles or lamps to experience it vicariously.

5 Facts About Varanasi That Will Blow Your Mind

The oldest living city in the world

Varanasi is "older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together." – Mark Twain.

Named after two rivers

“Varanasi” comes from the name of two rivers: Varuna and Asi.

Birthplace of Yoga and Ayurveda

Not only is it a city of the gods, but it’s also where the ancient healing systems of Yoga and Ayurveda were born.

Where frogs marry

People believe that catching frogs and marrying them off pleases the rain gods.

Home to Asia’s largest university

Varanasi is home to the Banaras Hindu University, the largest institution of higher learning in Asia.

Why Dev Diwali is Important

More peaceful than Diwali

While known as the festival of lights, Diwali’s become more popular as the festival of noise over the years. On the other hand, Dev Deepawali feels like it’s all about light. There are no firecrackers or air pollution – just the serenity from thousands of lamps.

The sight of earthen lamps

Fairy lights are great. But few things can compare to the sight of a serenely flaming diya. Several hundred burning diyas on steps leading to a river? Now, that’s the stuff of dreams.

A reason to visit Varanasi

Dev Deepawali is a great day to visit one of India’s holiest cities. Varanasi is the hub of Hindu culture, history, and lore. It’s a dream destination for culture enthusiasts everywhere.