Diwali 2025: How India Celebrated the Festival of Lights with Traditions, Crackers and Community Spirit

The spirit of Diwali illuminated every corner of India as the nation embraced the festival of lights with immense enthusiasm and joy.

Across India, millions of people brightened their homes and streets during the celebration of Diwali, one of the country's most significant festivals. This annual occasion brings families, friends, and communities together in an atmosphere of happiness and unity.

In Delhi, residents celebrated by bursting crackers after the Supreme Court permitted the use of "green crackers," easing restrictions that had been enforced since 2020. This decision provided relief to many celebrants while still addressing air pollution concerns during the festivities.

Delhi's Connaught Place area was transformed with stunning illuminations and decorations as families gathered to partake in the celebrations, creating a spectacular visual display throughout the commercial district.

Beyond fireworks, Diwali encompasses rich traditions. Throughout the country, families prepared various traditional sweets, shared festive meals, and exchanged thoughtful gifts, embodying the true essence of the celebration.

The city of Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh displayed magnificent decorations, with lights adorning buildings and streets, creating a magical atmosphere for all residents and visitors.

Diwali's appeal extends across religious boundaries. People from diverse faiths participated in lighting diyas, decorating their surroundings, and sharing sweets. In Delhi, Gurdwara Bangla Sahib was beautifully illuminated on the eve of both Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas, showcasing the inclusive nature of the celebration.

Bhubaneswar in Odisha embraced the festival with vibrant decorations as buildings were adorned with colorful lights. Citizens joyfully celebrated by lighting fireworks throughout the city.

The festive spirit radiated from Srinagar's illuminated Ghanta Ghar to Guwahati's lively streets. In Srinagar, the iconic Ghanta Ghar at Lal Chowk featured earthen lamps arranged in the pattern of Operation Sindoor to honor the armed forces.

In Guwahati, Assam, residents of the Supermarket area celebrated by lighting diyas and paying tributes to singer Zubeen Garg, adding a local cultural dimension to their festivities.

Mumbai's Shivaji Park hosted its traditional fireworks display, while both Chandigarh and various locations in Assam sparkled with elaborate festive decorations and illuminations.

At the India-Bangladesh border, Border Security Force jawans observed Diwali away from their families, celebrating with lamps and sweets, maintaining the spirit of the festival despite being on duty.

Continuing his tradition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali with the Indian Armed Forces, this year marking the occasion aboard INS Vikrant, India's largest indigenously constructed warship. The Prime Minister highlighted that INS Vikrant represents India's pride in indigenous manufacturing capabilities.