Diwali 2025: Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most celebrated festivals in India and around the world by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and even Buddhists in some areas. The name *Diwali* literally means “a row of lights”, and the most iconic symbol of this festival is the Diya – the traditional oil lamp.
As Diwali 2025 approaches – which falls on October 21 (Tuesday) – homes, temples and streets will be lit up with thousands of glowing lamps. But have you ever wondered how many lamps are used during Diwali and does each lamp have any special significance?
Let’s learn about the tradition, numbers and spiritual meaning behind Diwali lamps.
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How many lamps are used during Diwali?
There is no fixed number of lamps that should be lit for Diwali. The number may vary depending on:
- regional traditions
- family customs
- space availability
- personal devotion
However, some key figures and traditions stand out:
1. 13 lamps on Dhanteras
Dhanteras marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali festival. Many families light 13 lamps to keep away evil spirits and to honor Lord Dhanvantari, the god of health and Ayurveda.
2. 5 lamps on Narak Chaturdashi (Chhoti Diwali)
On the second day, it is common to light 5 lamps, which represent the five elements and symbolize the destruction of ignorance and evil.
3. At least 11 or 21 lamps on Diwali night
At least 11 or 21 lamps are lit on the main night of Diwali – an odd number is considered auspicious. Many people, especially in North India, light 108 lamps in honor of the divine.
4. Lit every corner
Diyas are kept in traditional houses:
- At the entrance (to welcome Goddess Lakshmi)
- in the temple area
- in the kitchen
- in front of the basil plant
- Near water sources (like wells or tanks)
Large houses or temples may light hundreds or thousands of lamps, creating a mesmerizing sea of lights.
Importance of each lamp in Diwali
Each Diya is more than just a source of light – it is a symbol of inner awakening and spiritual clarity. Here’s what some lamps usually symbolize:
1. Diya at the entrance
Placed at the door, it welcomes **Goddess Lakshmi**, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and keeps away negative energies.
2. Lamp near the Tulsi plant
Honoring the sacred Tulsi plant, this diya is a symbol of purity, devotion and health.
3. Diya in puja room or temple
This lamp lit before the deities represents spiritual light, divine blessings and inner clarity.
4. Diya in the kitchen
This diya thanks Annapurna Devi, the goddess of food and nourishment, who ensures abundance in the home.
5. Lamp near water sources
It protects the home and the elements of nature and is also considered to pacify Vaastu defects. Each diya is lit with a prayer for prosperity, peace, health and harmony.
Why oil or ghee?
The lamps are traditionally fueled by:
- Sesame or mustard oil (symbol of endurance and protection)
- Ghee (clarified butter) (symbol of purity and divinity)
The cotton wick in the lamp symbolizes the ego, and the flame represents knowledge and the divine. As the flame burns and consumes the wick, it teaches us to abandon the ego and seek inner wisdom.
Eco-friendly notes for Diwali 2025
With increasing awareness about sustainability, many families are using earthen lamps instead of plastic or wax-based alternatives. These are:
- Biodegradable
- Support local artisans
- traditional and authentic