Dev Deepawali (Dev Diwali) in Varanasi - The Grand Festival of Lights

Dev Deepawali, also known as Dev Diwali, is one of the most sacred and famous occasions in Hinduism. Kartika Purnimais celebrated every year in Varanasi, this festival is often called the True Festival of Lights in Varanasi. Unlike the traditional Diwali celebrated all over India, Dev Deepawali is unique to Kashi (Banaras), where the holy river Ganga turns into a divine spectacle.

Dev Diwali 2025

Grand Festival of Lights Dev Diwali will be celebrated on 5 November 2025 in Varanasi. On this holy day, the ghats of the Ganga River will shine with millions of Diyas, with the Ganga Aarti and lively cultural rituals. Devotees and tourists from all over the world gather to see this spiritual spectacle, which is one of the most divine and unforgettable ceremonies in India.

History and legend of Dev Deepawali

The festival holds immense significance in Hindu mythology. It is believed that on this day, the gods descend on the earth to bathe in the Ganga river. Another legend combines it with the victory of Lord Shiva over the demon Tripurasura, which symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Thus, Dev Deepawali is marked as the divine festival of the victory of the gods.

Dev Deepawali Rituals and Festival

This occasion begins with the worship of Lord Ganesha through Ganapati Vandana, followed by flower prasad and 21 Brahmins and 41 girls chanting Vedic mantras. Thousands of Dev Deepawali rituals are seen, including Deep Dan (offering lamps) on the ghats, where devotees leave the dias while floating in the Ganga as a tribute to their gods. Highlight Dasaswamedh Ghat has a Grand Ganga Aarti during Dev Deepawali, which attracts both pilgrims and international visitors.

Where is Dev Deepawali Observed?

Each ghat of the Ganga in Varanasi is beautifully decorated, but the main ceremonies are held in Dasaswamedh Ghat, Assi and Panchganga Ghats. Pilgrims, tourists and devotees gather in large numbers, making it one of the most magnificent spiritual events in India.

Festival of lights in Varanasi - a divine experience

It is known as a festival of lights in Varanasi, Dev Deepawali is not just a religious ritual, but also a cultural and spiritual experience. The vision of thousands of Diyas floating on the Ganga creates a heavenly atmosphere, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories.

Boat ride on the Ganga during Dev Diwali

Dev Diwali is one of the most mesmerized experiences in Varanasi. On this holy night, the ghats are illuminated with thousands of DIYAS (earthen lamps), which reflect their golden glow on the cool water of the river. As you float on the Ganga, the vision of countlessly lightened ghats, chanting the priests Performing the grand Ganga Aarti, and fireworks in the night sky make a breathtaking spiritual panorama.

Tourists and devotees often select the evening boat ride, which so far to see rituals, enjoying a vibrant environment. Whether in a traditional wooden boat or in a decorated motorboat, this ride allows you to soak in the divine energy of the festival. Many visitors consider it the best way to experience Dev Diwali in Varanasi, as it offers a unique perspective of the holy festival of the city from the heart of the holy river.

Varanasi Dev Deepawali event timing

Dev Deepawali in Varanasi is one of the most spectacular festivals on the banks of river Ganga, and knowing the time of the incident helps devotees and tourists to use this divine festival the most.

The festival usually begins with preparations at rituals and ghats in late afternoon. As sunset approaches (about 5: 00–5: 30 pm), thousands of DIYAS (earthen lamps) are lit with the stages of the ghats, and the entire riverfront is converted into a glowing spectacle.

The main attraction of the evening, the Grand Ganga Aarti in Dashashwamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat, usually begins around 6: 00–7: 00 pm, which is performed by priests with Vedic mantras, incense and fire lamps. This is followed by cultural programs, devotional music and dance performance at the ghat.

The boat ride during this time offers a surprising panoramic view of the enlightened riverbank. The ceremony continued till late evening (about 9: 00–10: 00 pm), illuminating the sky with fireworks, connecting the divine attraction of the festival.

Visitors are advised to secure the best viewing places or book a special Dev Diwali tour package, including the time and reserved seats directed for the Ganga Aarti.

Best Ghats for Dev Deepawali

Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India, becomes a divine spectacle during Dev Deepawali, when every ghat on the banks of the Ganga river shines with countless Diyas. While the entire riverfront provides a breathtaking view, some ghats are particularly famous for their grandeur and rituals.

1. Dashashwamedheh Ghat

Known as the heart of Varanasi, this Ghat hosts the Grand Ganga Aarti during Dev Deepawali. It is the most crowded and vibrant place attracting pilgrims, tourists and photographers from all over the world.

2. Assi Ghat -

A favorite among tourists, Assi Ghat combines peace with devotion. This offers cultural performance, devotional songs, and less chaotic yet equally spiritual experience of the festival.

3. Panchganga Ghat -

Immersed in mythological importance, this ghat is considered sacred because five holy rivers are believed to be converted here. During the Dev Deepawali, its peaceful atmosphere makes it ideal for devotees looking for a spiritual relationship.

4. Raja Ghat and Chet Singh Ghat

These ghats are known for their architectural beauty and provide stunning scenes of enlightened lamps and fireworks reflected on the Ganga.

5. Manikarnika & Harishchandra Ghats

Even the cremation ghats such as they participate in the festival, symbolize the eternal cycle of life and liberation, which gives a really unique perspective of Dev Deepawali.

6. Namo Ghats

On Dev Diwali, Namo Ghat in Varanasi becomes a beautiful and peaceful place to start a boat ride, which offers modern features and magnificent scenes of enlightened ghats with the Ganges.

Whether you select a vibrant Dashashwamedh or Serene Assi Ghat, every place during Dev Deepawali offers an unforgettable glimpse into the spiritual and cultural essence of Varanasi.

Story behind Dev Deepawali

Dev Deepawali, also known as Dev Diwali, is one of the most sacred festivals celebrated in Varanasi, which marks the victory of good over evil. According to Hindu mythology, this festival is reminiscent of the day when Lord Shiva defeated the demon Tripurasura, who was terrorizing the three worlds. After his victory, the deity himself landed on the earth to celebrate the conquest of the holy river Ganga.

It is believed that on this auspicious night of Kartika Purnima, the deity and goddess visit Varanasi and bathe in the holy Ganga. To honor his divine appearance, the devotees brought millions to light across the ghats, converting the entire river into an astronomical spectacle. This is why Dev Deepawali is often called "Festival Of Light Of The Gods".

The story behind Dev Deepawali is a symbol of the eternal victory of light over the dark, good over evil and divine blessings on demonic forces. For devotees, Diya was highlighted during this festival, not only as a work of worship, but as a way of inviting peace, prosperity and divine grace in their lives.

Cultural programs in Uttar Pradesh, India

The cultural heart region of India Uttar Pradesh is home to some of the most vibrant and spiritually rich festivals in the country. The rich traditions, music, dances and rituals of the state make it a center for cultural ceremonies that attract millions of visitors every year.

The most famous events are Dev Deepawali in Varanasi, when the Ganga ghats shine with countless lamps, creating a breathtaking divine aura. The Taj Mahotsav in Agra showcases classical dance, folk performances, traditional crafts, and cuisines from across India. The Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, which is recognized as one of the world's largest human assemblies, represents the peak of faith and spirituality.

Other important cultural highlights include Ram Leela of Ayodhya, a grand act of the Ramayana; Braj Holi in Mathura and Vrindavan, is known for its colors and devotional enthusiasm; And the Lucknow Mahotsav, which celebrates the city's Nawabi heritage, art and cuisine.

These cultural programs in Uttar Pradesh not only preserve ancient traditions, but also give visitors a chance to experience the essence of the diverse spiritual and artistic heritage of India.

Frequently Asked Question On Dev Deepawali In varanasi