Is Dev Diwali the most photogenic festival in the world? A photographer guide
Monday, Oct 7, 2025
Dev Diwali (Dev Deepawali) of Varanasi is often seen as one of the most photogenic festivals in the world. It is a spectacular fusion of light, culture and devotion that offers photographers an endless formation of the breathtaking frame. Each corner of the city shines, turns into a canvas of colorful fireworks and divine rituals, which creates spectacles beyond simple imagination - each shot tells a timeless story.
Why Dev Diwali is the heaven of a photographer
Unlike many global festivals, Dev Diwali individually mixes elements of fire, water, wind and faith against the temples of Varanasi and the primitive background of the holy river Ganga. For photographers, this pageant presents an unmatched opportunity to catch energy, devotion and lively details.
Why is the festival standing outside here:
- Revaraside reflection: Thousands of Diyas floating on the Ganga make extremely bright, golden patterns across the water.
- Sky On Fire: Fireworks burst over the historic ghats, colouring the sky with bright colors at night.
- Holy rituals: priests perform beautiful artis with giant oil lamps, their rhythmic movements cast dramatic shade and shining halos.
- Human relationship: The faces of devotees are charred with a soft glow of earthen lamps, providing opportunities for powerful and emotional picture.
Do’s and Don’ts — Dev Diwali Photography
| Do’s |
Don’ts |
| Carry fast lenses with wide apertures (f/1.8–f/2.8) |
Don’t use flash during rituals to avoid disturbing photographers and devotees. |
| Use tripods for steady long exposure shots of diyas & fireworks |
Avoid obstructing pathways or sacred areas while setting up your gear. |
| Respect no-photography zones, especially inside temples |
Don’t photograph people without permission, especially during prayer. |
| Arrive early to secure vantage points with minimal crowd interference |
Don’t litter; keep your shooting areas clean and respectful. |
| Experiment with shutter speed to capture motion and light trails |
Avoid loud noises or movements that disrupt the solemn atmosphere. |
| Engage politely with locals to seek permission and insight |
Don’t engage in commercial photography without prior approvals. |
| Bring sufficient batteries and memory cards |
Don’t rely solely on smartphones; professional gear yields better results. |
Best Spots and Times to Capture Iconic Shots for Dev Diwali in Varanasi
| Location |
Photo Opportunities |
Timing / Tips |
| Dashashwamedh Ghat |
Grand Ganga Aarti, massive diya displays, performer rituals |
Arrive 1–2 hours early before sunset. |
| Assi Ghat |
Boat launches, local devotees lighting diyas |
Early evening for beautiful sunset light. |
| Ramnagar Fort |
Fireworks overhead and city skyline |
After dark; bring a telephoto lens for distance shots. |
| Floating Diyas on the Ganges |
Long exposure reflections and light trails |
During and just after the Ganga Aarti ceremony. |
| Narrow Alleyways |
Close-ups of locals, street decorations, candid portraits |
Variable throughout the evening; use fast lenses. |
Tips to capture Dev Diwali for Insider Photography
Dev Diwali is one of the most striking festivals to be photographed in Varanasi, but its magical low light environment and stimulating ghats require thoughtful preparation. Here are some internal suggestions that help you capture the festival:
Photography tips for Dev Diwali
- Master Low-Light Skills: Since the festival comes out after sunset, use a manual focus for fast prime lens, high ISO settings, and crisp, shining shots.
- Focus on emotions: Dev Diwali is deeply spiritual - the artisan of devotees with sensitivity are clear pictures and always want permission for personal shots.
- Stabilise your shots: A tripod or monopod is required to capture long-term disclosure, time-laps and firework trails on the ghats.
- Shoot in Raw: It gives you more control during editing, which helps to highlight the vibrant colors of diyas, fireworks and holy rituals.
- Protect your gear: Move waterproof or humidity-resistant cover, as the riverside can get mosquito and moist.
- Manage the crowd wisely: Ghats will be packed; Protect your equipment and be aware to avoid accidental bumps or damage.
Final Thoughts: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Photographic Journey
Dev Diwali is not just a festival - it is a living canvas of light, devotion and culture. For photographers, it offers a lifetime opportunity to catch ether landscape, shining rituals and intimate human connections in one of the oldest living cities in the world. With patience, respect and preparation, each frame you take exceeds a picture - it becomes a timeless story of India's spiritual heart.
FAQ’s on Dev Diwali Photography Guide
Q1. Can I capture photographs or videos during Dev Diwali?
Photography and videography are generally allowed in public spaces, but it is courteous to avoid flash during rituals and respect any restricted areas. Always seek permission before photographing individuals, especially during prayers.
Q2. When is Dev Diwali in 2025?
Dev Diwali in 2025 will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 5th, coinciding with Kartik Purnima, the full moon day in the Hindu lunar calendar.
Q3. What makes Dev Diwali different from regular Diwali?
While Diwali celebrates the victory of light over darkness broadly, Dev Diwali specifically honors Lord Shiva’s victory over the demon Tripurasura and is uniquely celebrated in Varanasi with the grand illumination of the Ganges ghats.