Diwali 2024 Date and Significance: Is Deepawali On October 31 or November 1?

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most cherished festivals celebrated across India and in Indian communities around the world. Known as the “Festival of Lights,” Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. As the festival approaches, there’s often confusion regarding its exact date, as the celebration spans several days and dates may vary depending on regional traditions and practices. This year, Diwali will be celebrated on either October 31 or November 1, 2024, depending on the location, with each day having a special ritual dedicated to the gods and goddesses. Below, we explore the festival’s dates, timings, significance, and customs in detail.

Diwali 2024: Dates and Important Timings

The Diwali festivities extend over five days with each day having a unique significance and ritual. For 2024, the dates are as follows:

• Dhanteras: October 29, 2024 (Tuesday)
• Choti Diwali: October 31, 2024 (Thursday)
• Badi Diwali (Main Diwali): November 1, 2024 (Friday)
• Govardhan Puja: November 2, 2024 (Saturday)
• Bhai Dooj: November 3, 2024 (Sunday)

Due to regional customs, the date of Lakshmi Puja (main Diwali puja) may vary slightly. For example, in Maharashtra and certain regions, Diwali begins on October 31, 2024, while in other parts of India, the primary celebrations are observed on November 1, 2024.

Lakshmi Puja Timings:

• Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: 05:36 PM to 06:16 PM on October 31, 2024 (Duration: 41 minutes)
• Amavasya Tithi Begins: 03:52 PM on October 31, 2024
• Amavasya Tithi Ends: 06:16 PM on November 1, 2024

Regional Variations in Diwali Celebrations

In India, Diwali traditions differ based on the region:

1. Maharashtra: Diwali celebrations commence on Govatsa Dwadashi, a day before Choti Diwali.
2. Gujarat: Festivities begin two days earlier on Agyaras, marking the onset of the celebratory period.

However, regardless of the region, Lakshmi Puja is performed on the main day of Diwali (Amavasya) when the new moon is visible, signifying the triumph of light over darkness.

Significance of Each Day in Diwali

Each day of Diwali holds a specific significance with rituals performed in reverence to gods and deities.

1. Dhanteras (October 29, 2024)

The five-day celebration begins with Dhanteras, a day dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari, the god of health and healing, and Goddess Lakshmi. It is auspicious to purchase gold, silver, or new utensils, symbolizing prosperity and wealth.

2. Choti Diwali (October 31, 2024)

Known as Narak Chaturdashi or Kali Chaudas in some regions, Choti Diwali commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura. It’s a day for cleansing and purifying homes and surroundings to prepare for the arrival of the goddess.

3. Badi Diwali / Main Diwali (November 1, 2024)

The main day of Diwali is dedicated to Lakshmi Puja, where Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, is welcomed into homes and businesses. Families light oil lamps (diyas) and place them throughout their homes to invite her blessings.

4. Govardhan Puja (November 2, 2024)

Govardhan Puja, celebrated primarily in North India, marks Lord Krishna’s lifting of Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from a devastating storm. Devotees prepare a variety of dishes as an offering to Krishna, thanking him for his protection.

5. Bhai Dooj (November 3, 2024)

The final day of the Diwali festival, Bhai Dooj, celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform a tilak ceremony and pray for their brothers’ well-being, while brothers offer gifts and promise protection in return.

The Significance of Lakshmi Puja

The Lakshmi Puja on Diwali holds immense importance as it is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the symbol of wealth, fortune, and prosperity. Worshipping her is believed to bring prosperity, success, and happiness to families and businesses. During Lakshmi Puja, Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, is also worshipped alongside other deities such as Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, and Lord Kuber, the treasurer of the gods.

Importance of Lakshmi Puja for Businesses

Many business owners consider Diwali an auspicious time to begin new ventures or make significant investments. Lakshmi Puja is often performed in offices, factories, and shops to attract financial growth and success in professional pursuits. By lighting diyas in workplaces, people invoke Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings to remove obstacles and bring in good fortune.

Rituals and Customs Associated with Diwali

Lighting of Diyas and Dispelling Darkness

One of the primary customs of Diwali is lighting oil lamps (diyas) throughout the home. This act is not only symbolic of the victory of light over darkness but is also believed to welcome Goddess Lakshmi into the household. Families arrange rows of diyas on balconies, windowsills, and entrances, and some even create elaborate rangolis (colorful patterns made from colored powder) as a mark of joy and prosperity.

Bursting of Firecrackers

Although more environmentally friendly celebrations are encouraged today, firecrackers have historically been a part of Diwali as a way to ward off evil spirits. Families and communities enjoy fireworks, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

Exchanging Gifts and Sweets

Diwali is a time for expressing gratitude, love, and affection. Families and friends exchange gifts and sweets as tokens of goodwill. Popular sweets like laddoos, barfis, and jalebis are prepared and shared to celebrate the joy of togetherness.

Diwali 2024: A Celebration of Light and Community

Diwali is not only a festival but also an opportunity for families and communities to come together in celebration. Homes are decorated with lights and flowers, prayers are offered, and wishes for prosperity and happiness are shared among loved ones. The festival extends its message of light, unity, and kindness across diverse traditions, emphasizing the shared values that bind everyone together.

So, whether you celebrate on October 31 or November 1, 2024, may this Diwali bring you health, prosperity, and an abundance of joy!