Diwali 2025 UK | Festival of light | Diwali 2025 date and time

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most awaited and celebrated festivals in the Hindu calendar. Diwali 2025 will be celebrated from Friday, October 17, 2025, to Thursday, October 23, 2025, and encompasses five significant days of festivity. Each day has its own rituals and cultural significance, marking a celebration of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.

1. Govatsa Dwadashi 2025 (October 17, 2025 – Friday)

Diwali begins with Govatsa Dwadashi, also known as Vasu Baras. In Maharashtra and other parts of India, this day is dedicated to the worship of cows, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. Cows are fed and honored as a gesture of gratitude. It’s a day when people prepare themselves mentally and spiritually for the upcoming celebrations.

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2. Dhanteras 2025 (October 18, 2025 – Saturday)

Dhanteras, the second day, marks the official start of Diwali celebrations. This day is dedicated to Dhanvantari, the God of Ayurveda, and is considered an auspicious time for buying gold, silver, and new household items. In Hindu homes, special prayers are offered to Lakshmi and Kuber, deities of wealth and prosperity. It is a day filled with bustling markets as families prepare their homes for Diwali.

3. Kali Chaudas / Narak Chaturdashi 2025 (October 19, 2025 – Sunday)

The third day is known as Kali Chaudas or Narak Chaturdashi. According to mythology, this day commemorates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. It is a day for ridding oneself of laziness and evil. Many people perform rituals to ward off negative energies, and in some parts of India, there are small firecracker displays as a symbolic reminder of the victory of light over darkness.

4. Lakshmi Puja 2025 (October 20, 2025 – Monday)

Lakshmi Puja is the most important day of Diwali. On this day, people worship Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, along with Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. The evening of Chaturdashi is marked by lighting diyas (oil lamps) to welcome Lakshmi into the home. Business owners also perform Chopda Puja, opening new account books for the coming year. This day, Amavasya, is considered the darkest night of the year but is illuminated with thousands of diyas, symbolizing the triumph of light.

5. Govardhan Puja 2025 (October 21, 2025 – Tuesday)

The fifth day of Diwali is dedicated to the Govardhan Puja or Annakut, a celebration of Lord Krishna’s protection of the villagers from a great storm by lifting Mount Govardhan. Many prepare lavish meals in honor of Lord Krishna, sharing food with family, friends, and neighbors.

6. Bhai Dooj 2025 (October 23, 2025 – Thursday)

The final day of Diwali is Bhai Dooj, which celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for the well-being of their brothers, and brothers give gifts in return. This day is similar to Raksha Bandhan and symbolizes familial love and unity.

Diwali Celebrations in the UK

In the UK, particularly in cities like London, Birmingham, and Leicester, Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Diwali 2025 in London will likely feature grand events at places like Trafalgar Square, where there will be cultural performances, stalls offering Indian food, and firework displays.

Communities also celebrate Diwali at local temples with special Lakshmi Puja events. Shops and restaurants in Southall, Wembley, and Leicester will have festive Diwali sales, offering a variety of traditional sweets, clothing, and decorations.

How to Celebrate Diwali in the UK

Attend Community Events: Many UK cities host public Diwali celebrations. Trafalgar Square’s Diwali Festival is a must-see event that showcases traditional dance, music, and food.

Decorate Your Home: Light up your home with diyas and candles to bring in the festive spirit.

Participate in Lakshmi Puja: Conduct a simple Lakshmi Puja at home with family and friends, offering prayers for prosperity and happiness.

Explore Local Markets: Visit areas like Southall or Wembley for traditional Diwali shopping and to pick up some festive decorations and gifts.

Conclusion

Diwali 2025 is not just a time for rituals, but a time for reflection, giving, and celebrating with loved ones. Whether you’re in India or the UK, the essence of Diwali remains the same—a festival that brings light, joy, and togetherness.