Dev Diwali

Hindu Festival, Religious Observance

Not a national public holiday; significant local observance, especially in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.

1 day (on Kartik Purnima)

Celebrates the victory of Lord Shiva over the demon Tripurasura (hence Tripurari Purnima). It is believed that the gods descend to Earth and bathe in the Ganges on this day. It also marks the return of the gods to their celestial abodes after Chaturmas (Lord Vishnu's sleep).

Key Rituals & Practices

Deepotsav: Lighting millions of lamps (diyas) along river banks, especially the ghats of River Ganga in Varanasi.

Ganga Aarti: Performing a grand aarti (prayer ceremony) to the River Ganga.

Kartik Snan: Taking a holy dip in sacred rivers, particularly the Ganges.

Deepdaan: Donating lamps to temples or offering them to the river.

Decoration of homes and temples with lights and flowers.

Fireworks and cultural programs.

Associated Deities

Lord Shiva (as Tripurari)

Lord Vishnu

Goddess Ganga

Hindu Calendar Details

Hindu Month

Kartik

Paksha

Shukla Paksha

Tithi

Purnima (Full Moon)

Regional Relevance & Variations

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Historical & Mythological Context

The festival commemorates Lord Shiva's slaying of the demon Tripurasura, who had conquered the three worlds. After Shiva's victory, the gods celebrated by lighting lamps in jubilation. It is also believed that the gods descend to Earth on this day to bathe in the Ganges. For Vaishnavites, it marks the return of Lord Vishnu and other deities to their abodes after the Chaturmas period of rest.

Alternative Names

Dev Deepavali

Diwali of the Gods

Tripurari Purnima

Gregorian Date

Varies annually, typically late October or November, 15 days after Diwali (Kartik Amavasya)