As Diwali 2024 approaches, homes across India are buzzing with preparations to welcome the festival of lights. Diwali, also known as Deepawali, celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, bringing joy, prosperity, and new beginnings. This year, Diwali falls on October 31, sparking some confusion around the exact date due to overlapping lunar phases. Here’s an easy guide to help you navigate this year’s dates, muhurat timings, rituals, and regional variations.

Key Dates of Diwali 2024: The Five-Day Celebration

Diwali isn’t just a single day; it’s a five-day festival, each day carrying its unique significance and customs:

  • October 29, 2024 (Tuesday) - Dhanteras: The day of wealth and health.
  • October 30, 2024 (Wednesday) - Choti Diwali (Narak Chaturdashi): Preparing for Diwali by dispelling darkness.
  • October 31, 2024 (Thursday) - Diwali and Lakshmi Puja: The main day for lighting diyas and worshiping Goddess Lakshmi.
  • November 2, 2024 (Saturday) - Govardhan Puja: Honoring nature and celebrating Lord Krishna’s spirit.
  • November 3, 2024 (Sunday) - Bhai Dooj: Celebrating sibling bonds.

Why the Confusion Between October 31 and November 1?

The timing of Diwali festivities often stirs questions because the main Diwali day aligns with the Amavasya Tithi (new moon phase) in the Hindu lunar calendar. This year, Amavasya Tithi begins at 3:52 pm on October 31 and continues until 6:16 pm on November 1. This overlap has led some to question which day is best for the Lakshmi Puja. According to Hindu Panchang and Drik Panchang, Diwali and Lakshmi Puja will be celebrated on October 31.

Lakshmi Puja Shubh Muhurat and Pradosh Kaal Timings

Lakshmi Puja, the central ritual on Diwali night, involves worshipping Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, along with Lord Ganesha for good fortune. Here are the auspicious timings for Diwali Puja on October 31, 2024:

Puja Details Timing (October 31, 2024)
Lakshmi Puja Muhurat 6:52 pm to 8:41 pm
Pradosh Kaal 6:10 pm to 8:52 pm
Vrishabha Kaal 6:52 pm to 8:41 pm

City-Wise Lakshmi Puja Timings for Diwali 2024

To ensure that the Lakshmi Puja is conducted during the most auspicious moments, here are city-specific timings for major cities across India:

  • Mumbai: 6:57 pm - 8:36 pm
  • Pune: 6:54 pm - 8:33 pm
  • New Delhi: 5:36 pm - 6:16 pm
  • Bengaluru: 6:47 pm - 8:21 pm
  • Ahmedabad: 6:52 pm - 8:35 pm
  • Chennai: 5:42 pm - 6:16 pm
  • Jaipur: 5:44 pm - 6:16 pm
  • Hyderabad: 5:44 pm - 6:16 pm

Rituals and Traditions to Follow on Diwali

Diwali customs involve extensive preparation and reverence, starting with cleaning and decorating homes to welcome Goddess Lakshmi. Here are some essential Dos and Don’ts for Diwali Puja:

Dos for Diwali Puja

  • Keep the house clean and brightly lit, as it is believed that Goddess Lakshmi graces only well-kept and illuminated places.
  • Decorate with diyas, rangoli, and fresh flowers to enhance the aesthetic and spiritual ambiance.
  • Set up the puja altar in the northeast corner, with idols facing east and worshippers seated facing north.
  • Use a red cloth on the puja setup and arrange idols of Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and Goddess Saraswati.
  • Place items of value (like gold and silver) during the puja for blessings of prosperity.

Don’ts for Diwali Puja

  • Avoid using glass idols; clay or silver idols are considered more auspicious.
  • Footwear should not be left at the entrance during Diwali Puja as a mark of respect to Goddess Lakshmi.
  • Do not leave the puja site unattended at night, ensuring the diyas burn continuously with ghee or oil.
  • Avoid engaging in money transactions, taking loans, or lending money on Diwali.

Celebrating Diwali Across Regions: North vs. South

In North India, Diwali marks the homecoming of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after his victory over Ravana. The festival is celebrated with diyas, lights, and evening rituals. Conversely, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka celebrate Diwali on Narak Chaturdashi (October 30) in honor of Goddess Satyabhama and Lord Krishna’s victory over demon Narakasura. Here, lamps are lit at dawn instead of dusk.

Embracing Diwali’s Spirit of Joy and Prosperity

While customs vary, the essence of Diwali remains universal: the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. This year’s Diwali, on October 31, 2024, promises moments of reflection, celebration, and renewed hope. As you prepare, may these shubh muhurat timings, puja guidelines, and regional insights bring clarity and meaning to your festivities.

Wishing you a prosperous and joy-filled Diwali 2024 from Nex News Network!