Meaning of Diwali
Diwali is festival of light. It is also known as Deepawali. Diwali is one of the most loved and awaited festivals in India. The word Deepawali comes from two words “Deep” means lamp and “Wali” means a row. So, Deepawali means “a row of lamps.” These rows of lamps light up homes, hearts, and temples. It spreads joy and removes darkness from our lives.
Spiritual meaning of Deepawali lies in the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. It reminds us that even the smallest light can remove great darkness, just as truth and love can overcome pride and hatred.
When is Diwali in 2025?
Diwali falls on the Amavasya Tithi of the Krishna Paksha during the month of Kartik as per the Hindu lunar calendar. It usually falls either at the end of October or beginning of November month.
What is Diwali 2025 Date and Time?
Diwali 2025 will be celebrated on October 20-21. The Amavasya tithi starts at 3:44 PM on October 20 and ends at 5:54 PM on October 21.
On this dark night, devotees light millions of lamps to honor the return of Shri Rama for light, peace, and virtue for his divine victory.
Significance of ISKCON Diwali 2025
At ISKCON temples, Diwali is celebrated with great devotion and joy. It is not just a festival of lights, but a day to remember the divine pastimes of Shri Rama and Shri Krishna. ISKCON Diwali 2025 will focus on Deepotsava (offering lamps) to the Lord. It shows the awakening of the soul’s inner light. Devotees chant, sing kirtans, and offer prasadam to share the joy of Diwali with everyone.
Lighting lamps in front of Shri Rama is a sign of gratitude for his victory over evil and his return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. Each diya reminds us to light the flame of goodness in our hearts and walk on the path of dharma.
The Story of Deepawali
The story of Diwali is deeply connected with Shri Rama. According to the Ramayana, after defeating the demon king Ravana and rescuing Mata Sita, Shri Rama returned to Ayodhya with his brother Lakshmana. The people of Ayodhya welcomed him by lighting rows of lamps throughout the city. The dark night shone like day, and joy spread everywhere.
This is why we celebrate Diwali to remember the day when Shri Rama, the symbol of truth and virtue, returned home and restored peace. It reminds us that when we walk with righteousness and faith, light will always follow.
Diwali Puja Vidhi
On Deepawali, devotees perform Diwali puja to honor Shri Rama and Shri Krishna. The puja starts by cleaning the home, temple, and decorating it with flowers and rangoli. Lamps (diyas) are placed in rows to welcome the divine light. Devotees offer fruits, sweets, and prasadam to the Lord.
Chanting mantras and singing bhajans create a peaceful and joyful atmosphere. This simple yet sacred ritual connects the heart with the divine.
How ISKCON Celebrates Diwali Festival
The Diwali celebration in ISKCON Temple is grand and spiritual. During Deepotsava at ISKCON, the temple is decorated with thousands of lamps and colorful lights. Devotees participate in kirtans, aartis, and reading the Story of Diwali, remembering Shri Rama’s victory over Ravana.
The ISKCON Deepavali celebration also includes cultural programs, spiritual discourses, and community feasts. At ISKCON Ghaziabad, families come together to enjoy the beauty of devotion and the joy of serving the Lord. These ISKCON Diwali events inspire everyone to lead a life of truth and love.
Importance of Charity on Deepotsava
This Diwali, while we light lamps in our homes, let’s remember those whose homes remain dark. Many families sit in silence, wishing for a single diya to brighten their night. Your small act of giving can become their reason for smiling. A warm meal through food donation, a blanket, or even one diya in Deepotsava can bring hope where despair lives. True celebration is not in what we have, but in what we share.
Let your kindness become someone’s festival. This Deepotsava, light a lamp of happiness in another’s home—and feel the glow of real joy in your heart.
Sharing during Diwali spreads happiness, removes selfishness, and lights the hearts of others.
Essence of Shri Krishna in Deepotsava
Even though Diwali celebrates Shri Rama, Lord Krishna’s teachings are also remembered during Deepotsava 2025. He teaches that devotion, love, and selfless service are the highest forms of worship. Lighting a lamp or offering food becomes sacred when performed with faith in the Lord. During ISKCON Deepotsava celebration, devotees sing Shri Krishna bhajans and remember his divine pastimes. This brings inner peace, happiness, and a deeper connection to God.
Conclusion
Diwali 2025 is more than a festival of lights. Through Deepotsava at ISKCON, we honor Shri Rama, celebrate Shri Krishna’s teachings, and light the inner lamp of devotion. Performing Diwali puja, attending ISKCON Diwali events, and giving charity remind us that true happiness comes from faith, love, and selfless service.
May this Deepotsava festival fill every home and heart with light, peace, and divine blessings!
