What to Wear for Dev Deepawali: Do’s, Don’ts & Essentials
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- Clothing Coverage: Both men and women must wear clothing that covers the shoulders, arms, and knees during Dev Diwali. Outfits that are too short, sleeveless, or revealing are not suitable, especially when visiting temples or walking along the ghats. Modest dressing is encouraged out of respect for the religious nature of the occasion.
- Head Covering: While not mandatory, many women choose to cover their heads with a dupatta or light scarf during temple visits or while taking part in religious rituals. This gesture, rooted in Hindu customs, is seen as a sign of reverence and is commonly observed, especially inside temple premises.
- Footwear: Footwear must be removed before entering temples or sacred areas near the ghats. Since you’ll likely be walking quite a bit, it’s wise to wear slip-on sandals or easy-to-remove shoes. These come in handy when navigating crowded spaces and multiple temple stops.
- Loose-Fitting Clothing: Given how packed the ghats get during Dev Diwali, opt for loose, breathable clothing. You’ll be outdoors for long stretches, whether it’s attending aarti, strolling through the markets, or watching fireworks, so comfort is key. Stick to clothes that allow free movement while staying modest.
- Avoid Transparent Clothing: Sheer or see-through fabrics should be avoided completely. This includes clothing with overly thin material, plunging necklines, or outfits that become see-through under light. It’s especially important when you're attending religious ceremonies or moving through crowded public spaces.
What to Wear for Dev Diwali – Women
- Saree: A light cotton saree works well for daytime rituals, while silk or handwoven sarees are ideal for the evening. Pick festive but elegant colours like maroon, mustard, deep green, or royal blue. It's a timeless choice that suits both temple settings and family gatherings.
- Salwar Suit: A classic and comfortable choice, especially if you’re walking a lot or spending time in crowded areas. Choose breathable fabrics like cotton or georgette. A neatly draped dupatta adds to the traditional look and keeps the outfit modest.
- Kurta with Palazzo or Churidar: Great for those who prefer something lighter than a saree but still traditional. Pair a festive kurta with a flowy palazzo or fitted churidar. Go for prints, light embroidery, or solid colours with minimal embellishment.
- Dupatta or Scarf: Always keep a dupatta or stole handy when visiting temples. It adds modesty and is often expected in religious spaces. Choose something lightweight that complements your outfit and can double up as a light layer if it gets chilly.
- Footwear: Go for slip-on sandals, kolhapuris, or juttis that are easy to remove. Since Dev Diwali involves temple visits and walking along the river, choose comfort over style. Avoid heels or tight shoes that might become uncomfortable over long hours.
- Layering: November evenings in Varanasi can be cool. Carry a woollen shawl or pashmina that matches your outfit. It adds warmth without compromising the traditional look and is easy to carry if the temperature rises later.
What to Wear for Dev Deepawali– Men
- Kurta-Pyjama: A simple cotton kurta with a pyjama is a go-to outfit for Dev Diwali. It’s modest, comfortable, and appropriate for the religious setting. Choose light-coloured kurtas during the day and switch to slightly richer tones like deep green or maroon for the evening. It’s also breathable, making it suitable for both temple visits and long evening events like aartis and processions.
- Cotton or Handloom Kurta with Trousers: If you’re looking for something comfortable yet less traditional, a handloom or cotton kurta with straight-cut trousers works well. It gives you freedom to move around and is ideal if you're spending a lot of time outdoors. The fabric allows your skin to breathe while still keeping the outfit aligned with the festive spirit. Pair with traditional footwear for a complete look.
- Nehru Jacket: For a more formal or festive touch, add a Nehru jacket over your kurta. It elevates the entire outfit without much effort. You can choose a jacket in silk, brocade, or even handwoven cotton depending on the time of day and the level of formality. It’s especially useful for evening events and looks great in photographs as well.
- Footwear: Stick to sandals or mojaris that are easy to remove when visiting temples. Avoid shoes with laces or anything that takes time to remove and wear. Since Dev Diwali involves a lot of walking, from one ghat to another or during evening ceremonies, comfort is key. Closed shoes can feel too warm or restrictive, especially if you're outdoors for long hours.
- Layering: Evening temperatures during Dev Diwali can dip slightly, especially near the river. A full-sleeved kurta or a woollen shawl draped over your shoulder works well. It adds a touch of tradition while also keeping you comfortable. Avoid bulky jackets; instead, opt for layers that can be added or removed easily depending on the weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the dress code for Dev Diwali?
There is no such strict dress code for Dev Diwali, but most people prefer wearing traditional Indian outfits to reflect the cultural and religious significance of the festival. Since the celebrations involve visiting temples, attending aartis, and walking along the ghats, it’s best to wear something modest and comfortable. Women usually opt for sarees, lehengas, or salwar suits, while men go for kurtas, dhotis, or Nehru jackets. If you’re still wondering what to wear for Dev Deepawali, the best option would be to go with ethnic wear that is respectful, elegant, and best suited for such occasions.
What should we do on Dev Diwali 2025?
If you're in Varanasi for Dev Diwali then here are some meaningful ways to take part in Dev Diwali celebrations 2025:
1. Attend the Ganga Aarti: The grand aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the main highlights. Priests perform rituals with fire lamps and chants in perfect coordination. It’s a deeply symbolic and visually powerful ceremony.
2. Light Diyas on the Ghats: Join locals in lighting thousands of diyas along the ghats from Assi to Rajghat. It’s a way to honour the gods and be part of a tradition that transforms the riverfront into a glowing spectacle.
3. Take a Boat Ride in the Evening: An evening boat ride offers the best views of the illuminated ghats and aartis. It’s a peaceful yet moving experience that lets you take in the full scale of the celebration from the water.
4. Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Devotees make it a point to visit the temple on this day. The shrine is beautifully decorated, and the energy of the crowd reflects the spiritual importance of the occasion.
5. Explore Cultural Programmes: Several ghats host classical music, dance performances, and art displays. These events add a cultural layer to the festival and are open to all visitors.
What is the best color to wear for Dev Diwali?
Bright and festive colours are considered ideal for Dev Diwali. Shades like red, gold, yellow, maroon, and orange are often preferred, as they symbolise prosperity and positivity. These colours also stand out beautifully against the backdrop of diyas and ghats. Avoid black and white, as they’re not traditionally worn.
What not to wear to Dev Diwali?
While there’s no strict dress code, it’s best to avoid revealing, tight, or overly flashy outfits, as Dev Diwali involves temple visits and time spent on the ghats. Western party wear or clothes with loud prints may feel out of place. When deciding what to wear for Dev Diwali, avoid colours like black and white, as they are not traditionally worn during Diwali celebrations. Bright colours are often preferred, especially auspicious tones like gold, red, or maroon.
What do girls wear for Dev Diwali?
During Dev Diwali, females usually dress in traditional Indian attire that feels festive yet modest. Some options that you can consider are:
- Sarees: A popular choice for older girls, often in silk or cotton with festive borders.
- Lehengas: Colourful lehengas with embroidered blouses are common for younger girls.
- Salwar Suits: Comfortable and traditional, often paired with dupattas and light jewellery.
- Anarkalis or Kurti Sets: Easy to manage and ideal for long hours at the ghats.