“Diwali 2024: Celebrate from October 29 to November 3, starting with Dhanteras and ending with Bhai Dooj, with grand festivities on November 1.”
Diwali, one of the most eagerly awaited festivals in India, is approaching quickly. In 2024, the celebrations will begin on Tuesday, October 29, and continue until Sunday, November 3, making it a six-day festival instead of the usual five. This extended celebration allows for more time to enjoy the festivities, traditions, and rituals that make Diwali so special. Here’s everything you need to know about Diwali 2024, from the important dates to the significance of each day.
Diwali 2024 Dates and Celebrations
The festival of Diwali will officially start on October 29, 2024 (Tuesday), with Dhanteras, and end on November 3, 2024 (Sunday), with Bhai Dooj. The main day of Diwali, which is celebrated with the most enthusiasm and grandeur, falls on November 1, 2024 (Friday). The extra sixth day in the celebrations adds to the excitement, giving families and friends more time to come together and participate in various rituals.
Day 1: Dhanteras (October 29, 2024)
Dhanteras marks the first day of the Diwali festival. It is dedicated to worshipping Lord Dhanvantari, the god of health and medicine, and Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. On this day, people buy gold, silver, and other valuables, as it is considered auspicious and believed to bring prosperity. Homes are cleaned and decorated with rangoli, oil lamps, and flowers to welcome positive energy and good fortune.
Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi (October 30, 2024)
Also known as Choti Diwali, Naraka Chaturdashi is observed on the second day. It commemorates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. On this day, people wake up early, take an oil bath, and wear new clothes. Many light small clay lamps (diyas) around their houses, which signifies the end of darkness and the beginning of light.
Day 3: Lakshmi Puja (November 1, 2024)
The third day is the main Diwali festival, known as Lakshmi Puja. This is when people worship Goddess Lakshmi to seek blessings for wealth, happiness, and success. Homes are illuminated with diyas and decorative lights, while the sound of firecrackers fills the air. Families come together to perform puja rituals and enjoy festive foods, sweets, and exchange gifts. It is a day filled with joy, hope, and positivity.
Day 4: Govardhan Puja (November 2, 2024)
The fourth day of Diwali, known as Govardhan Puja or Annakut, is dedicated to worshipping Lord Krishna and commemorating the lifting of the Govardhan Hill to protect the people of Gokul. On this day, devotees prepare a variety of delicious foods and offer them to the deity, followed by community feasts. It signifies gratitude and the celebration of nature’s abundance.
Day 5: Bhai Dooj (November 3, 2024)
The final day of the Diwali celebrations is Bhai Dooj, a special day dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform rituals for their brothers’ long life and prosperity, and in return, brothers give gifts as a token of appreciation. It is a day that highlights family bonds and strengthens relationships.
Significance of the Six-Day Diwali Celebration
The extended six-day Diwali celebration in 2024 provides more time to immerse in the traditions, family bonding, and spiritual practices that define the festival. The addition of the sixth day allows for a more relaxed schedule, giving everyone a chance to participate in each day’s unique rituals.
With the main Diwali festivities falling on a Friday, it also makes it easier for people to celebrate over the weekend, ensuring that the joyous spirit of Diwali can be experienced without interruption.
Conclusion
Diwali 2024 promises to be a grand affair with six days of vibrant celebrations. From October 29 to November 3, the festival will bring light, happiness, and prosperity to homes across India and beyond. Mark your calendar and prepare to celebrate this Diwali with renewed enthusiasm, honoring the age-old traditions that continue to bring people together.
