India came alive on October 20–21 with glowing diyas, festive fireworks, and bustling celebrations marking Diwali 2025. From the grandeur of Ayodhya’s Deepotsav to urban light shows in Mumbai and Delhi, millions united to celebrate light’s triumph over darkness through prayers, sweets, and joy-filled gatherings across homes and streets.
As dusk fell over India, streets shimmered with diyas and the aroma of sweets filled the air. Diwali—the nation’s most anticipated festival—transformed cities and villages alike into spectacles of devotion, color, and togetherness.
Key Highlights
Ayodhya’s Record-Breaking Glow: The spiritual heart of this year’s celebration was Ayodhya, where more than 22 lakh earthen lamps lit up the ghats of Saryu River during the Deepotsav 2025, symbolizing Lord Rama’s return to the city. The breathtaking display, captured by drones, earned worldwide acclaim for its scale and serenity.
Delhi’s Peaceful Reunion: In Delhi, the Supreme Court permitted the use of green crackers after a four-year ban, allowing controlled fireworks that filled the skyline with color while limiting pollution. Connaught Place, India Gate, and Akshardham Temple glowed in synchronized lighting, drawing evening crowds and social media buzz.
Mumbai’s Grand Melange: The City of Dreams embraced festive glamour—from Marine Drive’s fairy-lit skyline to Bollywood-style bashes hosted by celebrities such as Deepika Padukone-Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt-Ranbir Kapoor, who opened their homes for charity-driven Diwali dinners. Meanwhile, Shivaji Park witnessed a coordinated fireworks display.
Tradition Meets Technology: Across Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, and Chennai, eco-friendly LED lanterns replaced conventional firecrackers, signaling India’s embrace of “green celebration.” Major corporations, including tech giants and startups, organized Virtual Diwali gatherings to connect global employees through shared festivities and music.
Global Diwali Buzz: From Toronto’s temple gatherings to Singapore’s Little India processions, the Indian diaspora celebrated in sync. In Nepal, the festival of Tihar unfolded with marigold-decked homes and traditional dog and cow worship rituals, linking culture through shared spiritual joy.
Sweets, Style, and Spirit: Indian households prepared mithais ranging from kaju katli to jalebi. Streets glowed with rangolis and marigolds, while social media flooded with pictures captioned “Har Ghar Ujala” (light in every home)—reinforcing Diwali’s core message of hope.
India’s Light of Unity
Amid booming crackers, glowing diyas, and shared laughter, Diwali 2025 reflected more than tradition—it embodied India’s resilience, harmony, and collective joy. Whether lighting a diya in Lucknow or sharing sweets in London, the spirit of renewal shone brightly, illuminating hearts across the world.
Sources: NDTV, DW News