Diwali 2024 Date : When is Deepawali—October 31 or November 1? Dates, Puja Timings, and More

Discover the date of Diwali 2024, whether it falls on October 31 or November 1. Get details on puja timings, rituals, and festive preparations.

Diwali 2024 Date : Date and Significance

The vibrant festival of Diwali, also known as Deepawali, is almost here! In 2024, Diwali will be celebrated on October 31. This time of year is filled with joy as families clean their homes, adorn them with flowers and lights, and prepare for gatherings with loved ones. As the festivities approach, many are eager to confirm the celebration date and the associated puja timings.

Diwali represents the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. It commemorates the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya after a long exile. Celebrated across India, each region has its own unique customs, but the spirit of the festival remains the same: unity, joy, and devotion.

Important Dates and Rituals for Diwali 2024

Diwali festivities in 2024 will begin with Dhanteras on October 29, a day auspicious for purchasing metals and utensils. This will be followed by Chhoti Diwali on October 30, where families light lamps and set off fireworks to celebrate the victory over the demon Narakasura. The main Diwali celebration, including Lakshmi Puja, will occur on October 31.

Diwali 2024: Key Timings

• Diwali Date: Thursday, October 31
• Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: 6:52 PM to 8:41 PM
• Pradosh Kaal: 6:10 PM to 8:52 PM
• Amavasya Tithi Begins: 6:22 AM, October 31
• Amavasya Tithi Ends: 8:46 AM, October 31

Conducting the Lakshmi Puja

The heart of Diwali celebrations is the Lakshmi Puja, where families worship the goddess of wealth, Maa Lakshmi, alongside Lord Ganesha, who removes obstacles. Preparation starts with a thorough cleaning of the home to invite prosperity.

Select a clean, sacred area for the puja. It’s ideal to place the idols of Lakshmi and Ganesh on a red cloth rather than directly on the floor. The puja begins with invoking Lord Ganesha, followed by lighting diyas and offering flowers and sweets to both deities. Singing aarti and chanting mantras invites blessings of happiness and abundance.

Home Decoration Ideas for Diwali

Creating a festive atmosphere is essential during Diwali. Here are some decoration tips:

• Rangoli: Craft colorful patterns at your entrance using powders or flowers.
• Fairy Lights: Illuminate your home with warm white fairy lights on windows and balconies.
• Diyas: Place traditional clay diyas around your home for an authentic touch.
• Bandhanwars and Torans: Hang decorative wall hangings at entry points for a welcoming vibe.
• Fresh Flowers: Use marigolds, roses, and jasmine to enhance the festive feel.

Diwali Traditions Across India

While Diwali is a nationwide celebration, the traditions vary. In North India, it marks Lord Ram’s return to Ayodhya, celebrated with lights and sweets. In South India, it commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura, starting with a ritualistic bath. In Bengal, Kali Puja coincides with Diwali, honoring Goddess Kali for strength and protection.

Mantras to Chant for Prosperity

Chanting mantras is a significant aspect of Diwali rituals. Commonly recited are:

• Ganesh Mantra: “Om Gam Ganapataye Namah”
• Lakshmi Mantra: “Om Mahalakshmyai Cha Vidmahe Vishnu Patnyai Cha Dheemahi Tanno Lakshmi Prachodayat”
• Kuber Mantra: “Om Yakshaya Kuberaya Vaishravanaya Dhanadhanyadhipataye Dhanadhanyasamriddhim Me Dehi Dapaya Swaha”

As Diwali 2024 approaches, may your celebrations be filled with light, love, and prosperity!