As Diwali, the festival of lights, approaches, many people are wondering: When exactly is Diwali 2024? Due to the confusion whether it is October 31 or November 1, many people are confused about the date of the festival.
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The Significance of Diwali
Deepavali or Diwali is the most popular festival in the Hindu culture. From a historical perspective from the looks of the sun over lamp it emblematizes victory over evil and ignorance. The Festival of Diwali is observed by using oil lamps, firecrackers, sweets distribution and prayer offerings to Lakshmi- the goddess of wealth, and Ganesh – the god of prosperity.
Diwali can be celebrated at any date due to the fact that this festival is based on the Hindu lunar calendar. In general, Diwali is held on the day of the new moon on Kartik there is no exact date on the English calendar but it comes in October or November.
Why the Confusion in 2024?
In 2024, the Diwali date confusion arises because the new moon phase (Amavasya) spans two days: October 31 and November 1. Some calendars follow the local practices and the way the phase of the moon is considered, which is why Diwali is indicated as occurring on the evening of October 31st, whereas others use November 1st as the day of celebration.
Here’s why both dates are in contention:
October 31, 2024: A few may celebrate Diwali on this day because, as per tradition, no moon starts from the evening of October 31.
November 1, 2024: Some people may party today since some customs celebrate the festival at the end of the new moon calendar, and as a result, November 1 is a rightful celebration period.
WHEN IS DIWALI 2024: DATE AND SHUBH MUHURAT
For those looking to follow the most auspicious times for the Lakshmi Puja during Diwali 2024, here are the key details:
Diwali Date: Diwali 2024 will be falling on Nov 1st, 2024 as prescribed by most of the Hindu calendars.
Lakshmi Puja Muhurat (Auspicious Time):
The auspicious time for Lakshmi Puja will start from November 1, 2024, in the evening.
The most auspicious time for performing the Lakshmi Puja is from 6:05 PM to 8:20 PM (IST). This is the most appropriate time to remember the deity of wealth and prosperity – Goddess Lakshmi.
Ideally, the puja should be performed during the Pradosh Kaal which is the period just after sunset. Additionally, the Amavasya Tithi will begin at 2:At 34 PM on October 31 and will end right at 2:59 PM on November 1, 2024, adding to the existing change in regional traditions for the day.
Variation based on Region and Culture
The respective cultures of the Indian states differ a lot and so does the perception of the religious dates. Thus, despite the fact Diwali is the festival of lights it may be celebrated on October 31 in one country while in the other it is celebrated on November 1. For states in the south like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka or parts of north India, there could be variations according to their almanack.
It is also important to point out that for global communities celebrating Diwali the day of celebration can also depend on the time difference in different countries.
What Date Should You Choose?
Finally, for deciding the time to celebrate Diwali, the reference should be made to local traditions or to the used calendar. During Diwali, if you have some of your family and friends in different parts of the country you may even be popping the corks on two different dates!
In the overall perspective, therefore, the importance of Diwali is not the precise time it is celebrated. Despite, if the festival is being celebrated On October 31st or November 1st it is all about reunion, celebration with friends and family and spreading light in the form of positivity in and around.
Conclusion
Now, all those who learn about the Diwali 2024 date are unsure whether to prepare for the festival on October 31 or November 1, but the main thing is the holiday itself. Whatever date you decide to celebrate don’t forget, Diwali is all about love and light. Anyway, let’s not forget that it is a festival of joy, togetherness, and the victory of good over evil.