Major Festivals — Hindu Sacred Festival
Dev Deepawali
Dev Deepawali — literally "Diwali of the Gods" — is celebrated on Kartik Purnima (the full moon of Kartik) in Varanasi, fifteen days after Diwali. According to legend, on this night all the gods (Devtas) descend to earth to bathe in the sacred Ganga at Varanasi, and the entire city lights up with millions of diyas to welcome them. The festival is also linked to Lord Shiva's victory over the demon Tripurasura — the three demon cities (Tripura) were destroyed by Shiva on this night. The 84 ghats of Varanasi are illuminated with over a million earthen lamps, creating one of the most spectacular sights in the world.
Last updated: 23 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Significance
Dev Deepawali marks two cosmic events: Lord Shiva's destruction of the three demon cities (Tripura Dahana) and the descent of all gods to bathe in the Ganga. Kartik Purnima is considered the holiest full moon — bathing in the Ganga on this night is equivalent to the merit of all other pilgrimages combined. The illumination of Varanasi's ghats symbolizes divine light dispelling darkness.
Rituals & Traditions
Light diyas on the ghats of Varanasi and float them on the Ganga. Take a ritual bath in the Ganga at Brahma Muhurta. Attend the grand Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Witness the illumination of all 84 ghats. Offer flowers and diyas to the river. Light sky lanterns (akash diyas). Visit Kashi Vishwanath temple for special Shiva puja.
Traditional Foods
FAQ
Q.What is Dev Deepawali?
Dev Deepawali — literally "Diwali of the Gods" — is celebrated on Kartik Purnima (the full moon of Kartik) in Varanasi, fifteen days after Diwali. According to legend, on this night all the gods (Devtas) descend to earth to bathe in the sacred Ganga ...
Q.What is the significance of Dev Deepawali?
Dev Deepawali marks two cosmic events: Lord Shiva's destruction of the three demon cities (Tripura Dahana) and the descent of all gods to bathe in the Ganga. Kartik Purnima is considered the holiest full moon — bathing in the Ganga on this night is equivalent to the merit of all other pilgrimages combined. The illumination of Varanasi's ghats symbolizes divine light dispelling darkness.
Q.What are the rituals of Dev Deepawali?
Light diyas on the ghats of Varanasi and float them on the Ganga. Take a ritual bath in the Ganga at Brahma Muhurta. Attend the grand Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Witness the illumination of all 84 ghats. Offer flowers and diyas to the river. Light sky lanterns (akash diyas). Visit Kashi Vishwanath temple for special Shiva puja.
Q.What foods are made during Dev Deepawali?
Malpua, Kheer, Chana Chaat, Thandai, Banarasi Paan