Dev Diwali: History, significance, and celebrations
Dev Diwali is one of the auspicious festivals in India that is celebrated with a lot of grandeur, especially in Uttar Pradesh. The festival celebrates Lord Shiva's triumph over the evil demon trio Tripurasura. Also known as "Dev Deepavali," Dev Diwali takes place 15 days after Diwali. It ends the Tulsi Vivah ritual and signifies the end of the Diwali celebrations.
When is it?
Every year, people celebrate Dev Diwali on the night of the full moon or Purnima Tithi on the Hindu month of Kartika. As per Drik Panchang, Dev Diwali falls on November 26 this year. Purnima Tithi will commence at 3:53 pm on November 26 and will end at 2:45 pm on November 27. The festival is a blend of spirituality, devotion, and lights.
History
Dev Diwali is observed in honor of Lord Shiva, who won over Tripurasura, the trio of devils consisting of Tarakaksha, Vidyunmali and Kamalaksha. The trio were destroying the Earth after they received a boon from Lord Brahma that they could only die when shot with a single arrow. Following this, Lord Shiva took the shape of Tripurari and killed them with a single arrow.
Celebrations in Varanasi
One of the most iconic and mesmerizing aspects of Dev Diwali is the grand Ganga Aarti held in Varanasi. The ghats along the Ganga River come alive with the flickering glow of countless lamps and candles. On this day, 24 young girls and 24 priests perform the Ganga Aarti with the utmost devotion. Numerous devotees and tourists gather to witness this spiritual spectacle.
Significance
Dev Diwali is observed annually by Lord Shiva's followers in Varanasi, where they do puja and take a plunge in the Ganga River. On this day, the Gods are said to descend from heaven to celebrate their part of the celebration on Varanasi's ghats. Besides, devotees decorate their homes, temples, and public spaces with rangoli designs and illuminate them with rows of diyas.
