The much-awaited festival of lights Diwali is in a state of confusion over its exact date in 2024. Traditionally celebrated as per the Hindu lunar calendar, Diwali usually falls on the 15th day of Kartik, the darkest night of the year. However, this year there is a debate over whether Diwali is on October 31 or November 1, leaving many confused about when to celebrate Diwali.
According to the Drik Panchang, Diwali will be celebrated on Thursday, October 31, 2024. On this day, the festival will coincide with Chhoti Diwali and Laxmi Puja, leading to a festive buzz. The auspicious time for Laxmi Puja, an indispensable Diwali ritual, has been set between 6:52 pm and 8:41 pm. The Amavasya tithi, which marks the new moon and is crucial for Diwali, begins early on October 31 and ends the next morning on November 1, leading to confusion over the date.
Day 1: Dhanteras
The Diwali festivities begin with Dhanteras, which falls on October 29 this year. On this day, devotees worship Lord Kubera and Goddess Lakshmi, seeking wealth and prosperity. It is also the time to buy gold and jewelry, symbolising good fortune.
Day 2: Chhoti Diwali
Chhoti Diwali, also known as Narak Chaturdashi, is the second day of the festivities. Falling on October 31, this Diwali marks the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. The day is generally quiet but holds great significance as a prelude to the main Diwali day.
Day 3: Diwali and Lakshmi Puja
The main festivities of Diwali will be celebrated on October 31, 2024, including the iconic Lakshmi Puja. The day marks the return of Lord Rama, Mata Sita and Lakshman to Ayodhya, celebrating the victory of light over darkness. Many homes will light lamps, draw rangolis and worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.
Day 4: Govardhan Puja
After Diwali, Govardhan Puja will be celebrated on November 2, 2024. The day is dedicated to Lord Krishna and his miraculous act of lifting the Govardhan mountain to save the people of Mathura from the wrath of Lord Indra.
Day 5: Bhai Dooj
The five-day Diwali festivities will end on November 3, 2024 with Bhai Dooj, also known as Bhau Beej. The day celebrates the bond between siblings, where sisters pray for the long life and prosperity of their brothers.
The confusion over the dates arises from the overlap of Amavasya tithi between October 31 and November 1. While some people strictly follow the lunar calendar, others follow traditional customs, leading to varying interpretations.
