Dev Diwali 2024: A Unique Celebration in Varanasi

Have you heard of the one-of-its-kind celebration of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi? If not, this blog is for you! Varanasi is a spiritual treasure trove that hosts many religious events and one such special festival is Dev Diwali or the Diwali of the Gods. The event takes place every year on the full moon night 15 days after Diwali. It is believed that on this night, the Gods in heaven descend on the holy land of Varanasi and celebrate the festival of light like mortals. Devotees from around the world visit Varanasi to be a part of this grand celebration, lighting diyas and reveling in the joyous spirit of the city.

What is the Difference Between Diwali and Dev Diwali?

While both the festivals may sound similar with the ritual of lighting earthen lamps and performing aarti being a constant, they are two different functions dedicated to different Gods. Diwali is a celebration of Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. However, Dev Diwali commemorates the victory of Lord Shiva over the demon Tripurasura. According to ancient legends, after defeating the demon, Lord Shiva came down to Earth and took a dip in the holy Ganga in Varanasi. Shiva devotees rejoiced and celebrated his triumph by lighting up earthen lamps on the river ghat, welcoming the divine presence on their mortal lands. And this is how the tradition of celebrating Dev Diwali took birth!

When is Dev Diwali 2024?

As the festival falls on the full moon night of the Hindu month of Kartik, Dev Diwali 2024 is scheduled for 15 November 2024. The muhurat begins at 5:10 PM and will last up to 2:58 AM on 16 November 2024. If you, too, want to be a part of this once-in-a-year opportunity, book your Varabasi tour today!

Why Should I Attend Dev Diwali?

Dev Diwali is undoubtedly the best time to visit Varanasi as the city is decorated unlike any other during this time and the unique festival is bound to offer you the best holiday experience. Not yet convinced? Here are some of the many reasons why you must attend Dev Diwali at least once in your life:

See the City Come Alive

There are so many exciting things to do in Varanasi during Dev Deepawali that the preparations for the event start several weeks in advance! The vibrant charm of Varanasi, its lit-up nooks and corners, and numerous cultural rituals taking place at the Ganga Ghats breathe life into the city, making it a sight to behold.

Be Part of an Iconic Ganga Aarti

Even though the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is unparalleled any time of the year, the Ganga Aarti during Dev Diwali is something else! The vision of an elaborate procession involving 21 high priests performing the aarti with multi-tiered lamps, chanting vedic mantras in unison, and blowing conch shells will definitely stay with you for a long long time. Needless to say, it is a soulful experience that will make you feel peaceful and free you of all negativities.

Experience the Culmination of Ganga Mahotsav

Another interesting thing about the festival is that it marks the end of the 5-day extravaganza called Ganga Mahotsav. During the 5-day event, you will witness the city brimming with energy as musical and theatrical performances bring it to life. The mini fair introduces you to the lip-smacking flavours of Banaras while the performances make you fall in love with India’s folk art. What better way to experience the city than visiting it at its most vibrant time?

Grab the Chance to Rejoice with Varanasi

If these fascinating aspects of the festival have stirred your soul and motivated you to join in the celebrations, it’s time you book your Varanasi tour package. My Flight Trip offers a variety of Varanasi tours with comfortable accommodations, trusted transfers, and quick booking facilities—all at affordable rates. So, book your tour soon and get going on a spiritually moving and visually stunning celebration of the Gods only in the Spiritual Capital of India—Varanasi!