Diwali, also known as Deepawali, is one of the most cherished and grand festivals in India. Celebrated with immense joy and enthusiasm, this festival transcends regional and cultural boundaries, bringing together millions of Hindus and people across the world. The five-day festival is a vibrant expression of light, prosperity, and happiness, and its origin is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology.
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The Significance of Diwali
Diwali, often called the Festival of Lights, symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. The lighting of diyas (oil lamps) and candles during Diwali signifies the dispelling of spiritual darkness and the welcoming of light into homes and hearts.
The festival is celebrated in honor of Lord Rama's return to his kingdom of Ayodhya after a 14-year exile, following his victory over the demon king Ravana. According to the Ramayana, the people of Ayodhya lit up the entire city with earthen lamps (diyas) to celebrate Rama’s return, marking the first Diwali.
In South India, the festival is also associated with Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura, adding to the rich tapestry of cultural narratives surrounding this grand occasion. Additionally, Diwali is considered the day when Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth, was born and is also celebrated as the day of her marriage to Lord Vishnu.
Diwali 2024: Key Dates and Festival Timeline
In 2024, Diwali will be celebrated on Friday, November 1st, as per the Hindu lunisolar calendar. The festival spans five days, beginning with Dhanteras and concluding with Bhai Dooj.
| Day |
Festival |
Date |
| Day 1 |
Dhanteras |
October 29, 2024 (Tuesday) |
| Day 2 |
Kali Chaudas |
October 30, 2024 (Wednesday) |
| Day 3 |
Narak Chaturdashi (Chhoti Diwali) |
October 31, 2024 (Thursday) |
| Day 4 |
Diwali (Lakshmi Puja) |
November 1, 2024 (Friday) |
| Day 5 |
Govardhan Puja, Annakut |
November 2, 2024 (Saturday) |
| Day 6 |
Bhai Dooj |
November 3, 2024 (Sunday) |
Diwali 2024: Auspicious Timings
Pradosh Kaal: 05:36 PM to 08:11 PM
Vrishabha Kaal: 06:20 PM to 08:15 PM
Amavasya Tithi Begins: 03:52 PM on October 31, 2024
Amavasya Tithi Ends: 06:16 PM on November 1, 2024
These times are considered highly auspicious for performing Lakshmi Puja, the highlight of Diwali, when families seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity and good fortune.
How Diwali is Celebrated
During Diwali, homes are beautifully adorned with rangolis (decorative patterns made from colored powders), diyas, and strings of lights. Families clean and decorate their houses to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, as it is believed that she blesses homes that are well-lit and clean. Firecrackers light up the night sky, symbolizing the joy and triumph of good over evil.
People wear new clothes, exchange gifts and sweets, and enjoy sumptuous meals prepared for the occasion. Traditional sweets like laddoos, barfis, and gulab jamuns add flavour to the celebration, and communities come together in a spirit of camaraderie and unity.
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In addition to the festivities, Diwali holds a significant religious aspect, with families performing Lakshmi Puja and offering prayers to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. Businesses also consider this time to begin new ventures, believing it to be the start of an auspicious financial year.
Global Celebration of Diwali
Though it is primarily a Hindu festival, Diwali is celebrated by Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists with different interpretations. It has also grown in prominence globally, with countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, and Mauritius embracing the festival with their unique cultural expressions.
The dazzling lights, bursting crackers, and deep-rooted traditions of Diwali have made it a global event that transcends religious borders, celebrated by Indian diaspora communities in the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, and beyond.
Diwali is much more than a festival of lights—it is a celebration of hope, renewal, and the eternal quest for a better future. As you prepare to celebrate Diwali 2024, let the light of diyas remind you of the inner strength and wisdom that triumphs over life's darkest moments.
