Introduction
Dev Diwali, also known as Dev Deepawali, is one of the most spiritually significant festivals in Hinduism, celebrated in the holy city of Varanasi (Kashi) and a few other sacred places in India. Unlike Diwali, which is celebrated by humans to welcome Lord Rama after his exile, Dev Diwali is believed to be the day when the gods themselves descend to the Earth to celebrate the victory of Lord Shiva over the demon Tripurasura. The festival falls on the full moon night (Kartik Purnima) in the month of Kartik (October–November).
On this day, the ghats of Varanasi are illuminated with millions of earthen lamps, creating one of the most enchanting spectacles in India.
Mythological Significance
The origins of Dev Diwali are rooted in Hindu mythology. According to scriptures, the demon Tripurasura grew so powerful that he became a menace to both humans and gods. Lord Shiva, invoked by the gods, destroyed Tripurasura on Kartik Purnima, earning the title Tripurari (destroyer of Tripurasura).
To commemorate this victory, the gods celebrated Diwali in Varanasi, lighting countless lamps. Hence, the day came to be known as Dev Diwali, meaning the Diwali of the Gods.
Rituals and Celebrations
1. Ganga Aarti
The highlight of Dev Diwali is the grand Ganga Aarti held on the ghats of Varanasi, especially at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Priests, dressed in traditional attire, perform synchronized rituals with large lamps, incense, and chanting of Vedic mantras.
2. Lighting of Diyas
Millions of earthen lamps (diyas) are lit along the ghats, temples, and households, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and spreading divine light.
3. Offering Prayers
Devotees take a holy dip in the Ganges early in the morning on Kartik Purnima, as it is believed to wash away sins and grant spiritual merit (punya). Special prayers and offerings are made to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Ganga.
4. Cultural Programs
Dev Diwali in Varanasi is also marked by cultural performances, including classical music, dance recitals, and devotional songs. These are organized on the ghats, reviving India’s rich traditions of art and spirituality.
Dev Diwali vs Diwali
Though both festivals involve lighting of lamps, there are distinct differences:
- Diwali (Deepavali) is celebrated 15 days earlier on Amavasya (new moon) of Kartik month to mark Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya.
- Dev Diwali is celebrated on Kartik Purnima (full moon) as the gods’ festival to honor Lord Shiva’s victory.
- Diwali is celebrated across India, while Dev Diwali is most grandly observed in Varanasi.
Where to Witness the Grandest Dev Diwali Celebrations
1. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
The ghats of Varanasi are the heart of Dev Diwali celebrations. From Assi Ghat to Dashashwamedh Ghat, the entire riverfront glows with millions of lamps, and the reflection in the Ganges creates a heavenly sight. The evening Ganga Aarti attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists from across the world.
2. Ayodhya and Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh)
Though not as famous as Varanasi, both Ayodhya and Prayagraj celebrate Dev Diwali with grandeur, with illuminated ghats and temples along the rivers Saryu and Ganga.
3. Dwarka (Gujarat)
The Dwarkadhish Temple in Gujarat also marks Dev Diwali with lamps, prayers, and festivities dedicated to Lord Krishna.
4. Rishikesh and Haridwar (Uttarakhand)
The ghats of the Ganga in Haridwar and Rishikesh come alive with thousands of diyas, devotional singing, and aarti ceremonies.
Spiritual Significance for Devotees
Dev Diwali is considered an extremely auspicious day for spiritual practices. Taking a holy dip in the Ganga, offering lamps, and meditating on this night are said to grant liberation (moksha) and immense spiritual merit.
For householders, it symbolizes the removal of inner darkness and the illumination of divine wisdom.
Conclusion
Dev Diwali is not just a festival—it is a divine experience where spirituality, devotion, and culture merge into a spectacular celebration of light. For those who wish to witness the mystical charm of India’s traditions, Dev Diwali in Varanasi is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The sight of the illuminated ghats, the sacred chants, and the flowing Ganga together create an atmosphere that truly feels celestial.