Deepavali (தீபாவளி)
Festival of Lights — Naraka Chaturdashi
Deepavali Dates in 2026
→ All 2026 festivalsAbout Deepavali
Deepavali (Diwali) is the Festival of Lights — one of the most widely celebrated Hindu festivals. In Tamil tradition, it marks the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura on Naraka Chaturdashi.
Significance
The Tamil Deepavali tradition begins before dawn: families take oil baths, wear new clothes, burst firecrackers, and celebrate with sweets. The lighting of lamps symbolises the victory of light over darkness.
How the Date is Calculated
In Tamil tradition, Deepavali is celebrated on Naraka Chaturdashi — the 14th Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the Tamil month of Aippasi (October–November). Note: North Indian Deepavali falls on Amavasai, one day later.
How It is Celebrated
- Naraka Chaturdashi — Tamil Deepavali (oil bath before dawn)
- Amavasai (New Moon) — Lakshmi Puja in North Indian tradition
- Prathama — New Year in some traditions
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Deepavali 2026?
Tamil Deepavali falls on Naraka Chaturdashi in the month of Aippasi, usually in October or November. The exact 2026 date is shown in the festival calendar above.
Why do Tamils celebrate Deepavali on a different day from North India?
Tamil tradition celebrates on Naraka Chaturdashi (Krishna Paksha 14) — the day Krishna defeated Narakasura. North Indian tradition celebrates on Amavasai (New Moon) the next day, focusing on Lakshmi Puja.