Dev Deepawali, or Dev Diwali, is an occasion celebrated by the people of Varanasi (Banaras), which falls on the full moon of the Kartik month according to the Hindu calendar. Devotees come together to celebrate this auspicious festival on the ghats of Varanasi.
Dev Diwali 2024 Date
In 2024, Dev Deepawali will be celebrated 15 days after Diwali, with the starting date of Dev Deepawali on 15th November 2024. The Purnima Tithi begins at noon on 15th November 2024 and ends at 05:10 pm on 19th November 2024. The Puja is performed during the Pradosh Muhurat. According to the Panchang, the Pradosh Kal Dev Diwali Mahurat is from 5:10 pm to 7:47 pm on 16th November 2024.
History of Dev Deepawali
Varanasi is a dream destination for many travelers who love to explore religious places and learn about the history of Sanatan Dharma. However, very little is known about the history of Dev Deepawali.
According to Hindu mythology, the Hindu god Shiva killed a demon named Tripurasur on this day. Therefore, the festival, Dev Deepawali, is celebrated to mark the victory of Lord Shiva over the devil. To celebrate, the gods are said to have come down to Earth, especially to the holy Ganga river in Varanasi, to bathe and pray. Since then, the festival has been connected with the presence of the gods, as they are believed to celebrate Diwali on this special day. Apart from this, the festival also marks the birth anniversary of Lord Kartik, son of Shiva.
Devotees light millions of earthen lamps(diyas) along the ghats of the River Ganga, from Raj Ghat to Ravidas Ghat at the southern end. They also gather to take a dip in the holy Ganges, known locally as 'Kartik Snan.' Many believe that bathing in the sacred Ganga washes away sins. Dev Diwali is the last day of the Ganga Mahotsav, and during this time, Varanasi is thought to become a heavenly place for the gods.
How Dev Deepawali is Celebrated
Dev Deepawali is marked by a series of vibrant rituals and cultural programs that bring the spirit of Varanasi to life. The celebrations begin with the worship of Lord Ganesha, the auspicious god in Hinduism, through the Ganapati Vandana and the presentation of garlands of flowers. Rituals are performed by 21 Brahmins and 41 girls reciting Vedic mantras, creating a spiritually rich atmosphere. After the Deep-Daan, a grand Maha Aarati takes place at Dasaswamedh Ghat, which has become the main highlight of the day.
Nritya Ganga Programme
Following the rituals, the Nritya Ganga Programme showcases spectacular dance performances featuring renowned artists from Varanasi and across India. Dancers specializing in Bharat Natyam, Kathak, and Odissi grace the stage, along with folk dancers and drama performances, enriching the cultural tapestry of the event. Various ghats, such as Assi Ghat, Suparshvanath Ghat, and Kedar Ghat, come alive with crowds, music, and dance. A 12-foot statue of the Goddess Ganga stands as the centerpiece of attraction, while people travel in boats to enjoy the festivities. Devotees also take part in the Kartik Snan, a holy dip in the sacred waters of the Ganges.
Dev Deepawali is the best time to explore Varanasi because it showcases the city's religious side in a festive way. Whether you are a devotee seeking blessings or a traveler wanting to experience the magic of Varanasi, you will find something special during this time. Dev Deepawali offers a beautiful experience filled with light and love. Join the crowds of pilgrims to celebrate this special day, where the Ganges becomes a symbol of faith, hope, and unity, making it a memorable part of your journey in India.
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