Varanasi, the city of light, never shines brighter than on Dev Deepawali. It is a celestial celebration when the gods themselves are believed to descend to the holy Ganga to bathe and rejoice. On this sacred night, every ghat, temple, and lanes in Kashi is illuminated by the gentle flicker of millions of earthen lamps, or diyas, creating a spectacle that is truly unforgettable.
If you are fortunate enough to be in Varanasi for Dev Deepawali on November 5th, 2025, you are in for an experience that transcends the ordinary. Through this blog, we want to help you navigate this magical festival with ease and grace. Here is your complete guide to the celebrations.
The History and Significance of Dev Deepawali
Dev Deepawali, literally meaning “Festival of Lights of the Gods,” is celebrated on Kartik Purnima (15th day of Kartik month). It is also known as Tripurotsav, has roots in ancient Hindu mythology. Legend has it that after Lord Shiva defeated the three demon cities of Tripura, the gods descended to celebrate and purify themselves in the Ganga. This festival is unique to Kashi, blending spirituality, culture, and community spirit. Unlike Diwali, which honours Lakshmi, Dev Deepawali is dedicated to the divine assembly, symbolising enlightenment and the triumph of good over evil.
In modern times, it’s a grand affair organised by local authorities, drawing lakhs of devotees and tourists. The ghats come alive with diyas, rangolis, and artistic sand sculptures, creating a mesmerising blend of light, sound, and devotion.
The Prelude: Kashi Ganga Mahotsav 2025
Held at Rajghat, this four-day cultural festival is a beautiful prelude to Dev Deepawali, featuring mesmerising performances by celebrated artists.
November 1 (Friday)
- Kathak Duet: Pandit Mata Prasad Mishra & Pandit Ravi Shankar Mishra
- Classical Vocals: Dr. Ripi Mishra
- Slide Guitar: Vidushi Kamala Shankar
- Classical Music: Pandit Naval Kishore Mallik
- Braj Folk Music: Ravi Sharma & Group
November 2 (Saturday)
- Sitar & Violin Jugalbandi: Prof. Pandit Sahitya Nahar & Dr. Pandit Santosh Nahar
- Bharatanatyam: Padma Shri Geeta Chandran
- Classical Vocals: Shivani Shukla, Vandana Mishra, Rajkumar Tiwari
- Devotional Bhajans: Om Prakash
November 3 (Sunday)
- North Indian Folk Songs: Padma Shri Malini Awasthi
- Kathak Dance: Vishal Krishna
- Flute: Chetan Joshi
- Odissi Dance: Vidushi Kavita Dwivedi
November 4 (Monday)
- Bhajans: Hansraj Raghuvanshi
- Classical Vocals: Dr. Shubhankar Dey
- Sitar-Sarod Jugalbandi: Dr. Prem Kishore Mishra & Group
- Kathak Group Dance: Shivani Mishra & Troupe
3D Projection Mapping and Laser Show (3–5 November)
Organised by the : State Tourism Department
Venue: Chet Singh Ghat and Ganga Dwar (Lalit Ghat)
Show Times: 8:15 PM, 9:00 PM, and 9:35 PM
Duration: 25 minutes (17 minutes projection + 8 minutes laser show)
The laser show will showcase pivotal moments from the history of the holy city, including the arrival of Lord Shiva in Kashi, the stories of sages and munis, Lord Buddha’s visit, and the contributions of saints like Tulsidas and Kabir. It will also highlight the efforts of Ahilyabai Holkar in renovating temples and ponds, along with the significance of the Ganga River’s descent. Visitors will get to know why Dev Deepawali is celebrated, as well as the legendary tale of Ganga Avtaran. More than 200 technicians and engineers have been working on the project, ensuring that the laser and light effects are perfectly synchronised for a seamless and immersive experience.
Best Viewing Strategies:
From Boats: Mid-river positions offer the most comprehensive view of both projection mapping on the ghats and laser reflections on the water surface
Ghat Viewing: Land-based viewing provides intimate connection with the projected imagery on ancient stone surfaces
Dev Deepawali Main Event (5th November 2025)
The Spectacle Before the Sunset
The magic of Dev Deepawali doesn’t begin when the sun goes down; it builds throughout the day. We highly recommend making your way to the ghats in the early afternoon. This is when you can witness the soul of the festival coming to life.
Watch as volunteers and local artists create intricate, vibrant rangolis on the ghat steps. See thousands of diyas being meticulously arranged, ready to be lit as dusk falls. Discover incredible art along the riverbanks, often depicting tales of Lord Shiva, the Ganga and other social and cultural themes. Witnessing these preparations is a peaceful and profound experience, allowing you to connect with the community spirit before the grand spectacle begins.
Afternoon Strategy
- Secure your evening spot at your chosen ghat by 2:00–3:00 PM
- Rest and refresh at nearby cafes or return to your accommodation
- Avoid travel after 4:00 PM due to traffic restrictions and diversions
- Stock up on essentials: Water, snacks, and warm clothing
After the dusk
Ganga Aarti – Multiple Locations
While the grandest aarti takes place at Dashashwamedh Ghat and equally magnificent celebration at Assi Ghat and Namo Ghat. Other ghats also host beautiful, albeit smaller, aarti ceremonies, each with its unique charm.
Green Fireworks Display
- Location: Sandy bank across the Ganga facing Meer Ghat/Lalita Ghat
- Time: After the evening aarti
- Feature: 20-30 metre-high fire columns for 10-15 minutes
3D Laser & Projection Show
- Venue: Chet Singh Ghat and Ganga Dwar (Lalit Ghat)
- Timings: Shows at 8:15 PM, 9:00 PM, and 9:35 PM after dark
- Duration: 25 minutes (17 minutes projection mapping + 8 minutes laser show)
- Theme: Sacred story of Ganga, Kashi, and Dev Deepawali
Tips for a Memorable and Comfortable Experience
- Ghats Connectivity: The water levels have not yet fully receded this year, so connectivity between ghats remains narrow or partially blocked. To cover the maximum number of ghats, it is best to hire a boat rather than walk along the ghats.
- Restricted Movement: Popular ghats like Dashashwamedh may be barricaded, and movement will be restricted, especially during Ganga Aarti. Authorities are expected to enforce crowd control and restricted access zones, so plan accordingly.
- Boat or Ghat – Decide Early: Decide in advance whether you want to be on a boat or on a ghat for the Aarti and fireworks. If you plan to watch from a boat, remember that views of the Aarti may not be clear due to the large number of boats on the river. Boat rides usually start around 4:30–5:00 PM. It’s best to book in advance to avoid last-minute rush. If you prefer to be on the ghat, you can take a boat ride later after the fireworks to enjoy the decorations and lighting, which continue late into the night.
- Laser Show Schedule: As per local authorities, the laser and projection mapping shows will run from 3rd to 5th November. If you plan to sit on the ghats for Aarti and fireworks on the 5th, you can attend the laser show on 3rd or 4th instead.
- Arrive Early: Be at your chosen ghat well in advance, as there may be traffic diversions, road closures, or stoppages due to VIP movement and crowd control.
- Weather Tips: Nights can be cool, so carry light woollens. Since Varanasi has had rain till late October, be prepared for occasional light showers.
- Footwear & Comfort: Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking on uneven and sometimes slippery ghats. Avoid carrying heavy bags as space will be limited in crowded areas.
- Safety & Security: Expect large crowds throughout the day on all major ghats. Avoid bringing young children to the ghats during the peak evening hours.
Why Dev Deepawali is Unmissable
Dev Deepawali is more than a festival—it’s a blend of artistry, spirituality, and community, celebrated nowhere else in this grandeur. Whether you watch from the steps of a bustling ghat or from a gently rocking boat, the vision of a million lamps flickering along the ancient river creates memories that last a lifetime.
Be early, be respectful, and soak in the splendour of Banaras on its brightest night of the year.
