As the festival of Diwali (Deepavali) approaches, Hindu households across the world prepare to illuminate their homes with the soft glow of diyas (oil lamps). Beyond their decorative beauty, diyas hold deep spiritual and astrological significance — symbolizing light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and positivity over negativity.While there is no single astrological law prescribing a fixed number of diyas for every family, a blend of tradition, Vāstu Shastra, and popular belief offers consistent guidelines to make this Diwali 2025 both auspicious and harmonious.
What to Know About the Number of Diyas
On Dhanteras, the first day of the five-day Diwali celebration, lighting 13 diyas is considered highly auspicious. This act is believed to invite health, prosperity, and protection from negative influences.The following day, Choti Diwali or Kali Chaudas, traditionally calls for 14 diyas to be lit. The common arrangement is 11 diyas placed around a plate and one central “four-faced” lamp, symbolizing balance and the four directions.On the main day of Diwali (Laxmi Puja), there is no specific number of diyas prescribed. Instead, the emphasis is on lighting as many lamps as possible to fill every corner of the home with brightness, welcoming Goddess Lakshmi — the bringer of wealth and abundance.Vāstu experts recommend that diyas lit on Dhanteras should face the south direction, dedicated to Lord Yama, to ward off negativity. On Diwali night, homes should be fully illuminated to dispel darkness and invite divine blessings.
The Astrological Significance
The 13 diyas on Dhanteras are symbolic of the Trayodashi Tithi, the 13th lunar day of the Hindu calendar, on which the festival falls. Lighting 13 lamps is believed to align one’s energy with the cosmic vibrations of that day, enhancing prosperity and longevity.The 14 diyas on Choti Diwali represent a continuation of this energy, bringing balance, removing evil influences, and invoking positivity ahead of the main celebration.On the main night of Diwali, lighting numerous diyas is not just a ritual act but a spiritual one — signifying the victory of light and knowledge, and the triumph of goodness over evil. It is said that the brighter the home, the stronger the flow of wealth and divine energy.
Practical Ritual Tips for Diwali 2025
- On Dhanteras: Light 13 diyas and place them thoughtfully, at the entrance, in the puja room, near the kitchen, and at the water source.
- On Choti Diwali: Light 14 diyas, arranging 11 around a plate and one central lamp.
- On Diwali night: Light as many diyas as possible, especially near entrances, balconies, courtyards, windows, and the puja area.
- Placement matters: On Dhanteras, ensure one diya faces south to honor Lord Yama. On Diwali, ensure all corners of the house are bright and free of shadows.
- Cleanse and declutter: Purity attracts positive energy; a clean home invites Goddess Lakshmi to stay.
A Word of Caution
While these numbers and practices are rooted in astrology and tradition, they are not strict rules. Families often follow their regional customs or ancestral practices. The essence of Diwali lies in the sincerity of one’s intention — lighting diyas with devotion, gratitude, and awareness.Safety remains equally important: always place diyas on stable surfaces, away from curtains, paper, or fabrics, and never leave them unattended, especially around children or pets.
The Essence of Light
This Diwali, focus not only on how many diyas you light but why you light them. Whether it’s 13 on Dhanteras, 14 on Choti Diwali, or a hundred across your home on Diwali night, each flame represents an offering of faith, purity, and the timeless message of the festival — that light always conquers darkness.
