Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most celebrated and spiritually significant festivals in India. It marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, symbolizing hope, renewal, and divine blessings. Every year, people decorate their homes with lamps, exchange sweets, and pray for prosperity. But have you ever wondered — in which month of the Hindu calendar is Diwali celebrated?
According to the Hindu lunar calendar, Diwali is celebrated in the month of Kartik (कार्तिक मास). This month usually corresponds to October or November in the Gregorian calendar, depending on the position of the moon.
🌙 The Date and Timing of Diwali
The festival of Diwali falls on the Amavasya (new moon day) of the Kartik month’s Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight). This is considered the darkest night of the year, and lighting lamps on this day symbolizes the spiritual illumination that removes ignorance and negativity.
Because the Hindu calendar is based on lunar cycles, the exact date of Diwali changes each year but always occurs between mid-October and mid-November. For example, in 2025, Diwali will be celebrated on Monday, October 20.
🪔 Cultural and Religious Significance of Kartik Month
The month of Kartik holds immense religious importance in Hinduism. It is regarded as one of the most sacred months for worship, fasting, and charity. Many devotees observe special rituals such as Kartik Snan (holy bath in rivers) and Deep Daan (offering of lamps) during this period.
According to scriptures, Lord Vishnu’s divine awakening (Dev Uthani Ekadashi) and the holy marriage of Tulsi and Shaligram also take place in the same month. Thus, Kartik is often called the month of light, devotion, and divine love.
🕉️ The Five Days of Diwali in Kartik
Diwali is not just a one-day event but a five-day festival, each with its own spiritual meaning.
- Dhanteras – Worship of Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi for health and wealth.
- Naraka Chaturdashi (Chhoti Diwali) – Commemorates Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura.
- Lakshmi Puja (Main Diwali Day) – Worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha for prosperity and happiness.
- Govardhan Puja / Annakut – Celebration of Krishna’s lifting of Govardhan Hill.
- Bhai Dooj – Celebration of the sacred bond between brothers and sisters.
All these days fall within the Kartik month, making it a period of immense spiritual energy and divine grace.