Diwali 2024: All You Need To Know About The Festival Of Lights
By: Komal Das
Deepawali, also known as Diwali, is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in India
Symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil
The word ‘Deepawali’ means "a row of lights," and its observance revolves around illuminating homes and surroundings to invite happiness and prosperity
The festival also honors the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after his victory over Ravana
Diwali is associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, and Lord Ganesh
Diwali is a five-day celebration that starts with Dhanteras and concludes with Bhaiya Dooj
The five-day festivities will begin on October 28th with Dhanteras and conclude on November 3rd with Bhaiya Dooj
The first day of Diwali is dedicated to the worship of Lord Dhanvantari, the god of health and healing
On this day, people buy gold, silver, and new utensils to welcome prosperity and good luck
Houses are cleaned and decorated, and earthen lamps are lit to remove the darkness of evil and welcome positivity
The main day of the festival is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi
People offer prayers and perform Lakshmi Puja in the evening, seeking her blessings for wealth and prosperity
The fourth day is dedicated to Lord Krishna and the ritual of Govardhan Puja
Devotees prepare a variety of delicious dishes as offerings to Lord Krishna, symbolizing the Annakut
The fifth and final day of Deepawali is celebrated as Bhai Dooj, a festival that honors the bond between brothers and sisters
Sisters pray for their brother’s long life and prosperity, and in return, brothers promise to protect their sisters from harm