Dev Deepawali, often called the “Diwali of the Gods,” is one of the most revered Hindu festivals celebrated in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Unlike the traditional Diwali that marks Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya, Dev Deepawali is observed on the full moon night of Kartik Purnima, about 15 days after Diwali. The festival commemorates Lord Shiva’s victory over the demon Tripurasura, symbolizing the eternal triumph of good over evil. In 2025, Dev Deepawali will be celebrated on Wednesday, 5th November.
On this sacred night, the ghats of Varanasi come alive with millions of glowing diyas (oil lamps) that light up the banks of the Ganga, creating a spectacular divine sight. Devotees gather to offer prayers, perform rituals, and take holy dips in the river, believing it washes away sins. The city is decorated with colorful rangolis, dazzling lights, and vibrant processions, filling the atmosphere with unmatched spiritual energy.
Beyond its religious importance, Dev Deepawali also draws thousands of visitors and tourists from across the world, eager to witness the enchanting fusion of devotion, tradition, and cultural heritage. It is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, where faith meets festivity in the heart of Varanasi.
History of Dev Deepawali
The Dev-Deepawali celebrations, observed in Varanasi, take place on the full moon of the Hindu month of Karthik, which is 15 days after Diwali. As per Hindu legends, a demon named Tarakasura had three sons Tarakasksha, Kamlashksha, and Vidyunmail. Three sons of Tarkasura worshipped Lord Brahma with utmost devotion and received a boon of immortality. By the laws of the cosmos, Lord Brahma also bestowed upon them the blessing that a single arrow could only destroy them. After receiving this blessing, they became engrossed in destructive behaviour and caused a commotion everywhere. When Lord Shiva came to know about it, he took on the shape of Tripurantaka and resolved to become its avatar, killing all three sons or asuras with a single arrow to bring peace and harmony across the world. Dev Diwali is a festival commemorating Lord Shiva's conquest of the Asuras.
Major Attractions of Dev Deepawali Celebrations
1. Kartik Snan
The devotees wake up early on the day of this holy event to perform Kartik Snan, which is merely a dip into the Ganges' sacred waters to rid oneself of all the evil and negative karma.
2. Deep Dan
Following the completion of this ceremony, it is the period for Deep Dan, which is essentially pouring oil into the earthen lamps. This specific ceremony is performed in honour of Goddess Ganga.
3. Local Performances
On this occasion, many devotees gather to attend this four-day Ganga Mahotsav. The official celebrations of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi are held on the Dasaswamedh Ghat, where many reputed artists and performers from all over the country come to perform.
4. Ganga Aarti
And in the evening of this festival, one can see throngs of devotees performing aartis and lighting diyas on the ghats. They participate with immense devotion and decorate the ghats along the riverbank for the celebrations. Diyas are lit as a gesture to welcome the gods as they arrive on Earth. The festival's main attraction is the spectacular Ganga Aarti, which focuses on inspiring spirituality from within. Typically, each ghat conducts its own ritual, lighting enormous lamps as priests sing hymns.
How To Reach Varanasi for Dev Deepawali
- Nearest Major City. Mau
- Nearest International Airport. Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport
- Nearest Railway Station. Varanasi Junction
- Distance from Mau. 91 Km
Let’s take a look at how you can reach the Mukti Dham by the following modes of transportation.
By Air.
Travelling to Varanasi via flight is a good option. It is well connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, Lucknow and more. Many flights from prominent private air carriers operate frequently to and fro from Varanasi airport. However, it is to be noted that in 2005, Varanasi Airport was renamed Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport. After you deboard at this airport, you must take a cab or a local auto to cover the remaining distance to your destination.
Distance from Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport. 16 min
By Train. Varanasi has its own railway junction with the same name, i.e. Varanasi Junction. It is also known as Benares Junction and Varanasi Cantt Railway Station. It is important to note that this station has a modern route interlock system consisting of an automated signalling system.
In 2017, it was also ranked 14th in India regarding overall cleanliness. Over 250 trains arrive at this station daily.
Distance from Varanasi Junction. 10 min
By Train.
Varanasi has its own railway junction with the same name, i.e. Varanasi Junction. It is also known as Benares Junction and Varanasi Cantt Railway Station. It is important to note that this station has a modern route interlock system consisting of an automated signalling system.
In 2017, it was also ranked 14th in India regarding overall cleanliness. Over 250 trains arrive at this station daily.
- Distance from Varanasi Junction. 10 min
Click Here For Railway Ticket Bookings
By Road.
If you are planning a trip to Varanasi, what can be more exciting than planning a trip to the spiritual capital of India via road? Watching the heavenly picturesque views from your car while travelling towards this enlightening city is an experience worth having.
- Distance from Lucknow. 4.3 Km
- Distance from Mau. 91 Km
- Distance from Allahabad. 114 Km
- Distance from Gorakhpur. 165 Km
- Distance from Ara. 172 Km
- Distance from Rewa. 189 Km
- Distance from Uttar Pradesh. 314 Km
- Distance from Jharkhand. 407 Km
- Distance from Delhi. 864 Km
Click Here For Bus Ticket Booking.
Ready to be a part of the most blissful Dev-Deepawali festival celebrations this year? Get in touch with Adotrip and book the most amazing vacation with an absolutely hassle-free process.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Dev Deepawali
Q1: Is Dev Deepawali worth visiting?
A1: Yes, Dev Deepawali is absolutely worth visiting. The sight of millions of diyas lighting up the ghats of Varanasi, the spiritual rituals, cultural performances, and the divine atmosphere make it one of the most enchanting and unforgettable festivals in India.
Q2: What is the date of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi?
A2: Dev Deepawali in Varanasi will be celebrated on Wednesday, 5th November.
Q3: Where is Diwali in 2025?
A3: Diwali in 2025 will be celebrated across India and by Hindu communities worldwide on Tuesday, 21st October 2025.
Q4: Are Dev Diwali and Kartik Purnima the same?
A4: Dev Deepawali and Kartik Purnima are closely connected but not exactly the same. Kartik Purnima refers to the full moon day of the Kartik month, while Dev Deepawali is the celebration held on this day in Varanasi, marking Lord Shiva’s victory over Tripurasura.
Q5: Where is Dev Deepawali celebrated?
A5: Dev Deepawali is celebrated primarily in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, on the ghats of the Ganga River, where lakhs of devotees and tourists gather to witness the festival of lights dedicated to the gods.
