Diwali 2025 Date & Time: October 20 or 21? Check Lakshmi Puja Muhurat & Tithi Details

As the festival of lights approaches, many across India are asking: “When is Diwali 2025?” The confusion deepens this year because the Amavasya Tithi—on which Diwali is observed—spans across two calendar days (October 20 and 21). In this article, we clarify which day is correct, how different states may diverge, the auspicious timings (muhurat), and how you can prepare your celebrations without worry.

Why the Confusion Over Diwali 2025 Date?

The root of the confusion lies in how Hindu lunar calendars and tithi timings are defined.

• Diwali (Deepavali) is celebrated on the Amavasya (new moon) in the month of Kartik.

• In 2025, Amavasya Tithi begins on October 20, 3:44 p.m. and extends until October 21, 5:54 p.m. (as per Drik Panchang)

• Because the tithi straddles two conventional dates, some people assume that Diwali could fall on the second calendar day.

Thus, while part of the tithi lies on October 21, the accepted practice is to celebrate on October 20, since that’s when the main portion of Amavasya begins and when Lakshmi Puja is conducted.

However, certain regional calendars or traditions may observe related rituals on October 21 (for example, Diwali Snan, or bathing, or Devpuja)

Diwali 2025 — All Important Dates & Rituals

Here are the key dates around Diwali in 2025 according to Drik Panchang:

Which Date Should You Follow in Your Region?

Even though Diwali 2025 is generally recognized as October 20, some states with their own regional calendars may officially celebrate on October 21 for parts of the traditions.

• Check your local panchang or temple announcements in your city or state.

• Many Hindu families adhere to Drik Panchang, which is widely accepted across India.

• Even if rituals spill into October 21 (like Diwali Snan or Dev Puja), the main Diwali evening and Lakshmi Puja should be done on October 20.

Following local custom ensures alignment with temple schedules and community observances.

Auspicious Timings (Muhurat) for Diwali 2025

To make your celebrations optimal and aligned with tradition, here are the best timings (as per Drik Panchang) for Diwali 2025:

• Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: 7:08 p.m. to 8:18 p.m. (October 20)

• Pradosh Kaal: 5:46 p.m. to 8:18 p.m.

• Vrishabha Kaal: 7:08 p.m. to 9:03 p.m.

It is essential to start the puja within these windows where possible to ensure maximum auspiciousness.

Historical Confusions & Past Precedents

This is not the first time such a confusion has occurred. In 2024, a similar overlap occurred: Amavasya for Diwali spanned October 31 to November 1, so some people celebrated on October 31 while others on November 1.

Because lunar calendar tithis don’t align cleanly with solar calendar dates, such overlaps are occasional. The accepted practice is to perform Diwali on the day when the majority of Amavasya tithi falls in the evening, which in 2025 is October 20.

Tips to Prepare Diwali 2025 in Advance (for Indian Audience)

Here are some practical tips to help you plan a peaceful, joyful Diwali:

• Check your local temple’s schedule for special events, aartis, and rituals in your city or state.

• Shop early for diyas, lights, sweets, clothes — avoid last-minute rushes.

• Book pandit / priests ahead of time, especially in large cities.

• Plan puja materials — vermillion (kumkum), flowers, incense, sweets, rice, coins, offerings.

• Clean your house before October 20 (ideally a day or two earlier).

• Decorate with rangoli, lights, eco-friendly options starting early evening of October 20.

• Follow the auspicious timings so your rituals align with Hindu tithi timings.

• Celebrate with community — many societies and housing complexes arrange collective Diwali events (fireworks, cultural programs).

• Be considerate with fireworks — follow local laws, use safe ones, avoid harm to environment and pets.

• Offer prayers and gratitude — Diwali is ultimately about light overcoming darkness, and connecting with loved ones.

Why Diwali 2025 is Special

• The overlap of Amavasya Tithi across two days makes 2025 one of those rare years with confusion—much like 2024.

• Many festivals in India face variation because of regional differences in calendars (Solar vs Lunar), so it’s a reminder of the rich diversity of Hindu time reckoning.

• For social media, families, and event planners, knowing the correct Diwali 2025 date and muhurat helps coordinate programs, markets, sales, and gatherings.

Final Word — Which Day to Celebrate Diwali 2025

• Primary Day for Diwali 2025: October 20

• Reason: That is when the main portion of Amavasya Tithi begins and the auspicious evening time window aligns for Lakshmi Puja.

• October 21 may be used for secondary rituals (Diwali Snan, Dev Puja) in many places.

• Always check local panchang or temple calendar if your region has variations.

By relying on Drik Panchang and local tradition, you can celebrate this Diwali confident that your timing is correct. This year, as lamps glow and families reunite, may Diwali 2025 bring you prosperity, joy, and light.