Diwali 2024: This five-day extravaganza, commencing with Dhanteras on October 29 and culminating in Bhai Dooj, symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
Auspicious Timings for Diwali Puja
According to Hindu calendars, the Amavasya Tithi, the most auspicious day for Diwali, will begin at 5:22 AM on October 31 and end at 7:46 AM on November 1. The optimal time for Lakshmi Puja, the worship of the goddess of wealth and fortune, is between 7:19 PM and 9:11 PM on October 31.
The Five-Day Celebration of Diwali 2024
- Dhanteras (October 29): This day marks the beginning of the Diwali festivities. Considered auspicious for purchasing gold and silver, Dhanteras is believed to bring wealth and prosperity.
- Naraka Chaturdashi or Chhoti Diwali (October 30): This day is celebrated to commemorate the victory of good over evil, often associated with the slaying of the demon Naraka. Many people take a ritualistic oil bath on this day.
- Diwali (October 31): The main day of the festival, Diwali is celebrated with great fervour. People light diyas (earthen lamps), burst firecrackers, and create intricate rangoli designs. Lakshmi Puja is performed to seek blessings for wealth and prosperity.
- Govardhan Puja (November 1): This day honours Lord Krishna’s act of lifting Mount Govardhan to protect villagers from Indra’s wrath. People prepare a mountain-like structure of food and offer prayers to Lord Krishna.
- Bhai Dooj (November 2): On this day, sisters perform a special ritual called ‘aarti’ and apply a tilak on their brothers’ foreheads, praying for their long life and well-being.
The Significance of Diwali
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, signifies the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. The festival has been celebrated for centuries and continues to be a significant cultural event for Hindus worldwide. The grandeur and festivities associated with Diwali have grown over the years, making it a global celebration.
