Devo ki Deepawali (Dev Deepawali) is a unique celebration referred to as the “Deepawali of the Gods”. Held on the full moon night i.e. Kartik Purnima, in November, this festival illuminates the Ghats of Kashi (Varanasi), with thousands of (Diyas) oil lamps. According to Hindu belief, the Gods descend to Earth to join their devotees in celebration on this night.
The festival’s name, Dev (God) Deepawali, signifies the divine presence as the gods are believed to come down to witness the resplendent display of lights, prayers, and devotion. Pilgrims gather along the ghats, lighting lamps and offering prayers, while the Ganga river glows with floating diyas, creating a breathtaking scene that reflects both cultural heritage and spiritual reverence.
Dev Deepawali’s festivities include grand Aartis, Rangolies and, in recent years, vibrant lighting.
Tithi and Muhurat of Dev Deepawali 2024
According to Drik Panchang, in 2024, Dev Deepawali will be celebrated on November 15 (Friday)
Pradoshkal is from 05:10 P.M. to 07:47 PM ( 02 hours 37 minutes)
Purnima Tithi starts from November 15, 2024 at 06:19 AM and ends on November 16, 2024 at 02:58 AM”
Why Dev Deepawali is celebrated?
The story behind Dev Deepawali is very interesting and it revolve around Lord Shiva’s (Shivji’s) victory (vijay) over the demon Tripurasura, a powerful enemy who terrorized both heaven and earth. Tripurasura was actually three demon in one named (Tarakaksha, Vidyunmali, and Kamalaksha) who, with boons from Lord Brahma, created three cities in the heavens, sky, and earth. These cities, known as Tripura, were heavily fortified, and the demons felt invincible within them.
Protected by their powerful cities, the demons grew arrogant and began attacking the gods, causing chaos in all realms. Distressed by their cruelty, the gods approached Lord Shiva for help. Lord Shiva agreed to defeat Tripurasura but discovered that the demons could only be killed if all three cities were destroyed with a single arrow.
To accomplish this, Lord Shiva took the Avatar of Tripurari, mounted a special chariot (Rath), and aimed his bow towards Tripurasura. With one powerful shot, he destroyed all three cities simultaneously, putting an end to the terror of the demons.
To celebrate this victory, Lord Shiva and the other gods descended to Earth and bathed in the sacred waters of the Ganga. Dev Deepawali, known as the “Diwali of the Gods,” commemorates this divine event. On this night, thousands of lamps are lit along the ghats of Kashi symbolizing the gods’ presence on Earth and the triumph of good over evil.
The significance of Dev Deepawali
Dev Deepawali, celebrated in Varanasi, symbolizes the “Diwali of the Gods.” It honors Lord Shiva’s victory over the demon Tripurasura, celebrating the descent of gods to Earth. Thousands of lamps lit along the Ganges represent spiritual enlightenment, the triumph of good over evil, and divine blessings. The festival is marked by Maha Aarti ceremonies, sacred bathing in the Ganges, and vibrant cultural activities. It reinforces values of unity, devotion, and cultural heritage, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere that embodies hope, renewal, and India’s spiritual essence.
The rituals and celebrations of Dev Deepawali
One of the most important rituals is Deepdan, offering lamps or diyas to the Ganga Maa. Today, people light thousands of diyas and place them along the ghats near the river, outside their homes, on rooftops, and in temples. These lights are believed to welcome and guide the gods to the city, bringing blessings, positivity, hope, and love.
Another highlight of the celebration is the grand Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Priests, dressed in traditional attire, hold large aarti lamps, chant hymns, ring bells, and perform a beautiful ritual with fire. This grand ceremony is a memorable sight.
In addition to the Aarti, many people take a holy dip in the Ganga on the morning of Kartik Purnima known as Ganga Snan, is believed to cleanse sins and purify the soul.
Following are the mantras for jaap for seeking blessing:
ऊं नमो नारायण नम:।।
ऊँ श्रीं ल्कीं महालक्ष्मी महालक्ष्मी एह्येहि सर्व सौभाग्यं देहि मे स्वाहा।।
ऊँ ह्रीं श्री क्रीं क्लीं श्री लक्ष्मी मम गृहे धन पूरये, धन पूरये, चिंताएं दूरये-दूरये स्वाहा:।।
ॐ त्र्यम्बेकं यजामहे सुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम् उर्वारुकमिव बन्धूनान् मृत्योवर्मुक्षीय मामृतात्।।
