Dev Diwali, also known as Dev Deepawali, is a festival of lights celebrated in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. It falls on the full moon day of Kartik month (October/November) following Diwali and marks the victory of Gods over demons. On this day, the steps of the river Ganga in Varanasi are illuminated with thousands of earthen lamps. It is believed that Gods descend from heaven to earth to bathe in the holy Ganga on this auspicious occasion.
The festival holds great significance in Hinduism and attracts devotees from all over the country and world to seek the blessings of the Gods. The spiritual city of Banaras is brightly lit on Dev Deepawali making it a spectacular sight. The ghats come alive with activities like decorations, prayers, firecracker shows, and floating tiny earthen lamps in the Ganga.
Read on to learn more about the date, significance, celebrations, and rituals of Dev Deepawali 2024.
When is Dev Diwali in 2024?
Dev Deepawali Kab Hai: Dev Diwali, the grand festival of lights, is celebrated every year on Kartik Purnima as per the Hindu lunar calendar. Kartik Purnima marks the full moon day in the month of Kartik, which corresponds to October-November as per the Gregorian calendar.
In 2024, Kartik Purnima and therefore Dev Diwali will be celebrated on Friday, November 15 (Dev Diwali Date). The auspicious day coincides with the 15th day after Diwali.
On this day, the banks of the River Ganga in Varanasi come alive with thousands of shimmering earthen lamps. The ghats dazzle with flickering lights and sacred rituals. Devotees take a holy dip in the Ganges on Dev Diwali day and offer prayers to the Gods. The festival provides a magical and spiritual experience when experienced in Dev Diwali Varanasi.
Dev Diwali 2024 Auspicious Date and Time
Kya aap Janna Chahte hai ki Deepavali kitni tarikh ko hai. In 2024, Dev Diwali will be celebrated on Friday, November 15th.
Dev Diwali 2024 Date: According to the Panchang, the Purnima Tithi will start at 06:19 AM on November 15 and end at 02:58 AM on November 16. As per the Drik Panchang, Dev Diwali will be celebrated on November 15, 2024, Friday (Dev Diwali Kis Din Hai).
Dev Diwali 2024 Shubh Time: According to the Panchang, the Pradosh Kaal muhurat for Dev Diwali will be from 05:10 PM to 07:47 PM on November 15. The duration for puja is 2 hours 37 minutes.
Banaras Me Dev Deepawali Kab Hai
Dev Diwali Banaras: On the other hand, all the Ganga Aarti committees responsible for organizing Dev Deepawali on the ghats of Kashi and the Central Dev Deepawali Mahasamiti have held a meeting and announced that Dev Deepawali will be celebrated on November 15 (Day Friday) as per the Udaya Tithi. They have stated that Dev Deepawali will be celebrated on November 15th (Dev Deepawali 2024 Varanasi) according to the Udaya Tithi.
Dev Diwali 2024 Varanasi Date: Dev Diwali will be celebrated in Varanasi on November 15, 2024. The festival falls on Kartik Purnima as per the Hindu calendar. On this day, the ghats along River Ganga dazzle with thousands of earthen lamps. It is a magical sight not to be missed.
The Significance of Dev Diwali
Dev Diwali Significance: The festival signifies the victory of Gods over demons. According to legends, Gods descended on earth on this day after completing a rigorous penance lasting 12 years. They then took a divine bath in the holy Ganges, which further illuminated the earth.
The ghats brimming with light symbolize the homecoming of the Gods. It also signifies the inner enlightenment of one’s conscience and the triumph of good over evil.
The belief is that by taking a holy dip in the Ganges on Dev Diwali day, one can come closer to the Gods. The lit-up ghats emanate positive energy and fill the atmosphere with a surreal vibe.
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How Dev Diwali is Celebrated in Varanasi
Dev Deepawali 2024 in Varanasi: The holy city of Banaras buzzes with energy and vigor on the day of Dev Deepawali. Houses, ghats, temples, and streets are decked up with lights and colors. The celebrations span over 5 days in Varanasi. Here are some of the main rituals:
Ganga Aarti: The daily Ganga Aarti on the ghats of Varanasi holds special significance on Dev Diwali. The ghats resonate with chants, bells, and the blowing of conch shells.
Ganga Snan: Thousands take a holy dip in the river Ganga in the early morning before sunrise. Taking a bath on Dev Diwali is considered highly auspicious.
Decorations: The ghats of Banaras are elaborately decorated with lights and flowers. Lamps are floated in the Ganga and earthen oil lamps adorn the steps.
Bhajans: Devotional bhajans and ceremonial chants are performed on the ghats to venerate Gods. The chanting of mantras and slokas fills the air.
Tulsi Vivah: Ceremonial marriage of the Tulsi plant with Lord Vishnu’s idol, Saligrama is performed on Dev Diwali. This ritual is seen as the union of matter and soul.
Kali Puja: Puja of Goddess Kali is performed at various Kali temples in Varanasi at the midnight of Dev Diwali.
Firecracker shows: A spectacular display of firecrackers lights up the Banaras skyline on Dev Deepawali, especially along the Dashashwamedh ghat.
Shopping & Feasts: Like Diwali, Dev Diwali is also celebrated with new clothes, feasts, sweets and shopping. Locals throng the markets of Varanasi ahead of Dev Deepawali.
The illuminated ghats, floating lamps, and scores of devotees make for an ethereal experience on the day of Dev Deepawali in Banaras. The fervor and festivities are a sight to behold.
How to Reach Varanasi for Dev Diwali
Here is some information for those planning to visit Varanasi for Dev Diwali celebrations:
By Air - Varanasi has an international airport with flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Kolkata among other cities. It has connections with major cities across India.
By Rail - Varanasi Junction railway station is well connected to all metro cities and important tourist destinations in India. There are multiple daily train services to Varanasi from Delhi, Agra, Lucknow, Gaya, Patna etc.
By Road - Varanasi has good road connectivity and can be reached by private vehicles or buses. National highways connect it to nearby cities like Allahabad, Gorakhpur, Rewa, etc.
Within the City - Auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws, and tuk-tuks provide local transportation in Varanasi. Dashashwamedh Ghat is the central point to reach the ghats by road.
Legend and Story Behind Dev Deepawali
The festival of Dev Deepawali is associated with several legends in Hindu mythology. Here are some popular stories about the origins of this festival:
The victory of Gods over Demons: As per legends, Dev Deepawali marks the victory of Gods over the demons after the Samudra Manthan. The Gods emerged with Amrit (elixir of life) while demons got the Halahala poison.
Lord Shiva’s Tandava Dance: It’s believed that on Dev Diwali, Lord Shiva performed his divine tandava dance to save the world from the evils of Halahala poison. Pleased by the prayer of Gods and Goddesses, he drank the poison and performed Tandava Nritya for the continuous night.
Kartik Purnima Snana: Several Hindu scriptures including the Padma and Skanda Puranas mention the holy dip taken by Gods in the Ganga on Kartik Purnima. This later came to be known as Dev Diwali.
Descend of Gods: Scriptures state that pleased with the prayers of King Harishchandra, all Gods descended from heaven into the city of Kashi (modern-day Varanasi) on Kartik Purnima to take a holy bath.
Attainment of Nirvana: It is believed Lord Shiva attained moksha on the night of Dev Diwali after his Tandava dance. The day marks the annihilation of ego and ultimate spiritual liberation.
Enlightenment of Gods: Associated legends say that on Dev Deepawali, the Trimurti Gods - Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva were enlightened, and their deep connection with Varanasi was established.
Various Hindu scriptures and folklore point towards the significance of Kartik Purnima and the origins of the Dev Deepawali festival. The legends add to the sanctity of this celebration.
Why is Dev Diwali Celebrated in Varanasi?
The holy city of Varanasi, located on the banks of the river Ganga, holds special prominence in Hinduism. It is considered the abode of Lord Shiva. There are several reasons why Dev Diwali is celebrated with great fervor in Varanasi:
- Varanasi is believed to be the place where Gods descended from heaven to earth. Taking a dip here on Dev Diwali absolves one of all sins.
- The river Ganga itself is revered in Hinduism. Bathing in the Ganga on auspicious days brings blessings and moksha.
- Varanasi has been the seat of spiritual knowledge and philosophy since ancient times. Saints like Adi Shankaracharya visited and set up significant temples here.
- Lord Shiva is said to have attained nirvana in Varanasi after consuming Halahala poison. Dev Diwali marks this event of great spiritual significance.
- The city resonates with the power of Shakti. It is home to a manifestation of Goddess Parvati in the form of the Vishalakshi temple.
- Several Hindu scriptures and Puranas point towards the descent of Gods in Varanasi on Dev Diwali reinforcing its importance.
- Ganga aarti in Varanasi is particularly mesmerizing on Dev Diwali. The ghats come alive with thousands of lamps, chants, and revelers.
In essence, the ancient city of Varanasi becomes a conduit between heaven and earth on Dev Diwali as it is closely linked to events in Hindu mythology.
How is Dev Diwali Celebrated in Other Parts of India?
Though the grandest celebrations are witnessed in Varanasi, Dev Diwali is marked in other parts of North and Western India in different ways:
Prayagraj: Thousands gather here for a holy dip at the Sangam - the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. Elaborate Ganga aarti is performed on the banks.
Vrindavan & Mathura: As Lord Krishna was born on this day, celebrations in his homeland involve the decoration of temples, Raslila dances, and devotional songs.
Ayodhya: Home to Lord Rama, the ghats at Saryu River are decked up with lamps. People float earthen diyas and idols in the river.
Udaipur: Huge crowds flock to Lake Pichola for the annual Ganga Aarti on Dev Diwali. Fireworks light up the sky in the evening.
Pushkar: The Pushkar Lake and Brahma Temple, seen as divine sites, draw pilgrims on Dev Diwali for holy dips and special pujas.
Ujjain: Devotees gather at the banks of the Shipra River for Maha aarti. Temples like Mahakaleshwar and Harsiddhi are lit up with lamps.
Ahmedabad: People decorate temples and light lamps on Dev Deepawali while businesses give a bonus to employees on this day.
Dwarka: As one of the main pilgrimage centers for Hindus, Dwarka sees grand festivities in the temples of Lord Krishna and on the banks of the Gomti river.
While the scale and extravaganza vary, Dev Diwali is celebrated across India with much fervor. The lights, prayers, and aura make it a surreal experience for devotees.
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Key Rituals and Customs of Dev Diwali
Here are some of the significant rituals associated with the Dev Deepawali celebrations:
- Holy Bath: Taking an auspicious bath in the river Ganga during Kartik Purnima Snan is perhaps the most significant custom. It is believed to wash away sins.
- Ganga Aarti: Elaborate Ganga Aartis are held on the ghats of Varanasi and other river banks with lamps, incense, and offerings.
- Lighting Lamps: Lighting small earthen lamps, candles, and diyas, and placing them on rooftops, windows, and balconies is a key custom.
- Tulsi Vivah: The ceremonial marriage of the Tulsi plant with Lord Vishnu is held on Dev Diwali or the next day. This ritual sees huge participation.
- Fasting: Observing a fast, abstaining from grains, and eating sattvic food like fruits is common on Dev Diwali day. Some fast on the previous day too.
- Vegetarian Feasts: Devotees prepare special vegetarian feasts and sweets at home reminiscent of Diwali festivities. Temple prasadam is also distributed.
- Firecrackers: Large-scale fireworks and crackers are ignited on the eve of Dev Diwali. The ghats of Varanasi have brilliant displays.
- Donations: Making donations for charity and offering sesame, clothes, or food to priests is considered noble on Dev Diwali.
The rituals and customs of Dev Deepawali reflect India’s composite culture and the essence of Hinduism. They strengthen communal harmony and spirituality.
Pilgrimage & Travel Tips for Dev Diwali in Varanasi
Here are some useful travel and pilgrimage tips if you plan to visit Varanasi for Dev Diwali celebrations:
- Book accommodations well in advance as hotels tend to fill up and charge premium prices. Alternatively, you can consider staying just outside the city center.
- Local transportation, roads, and ghats will be choc-a-bloc so keep ample buffer time for commuting. Walking is advisable for short distances.
- Make sure you reserve or buy boat ride passes in advance for an easy ferry to the ghats. Queues tend to swell up on the day.
- Reach the ghats early by 4-5 AM to avoid crowds during holy dips and for an unrestricted view of Ganga Aarti.
- Carry valid ID proof and do not wear jewelry or carry valuables when going to crowded ghats or narrow bylanes.
- Photography is allowed but don’t use flash and drones near the Ganga riverfront. Seek permission where needed.
- Eat from authorized food stalls and carry bottled water to stay hydrated. Keep medication for headaches, allergies, etc handy.
- Dress modestly and respect religious sentiments when visiting temples and ghats in Varanasi.
- Be prepared to stand in long queues or follow crowd protocols at major attractions like Dasashwamedh Ghat and Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Avoiding last-minute hassles and planning your Varanasi trip well will ensure you make the most of Dev Deepawali spiritually and logistically. This travel guide with important tips will help.
Popular Places to Visit During Dev Diwali in Varanasi
Here are the must-visit places in Varanasi to experience the diverse festivities and grandeur of Dev Deepawali:
Dashashwamedh Ghat: The main venue for Dev Diwali celebrations in Varanasi. Elaborate Ganga aarti, crowds, lamps, and firecracker displays light up this ghat.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: One of the most sacred Shiva temples. Special pujas are offered on Dev Diwali and a large congregation of devotees gather here.
Assi Ghat: Southernmost ghat where saint-poet Tulsidas fasted and wrote the famous Ramcharitmanas text. The Grand Tulsi Vivah ceremony takes place here.
Ramnagar Fort: Located on the other side of the Ganga, the fort and its museum come alive with festivities, laser shows, and crackers.
Sarnath: Buddhist pilgrimage where Ganga aarti is held at the Dhamekh Stupa on Dev Deepawali. Ancient sites are lit up.
Ganga Riverfront: For a quiet, scenic view of the illuminated Ganga, take a boat ride at night to admire the reflections of light.
The multicultural essence, mysticism, and spectacle make Varanasi a must-visit place during Dev Diwali for an enlightening experience. Witness ancient traditions manifest in a riot of light and color.
Safety Tips for Dev Diwali 2024
Here are some tips for a safe and hassle-free Dev Diwali experience:
- Book hotels in advance to avoid last-minute issues
- Reach the ghats by late afternoon to occupy vantage points
- Keep valuables safe and beware of pickpockets in crowds
- Drink only bottled water and eat fully-cooked food
- Stick together as a group and watch the children
- Hire a local guide if visiting Varanasi for the first time
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking
- Charge phone batteries as networks get congested
- Carry some cash and contact details on you
Dev Diwali is a visually stunning and highly rewarding festival to attend. With some planning and safety precautions, you can soak in its magic and create lifetime memories.
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Interesting Facts About Dev Diwali Celebrations
Here are some fascinating facts about Dev Deepawali festivities that make them remarkable:
- Over 6 lakh earthen lamps and 10,000 cotton wicks are used every year for elaborate lighting across Varanasi ghats.
- Dev Diwali synchronizes with the Jain light festival, the Illumination of Bali Jatra in Odisha, and Tripura’s Jagannath Rath Yatra.
- On this day, Tulsi plants are adorned as brides and married to idols in over 200 wedding altars in Varanasi.
- The day marks the start of formal weddings as per Hindu calendars which were avoided in the 4 month inauspicious period before Dev Diwali.
- Lord Mountbatten chose Dev Diwali as the date for the formal transfer of power from the British Raj to independent India in 1947.
- The Keshi Ghat in Varanasi turns into a vibrant flea market on Dev Diwali selling earthen lamps, idols, crafts, etc.
- In the Vishwanath temple, the Shivalinga is adorned with special bhasm and rice flakes on Dev Diwali.
- Thousands gather at Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest cremation grounds, on Dev Diwali to light candles in memory of ancestors.
- Earlier fireworks and crackers were not part of the celebrations but started in the 18th century, during the rule of the Mughal Emperor, Awadh.
The unique customs, rituals, history, and trivia facts make Dev Diwali a one-of-a-kind festival that leaves an impact on travelers and devotees with its inherent mysteries.
Global Popularity of Dev Deepawali Celebrations
From its origins in Varanasi, Dev Diwali has gained global popularity over the years, as the Indian diaspora has carried their traditions to different corners of the world. Here’s a look at how Dev Deepawali is now celebrated internationally:
Mauritius: As over 68% of the population is of Indian origin, the festival sees traditional celebrations around Mauritius. Locals light up temples and offer prayers.
Trinidad and Tobago: Varanasi ghats are recreated and traditional rituals followed in areas like Felicity, Point Fortin, Cedros, and Perseverance.
Guyana: The Divali Nagar festival is celebrated annually in Guyana near the Caribbean Sea. Lamps are lit, deeyas floated and scriptures recited.
Malaysia: Little India in Kuala Lumpur lights up with kolams, diyas, and a vibrant street festival to mark Dev Diwali.
Singapore: Festivities span over 3-10 days across Singapore, most elaborate at Shree Lakshminarayan Temple. Cultural events are hosted.
Nepal: Devghat near Chitwan witnesses puja, arti, and diya lighting at the holy river confluence. People take dips wearing white clothes.
Thailand: Nakhon Phanom province bordering Laos which has a high Hindu population celebrates Dev Diwali with diyas, floating lanterns, and Lord Rama processions.
Indonesia: Bali, which has a predominantly Hindu culture, witnesses colorful Dev Diwali celebrations with parades and performances in public spaces.
Australia & New Zealand: Temples in major cities host events on Dev Deepawali with chants, Prasad distribution, and lighting of lamps amidst fanfare.
Even beyond India, Dev Diwali is celebrated with fervor wherever the Indian diaspora has settled keeping the traditions and essence intact globally.
Importance of Lights on Dev Diwali
Lighting lamps hold special spiritual significance in Dev Diwali festivities across India and the world. Here's a look at the symbolism of lamps:
The victory of light over darkness, good over evil: Lights signify the destruction of negative forces and ego.
Purification & energy: Lighting lamps are believed to purify homes and surroundings by removing negativity.
Paying obeisance: Lit lamps are an offering to Gods being welcomed to earth on Dev Diwali.
River lamps: Lights floated in rivers honor ancestors’ spirits and give peace to their souls.
Unity: The rows of lamps at ghats and homes bring people together discarding differences.
Awareness: The inner light of lamps represents enlightenment, driving away ignorance just as God's attained wisdom.
Hope: The little flames from clay lamps signify hope, faith, and positivity for devotees.
Reflection: The ephemeral lamps remind one of the temporal nature of life and the need for a spiritual anchor.
The ubiquitous lamps on Dev Diwali thus have a profound underlying philosophy representing knowledge, devotion, unity, and our place in the cosmos.
Dev Diwali Celebration in Modern Times
While the traditional fervor and rituals continue in full swing, Dev Diwali is also evolving with the times:
- Social media buzz and hashtags like Dev Deepawali light up platforms like Instagram and Facebook leading up to the festival.
- Digital decorations using LEDs, laser lights, and 3D projections are being used to create innovative lighting installations nowadays.
- Food stalls at ghats have gone contemporary serving fusion food, coffees, and international cuisines to travelers.
- E-pujas, virtual aartis, and live streaming of celebrations allow those who can't attend to be part of the festivities.
- Eco-friendly initiatives like clay lamps instead of plastic and solar-powered lighting are becoming popular.
- Tight security arrangements are in place using surveillance and tech support to facilitate crowd movement.
- Events like music concerts, art fairs, and flea markets are hosted around the period to promote local culture.
The old-world charm of the festival remains untouched while updates are enhancing the experience for both locals and tourists. Dev Diwali is now also a global spectacle amplified by technology.
Why Dev Deepawali is Celebrated?
There are a few legendary stories behind the celebration of Dev Deepawali:
Gods Descending on Earth: According to Hindu scriptures, the Gods descended on Earth on Kartik Purnima after completing their 12-year penance. They bathed in the Ganga on this auspicious full moon night.
To mark the arrival of Gods, thousands of earthen lamps are lit on the ghats. The steps lined with diyas signify that God walk along the riverside.
Lord Vishnu Ending His Discourse: It is believed Lord Vishnu concluded his reluctant discourse of the Gita to Uddhava on Kartik Purnima. Uddhava was Lord Krishna’s companion and student.
Lighting lamps on this day symbolize the dispelling of darkness through Lord Vishnu’s wisdom.
Killing of Demon Tripurasura: Legend says Lord Shiva killed the demon Tripurasura on Kartik Purnima after destroying his three evil citadels through Goddess Parvati.
The lights celebrate the triumph of good over evil. Tripurasura spread darkness until Shiva destroyed him.
Churning of Cosmic Ocean: According to some accounts, the Gods and demons churned the cosmic ocean on the full moon of Kartik after their 12-year penance.
Lighting diyas replicate the radiance that emerged from the ocean along with the pot of Amrit (divine nectar).
Thus, different mythical legends related to Gods and Goddesses glorify this day. Dev Diwali commemorates their victories, blessings, and divine acts.
Conclusion
Dev Deepawali is a grand display of faith, devotion, and spirituality. The ritual of lighting the ghats with lamps invokes the blessings of Gods and Goddesses for universal peace, happiness, and prosperity.
If you wish to immerse yourself in the magnificent celebrations of Dev Diwali 2024, plan a trip to Varanasi around November 15. Witness the spectacular sight of thousands of earthen lamps glowing in unison along the river.
The mystical aura, illuminated ghats, chanting of hymns, and aartis create a magical environment on this special night. Dev Diwali in Varanasi provides a truly divine experience that ignites deep spiritual joy.
FAQs
Which day is Dev Diwali?
Dev Diwali, also known as Kartik Purnima, is celebrated on the full moon day in the Hindu month of Kartik. It typically occurs 15 days after Diwali, symbolizing the victory of gods over demons. Devotees light lamps, offer prayers, and take part in various festivities to honor the occasion and express gratitude. This year, the country will celebrate "Dev Deepavali," the Festival of Gods, on Friday, November 15th, 2024, from 05:10 PM to 07:47 PM.
What is the difference between Diwali and Dev Diwali?
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a widely celebrated Hindu festival. Dev Diwali, or Kartik Purnima, occurs 15 days after Diwali. While Diwali marks Lord Rama's return, Dev Diwali commemorates the victory of gods over demons. Devotees celebrate with prayers, lighting lamps, and other festivities to honor the divine triumph.
Is Dev Diwali an Auspicious Day?
Yes, Dev Diwali is considered an auspicious day in Hindu tradition. It signifies the victory of gods over demons, and people celebrate by lighting lamps, offering prayers, and participating in various festivities. The day is regarded as spiritually significant, bringing blessings and positive energy.
Which God is Worshipped on Dev Diwali?
On Dev Diwali, various Hindu deities are worshiped, but the celebration primarily honors Lord Shiva. Devotees express gratitude and seek blessings from Lord Shiva, the supreme god, on this auspicious day that symbolizes the victory of gods over demons.
When is Dev Diwali in Varanasi 2024?
Dev Diwali in Varanasi in 2024 is on Friday, November 15th. The celebration involves various religious and cultural activities, attracting pilgrims and tourists to the city.
Why do we Celebrate Dev Diwali?
Dev Diwali is celebrated to honor the victory of gods over demons. It marks the divine triumph and symbolizes the elimination of negativity. Devotees express gratitude through prayers and festivities, particularly in Varanasi, where the celebration holds special cultural and spiritual significance.
