When is Diwali 2024: Date, Timings, History, and More
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals celebrated across the world. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. People observe Diwali by lighting oil lamps, bursting fireworks, decorating homes, exchanging sweets, and performing prayers to deities like Lakshmi and Ganesha.
As we approach 2024, the excitement around Diwali grows, especially for planning celebrations. This article dives into the exact date, auspicious timings, and the history behind this revered festival.
Diwali 2024: Date and Timings
In the year 2024, Diwali will be celebrated on Thursday, November 1st. The most significant day of the five-day Diwali festival is the day of Lakshmi Puja, which falls on this date.
- Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: The most auspicious time for Lakshmi Puja, which is a key part of Diwali, is between 5:40 PM and 7:36 PM (IST) on November 1st, 2024.
- Amavasya Tithi: The new moon day, or Amavasya, starts at 9:53 AM on November 1st and ends at 11:14 AM on November 2nd.
The celebration continues with Govardhan Puja on Friday, November 2nd, and Bhai Dooj on Saturday, November 3rd, marking the conclusion of the Diwali festivities.
Diwali’s Historical and Cultural Significance
Diwali has deep roots in Hindu mythology. The most common narrative revolves around Lord Rama, who returned to Ayodhya after a 14-year exile. His return, marked by the defeat of the demon king Ravana, was celebrated by the people of Ayodhya by lighting oil lamps throughout the city, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
In addition to the Ramayana, Diwali is celebrated for other reasons in different parts of India:
- In North India, the day is linked to the return of Lord Rama.
- In South India, Diwali is celebrated to commemorate the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura.
- In the Western region of India, it signifies the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and the start of the new financial year for traders.
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These variations illustrate how deeply Diwali is intertwined with India’s rich cultural and religious diversity.
The Five Days of Diwali 2024
Diwali is celebrated over five days, each with its unique customs and significance:
Dhanteras (October 29, 2024): This day marks the beginning of Diwali celebrations. It’s an auspicious time for purchasing gold, silver, and new utensils, symbolizing prosperity.
Naraka Chaturdashi (October 30, 2024): Also known as Chhoti Diwali, this day celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna over Narakasura.
Lakshmi Puja (November 1, 2024): The main day of Diwali when families perform the Lakshmi Puja to seek blessings of wealth and prosperity.
Govardhan Puja (November 2, 2024): Celebrated as the day Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill to protect the villagers from torrential rains.
Bhai Dooj (November 3, 2024): The festival concludes with Bhai Dooj, a day that honors the bond between brothers and sisters.
How Diwali is Celebrated Across India
The way Diwali is celebrated varies across regions:
- North India: The focus is on Lakshmi Puja, lighting diyas (lamps), and bursting crackers.
- South India: People wake up early, apply oil on their bodies, take a ritual bath, and wear new clothes.
- West India: Homes and marketplaces are decorated with rangolis (intricate designs made from colored powders), and Lakshmi Puja is performed.
In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on eco-friendly Diwali celebrations, with many opting for quieter, greener festivities. Efforts to reduce pollution by avoiding fireworks and promoting sustainable practices like using clay lamps (diyas) have gained momentum.
Diwali’s Global Appeal
Though primarily celebrated in India, Diwali’s popularity has spread globally. Countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom host public events with fireworks, cultural shows, and festive gatherings. These celebrations unite people of Indian origin and spread the festival's joy to a global audience.
FAQs:
1. When is Diwali in 2024?
Diwali in 2024 will be celebrated on Thursday, November 1st. Lakshmi Puja, the most important part of Diwali, will take place on this day.
2. What are the Diwali 2024 auspicious timings?
The auspicious time for Lakshmi Puja in 2024 is between 5:40 PM and 7:36 PM (IST) on November 1st.
3. Why is Diwali celebrated?
Diwali is celebrated to commemorate the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It marks Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, among other regional stories.
4. What are the five days of Diwali in 2024?
- Dhanteras: October 29, 2024
- Naraka Chaturdashi: October 30, 2024
- Lakshmi Puja: November 1, 2024
- Govardhan Puja: November 2, 2024
- Bhai Dooj: November 3, 2024
5. How is Diwali celebrated?
Diwali is celebrated with the lighting of lamps, bursting of fireworks, decorating homes with rangolis, and performing religious rituals like Lakshmi Puja.
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