Diwali 2024: Diwali, also known as Deepawali, is one of India’s most significant festivals, celebrated with immense joy and devotion. It is a time when people come together to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. This grand festival is marked by vibrant festivities, traditional rituals, and social gatherings, filling homes and streets with light and cheer.
In 2024, Diwali will be celebrated on Thursday, November 1st, with the five-day celebration beginning on October 28th and concluding on November 2nd. Each day of Diwali holds unique significance and is celebrated with various customs and traditions across India.
What is the Meaning of Diwali?
The word “Deepawali” comes from the Sanskrit words “deepa” (lamp) and “avali” (row), which translates to “a row of lights.” This symbolizes the practice of lighting oil lamps and diyas during the festival, which represent the victory of light (good) over darkness (evil). Diwali is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and commemorates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after his victory over the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya welcomed him by lighting rows of lamps, a tradition that continues to this day.
Aside from its connection to Lord Rama, Diwali is also associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, and Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. Worshipping these deities during Diwali is believed to bring good fortune, happiness, and success in the coming year.
Diwali 2024 Date and Timeline of Celebrations:
The five-day Diwali celebration begins with Dhanteras and ends with Bhaiya Dooj, with each day carrying its own special customs and significance.
1.Dhanteras (October 28, 2024)
Dhanteras marks the official beginning of Diwali festivities. On this day, people worship Lord Dhanvantari, the god of health and Ayurveda, and Goddess Lakshmi. It is considered auspicious to buy gold, silver, or new household items as a symbol of prosperity and good fortune. Homes and marketplaces are lit up with diyas, symbolizing the welcoming of wealth and happiness.
2.Choti Diwali (October 31, 2024)
Also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, Choti Diwali celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura. This day signifies the defeat of evil and the cleansing of negativity. People clean their homes and light lamps, preparing for the main Diwali day. In many parts of India, it is also a day to take ritualistic oil baths.
3.Diwali (November 1, 2024)
Diwali, the main day of the festival, is dedicated to worshipping Goddess Lakshmi. On this day, families gather for Lakshmi Puja, which is believed to bring prosperity and abundance. Homes are adorned with rangoli (colorful designs), and windows are left open to invite the goddess inside. The evening is celebrated by lighting lamps, bursting firecrackers, and enjoying sweets with family and friends. The Lakshmi Puja Muhurat in 2024 will be from 5:36 PM to 6:16 PM.
4.Govardhan Puja (November 2, 2024)
Govardhan Puja commemorates Lord Krishna’s protection of the people of Gokul from the wrath of Lord Indra. In some regions, this day is also known as Annakut, where offerings of food are made to the gods. Large feasts are prepared, and homes are decorated with flowers and lights.
5.Bhaiya Dooj (November 2, 2024)
The festival concludes with Bhaiya Dooj, a day dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform aarti and apply a ceremonial tilak on their brothers’ foreheads, praying for their long life and well-being. In return, brothers promise to protect their sisters and often give them gifts.
Significance and Rituals of Diwali:
Diwali is not just a festival of lights but also a festival of values. It brings families and communities together, fostering love, gratitude, and kindness. The lighting of diyas represents the dispelling of ignorance and the illumination of the soul. Each part of the festival has its own rituals that are rooted in ancient Hindu traditions.
•Lakshmi Puja: The worship of Goddess Lakshmi is central to Diwali. People clean their homes and decorate them with lights and rangoli to welcome the goddess. During Lakshmi Puja, offerings of sweets, flowers, and incense are made, and prayers are recited for wealth, happiness, and prosperity.
•Exchanging Gifts and Sweets: Diwali is a time for generosity and the exchange of gifts. Families visit each other, bringing sweets and presents as a token of love and respect. This practice strengthens social bonds and spreads happiness.
•Fireworks: Firecrackers and fireworks are an essential part of Diwali celebrations. They symbolize the joy of the people of Ayodhya when Lord Rama returned. Today, the colorful displays add to the festive spirit of Diwali.
•Cleansing and Decorating Homes: It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi visits homes that are clean and well-lit. Therefore, in the days leading up to Diwali, people clean and renovate their homes, decorating them with diyas, fairy lights, and flowers to welcome prosperity.
Regional Variations of Diwali:
While Diwali is celebrated across India, the customs and traditions can vary from region to region. For instance:
•In Maharashtra, Diwali begins a day earlier with Govatsa Dwadashi, a day dedicated to worshipping cows and calves, which are considered sacred in Hinduism.
•In Gujarat, Diwali celebrations start two days earlier with Agyaras and conclude on Labh Panchami, a day when businesses reopen after the festival.
•In West Bengal, Diwali coincides with Kali Puja, a celebration dedicated to Goddess Kali, the fierce incarnation of Goddess Durga.
Diwali is not just a festival of external lights but also a time for inner reflection and renewal. It is a time to let go of past grievances, forgive, and move forward with positive intentions. The festival encourages people to introspect, embrace goodness, and spread love and light in their communities.
As we prepare for Diwali 2024, let us all celebrate the spirit of the festival with devotion, joy, and mindfulness, remembering the deeper spiritual significance behind the festivities.
Happy Diwali!