Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most celebrated and sacred festivals in India.
It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance.
Diwali is not just a one-day festival — it is a five-day celebration filled with joy, devotion and prosperity.
Each of the five days of Diwali holds a unique story, tradition and spiritual meaning.
Let’s explore the importance and story behind all five days of Diwali.
🌟 Day 1 – Dhanteras: The Day of Health and Prosperity
Date: Trayodashi (13th day of Krishna Paksha, Kartik month)
The festival of Diwali begins with Dhanteras.
According to Hindu mythology, on this day, Lord Dhanvantari (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu) emerged from the ocean during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) carrying the pot of nectar (Amrit).
Hence, this day is dedicated to health, well-being, and wealth.
People worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari and buy gold, silver, or utensils — as purchasing new items on this day is considered auspicious.
🪙 Belief:
“Buying something new on Dhanteras brings good luck, prosperity, and divine blessings throughout the year.”
🌑 Day 2 – Naraka Chaturdashi or Chhoti Diwali: The Victory of Good over Evil
Date: Chaturdashi (14th day of Krishna Paksha, Kartik month)
This day is also known as Chhoti Diwali (Small Diwali).
According to legends, on this day, Lord Krishna destroyed the demon Narakasura, who had imprisoned 16,000 divine maidens.
This victory symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.
People take an early morning oil bath, clean their homes, light diyas (lamps), and remove all negativity from their surroundings.
✨ Spiritual Meaning:
This day teaches us to conquer our inner demons — ego, greed, and anger — to let the light of truth and peace shine within us.
🪔 Day 3 – Diwali or Lakshmi Puja: The Main Festival of Lights
Date: Amavasya (New Moon day of Kartik month)
This is the most important and auspicious day of the Diwali festival.
According to the Ramayana, this day marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and victory over Ravana.
The people of Ayodhya lit oil lamps (diyas) to welcome their beloved king, which became the tradition of Diwali.
On this day, devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Kubera for wealth, wisdom, and prosperity.
Homes are decorated with lights, flowers, and colorful rangolis, and the night is illuminated with diyas and fireworks.
🌼 “Diwali lights not only brighten homes but also illuminate hearts and minds.”
🌾 Day 4 – Govardhan Puja (Annakoot): Gratitude to Nature and Lord Krishna
Date: Pratipada (1st day of Shukla Paksha, Kartik month)
The day after Diwali is celebrated as Govardhan Puja or Annakoot.
According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill on his little finger to protect the people of Gokul from the wrath of Lord Indra’s torrential rains.
Since then, devotees offer prayers to Govardhan Hill and prepare a variety of vegetarian dishes known as “Annakoot” to honor Lord Krishna.
🐄 Significance:
This day reminds us to respect nature, food, and cows, which sustain and nurture life on Earth.
👭 Day 5 – Bhai Dooj: The Bond of Love between Brother and Sister
Date: Dwitiya (2nd day of Shukla Paksha, Kartik month)
The fifth and final day of Diwali is Bhai Dooj, which celebrates the sacred bond between brothers and sisters.
According to mythology, Lord Yama (the God of Death) visited his sister Yamuna on this day. She welcomed him with love, applied tilak on his forehead, and prayed for his well-being.
Touched by her affection, Lord Yama declared that any brother who receives a tilak from his sister on this day will be blessed with long life and happiness.
On this day, sisters pray for their brothers’ health and prosperity, while brothers promise to protect their sisters and give them gifts.
👫 Symbolism:
Bhai Dooj represents love, trust, and the sacred bond of protection between siblings.
✨ The Deeper Message of Diwali
Diwali is not just about lighting lamps — it’s about dispelling darkness from our minds and hearts.
It teaches us that even a small flame of goodness can remove great darkness.
By spreading light, love, and kindness, we make the world a better place.
“Where there is light, there is hope;
where there is hope, success surely follows.”