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Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a significant cultural and religious event celebrated by Hindus across the globe. This year, Diwali is set to illuminate the season of festivities on Thursday, October 31st, 2024. The five-day celebration begins with Dhanteras on Tuesday, October 29th, and culminates with Bhaiya Dooj, marking the end of the festivities. The exact date of Diwali, however, has been a source of confusion for many, with some sources indicating October 31st and others suggesting November 1st.
The confusion stems from the fact that Diwali is celebrated to mark different events in different regions of India. In North India, Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after his exile, while in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, it commemorates the slaying of the demon Narakasura by Goddess Satyabhama and Lord Krishna. The timing of the festivities is also influenced by the lunar calendar, with Diwali falling on the Amavasya (new moon) of the Kartik month.
This year, the Amavasya Tithi begins on October 31st at 6:22 am and ends at 8:46 am. The Lakshmi Puja, the most significant ritual of Diwali, is considered auspicious during the Pradosh Kaal, which falls between 6:10 pm and 8:52 pm on October 31st. The Vrishabha Kaal, another auspicious time for worship, falls between 6:52 pm and 8:41 pm on the same day. Therefore, based on the official confirmation from the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and the Drik Panchang, the Diwali festivities will begin on the evening of October 31st, 2024, with the Lakshmi Puja.
The five-day Diwali celebration is a joyous occasion marked by the lighting of diyas, the exchange of sweets, and the performance of various rituals. The festival signifies the triumph of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and light over darkness. It is a time for family, friends, and community to come together to celebrate, reflect, and express gratitude for the blessings of the year.