Also known as the festival of lights, Diwali is one of the most awaited and widely celebrated festivals in India. Also known as Deepavali, the festival marks the victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. This year, celebrate Diwali again by illuminating your homes and bringing a sense of enthusiasm to the hearts of people across the nation. The festival spans five days, each imbued with its uniqueness. This year, Diwali 2024 celebration will start from October 28 and will conclude on November 3. In this article, we’ll provide you with Diwali 2024 date, significance and celebrations.

Diwali 2024 Dates

Diwali is a five-day festival that starts with Dhanteras and ends with Bhai Dooj. Below is the list of Diwali dates in India.

Govatsa Dwadashi or Vasu Baras 2024 Date: Govatsa Dwadashi falls on October 28, 2024 is celebrated one day before Dhanteras. On this day, cows and calves are worshipped. In Maharashtra, this festival is called Vasu Baras. Pradoshkala Govatsa Dwadashi muhurat is from 05:39 PM to 08:13 PM.

Dhanteras 2024 Date: Dhanteras will be observed on October 29, 2024. This day is dedicated to worshipping Dhanvantari, the god of health, and Goddess Lakshmi. It is considered an auspicious day to buy gold, silver, and new utensils, symbolising the welcoming of prosperity and good fortune into the home. Dhanteras Puja muhurat will begin at 06:31 PM and end at 08:13 PM.

Kali Chaudas Puja 2024 Date: Also known as Bhut Chaturdashi, this festival is observed in the Western states of Gujarat will fall on October 30, 2024. The day of Kali Chaudas is decided when Chaturdashi prevails at midnight, which, as per Drik Panchang, is known as Maha Nishita time. On this day, Kali Puja also takes place in West Bengal. Kali Chaudas muhurat will start on October 30 at 11:39 PM and end on October 31 at 12:31 AM.

Naraka Chaturdashi 2024 Date: The day will be observed on October 31, 2024. Also known as Choti Diwali, this day commemorates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. The asupicious timing will begin from 05:20 AM and conclude at 06:32 AM.

Diwali 2024 Date: The main day of the festival is celebrated with grandeur, falling on November 1, 2024. People perform Lakshmi Puja, seeking blessings of wealth and prosperity from the goddess. The shubh timing is from 05:36 PM to 06:16 PM. Fireworks light up the sky and devotees exchange sweets on this day.

Govardhan Puja 2024 Date: This is the day falling on November 2, 2024 celebrates Lord Krishna's defeat of God Indra. It is also known as Annakut Puja. Govardhan Puja Pratahkala muhurat is from 06:34 AM to 08:46 AM and Sayankala muhurat is from 03:23 PM to 05:35 PM.

Bhai Dooj 2024 Date: Bhai Dooj will be observed on November 3, 2024. The festival concludes with Bhai Dooj, a day celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. The auspicious timing is from 01:10 PM to 03:22 PM.

Diwali Significance and Rituals

Diwali is not just a festival but a celebration of life, light, and spirituality. It is believed on this day, Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after his 14-year exile after defeating the demon King Ravana. The festival celebrates the triumph of good over evil, and houses are lit with lamps and diyas to usher hope, joy and prosperity. The night sky on this day is filled with bursting crackers and fireworks. Throughout these five days, homes are decorated, new clothes are worn, and delicious feasts are prepared. People come together and exchange sweets and gifts to celebrate the festival of lights.

As Diwali 2024 approaches, preparations have already started in full swing. Understanding the dates of Diwali gives you a detailed idea of the auspicious celebration and adds spiritual depth and cultural richness. Whether you are lighting lamps, offering prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, or enjoying good company with your loved ones, Diwali is a time to reflect the values of light, knowledge, and the victory of good over evil.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 29, 2024 01:14 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).