Diwali, also referred to as Deepawali, is one of the most significant and vibrant festivals celebrated across India. In 2024, this much-anticipated festival will take place on Thursday, October 31, ushering in a five-day array of celebrations. The festival not only holds cultural and religious significance but also embodies a spirit of joy, togetherness, and the triumph of light over darkness, making it a perfect occasion for family gatherings and community festivities.
Diwali 2024 Calendar: Key Dates
The Diwali celebrations span five auspicious days, each signifying different rituals and traditions. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the key dates for Diwali 2024:
- October 29: Dhanteras
- October 30: Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali)
- October 31: Diwali and Lakshmi Puja
- November 2: Govardhan Puja
- November 3: Bhai Dooj
Significance of Each Day
Dhanteras (October 29)
Dhanteras marks the commencement of Diwali festivities. On this day, devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kuber, seeking blessings for wealth and prosperity. The tradition also includes purchasing precious metals, such as gold or silver, to attract good fortune and symbolize prosperity in the household.
Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali) (October 30)
Choti Diwali, or Naraka Chaturdashi, is celebrated to honor Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura. This day emphasizes spiritual cleansing, where people engage in rituals to remove negativity and invite positivity and light into their lives and homes.
Diwali (October 31)
The main event of Diwali culminates on this day, commemorating Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after vanquishing Ravana. Homes are beautifully decorated with diyas (earthen lamps), rangoli artwork, and vibrant fairy lights. The evening culminates with Lakshmi Puja, where families gather to invoke blessings for prosperity and abundance in the coming year.
Govardhan Puja (November 2)
Following the grand celebration of Diwali, Govardhan Puja is dedicated to Lord Krishna’s miracle of lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from torrential rains. On this day, devotees create a symbolic hillock made of cow dung, adorned with various offerings, signifying their gratitude and respect for nature’s bounties.
Bhai Dooj (November 3)
Concluding the five-day Diwali festivities is Bhai Dooj, a day dedicated to celebrating the cherished bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for their brothers’ health and happiness, while brothers promise to protect and support their sisters, reinforcing the values of love and familial bonds.
Shubh Muhurat for Lakshmi Puja
Planning to perform Lakshmi Puja on October 31? Here are the auspicious timings to keep in mind:
- Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: 6:52 PM to 8:41 PM
- Amavasya Tithi Begins: 6:22 AM on October 31
- Amavasya Tithi Ends: 8:46 AM on November 1
Conclusion
As families gear up to celebrate the spirit of Diwali 2024, understanding the festival’s dates and the significance of each day can elevate the festive experience. Remember to mark your calendars for these important days filled with joy, light, and community. Whether it’s decorating your home, preparing festive delicacies, or performing sacred rituals, Diwali truly encapsulates the essence of togetherness and the triumph of good over evil. Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on available sources and is intended for informational purposes only. Please verify dates and timings, as they may vary based on local customs and traditions.