Introduction: Deepawali, more commonly known as Diwali, is one of India’s most celebrated festivals. It is a time of vibrant lights, delicious sweets, and joyous gatherings. Diwali is steeped in tradition and culture, and each year, it brings with it a sense of renewal, hope, and happiness. In this article, we will explore the significance of Diwali in 2024, its date in the Indian calendar, the associated holidays, and the much-awaited “Diwali 2024 kab hai?” or “When is Diwali 2024?”.
Diwali 2024 Date in India Calendar:
Diwali falls on the fifteenth day of the Hindu lunar month of Kartika. The date varies each year based on the lunar calendar. In 2024, Diwali will be celebrated on Sunday, the 1st of November. It is important to note that Diwali is not a one-day festival; it is celebrated over five days. The main day of Diwali, also known as Diwali proper, typically falls on the third day of the festival, which is why it’s celebrated on the 1st of November this year. It is on this day that people light lamps, exchange gifts, and offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi.
Diwali 2024 Holidays:
Diwali is a significant and widely celebrated festival in India. As a result, it brings with it a string of holidays. In 2024, the Diwali holidays will span for several days:
1. Dhanteras (29th October 2024): The Diwali festivities begin with Dhanteras, the first day of the festival. On this day, people worship Lord Dhanvantari for health and prosperity. It is considered an auspicious day for buying gold, silver, and other valuable items.
2. Choti Diwali or Naraka Chaturdashi (31th October 2024): The second day of Diwali, known as Choti Diwali, is marked by the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. People light oil lamps and burst firecrackers to celebrate this victory.
3. Diwali Proper (1st November): The third day, which is the main day of Diwali, involves the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Homes and public places are beautifully decorated with colorful Rangoli designs, and earthen lamps are lit to symbolize the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
4. Govardhan Puja (2nd November): On this day, Lord Krishna is worshipped, and a mound of food is made to symbolize the Govardhan Hill, which Lord Krishna lifted to protect the villagers from torrential rain.
5. Bhai Dooj (3rd November): The final day of the Diwali festival is Bhai Dooj, a day to celebrate the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters apply a tilak on their brothers’ foreheads, perform an aarti, and exchange gifts.
Diwali 2024 Kab Hai? (When is Diwali 2024?):
The question “Diwali 2024 kab hai?” is a common one in the lead-up to the festival. As mentioned earlier, Diwali in 2024 will be celebrated on the 12thof November. This is a day that millions of people across India and around the world eagerly anticipate. It is a time for families to come together, share special meals, exchange gifts, and bask in the warm glow of earthen lamps.
Significance of Diwali:
Diwali holds immense cultural and spiritual significance. It is a time for people to seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi for wealth and prosperity. It is also associated with the victory of light over darkness and the triumph of good over evil. In many regions of India, Diwali marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year. The festival is celebrated by people of various religions and backgrounds, making it a symbol of unity and diversity in India.
Traditions and Celebrations:
The celebrations of Diwali are characterized by a multitude of traditions and customs. Homes are thoroughly cleaned and adorned with colorful Rangoli patterns made of rice flour, flowers, or colored powders. Diyas (earthen lamps) and candles are lit to symbolize the removal of spiritual darkness and the arrival of light.
Exchanging gifts and sweets is a common practice during Diwali. It is believed that giving and receiving gifts on this auspicious occasion brings good fortune and strengthens bonds among friends and family. Fireworks and firecrackers light up the night sky, adding to the festive spirit.
Food and Sweets:
Special Diwali sweets and snacks are prepared for the occasion. Popular Diwali sweets include laddoos, jalebis, and barfis. Savory snacks like samosas and pakoras are also relished. Families come together to prepare these delicacies and share them with neighbors and loved ones.
Conclusion:
Diwali, in all its splendor and diversity, remains a cherished festival in India and among the Indian diaspora worldwide. Its message of light, hope, and the victory of good over evil continues to resonate with people from all walks of life. In 2024, as Diwali approaches, the excitement and enthusiasm for this festival are palpable. The “Festival of Lights” is a time to renew bonds, seek blessings, and celebrate the richness of Indian culture and tradition.