Diwali, or Deepavali, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals, celebrated with immense devotion, color, and light. It marks the victory of good over evil, of light over darkness, and of knowledge over ignorance. In 2025, Diwali will be celebrated on Monday, October 20, with Lakshmi Puja being the main ritual of the day. On this auspicious evening, devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi, the bringer of wealth and prosperity, and Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, seeking blessings for happiness, fortune, and peace.The festival goes beyond its mythological roots to represent something deeply human, it’s about hope, renewal, and togetherness. According to legend, Diwali commemorates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana. As the people of Ayodhya lit diyas to welcome their beloved king, the tradition of illuminating homes began, a symbol of light conquering darkness.
In modern celebrations, families clean and decorate their homes with colorful rangolis, flowers, and shimmering lamps. The night of Lakshmi Puja is considered especially sacred; people perform rituals at the most auspicious shubh muhurat, believing that during this time, divine energy is at its peak.Across time zones, from the East Coast to the West, Indian communities in the United States gather in temples and homes to perform the puja together, synchronizing their prayers with traditional timings observed in India. Here is what the timing for Lakshmi Pooja is, as per Drik Panchang.Eatern Time(ET)Lakshmi Puja on Monday, October 20, 2025Lakshmi Puja Muhurat – 07:17 PM to 08:45 PMDuration – 01 Hour 28 Mins
Central Time(CT)Lakshmi Puja on Monday, October 20, 2025Lakshmi Puja Muhurat – 07:17 PM to 08:45 PMDuration – 01 Hour 28 MinsMountain Time(MT)Lakshmi Puja on Monday, October 20, 2025Lakshmi Puja Muhurat – 07:27 PM to 08:50 PMDuration – 01 Hour 23 MinsPacific Time(PT)Lakshmi Puja on Monday, October 20, 2025Lakshmi Puja Muhurat – 07:26 PM to 08:45 PMDuration – 01 Hour 19 Mins
