How Many Diyas To Light On Dev Uthani Ekadashi?

Lighting diyas on Dev Uthani Ekadashi, also known as Prabodhini Ekadashi, is considered highly auspicious. This sacred day marks the awakening of Lord Vishnu from his four-month-long yog nidra (Chaturmas). Although there is no strict rule about the exact number of diyas to light, Hindu traditions recommend certain symbolic numbers believed to bring prosperity, peace, and divine blessings.

Dev Uthani Ekadashi 2025 Puja Timings

As per the Panchang, the Ekadashi Tithi begins at 9:11 AM on November 1 and ends at 7:31 AM on November 2. Therefore, fasting and rituals for Dev Uthani Ekadashi will be observed on November 1, 2025, according to sunrise.

Auspicious Numbers of Diyas to Light on Dev Uthani Ekadashi

You can light 1, 5, 11, 21, 51, or 108 diyas — but lighting 5 diyas is considered especially auspicious. Always use pure cow ghee for lighting diyas, and place them near the Tulsi (holy basil) plant.

11 Diyas (Most Common and Auspicious)

Lighting 11 diyas is considered most favorable during Dev Uthani Ekadashi puja. Here’s where they should be placed:

Near the Tulsi plant: 1 or 5 diyas

Near Lord Vishnu or Shaligram idol: 1 diya

At the main entrance (on both sides): 2 diyas

In the kitchen: 1 diya

Under a Peepal tree: 1 diya

In the home temple: 1 diya

Significance of Different Numbers of Diyas

1 Diya:

Lighting a diya in the kitchen at night is believed to attract prosperity and ensure abundance of food and wealth in the household. Light another diya before Lord Vishnu in home temple and, if possible, under a Peepal tree — circumambulate it seven times for relief from debt and blessings of wealth.

2 Diyas:

Place one diya on each side of the main door. This welcomes positivity and invites happiness and prosperity into the home. 

5 Diyas (Highly Auspicious):

If you can’t light many diyas, lighting 5 diyas is considered essential. They represent the five deities (Lord Ganesha, Shiva, Shakti, Surya, and Vishnu) or the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and space).

On this day, lighting 5 ghee diyas near the Tulsi plant holds great significance. It is believed to bring harmony in married life, peace in the home, and the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi. You may also light diyas in your home temple, kitchen, and entrance.

Light 5 ghee diyas near the Tulsi plant in the evening. This ritual removes marital problems, strengthens love in relationships, and attracts divine grace. 

7 Diyas:

In some regions, devotees light 7 diyas representing the seven days of the week and the seven spiritual realms (lokas).

11,000 Diyas (For Great Punya):

Wealthy devotees sometimes take a vow to light 11,000 diyas — similar to Kartik month rituals. This is considered an act of Mahapunya (supreme virtue). 

11-Wick Diya:

Lighting a diya with 11 wicks beneath a Peepal tree is believed to fulfill one’s desires. A four-faced (chaturmukhi) diya during pooja of Lord Vishnu is also auspicious, as it symbolizes peace and happiness in all directions.

The number of diyas you light is less important than the purity of ghee or oil and the sincerity of your devotion. Whether you light 5, 7, or 11 diyas, ensure that at least one diya is lit near Tulsi Mata, as this day also celebrates the divine marriage of Goddess Tulsi and Lord Shaligram (Vishnu) — an embodiment of Goddess Lakshmi herself. 

Disclaimer: The content provided here is based on beliefs and information only. Always consult a concerned expert.