The sacred city of Varanasi (Kashi) is gearing up to host a historic and environmentally conscious Dev Deepavali this year, with plans to illuminate its crescent-shaped ghats with a record-breaking over 10 lakh (1 million) earthen lamps (diyas).
The “Diwali of the Gods,” which falls on Wednesday, November 5, 2025 (Kartik Purnima), promises to be an unprecedented spectacle of spiritual grandeur merged with a commitment to ecological conservation.
The Uttar Pradesh government has declared this year’s Dev Deepavali a provincial fair and is ensuring the celebration is both magnificent and mindful of the environment. Key highlights of the grand event include:
- Over 10 Lakh Diyas: The 84 ghats, ponds, and temples across the city will be transformed into a river of golden light, with officials preparing for over one million lamps to be lit simultaneously.
- Eco-Friendly Illumination: Among the total lamps, a significant number of 1 lakh diyas will be specially crafted from cow dung, offering a traditional, sustainable, and biodegradable alternative.
- Pollution-Free Green Fireworks: The traditional firework display over the Ganga River will be replaced or supplemented by eco-friendly green fireworks and a spectacular laser show at Chet Singh Ghat. This initiative aims to drastically cut down on air and noise pollution, spreading a message of environmental preservation.
Lakhs of devotees and tourists from India and abroad are expected to descend upon Kashi to witness the divine spectacle, which commemorates Lord Shiva’s victory over the demon Tripurasura and the belief that the Gods descend to bathe in the holy Ganga.
The main Dev Deepavali celebrations will be preceded by the Ganga Mahotsav—a four-day cultural extravaganza running from November 1 to November 4, featuring local artists and enriching the festive atmosphere. Varanasi is set to dazzle the world, reinforcing its ancient title as the ‘City of Light.’
