This year, many people are wondering — when should Diwali be celebrated in 2025? Some calendars say October 20, while others say October 21.
Let’s clear up the confusion by looking at the amavasya tithi, which decides the exact date for Diwali.
🌑 What Is Amavasya and Why It Matters
Diwali, also called the Festival of Lights, is celebrated on the day of amavasya, or new moon day, in the Hindu month of Kartika.
Since Hindu festivals follow the lunar calendar, the timing depends on when this new moon (amavasya) happens — not on fixed calendar dates.
⏰ Amavasya Timing for 2025
According to Hindu Panchang (calendar):
- Amavasya starts: October 20, 2025, at 3:44 PM
- Amavasya ends: October 21, 2025, at 5:54 PM
That means the new moon day begins in the afternoon of October 20 and continues until the evening of October 21.
Because the tithi (lunar date) covers both days, people are unsure which day to choose for the main Diwali celebration.
📜 Why Some Say Diwali Should Be on October 20
According to the Kashi Vidwat Parishad, a respected group of scholars from Varanasi, Diwali should be celebrated on October 20, 2025.
Here’s why they and many others believe that’s the right day:
- The tithi starts on October 20 evening
In Hindu tradition, the tithi that is present during sunset is the one used for the festival.
Since amavasya begins before sunset on October 20, that night is suitable for Diwali celebrations. - Diwali is a night festival
The main Lakshmi Puja happens after sunset. Since amavasya is active on the evening of the 20th, that night fits the tradition perfectly. - Religious guidance
Many temples and pandits prefer the first night of the amavasya tithi rather than the second day when it is ending. - Official scholar opinion
The Kashi Vidwat Parishad officially announced October 20 as the correct date, and many communities are expected to follow that.
📅 Why Some Believe It’s October 21
Some regional calendars list October 21 as Diwali because the amavasya tithi continues until evening that day.
Their reasoning is that the longer part of the tithi falls on October 21, making it more complete for the celebration.
This is why different regions or temples might choose slightly different dates — both technically fall under the amavasya period.
💡 So, Which Day Should You Celebrate?
Most experts and religious councils recommend celebrating Diwali on Monday, October 20, 2025.
That evening will include the main Lakshmi Puja and lighting of diyas (lamps).
However, some families may continue the festivities or lighting on October 21 as well, especially in regions that follow local Panchang rules.
If you are unsure, it’s always good to follow the date announced by your local temple or family priest.
❓ FAQs
1. What is Amavasya?
Amavasya is the new moon day in the lunar month — when there’s no visible moon. Diwali is celebrated on this day.
2. Why are there two dates for Diwali in 2025?
Because the amavasya tithi starts on October 20 and ends on October 21, it overlaps both dates.
3. Which date is correct for Diwali 2025?
According to most scholars and temples, October 20 evening is the right time for Lakshmi Puja.
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