When is Diwali 2024? Date and Time Here: This year, there will be a one-day gap between Dhanteras, celebrated on October 29, and Chhoti Diwali, which falls on October 31.
Read More: Hibiscus Tea For Weight Loss: How This Refreshing Drink Can Help You Shrink Your Waistline?
When is Diwali 2024 in Indian Calendar: Diwali, a vibrant five-day festival that begins with Dhanteras and culminates with Bhai Dooj. Often referred to as the Festival of Lights, Diwali embodies the themes of joy, prosperity, and happiness. Each day of this festival carries its own significance and rituals, contributing to the overall festive spirit. The festivities kick off with Dhanteras, where people clean their homes and purchase new items, especially metal, to invite prosperity. The second day, Kali Chaudas, focuses on honoring the goddess Kali and cleansing oneself of negativity. The third day, Narak Chaturdashi, also known as Chhoti Diwali, marks the triumph of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura and is celebrated with early morning rituals and the lighting of lamps.
The main day of Diwali, celebrated on Kartik Amavasya, is dedicated to Laxmi Pujan, where families worship Goddess Lakshmi, the harbinger of wealth and well-being. Homes are illuminated with oil lamps, candles, and colorful decorations, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.
Read More: Jitiya Vrat 2024: Why Devotees Eat Madua Roti And Fish Before Starting The Fast
When is Diwali 2024? Date and Timing Here
Diwali is usually celebrated during the Hindu lunisolar months of Ashvin and Kartika, which generally happen to occur between mid-October and mid-November. According to the traditional Hindu calendar, Diwali falls on Amavasya, the fifteenth day of Kartik. In 2024, Diwali will be celebrated on Friday, November 1st. According to Drikpanchang, the most favorable time for the celebrations will be from 5:36 PM to 6:16 PM.
Coinciding dates with Diwali festival
| Day | Festival | Date | Day of the Week |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Dhanteras | October 29th, 2024 | Tuesday |
| Day 2 | Kali Chaudas | October 30th, 2024 | Wednesday |
| Day 3 | Narak Chaturdashi (Chhoti Diwali) | October 31st, 2024 | Thursday |
| Day 4 | Diwali (Laxmi Pujan) | November 1st, 2024 | Friday |
| Day 5 | Govardhan Puja, Annakut | November 2nd, 2024 | Saturday |
| Day 6 | Bhai Dooj, Yama Dwitiya | November 3rd, 2024 | Sunday |
Diwali 2024: Rituals and Time
This year, there will be a one-day gap between Dhanteras, celebrated on October 29, and Chhoti Diwali, which falls on October 31. This schedule is in keeping with the traditional observance of these festivals according to the Hindu lunar calendar, as outlined by Drik Panchang.
For the celebrations, the Pradosh Kaal, a highly auspicious time, will occur from 5:36 PM to 8:11 PM, while the Vrishabha Kaal will take place from 6:20 PM to 8:15 PM. The Amavasya Tithi, or the new moon phase, will begin at 3:52 PM on October 31 and will last until 6:16 PM on November 1, 2024.
These timings are significant as they guide various rituals and prayers associated with the festivities, particularly the worship of Goddess Lakshmi on the main day of Diwali. Each of these timeframes is considered ideal for performing specific rites, enhancing the spiritual significance of the festival.
Why is Diwali celebrated? Know History and Significance
The origin of Diwali is dates back to the ancient Hindu mythology. One prominent legend recounts the return of Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu, to his kingdom of Ayodhya after vanquishing the demon king Ravana. On that significant night, which fell on Amavasya, the no-moon day in the month of Kartik, the citizens of Ayodhya celebrated Lord Rama’s homecoming by illuminating their homes with diyas (earthen lamps) and adorning their doorsteps with rangoli, colorful patterns made from various materials.
In South India, Diwali is observed to commemorate Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura. Additionally, this day is believed to mark the wedding of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Some legends even suggest that Goddess Lakshmi emerged on this new moon night during the month of Kartik.
Globally, Deepavali, or the festival of lights, is celebrated with immense joy and enthusiasm. Households honor Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi, along with their valuable possessions, through special prayers. After the puja, families share sweets and gifts with neighbors and friends. The festivities are further enlivened by children and adults bursting firecrackers and lighting diyas, filling the air with cheer and celebration.
