In Sanatan Dharma, the month of Kartik is considered highly sacred and holds great religious significance. Throughout this month, there is a special tradition of worshipping Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, Goddess Lakshmi and Maa Ganga, along with taking holy baths, lighting lamps, and performing charity and other religious activities. Dev Deepawali, celebrated on the full moon day of the Kartik month, is an important part of this religious tradition.
Dev Deepawali is also known as ‘Diwali of the Gods.’ According to religious belief, Lord Shiva defeated Tripurasura on Kartik Purnima. The gods were pleased with Lord Shiva’s victory and celebrated by lighting lamps. This is why the tradition of lighting lamps on Kartik Purnima is associated with Dev Deepawali.
The festival is celebrated on a particularly grand scale in Varanasi, also known as Kashi. Thousands and even lakhs of lamps are lit along the banks of the Ganga, making the entire city shine with the glow of countless diyas. Ganga Aarti, Deep Daan, chanting of mantras and religious rituals create a deeply spiritual and mesmerizing atmosphere in Kashi on this day.
When is Dev Deepawali 2026?
Dev Deepawali 2026 will be celebrated on Tuesday, November 24. The festival is observed on Kartik Purnima. In 2026, the Kartik Purnima Tithi will begin at 11:44 PM on November 23 and end at 8:23 PM on November 24.
Devotees consider evening Deep Daan especially significant on Dev Deepawali.
However, the exact Puja and Deep Daan timings may vary slightly depending on the location. Therefore, if you are observing Dev Deepawali outside Varanasi: -It is advisable to check the timing according to your local Panchang.
Why is Dev Deepawali Celebrated?
Dev Deepawali is associated with the story of Lord Shiva and Tripurasura. According to religious belief, an asura named Tripurasura had spread terror across the three worlds through his immense power. Troubled by his atrocities, the gods prayed to Lord Shiva for protection.
Lord Shiva accepted their prayers and defeated Tripurasura. According to the belief, Lord Shiva achieved this victory on Kartik Purnima. The gods were extremely happy with Lord Shiva’s victory and celebrated by lighting lamps.
Because of this religious belief, the festival celebrated on Kartik Purnima is known as Dev Deepawali. It is also referred to as Tripurari Purnima and Tripurotsav.
The story of Dev Deepawali is not limited only to Lord Shiva’s victory. Symbolically, the festival is also associated with the victory of light over darkness and Dharma over Adharma.
What is the Difference Between Dev Deepawali and Diwali?
Many people are confused about the difference between Dev Deepawali and Diwali. Both festivals are celebrated on different dates and have different religious significances.
Diwali is celebrated on Kartik Amavasya, while Dev Deepawali is celebrated on Kartik Purnima. Therefore, there is a gap of around 15 days between the two festivals.
During Diwali, Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi are primarily worshipped, whereas Dev Deepawali is associated with the worship of Lord Shiva, Maa Ganga and other deities, along with Deep Daan and Ganga Snan.
In Kashi, Dev Deepawali is considered one of the biggest religious celebrations after Diwali. Devotees and tourists from different parts of India and abroad visit Varanasi to witness the spectacular illumination of the Ganga Ghats.
Importance of the Full Moon Tithi on Dev Deepawali
Kartik Purnima is considered one of the most significant full moon days in Sanatan Dharma. Religious traditions mention the importance of bathing, Deep Daan, fasting, charity and other spiritual activities during the month of Kartik.
In 2026, the Kartik Purnima Tithi will begin at 11:44 PM on November 23 and continue until 8:23 PM on November 24. Therefore, Dev Deepawali will be celebrated on November 24.
There is a tradition of taking a holy bath in the morning and performing Deep Daan in the evening on Purnima. In particular, lighting lamps near a river or at a sacred pilgrimage site is associated with devotion and spiritual merit.
Importance of Ganga Snan on Dev Deepawali
Ganga Snan holds special religious significance during the month of Kartik. Kartik Purnima is considered the concluding day of this sacred month. Therefore, there has traditionally been a practice of taking a holy bath in the Ganga or another sacred river, followed by worship and Deep Daan on this day.
In Kashi, devotees take a holy bath in the Ganga in the morning on Dev Deepawali and then worship Lord Shiva and Maa Ganga. According to religious belief, bathing in a sacred river and performing Deep Daan on Kartik Purnima brings spiritual merit.
If taking a bath in the Ganga is not possible, devotees can add a small amount of Gangajal to their bathing water at home and remember Maa Ganga with devotion.
Dev Deepawali Puja Vidhi
The Puja Vidhi for Dev Deepawali is not very difficult. A person can perform the Puja according to their faith, ability and family traditions. In general, Dev Deepawali Puja can be performed as follows:
1. Take a Bath in the Morning
Wake up early and take a bath on the morning of Dev Deepawali. If possible, take a holy bath in a sacred river, lake or pilgrimage site. Those bathing at home can also add Gangajal to the water.
After bathing, wear clean clothes and meditate on Lord Shiva, Maa Ganga and other deities.
2. Clean the Puja Area
Clean the Puja area of your home properly. Prepare for the Puja in front of an idol or picture of Lord Shiva, Maa Ganga and Lord Vishnu.
You may keep a diya, ghee or oil, cotton wicks, flowers, Akshat, sandalwood, incense, Naivedya and other Puja Samagri required for the worship.
3. Worship Lord Shiva
Offer water to Lord Shiva. According to your devotion, you may offer water or Gangajal to the Shivling. Then offer Bel Patra, flowers and sandalwood.
While meditating on Lord Shiva, chant the ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ mantra. If possible, you may also recite the Shiv Chalisa or other Stotras associated with Lord Shiva.
4. Remember Maa Ganga
Maa Ganga holds special importance during Dev Deepawali. Therefore, remember Maa Ganga during the Puja and, according to your faith, recite a Ganga Stotra or Ganga Mantra.
If you are present on the banks of the Ganga, prepare for Deep Daan after taking a holy bath and completing the Puja.
5. Light Diyas in the Evening
One of the most important traditions of Dev Deepawali is Deep Daan. In the evening, light earthen diyas at home, in the temple, at the Puja area and, if possible, near a river or Ghat.
Fill the diya with ghee or oil, place a cotton wick in it and light it with devotion.
6. Perform Deep Daan in the Ganga
If you are near the Ganga or another sacred river, you may perform Deep Daan according to local traditions. While offering the lamps, remember Lord Shiva and Maa Ganga.
While floating diyas in the river, also take care of the environment. Do not use plastic, chemical materials or anything that could harm the river.
7. Attend Ganga Aarti
Ganga Aarti is one of the major attractions of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi. As evening arrives, the Ghats of the Ganga glow with the light of countless lamps, creating a spectacular sight during the Aarti.
If you are in Kashi, you can participate in the Ganga Aarti and experience the spiritual atmosphere of the festival.
Why is Deep Daan Performed on Dev Deepawali?
Deep Daan has special religious significance during Dev Deepawali. A lamp is considered a symbol of knowledge, positivity and light. From a religious perspective, lighting a diya symbolizes removing the darkness of ignorance and negativity.
According to religious belief, performing Deep Daan on Kartik Purnima brings the blessings of Lord Shiva and Maa Ganga. This is why there is a tradition of lighting lamps in temples, homes and along riverbanks on this day.
This tradition can be seen in its grandest form in Kashi. Countless lamps lit together along the Ganga Ghats fill the entire riverbank with light.
Significance of Dev Deepawali in Kashi
The name Dev Deepawali immediately brings the image of Varanasi to mind. In Kashi, this festival is not merely a religious celebration but has become an important part of the city’s cultural and spiritual identity.
On the evening of Kartik Purnima, lamps are lit along the Ganga Ghats. The steps of the Ghats, temples and riverbanks glow with countless diyas. The reflection of the lamps in the waters of the Ganga makes the scene even more beautiful.
During Dev Deepawali, Kashi hosts cultural programs, music and other events along with religious rituals. Large numbers of devotees and tourists arrive to witness this spectacular view along the Ganga.
Watching the Ghats from a boat on the Ganga is also considered a special experience during the festival, as the river offers a wide view of numerous Ghats illuminated with lamps at the same time.
Religious and Spiritual Significance of Dev Deepawali
The religious significance of Dev Deepawali is connected with Lord Shiva’s victory over Tripurasura. On a spiritual level, however, the festival also conveys the message of removing negativity and ignorance from one’s life.
A lamp is considered a symbol of light. Therefore, lighting diyas on this day is not only a religious tradition but also symbolizes spreading the light of knowledge, positive thinking and goodwill in life.
On this occasion, people meditate on Lord Shiva, take a Ganga Snan, perform Deep Daan and donate to people in need. According to religious beliefs, such activities are considered beneficial for bringing peace, positivity and spiritual satisfaction into a person’s life.
Mythological Story of Dev Deepawali
According to mythological belief, an asura named Tripurasura acquired powerful abilities through intense penance. After gaining these powers, his cruelty increased, and he began spreading terror across the three worlds.
Troubled by his atrocities, the gods sought refuge in Lord Shiva. They prayed to Lord Shiva to free them from Tripurasura’s terror.
Lord Shiva assured the gods and resolved to defeat Tripurasura. According to the belief, on Kartik Purnima, Lord Shiva destroyed Tripurasura and freed the gods from his terror.
The gods were extremely pleased with Lord Shiva’s victory. They expressed their happiness by lighting lamps. This event is associated with the religious basis of Dev Deepawali.
For this reason, worshipping Lord Shiva and performing Deep Daan on Kartik Purnima are considered especially significant.
What Should You Do on Dev Deepawali?
On Dev Deepawali, devotees can perform several religious activities according to their faith and ability.
Wake up early in the morning, take a bath and remember Lord Shiva and Maa Ganga. Then offer water, Bel Patra and flowers to Lord Shiva.
In the evening, light diyas at home and in the Puja area. If possible, perform Deep Daan at a temple, Ghat or near a sacred river.
On this day, you can also donate food, clothes or other essential items to people in need according to your ability.
Chanting Lord Shiva’s mantras, reciting the Shiv Chalisa and participating in Ganga Aarti can also be done according to one’s faith.
What Should You Donate on Dev Deepawali?
Charity and giving also have special religious significance on Kartik Purnima. According to your ability, you can donate food, clothes, grains or essential items to people in need.
While donating, importance should be given to faith and the spirit of service rather than showmanship. Helping someone according to their actual needs makes this tradition more meaningful.
When Should You Perform Deep Daan on Dev Deepawali 2026?
In 2026, Dev Deepawali will be celebrated on Tuesday, November 24.
However, if you are outside Varanasi, determine the Deep Daan timing according to your city’s local sunset and Panchang, as the Pradosh period may vary from one location to another.
What Should You Keep in Mind on Dev Deepawali?
Dev Deepawali is a festival of devotion and faith, so cleanliness and religious decorum should be maintained while performing the Puja.
It is better to use earthen diyas and natural materials for Deep Daan. When floating diyas in a river, avoid using materials that could pollute the water.
While taking a bath in the Ganga or any other river, take necessary safety precautions and follow the guidelines issued by the local administration.
If you are planning to visit Varanasi to witness Dev Deepawali, it is better to plan your trip in advance, keeping the large crowds in mind.
Special Remedies to Perform on Dev Deepawali
According to religious beliefs, Deep Daan and the worship of Lord Shiva hold special importance on Dev Deepawali. There is a tradition of lighting diyas at the main entrance of the home, in the Puja area and in temples in the evening.
You can offer Bel Patra and water to Lord Shiva and chant ‘Om Namah Shivaya.’ There is also a tradition of remembering Maa Ganga and performing Deep Daan.
Donating food or clothes to a person in need is also among the religious activities performed on this day.
These remedies should be viewed as religious traditions and followed according to your faith and ability.
Dev Deepawali 2026: Main Date and Time
Dev Deepawali: November 24, 2026, Tuesday
Kartik Purnima Tithi Begins: November 23, 2026, 11:44 PM
Kartik Purnima Tithi Ends: November 24, 2026, 8:23 PM
Main Festival: Kartik Purnima
Main Deities Worshipped: Lord Shiva and Maa Ganga
Main Religious Traditions: Deep Daan, Ganga Snan and Puja
The above timings are for Varanasi. The observance of the Tithi may remain the same in other cities, but the Pradosh period and local Puja timings may vary.
Diwali, which occurs before Dev Deepawali, is also one of the major festivals of Sanatan Dharma.
If you want to know the correct Lakshmi-Ganesha Puja Vidhi, Puja Samagri, Shubh Muhurat and Puja rules for Diwali: -Make sure to read our Diwali Puja Vidhi.
This will help you understand the Puja traditions of both Diwali and Dev Deepawali in a better way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dev Deepawali
1. When will Dev Deepawali 2026 be celebrated?
Dev Deepawali 2026 will be celebrated on Tuesday, November 24. It falls on Kartik Purnima.
2. Why is Dev Deepawali celebrated?
According to religious belief, Lord Shiva defeated Tripurasura on Kartik Purnima. The gods lit lamps to celebrate Lord Shiva’s victory. This is why the day is known as Dev Deepawali.
3. What is the difference between Dev Deepawali and Diwali?
Diwali is celebrated on Kartik Amavasya, while Dev Deepawali is celebrated on Kartik Purnima. There is a gap of around 15 days between the two festivals.
4. Where is Dev Deepawali most famous?
The most famous and grand celebration of Dev Deepawali takes place at the Ganga Ghats in Varanasi. Countless lamps are lit along the Ghats, and Ganga Aarti is performed.
5. What should one do on Dev Deepawali?
On Dev Deepawali, devotees can take a holy bath in the morning, worship Lord Shiva, remember Maa Ganga, perform Deep Daan, chant mantras and engage in charity according to their faith.
6. Is Ganga Snan compulsory on Dev Deepawali?
Ganga Snan has religious significance, but it is not compulsory for everyone. Those who cannot visit the Ganga or another sacred river can take a bath at home and remember Maa Ganga with devotion.
Dev Deepawali 2026 will be celebrated on Tuesday, November 24. This sacred Kartik Purnima festival is associated with Lord Shiva’s victory over Tripurasura and the religious tradition of Deep Daan.
Taking a holy bath in the morning, worshipping Lord Shiva and performing Deep Daan in the evening are considered especially significant on this day. In 2026, the Purnima Tithi will begin at 11:44 PM on November 23 and end at 8:23 PM on November 24.
Dev Deepawali is celebrated on its grandest scale in Kashi, where the Ganga Ghats come alive with the glow of countless lamps. However, the festival is not limited to Kashi. Devotees across the country observe Dev Deepawali on Kartik Purnima through Deep Daan, Puja, holy bathing and charity.
From a religious perspective, the festival inspires us to move forward on the path of light, positivity, devotion and Dharma in life.
If you want to know the auspicious time for Puja, Deep Daan or any special religious ritual on Dev Deepawali 2026 according to your zodiac sign or birth chart: -Talk to an astrologer now and find the right Muhurat based on your personal details.
