In addition to traditional Dipawali, another Diwali festival known as Dev Dipawali, is also celebrated with much grandeur. It is considered to be the
Diwali of gods and goddess. This festival is celebrated on the day of Karthik Purnima which is the full moon day, the opposite of Amawasya. During Diwapli,
especially Dev Dipawali, one can see all the ghats covered & decorated with earthen oil lamps with various traditional rituals and besides the same rituals
are conducted. The main deity is Lord Shiva who is worshipped especially for bringing happiness and prosperity in lives. Further, the diyas lit on the ghats
make look the Ganges water even more beautiful. Lighting of lamps on the ghat was first started at Panchganga Ghat and currently extends to all the ghats.
The light of lamp is symbol of happiness, prosperity and vitues. Diwali in Varanasi is celebrated by bursting crackers and sharing of sweets among families.
Diwali Festival in Varanasi is a 5 day event. The first day is called the ‘Dhanteras’ which is regarded as the start of the financial year according to
Hindu Mythology. The next day is the Choti (small) Diwali when the people around Varanasi conduct ‘puja’ with hymns for Lord Hanuman marking the beginning
of Diwali. The third day is the auspicious day of Diwali when people conduct Lakshmi Puja and all ceremonies follow the same. On the next day, Padwa or
Govardhan Puja is grandly celebrated and dedicated to cows that are regarded as a goddess in Hindu mythology and marks an auspicious day for Lord Vishnu.
Finally, the fifth day is known as the ‘The Bhai Dhuj’ where all the sisters perform Aarti for their brothers and brothers in return promise their safety.
Thus, Diwali in Varanasi is a treat for all the tourists as well as the people residing there. An opportunity to visit Diwali during Varanasi should not be missed.