## Diwali 2024: When is the Festival of Lights and What Makes it Special?
The vibrant and auspicious festival of Diwali, known as the ‘Festival of Lights,’ is eagerly awaited by millions around the globe. While the festive spirit of Diwali permeates the atmosphere for several days, the exact date of the main celebration can sometimes be a bit confusing.
Diwali 2024 Dates:
This year, Diwali celebrations will stretch across several days, culminating on
November 1st, 2024
, in most parts of India. However, the festivities begin earlier in some regions, with Maharashtra marking the start on October 31st with Govatsa Dwadashi, and Gujarat celebrating two days earlier on Agyaras.Lakshmi Puja Timings:
The central ritual of Lakshmi Puja, dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the embodiment of wealth and prosperity, will be performed on
October 31st, 2024
. According to the panchang, the auspicious time for Lakshmi Puja is from5:36 pm to 6:16 pm (duration: 41 minutes)
on October 31st.Understanding the Significance:
Diwali is much more than just a day of lights and celebrations; it embodies a profound cultural and spiritual significance. The festival commemorates the return of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana to Ayodhya after their 14-year exile, an event that symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.
The Five Days of Festivities:
Diwali is often celebrated over a period of five days, each day carrying specific rituals and traditions:
*
29th October 2024 (Tuesday): Dhanteras
– This day marks the beginning of the Diwali festivities. It is considered auspicious to buy new items, especially gold and silver, on this day.*
31st October 2024 (Thursday): Choti Diwali
– This day is dedicated to the worship of Lord Yama, the god of death, and is celebrated by lighting earthen lamps.*
1st November 2024 (Friday): Badi Diwali
– This is the main day of the Diwali celebrations, when people decorate their homes with diyas, light fireworks, and exchange gifts.*
2nd November 2024 (Saturday): Govardhan Puja
– This day celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna over Indra. People worship the Govardhan Hill, believed to have protected the people of Vrindavan from Indra’s wrath.*
3rd November 2024 (Sunday): Bhai Dooj
– This day marks the celebration of the bond between siblings. Sisters apply tilak to their brothers’ foreheads and offer prayers for their well-being.The Cultural Significance of Diwali:
Diwali is deeply rooted in the Indian cultural landscape and is celebrated with immense enthusiasm and joy. The festival represents the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. It symbolizes new beginnings, hope, and prosperity.
Beyond the Festivities:
For business owners, Diwali holds special significance, as it marks the start of a new financial year. Many businesses perform Lakshmi Puja rituals for their accounting books and other materials, seeking divine blessings for success and wealth in the coming year.
The Power of Light:
The lighting of lamps, known as diyas, is a central part of Diwali rituals. The diyas symbolize the dispelling of darkness and the welcoming of Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings. It is believed that the lamps illuminate the path to prosperity and happiness.
A Celebration for All:
Diwali is a festival that transcends religious boundaries. People from all walks of life celebrate this festival, embracing the spirit of unity, joy, and prosperity. The vibrant colors, traditional sweets, and heartfelt greetings make Diwali a truly special and unforgettable celebration.