Diwali 2024: Embracing the Festival of Lights – Celebration Dates and Timings

Diwali, also known as Deepawali, is one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. This year, it falls on October 31, 2024, and the festival spans five days of joy, rituals, and vibrant celebrations.

Each day holds special significance, from Dhanteras, when wealth is honored, to Naraka Chaturdashi, commemorating the triumph of good over evil, and finally to Diwali, where families worship Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity. The celebration continues with Govardhan Puja, honoring Lord Krishna, and concludes with Bhai Dooj, which celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters.

During this auspicious time, the spirit of generosity shines brightly, encouraging acts of charity and donation, reflecting the true essence of Deepawali —spreading light and hope to those in need.

Lakshmi Puja Date and Muhurat for 2024

For Lakshmi Puja in 2024, the celebration falls on Thursday, 31 October. The auspicious time for the Lakshmi Puja, known as the Lakshmi Puja Muhurat, is from 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM. This time is considered highly favorable for families to worship Goddess Lakshmi, seeking her blessings for prosperity and well-being.

The Five-Day Diwali Festival 2024

In 2024 begins with Dhanteras on Friday, October 29, dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari, where gold and silver purchases symbolize prosperity (6:30 PM – 8:12 PM). Next is Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali) on Saturday, October 31, celebrating Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura (5:31 AM – 6:41 AM). The main day, Diwali (Lakshmi Puja), is on Thursday, 31 October, focusing on Goddess Lakshmi for blessings (5:00 PM – 10:30 PM). Govardhan Puja follows on Monday, November 2 (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM), and Bhai Dooj on Tuesday, November 3, honors sibling bonds (1:11 PM – 3:25 PM).

How is Diwali Celebrated?

Diwali is celebrated with fervent prayers, elaborate decorations, and family gatherings. Homes are thoroughly cleaned and adorned with Diwali decorations such as colorful rangoli, sparkling Diwali lights, and beautifully lit diyas. Families prepare an array of Diwali sweets and meals, sharing them with loved ones.

The festival is also marked by spectacular Diwali fireworks, illuminating the night sky and creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration. Exchange of Diwali gifts and heartfelt Diwali wishes among family and friends is common, reinforcing bonds of love and togetherness.

The Significance of Donation on Deepawali

During Diwali, the spirit of generosity shines brightly. Acts of charity and support for those in need are especially emphasized. By donating essentials, meals, or financial support to organizations like Narayan Seva Sansthan, which is dedicated to uplifting underprivileged and differently-abled individuals, you can help transform lives and spread hope during this auspicious festival. This charitable aspect reflects the true essence of Diwali, allowing the joy and light of the celebration to reach those who need it most. Your contributions can make a significant difference, fostering a sense of community and compassion during this festive season.

Social importance of Diwali

Diwali is not just a religious festival, but it is also a festival that unites our society. Before this festival, people clean their houses, decorate them and prepare various types of dishes. This festival is also an occasion to celebrate happiness with family and friends. People give sweets and gifts to each other, which increases sweetness and closeness in relationships. Along with this, people also take care of the needy on this day, on this day people help those needy people who are not able to participate wholeheartedly in this festival due to their financial problems. On this day people gift diyas, clothes, crackers, puja items and sweets etc. to the needy, so that every home can celebrate Diwali of happiness.

From a social point of view, Diwali transmits a positive energy. Through the lamps, the message is given that no matter how much darkness there is in life, even a small lamp can remove it. It teaches us that we should move towards goodness by removing every kind of negativity and evil from our life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q:  What are the Diwali puja rituals and their significance?
A: Diwali puja involves cleaning the home, setting up a puja area with offerings, performing rituals, and sharing prasad to spread blessings.

Q: How can I celebrate Diwali at home?
A: Embrace the spirit of Diwali by performing acts of kindness, donating to charity, and celebrating with family and friends.

Q: When is the best time to light Diwali diyas?
A: Diyas are ideally lit at dusk during the main puja time on Diwali, which falls between 5:41 PM and 7:43 PM on 31 October , 2024.