The Diwali of the Gods: Culture and Significance of Dev Deepawali

Dev Deepawali is celebrated on Kartik Purnima, the full moon day that falls about fifteen days after Diwali. According to Hindu cultural belief, the gods descend to Kashi on this day to bathe in the holy Ganga and celebrate Lord Shiva’s victory over the demon Tripurasura. This is why the festival is also known as Tripurari Purnima.

In Varanasi, the festival turns the entire riverfront into a sea of light. Lakhs of earthen diyas are lit on more than 80 ghats, from Assi to Rajghat, and the grand Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat draws devotees and travellers from across the world. Pilgrims also take a holy dip in the Ganga, offer prayers, and float diyas on the river as an act of devotion. Beyond its religious roots, Dev Deepawali is a celebration of Varanasi’s living culture. Classical music and dance performances, boat rides at sunset, and shared rituals bring together locals, saints, and visitors.