The much-awaited Festival of Lights, Diwali, is causing some confusion about its exact date in 2024. Diwali is usually celebrated on the 15th day of Kartik, the darkest night of the year, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. However, this year, there is a debate about whether Diwali falls on October 31 or November 1, leaving many unsure of when to celebrate.
According to Drik Panchang, Diwali will be observed on Thursday, October 31, 2024. On this day, Diwali will be celebrated along with Choti Diwali and Lakshmi Puja. The lucky time (shubh muhurat) for Lakshmi Puja, which is a very important part of Diwali, is between 6:52 PM and 8:41 PM. The Amavasya tithi (new moon day) starts early on October 31 and ends on the morning of November 1, which is why there is confusion about the date.
Day 1: Dhanteras
The Diwali celebrations begin with Dhanteras on October 29. On this day, people pray to Lord Kuber and Goddess Lakshmi, asking for wealth and prosperity. Many people also buy gold and jewellery as a symbol of good luck.
Day 2: Choti Diwali
Choti Diwali, or Naraka Chaturdashi, is the second day of the festival and falls on October 31. It celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura. This day is quieter but holds great importance as it leads up to the main Diwali day.
Day 3: Diwali and Lakshmi Puja
The main Diwali celebration takes place on October 31, 2024, with Lakshmi Puja. Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama, Mata Sita, and Lakshman to Ayodhya and celebrates the victory of light over darkness. People light lamps, create rangolis, and perform prayers to honour Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.
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Day 4: Govardhan Puja
Govardhan Puja is celebrated on November 2, 2024. This day is dedicated to Lord Krishna, who lifted the Govardhan mountain to protect the people of Mathura from Lord Indra’s anger.
Day 5: Bhai Dooj
The Diwali festival ends with Bhai Dooj on November 3, 2024. This day is also known as Bhau Beej and celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for their brothers’ long life and success.
The confusion about the dates comes from the fact that the Amavasya tithi overlaps between October 31 and November 1. Some people follow the lunar calendar closely, while others stick to traditional customs, causing the differing views.
Even though there is some uncertainty about the exact date, most people will celebrate Diwali on October 31, following the muhurats and rituals according to the lunar calendar. For those unsure, it’s a good idea to check local customs or religious calendars for guidance.