Dev Deepawali, which means 'Diwali of the Gods' or 'Festival of Light of the Gods', is considered an important day in Hinduism.

It is celebrated fifteen days after the Diwali festival on the full moon every year during the month of Kartik (October–November), according to the Hindu calendar. Hence, Dev Deepawali will be celebrated on Friday, 15th November 2024.

Although Dev Diwali is celebrated all over India, it is joyously celebrated, especially in Varanasi and Haridwar. The day is also celebrated as Tripura Purnima Snan.

What about Ganga Mahotsav?

Ganga Mahotsav is a major event held yearly at the Ganges River in Varanasi. Ganga Mahotsav lasts five days, starting from Probodhani Ekadashi in October or November till Kartik Purnima. The rich cultural heritage of Varanasi can be seen in these five days.

Lakhs of devotees from all over India and abroad visit the Ganga Ghats of Varanasi to witness Ganga Mahotsav. On this auspicious day, innumerable diyas are lit on the banks of the river Ganges as it is believed that on this day, all the deities descend on earth to bathe in the river Ganges.

Why do we celebrate Dev Diwali?

According to Hindu belief, a demon named Tripurasura had afflicted humans, sages and deities with his terror. Distressed by the terror of Tripurasura, all the deities went to Lord Shiva and requested him to destroy Tripurasura.

Lord Shiva killed Tripurasura on the day of Dev Deepawali. To express their gratitude, all the deities celebrated the victory by lighting many lamps in Kashi, the beloved city of Lord Shiva. This is why Dev Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm every year, as the festival signifies victory over evil.

What is the significance of Dev Deepawali?

Dev Deepawali holds a special significance in Hinduism as it is believed that on this day, all the deities come down to earth and bathe in the Ganges.

Therefore, it is said that on this auspicious day, one should bathe in the holy river Ganges and donate lamps. All the gods are pleased with this and shower their blessings on the devotees.

How to celebrate Dev Diwali?

On this auspicious day, a holy bath should be taken in the river Ganges, and if this is not possible, then take a bath by mixing Ganges water in the bath water. Lord Shiva and Vishnu are worshipped on this day. In the evening, a diyas should be donated in the river Ganges or lit in the house and temple.

Conclusion

Dev Deepawali is one of those cherished festivals which is majorly celebrated in the vivid ghats of the holy river Ganga. On this auspicious day, devotees start the day with Kartik Snan, followed by offering lamps, participating in local performances and performing Ganga Aarti. This holy festival is celebrated every year after Diwali celebrations.

This is all about Dev Diwali. We wish you a very happy Dev Diwali. If you have any queries or thoughts, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We appreciate our reader's valuable comments. 

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