Diwali, one of the most significant Hindu festivals, is a grand celebration of light’s triumph over darkness and good’s victory over evil. It unites people from various walks of life, transcending religious and social boundaries. This year, Diwali will be observed on October 31 and November 1, 2024, as per the Hindu lunar calendar.
Diwali 2024 Dates:
Diwali is celebrated during the Kartik Amavasya. The festivities span five days, starting with Dhanteras and concluding with Bhai Dooj. This year, Diwali will be celebrated across both Northern and Southern India.
– Day 1: Dhanteras – October 29, 2024
– Day 2: Narak Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali) – October 31, 2024
– Day 3: Lakshmi Puja (Main Diwali) – November 1, 2024
– Day 4: Govardhan Puja – November 2, 2024
– Day 5: Bhai Dooj – November 3, 2024
Auspicious Timings:
– Amavasya Tithi: October 31, 3:53 PM – November 1, 6:17 PM
– Pradosh Puja: November 1, 5:44 PM – 8:19 PM
– Nishita Kaal: November 1, 11:44 PM – November 2, 12:36 AM
Diwali 2024 is an opportunity for people to seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Devotees also worship Lord Ganesh for wisdom and remove obstacles from their lives.
Rituals and Celebration:
Homes are cleaned and decorated with lamps, rangolis, and flowers to welcome prosperity. Devotees perform specific rituals for each day. The most significant day, Lakshmi Puja, is celebrated by offering prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, symbolizing fortune and abundance.
The pujan samagri (materials) includes idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesh, roli, kumkum, akshat, incense sticks, and lamps, among others. During the pujan vidhi, the idols are placed on a clean platform, and the worship begins by invoking Lord Ganesh. After offering prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, devotees perform the aarti and distribute prasad to family and friends.
This Diwali, as always, symbolizes hope, unity, and prosperity, illuminating hearts and homes across India and beyond.
