Tue, 29 Oct, 2024 – Sun, 3 Nov, 2024
Dhanteras (October 29, 2024)
Dhanteras, the first day of the Deepawali festival, is dedicated to worshipping Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and abundance. On this auspicious day, people clean and decorate their homes, believing it invites Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings. They also purchase precious metals like gold, silver, or new utensils, as it is believed that doing so attracts good fortune and wealth.
Drikpanchang mentions: “Dhantrayodashi which is also known as Dhanteras is the first day of five days long Diwali festivities. On the day of Dhantrayodashi, Goddess Lakshmi came out of the ocean during the churning of the Milky Sea. Hence, Goddess Lakshmi, along with Lord Kubera who is the God of wealth, is worshipped on the auspicious day of Trayodashi.”
Choti Diwali (October 31, 2024)
On the second day, people celebrate the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. Houses are cleaned and decorated, and earthen lamps are lit to remove the darkness of evil and welcome positivity. This day is also marked by bursting crackers in many parts of India.
Deepawali (October 31, 2024)
The main day of the festival is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi. People offer prayers and perform Lakshmi Puja in the evening, seeking her blessings for wealth and prosperity. Houses are illuminated with rows of diyas and decorative lights, and families come together to share sweets, gifts, and joy.
Govardhan Puja (November 2, 2024)
The fourth day is dedicated to Lord Krishna and the ritual of Govardhan Puja. Devotees prepare a variety of delicious dishes as offerings to Lord Krishna, symbolising the Annakut (mountain of food). The day also commemorates the lifting of Govardhan Hill by Lord Krishna to protect villagers from torrential rains.
Bhai Dooj (November 3, 2024)
The fifth and final day of Deepawali is celebrated as Bhai Dooj, a festival that honours the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for their brother’s long life and prosperity, and in return, brothers promise to protect their sisters from harm. The exchange of gifts and sweets marks this beautiful day of sibling love.
How is Diwali Celebrated?
Deepawali is known for its grand celebrations across India and in many parts of the world where Indian communities reside. The festival is a time of immense joy, where families and friends come together to celebrate unity, love, and tradition.
- Lighting Diyas and Rangoli: The lighting of oil lamps (diyas) is one of the most prominent features of Deepawali. The flickering flames of the lamps represent the victory of light over darkness. Rangoli designs, made from coloured powders, flowers, and rice, adorn the entrances of homes to welcome guests and deities.
- Bursting Firecrackers: Fireworks and fireworks are synonymous with Diwali celebrations. Although the practice has become more regulated due to environmental concerns, the sparkling display of lights in the sky adds to the festive spirit. Eco-friendly alternatives such as Green Crackers are gaining popularity to minimise pollution.
- Exchanging Gifts and Sweets: Deepawali is a time to express love and gratitude. Exchanging gifts, sweets, and dry fruits among family members, neighbours, and friends is a long-standing tradition.
- Worship and Rituals: Worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha is an essential part of Diwali. The Lakshmi Puja is performed with devotion, seeking her blessings for financial success, well-being, and peace in the household. Lord Ganesha is worshipped as the remover of obstacles and the provider of wisdom.
Deepawali 2024 is more than just a festival of lights; it is a celebration of life, prosperity, and the eternal triumph of good over evil. As people come together to celebrate, they embrace the values of family, kindness, and togetherness. The spirit of Deepawali reminds us to spread light in the darkest corners, to share joy with others, and to reflect on the blessings we have.