Diwali 2024: A Day of Light, Unity, and Celebration
This October 31st, India will be bathed in the glow of Diwali, the joyous festival of lights. But this day holds even greater significance, as it also coincides with the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, celebrated as National Unity Day. This convergence of events brings a unique blend of cultural festivities, patriotic commemorations, and a spirit of unity across the nation.
Diwali: The Victory of Good Over Evil
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a major Hindu festival celebrated annually on the Amavasya Tithi of the Kartik month. The festival signifies the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. This year, Diwali commemorates Lord Ram’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, symbolizing the ultimate victory of righteousness.
National Unity Day: Honoring Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
The birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first home minister of Independent India, is recognized as National Unity Day or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas. Known as the ‘Iron Man of India,’ Patel played a pivotal role in integrating the princely states into the Indian Union, solidifying the country’s unity. In 2014, the Government of India established this day to honor his legacy and promote national unity.
Special Metro Arrangements for Diwali
To accommodate the influx of travelers during Diwali, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced revised timings for its services on October 31st. The last train service will depart from all terminal stations, including the Airport Express Line, at 10:00 PM. Metro services will operate as usual for the rest of the day, beginning from their regular commencement timings.
Similarly, Kolkata Metro is gearing up for the Kali Puja festivities on October 31st. To facilitate the visit of devotees to the Dakshineswar and Kalighat temples, eight special trains will run in both directions on the Dakshineswar-New Garia route (Blue Line) between 9:40 PM and 11:00 PM. These trains will operate at 20-minute intervals, ensuring convenient travel for devotees.
Political Events and Observances
The ruling National Conference in Jammu and Kashmir has announced that it will boycott the Union Territory’s foundation day celebrations on October 31st. The party maintains that it does not accept the current status of the region and seeks restoration of statehood at the earliest.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the National Unity Day celebrations at the Statue of Unity, offering floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. He will also administer the Ekta Diwas pledge and witness the Ekta Diwas Parade, featuring marching contingents from various states and central forces.
Other Events and Activities
The traditional Asthanam ceremony will be held at the Bangaru Vakili within the Tirumala temple premises on October 31st, from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM.
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) will conduct a ‘Pracharak Prashikshan’ camp in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, from October 31st to November 4th. This five-day meeting aims to enhance the skills and operational strategies of propagators working within various organizations.
The Special Campaign 4.0, a nationwide initiative to institutionalize ‘swachhata’ and reduce pendency in government, will conclude on October 31st. This campaign, the largest government-to-government initiative in India, focuses on minimizing pendency and streamlining government processes.
Happy Diwali 2024!
As India celebrates Diwali, National Unity Day, and the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the spirit of festivity, unity, and patriotism will permeate the nation. May this day bring joy, prosperity, and harmony to all.
