What is Deepdaan? How is Deepdan performed, and what are its benefits?

Deepdaan is considered highly auspicious and immediately rewarding in almost all Puranas. Essentially, Deepdan refers to lighting a lamp and placing it in a specific location. This special location can be the roof of a house, a temple, a well, a crossroads, near a tree, by the riverside, on the banks of a pond, or in front of the sea. Deepdan performed by the riverbank is particularly regarded as very fortunate. By performing Deepdan and praying to God, one can ward off sorrow, misfortune, and poverty.

When to perform Deepdaan?

People often wonder when to perform Deepdan. Generally, it can be done daily. If daily practice isn’t feasible, it can be performed on Panchami, Ekadashi, Purnima, Amavasya, or during any festival. According to some beliefs, performing Deepdan in a Shiva or Vishnu temple on one’s birth star day is also highly beneficial.

How to perform It?

Deepdan is usually done with an earthen lamp, but in some places, silver or gold lamps can also be used. The lamp should be filled with pure ghee from cow’s milk. If ghee is unavailable, a lamp with sesame oil can be lit instead. The wick can be kept upright or elongated. For Lord Shiva, a white wick should be used; for Narayan, a white or yellow wick; for Hanumanji and Mother Durga, a red wick; and for Mother Lakshmi, a white wick should be utilized. Deepdan can also be performed for planetary deities.

How long should the Deepdaan last?

If you are performing Deepdaan at home, it should ideally burn for about 2-3 hours. If it’s done in a temple or another location, you can fill it completely with ghee or oil and light it. When performing Deepdaan at a temple or other locations, do not place it directly on the ground; instead, place it on sacred leaves or, if possible, on wheat or rice.

Benefits of Deepdaan:

Protection from untimely death and accidents.
Blessings from ancestors.
Special grace from God.
Quick fulfillment of wishes.
Maintenance of wealth and prosperity in the home.
Good news regarding progeny.
Resolution of family disputes and conflicts.
Guidance during difficult times in life.