Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most sacred and joyous festivals of Sanatana Dharma. In 2025, Diwali will be celebrated on Monday, 20 October 2025. The festival spans five days, beginning with Dhanteras, followed by Naraka Chaturdashi (Chhoti Diwali), the grand celebration of Lakshmi Puja on Amavasya, then Govardhan Puja, and finally Bhai Dooj. Diwali is celebrated with devotion, grandeur, and enthusiasm across India and by Hindus worldwide. Homes and temples are cleaned and decorated with colorful rangolis, earthen lamps (diyas), and lights to welcome Maa Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. Devotees perform special Lakshmi-Ganesh Puja in the evening, offering flowers, sweets, incense, and prayers for prosperity, health, and peace.
Note on Patri – jasmine, bhringaraja, bel, white durva, Indian jujube, tulsi, prickly chaff, shami, kewra, nerium (kaner), bidi leaf, calotropis (milk weed), arjuna, butterfly pea, pomegranate, deodar cedar, marwa (marjoram), indian nettle (nirgudi), jasmine, august tree leaves – 5 leaves each or more of which ever are available.
Shri Ganapati is referred to as ‘Omkarvadan’. Omkar and Shri Ganapati are not distinct but the same. ‘Om Ganesho vai Brahma’ (‘ॐ गणेशो वै ब्रह्म’), is a quote from the Ganeshtapini Upanishad. The Atharvashirsha Upanishad also states that ‘Om Gan Om’ (‘ओम् गं ओम्’) is a sign of the worship of Ganeshbrahman. Similarly, ancient literature like Chhandogya.
