Celebration of Dev Deepawali : Experience the divine glow of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi—witness thousands of lamps, Ganga Aarti, and unmatched spiritual energy on the Ganges Ghats.
Dev Deepawali, also known as the Festival of Lights of the Gods, is a grand celebration that takes place in the holy city of Varanasi, India. This festival is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Kartik, which usually falls in November or December. Dev Deepawali is a unique and spectacular event that combines the traditions of Diwali with the spiritual significance of honoring the gods and goddesses. The festival is a time for devotees to express their gratitude and devotion to the divine beings, and to seek blessings for prosperity and happiness.
Celebration of Dev Deepawali

The history and significance of Dev Deepawali date back to ancient times, when it was believed that on this day, the gods descend to earth to bathe in the holy waters of the Ganges River. It is said that the gods light up the entire city of Varanasi with millions of lamps to welcome their arrival. Dev Deepawali is a way for devotees to pay homage to the gods and goddesses, and to seek their blessings for health, wealth, and happiness. The festival is also a time to celebrate the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.
Preparations for Dev Deepawali begin weeks in advance, as the city of Varanasi gets ready to welcome the gods and goddesses. Homes and temples are cleaned and decorated with colorful rangoli designs, flowers, and lights. Devotees prepare special offerings of sweets, fruits, and flowers to present to the deities. The streets are adorned with colorful lights and lanterns, creating a magical and festive atmosphere throughout the city. The preparations for Dev Deepawali are a labor of love and devotion, as devotees come together to create a beautiful and sacred space for the gods to descend.
Rituals and traditions observed during Dev Deepawali are steeped in ancient customs and beliefs. Devotees wake up before dawn to take a holy dip in the Ganges River and offer prayers to the rising sun. They then visit temples to offer prayers and seek blessings from the gods and goddesses. In the evening, devotees light lamps and candles in their homes and along the ghats of the Ganges, creating a mesmerizing display of lights that illuminates the entire city. The sound of bells, chants, and hymns fills the air as devotees offer their prayers and gratitude to the divine beings.
The grandeur of Varanasi during Dev Deepawali is truly a sight to behold. The entire city is transformed into a magical wonderland of lights, colors, and sounds. The ghats of the Ganges River are lined with thousands of lamps and candles, creating a breathtaking spectacle that reflects in the holy waters. Fireworks light up the night sky, adding to the festive atmosphere and creating a sense of joy and celebration. The streets are filled with music, dance, and cultural performances, as devotees come together to celebrate the divine beings and the spirit of unity and harmony.
Cultural performances and activities during Dev Deepawali showcase the rich heritage and traditions of Varanasi. Artists and musicians from all over India come to perform classical music and dance performances, adding to the festive spirit of the celebration. Boat races, processions, and cultural events are organized along the ghats of the Ganges, providing entertainment and joy to the thousands of visitors who come to witness the grandeur of Dev Deepawali. The festival is a time for people to come together, celebrate their shared beliefs and traditions, and experience the beauty and magic of Varanasi.
Reflections on the spiritual and festive atmosphere of Dev Deepawali evoke a sense of awe and wonder at the grandeur of the celebration. The festival is a time for devotees to connect with the divine beings, seek blessings for prosperity and happiness, and celebrate the victory of light over darkness. Dev Deepawali is a reminder of the power of faith, devotion, and unity in bringing people together and creating a sense of joy and harmony. The festival is a time to reflect on the beauty and magic of life, and to express gratitude for the blessings that come our way. Dev Deepawali is a celebration of light, love, and spirituality that inspires people to come together in peace and harmony, and to spread joy and happiness to all.