- By Prerna Targhotra
- Mon, 28 Oct 2024 05:23 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Diwali 2024 Calendar Dates: The significant festival of Deepawali is here and people across the country are indulging in the preparations. Also known as the ‘Festival of Lights’, Diwali celebrates the homecoming of Lord Rama with Lakshman and Sita from 14 years of exile. Diwali also marks the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. On Diwali, people decorate their homes, light diyas, make rangolis and exchange sweets to uplift the spirits of celebrations.
Diwali brings with it a number of days for celebrations which include Dhanteras, Narak Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali, Lakshmi Puja, Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj. The commencement of Dhanteras marks the beginning of Diwali celebrations and culminates with Bhai Dooj.
Diwali 2024 Festival Lists With Dates
Dhanteras: October 29, 2024
Rituals: On Dhanteras, devotees worship Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, and Goddess Laxmi. It is customary to buy gold, silver or utensils as a sign of prosperity. Homes are cleaned and decorated and people light diyas (oil lamps) to welcome wealth.
Choti Diwali: October 30, 2024
Rituals: Also known as Narak Chaturdashi, this day is observed with prayers for the removal of sins. People often wake up early, take holy baths and light diyas to ward off evil spirits. Firecrackers may also be lit to celebrate the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura.
Laxmi Puja (Diwali): October 31, 2024
Diwali 2024 Festival Calendar (Image Credits: Canva)
Rituals: The main day of Diwali is dedicated to worshipping Goddess Laxmi. Families set up altars adorned with flowers, sweets, and various offerings. The puja typically occurs in the evening followed by lighting fireworks and bursting firecrackers to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness.
Govardhan Puja: 2 November, 2024
Rituals: This day honours Lord Krishna’s lifting of the Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from heavy rains. Traditionally, people create a small hillock of cow dung and decorate it with flowers and sweets symbolising the Govardhan Hill. Special prayers and feasts are prepared and community gatherings are common.
Bhai Dooj: 3 November, 2024
Rituals: Bhai Dooj celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform aarti for their brothers, apply a tilak (mark) on their foreheads and pray for their well-being. In return, brothers give gifts and promise to protect their sisters. This day emphasises familial love and commitment.
