The Diwali celebrations for 2024 will span five days, from October 29 to November 2. The festivities encompass Dhanteras, Choti Diwali, the main Diwali day, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj.
The festival of lights, Diwali, is celebrated with great grandeur. This vibrant celebration takes place not only in India but also around the world, uniting people in joyous festivities.
Diwali is not just a one-day event but a five-day celebration. This year, Diwali will be observed from October 29th to November 2nd, with each day dedicated to a unique festival.
Dhanteras: The first festival of Diwali, Dhanteras, falls on October 29th. This auspicious occasion is observed on the 13th day of the waning moon in the month of Kartika.
It is believed that purchasing gold, silver, and other valuables on this day brings prosperity and good fortune. On Dhanteras, devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari.
Homes are thoroughly cleaned in preparation for Dhanteras, as it is believed that Goddess Lakshmi only enters clean spaces. Houses are adorned with decorations, oil lamps are lit, and in the evening, prayers are offered to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari.
On this day, traditional delicacies such as laddu, lentil dumplings, and kheer are prepared and enjoyed with family, adding to the festive spirit.
Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali): (October 30th) Naraka Chaturdashi falls on the 14th day of the waning moon in Kartika. This festival is significant as it commemorates the legendary victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura.
Diwali: (October 31st) Diwali is known as the festival of lights. On this joyous occasion, people don new clothes, illuminate their homes with lamps, and celebrate with firecrackers.
Govardhan Puja: The 4th day of the 5-day Diwali festival is Govardhan Puja or Annakut (mountain of food). It commemorates Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect the people and cattle of Vrindavan from Indra's wrath.
Bhai Dooj: The last festival of the 5-day Diwali celebration, Bhai Dooj will be celebrated on November 2nd. It honours the bond between brothers and sisters.