When is Diwali 2024: Date, Significance, Puja Timings, and Celebration Guide

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in India. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is a time when families come together, homes are adorned with vibrant decorations, and the night sky is illuminated with dazzling fireworks. This festival is deeply rooted in Indian culture and is celebrated with immense joy and enthusiasm across the country. As we look forward to Diwali 2024, it’s essential to know the exact date, the significance of the festival, and the precise Puja timings to make the most of the celebrations.

When is Diwali 2024 Date in the India Calendar?

If you are also wondering when is Diwali in India, the answer is here. Diwali 2024 is on Friday, November 1. Mark this date on your calendar, as it will be a day filled with festivities, rituals, and joy. Diwali typically falls on the 15th day of the Hindu month of Kartika, which usually corresponds to October or November in the Gregorian calendar. The date of Diwali varies each year based on the lunar calendar, and in 2024, it will be celebrated on the first day of November. This auspicious day is eagerly awaited by millions, as it signifies the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after a 14-year exile, during which he defeated the demon king Ravana.

Diwali 2024 Date and Muhurat Timings

Knowing the exact Diwali 2024 date and puja timings is crucial for performing the rituals with utmost devotion and ensuring that all the traditions are followed correctly. For this year’s Diwali, the Lakshmi Puja Muhurat is expected to be between 06:01 PM and 08:03 PM on November 1. The Muhurat timings may slightly vary depending on the location, so it is advisable to consult a reliable Panchang or calendar specific to your region.

Lakshmi Puja, which is the most important ritual of Diwali, is performed during Pradosh Kaal, which begins after sunset and lasts for approximately 2 hours and 24 minutes. This period is considered the most auspicious for invoking Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. Devotees clean their homes, decorate the entrance with rangoli, and light oil lamps (diyas) to welcome the goddess. As part of the celebrations, families often exchange Diwali gift hampers filled with sweets, fruits, and other festive treats, which are also offered to the deities during the rituals. The Puja is then followed by the recitation of Vedic mantras, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere of the evening.

History and Significance of Diwali

The history of Diwali is rich and varied, with different regions of India celebrating it for different reasons, all unified by the common theme of the victory of good over evil. The most popular legend associated with Diwali is the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya. According to the epic Ramayana, Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. The people of Ayodhya welcomed them by lighting oil lamps throughout the kingdom, which is why Diwali is often referred to as the Festival of Lights.

In some parts of India, Diwali is also linked to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi. It is believed that on this day, she emerged from the churning of the ocean, known as Samudra Manthan, holding a pot of wealth. Hence, Lakshmi Puja is performed to seek her blessings for prosperity and well-being in the coming year.

Diwali is also significant for Jainism followers as it marks the day when Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, attained Nirvana. For Sikhs, Diwali is associated with the release of Guru Hargobind Ji from imprisonment by the Mughal emperor Jahangir. The Golden Temple in Amritsar is beautifully illuminated, and Sikhs across the world celebrate the festival with immense fervor.

Diwali Calendar 2024 - Five Days of Diwali FestivalCelebrations of Diwali

Diwali celebrations usually span over five days, each day holding its own importance and set of rituals. As you prepare to celebrate this grand festival, it's essential to mark Diwali 2024 date in Indian calendar so you don't miss any of the festivities. The five days of Diwali include:

Dhanteras: The first day of Diwali, known as Dhanteras, is dedicated to the worship of Dhanvantari, the god of health and Ayurveda. On this day, people purchase gold, silver, and other valuable items as it is considered auspicious.

Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali): The second day, also known as Choti Diwali, commemorates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. It is a day for cleansing and decorating homes.

Diwali: The third day is the main Diwali festival, where Lakshmi Puja is performed, and homes are illuminated with diyas. Families gather to offer prayers, exchange Diwali gifts, and enjoy a festive meal, making it a day filled with joy and togetherness.

Govardhan Puja (Annakut): On the fourth day, devotees perform Govardhan Puja, which commemorates Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect the villagers from torrential rains.

Bhai Dooj: The fifth day of Diwali is Bhai Dooj, a day to celebrate the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for the long life and prosperity of their brothers, who in return, give gifts and promises of protection.

Diwali is not just a festival; it is an experience that brings people together, fills hearts with joy, and homes with light. It is a time to reflect on the past year, seek blessings for the future, and renew the bonds of love and friendship. Whether you are decorating your home with vibrant rangoli, lighting diyas, or preparing sweets, each moment of Diwali is filled with happiness and warmth. As you celebrate Diwali, may the light of the diyas guide your path, the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi bring prosperity, and the joy of the festival fill your life with happiness.