Is It Diwali or Deepavali? Let’s Set the Record Straight

Diwali and Deepavali are two names for the same festival, both carrying the same meaning and essence, but with slight variations in pronunciation and regional usage. The term Deepavali comes from the Sanskrit words Deepa (meaning “lamp”) and Avali (meaning “row”), which together describe “a row of lamps.” This name perfectly captures the festival’s central tradition – lighting rows of oil lamps or diyas to celebrate the return of light, hope, and prosperity. Over time, as the festival spread across regions and languages, Deepavali evolved into Diwali, the shortened form that became more common in northern India and globally.

In southern India and among Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada speakers, Deepavali remains the preferred name, staying true to its classical Sanskrit roots. In contrast, Diwali is widely used in Hindi-speaking regions and by the Indian diaspora worldwide.

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Which is Correct: Diwali Or Deepavali?

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most celebrated and loved festivals in India. But one common question often arises: what’s the correct name of the festival? Is it Diwali or Deepavali?

Let’s explore the meaning, origin, and significance of both names and understand how they came to represent the same beautiful celebration of light and joy.

Regional Differences: Diwali vs. Deepavali

India’s cultural diversity means that different regions celebrate the same festival in unique ways — and even call it by different names.

• North India: The name Diwali is more popular. It is celebrated to mark Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over Ravana. People light diyas to welcome him and celebrate the triumph of good over evil.
• South India: The festival is commonly called Deepavali. It is celebrated to honor Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, symbolizing the end of darkness and the beginning of light and knowledge.

The Common Spirit Behind Both Names – Diwali & Deepavali

Whether you say Diwali or Deepavali, the festival carries the same universal message: the triumph of light over darkness, truth over lies, and good over evil. It’s a time for joy, forgiveness, and new beginnings.

Across India and the world, people celebrate by:

• Lighting diyas and candles to remove darkness.
• Decorating homes with rangoli and flowers.
• Wearing new clothes and exchanging gifts.
• Sharing sweets and festive meals with loved ones.
• Worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha for prosperity and wisdom.

Global Recognition of Diwali

Today, Diwali has become a global festival, celebrated by Indian communities and people of diverse backgrounds around the world. From the United States to Singapore, landmarks are illuminated, and cultural events are organized to mark the occasion.

The term Diwali has become more widely recognized internationally due to its easier pronunciation and popularity in the media, but Deepavali remains deeply cherished in South Indian traditions. Both words continue to coexist, representing the same radiant celebration of unity and light.

So, Which One Is Correct?

Both Diwali and Deepavali are correct. They are simply two names for the same festival. The difference lies in regional language and pronunciation, not in meaning. Whether you say Diwali in Hindi or Deepavali in Tamil, Telugu, or Kannada, the celebration remains the same a festival that brings people together in the spirit of happiness, hope, and togetherness.

Celebrating the True Spirit of the Festival

Beyond the lights, fireworks, and sweets, Diwali or Deepavali reminds us to light the lamp of goodness within ourselves. It’s a time to let go of negativity, forgive others, and spread kindness and positivity.

This year, celebrate the festival with love, sustainability, and mindfulness, light diyas instead of crackers, share with those in need, and fill your surroundings with peace and happiness.

Other Names of the Diwali Festival

Diwali is celebrated in almost every part of India, but different states and communities have their own unique names for the festival. These names often reflect local traditions, legends, and cultural practices. Here’s a detailed look:

When does Diwali fall?

Unlike fixed-date festivals, Diwali is based on the Hindu lunar calendar and falls on the Amavasya (new moon) day of the month of Kartika, which typically occurs between mid-October and mid-November each year.

Diwali 2025: Date and Significance

In 2025, Diwali is scheduled to be celebrated on Monday, October 20. The main Diwali celebrations, including Lakshmi Puja, are best observed on October 20, aligning with the auspicious Pradosh Kaal and Vrishabha Kaal.

Diwali 2026: Date and Observance

Looking ahead, in 2026, Diwali will be observed on Sunday, November 8. This date marks the Amavasya of the Kartika month, continuing the tradition of celebrating the festival on the new moon day.

Understanding the Five Days of Diwali

Diwali is traditionally celebrated over five days, each with its own significance:

• Day 1: Dhanteras: The first day marks the beginning of the festival, focusing on wealth and health. People clean their homes and purchase new items, especially metalware, to bring good fortune.
• Day 2: Narak Chaturdashi: Also known as Choti Diwali, this day commemorates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. It is considered a day to cleanse oneself of past sins.
• Day 3: Diwali / Lakshmi Puja: The main day of the festival, dedicated to worshipping Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Homes are illuminated with diyas (oil lamps), and prayers are offered for prosperity and well-being.
• Day 4: Govardhan Puja (October 21, 2025): This day celebrates the lifting of Mount Govardhan by Lord Krishna to protect the villagers from torrential rains. It is observed with the preparation of a large mound of food offerings.
• Day 5: Bhai Dooj (October 22, 2025): The final day celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters invite their brothers to their homes, perform aarti, and apply a tilak to their foreheads, praying for their long life and prosperity.

The other story behind the Diwali Celebration

While many people associate Diwali with Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya, several other legends explain the festival’s significance, showing the rich diversity of India’s cultural and spiritual traditions.

1. Lord Krishna and Narakasura

In southern India, Diwali is closely linked to the story of Lord Krishna defeating the demon Narakasura. Narakasura had terrorized people and captured many, including Krishna’s mother-in-law. On this day, Krishna killed the demon, freeing the captives and restoring peace. The victory is celebrated by lighting lamps, bursting crackers, and spreading joy. This story highlights the triumph of good over evil and freedom over oppression.

2. Worship of Goddess Lakshmi

Another important aspect of Diwali is the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. People believe that Lakshmi visits homes that are clean, well-lit, and welcoming. Devotees light diyas, decorate their homes, and perform Lakshmi Puja to invite prosperity and happiness for the coming year.

3. The Legend of King Bali

In some regions, Diwali is also associated with King Bali, a noble demon king from Hindu mythology. Bali was loved by his people but was sent to the netherworld by Lord Vishnu. It is believed that on Diwali, Bali is allowed to return to Earth to visit his subjects, which is why the festival is also called Bali Pratipada in some parts of India.

4. The Sikh Perspective: Bandi Chhor Divas

For the Sikh community, Diwali coincides with Bandi Chhor Divas, which celebrates the release of Guru Hargobind Ji from imprisonment along with 52 kings. The festival is marked by lighting the Golden Temple and other Gurdwaras, symbolizing freedom, justice, and victory over tyranny.

5. Jain Celebration of Mahavira’s Nirvana

Jains also celebrate Diwali as the day when Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, attained Nirvana (liberation). For Jains, the festival emphasizes spiritual enlightenment, self-discipline, and inner peace rather than material prosperity.