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The rituals of Dev Diwali are considered highly auspicious and are believed to bring blessings.
These rituals are a way to receive Lord Shiva’s blessings.
Dev Diwali, also called Dev Deepawali, is a revered Hindu festival celebrated on the full moon day of the Kartik month, according to the Vedic calendar. Taking place approximately 15 days after Diwali, Dev Diwali typically falls in November, and in 2024, it will be observed on Friday, November 15. This festival is dedicated to honouring Lord Shiva and holds immense spiritual significance for Hindu devotees.
The rituals of Dev Diwali are considered highly auspicious and are believed to bring special blessings. On this day, devotees often perform a ritual bath in the holy Ganges River, light lamps at home, and follow the unique tradition of lighting 365 lamps along the banks of the Ganga, particularly at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar. According to Hindu beliefs, these rituals are a way to receive Lord Shiva’s blessings, leading to the removal of sorrows and misfortunes, spiritual cleansing, and ultimately, the attainment of moksha (salvation).
Haridwar astrologer Pandit Shridhar Shastri, in an interview with Local 18, explained the profound meaning behind lighting 365 lamps on Dev Diwali. He notes that each lamp represents a day of the year, symbolising a year-long journey of devotion to Lord Shiva. Lighting these lamps along the Ganges on Dev Diwali is believed to eliminate the accumulated sins of the past year, ushering in happiness, peace, and prosperity for the year to come. By celebrating Dev Diwali with devotion and proper rituals, devotees are said to receive the blessings of Bholenath (another name for Lord Shiva), who fulfils their wishes and helps overcome life’s challenges.
The act of lighting 365 lamps at sacred spots like Har Ki Pauri is seen as a gesture of deep reverence, which pleases Lord Shiva, helping devotees to achieve peace and relief from worldly sorrows. For more guidance on this practice and the religious significance of Dev Diwali, devotees can consult Pandit Shridhar Shastri in Haridwar, who can provide insights on observing the festival to its fullest spiritual potential.
