Divine Outset

The main day of Diwali 2025 (Lakshmi Puja) will occur in 2025 on Tuesday, October 21 (per Drik Panchang and Indian Express). It will be a five-day event for the festival, starting with Dhanteras on October 18, and ending with Bhai Dooj on October 23.
Diwali (Deepavali) is not a federal holiday in the United States. However, states like Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Texas, and elsewhere have recognized it in schools, or as a local observance. In addition, California has recently passed a bill (AB 268) to officially make Diwali a public holiday (awaiting the governor’s signature).
Day 3 Lakshmi Puja (Main Diwali) Oct 20
Small Stories & Significance Behind Diwali
Core Stories
Diwali is often described as “Festival of Lights” in symbolising the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.
The Return of Lord Rama
According to the Northern Indian/Ramayana tradition, after a fourteen-year exile and after defeating Ravana, Rama returned to Ayodhya with Sita and Lakshmana. The people of Ayodhya rejoiced with the lighting of DIYAs (oil lamps) to welcome them home
Goddess Lakshmi and Wealth
Along with Rama, specifically on the auspicious day of Diwali, Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, is worshipped. Lighting lamps and putting up new decorations are believed to invite Lakshmi’s positive energy into one’s home.
Krishna and Narakasura
On Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as Chhoti Diwali, Krishna destroyed the demon Narakasura.
Govardhan Puja/Annakut
On the fourth day, the devotees celebrate Krishna lifting Mount Govardhan to protect the villagers and revel with a “mountain of food” (Annakut).
Bhai Dooj
The last day of Diwali is set aside for siblings. Sisters pray for their brothers’ safety, and brothers offer their blessings to their sisters