How to Celebrate Diwali 2024: Date, Time, and Celebration
Deepavali, or Diwali, is a major festival in India. It is celebrated on the Amavasya Tithi during the Bengali month of Kartik (corresponding to October-November in the English calendar). People from all Hindu communities in India celebrate Deepavali or Diwali. However, the Sikh, Jain, and other communities celebrate Diwali on the same day in different ways.
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| How to Celebrate Diwali 2024: Date, Time, and Celebration |
Diwali is a Sanskrit word, meaning - Row of Lights. Here the word 'deep' means 'light' and 'avali' means 'row'. This festival is a time to reflect and connect with one's heritage. This festival sends a message to overcome the darkness in our minds and move towards the light path. People from all over India and worldwide come together to organize this festival.
Key Takeaways
- Diwali is a significant Hindu festival celebrated worldwide, marking the triumph of light over darkness.
- The festival holds immense cultural and symbolic importance, deeply rooted in Indian tradition.
- Diwali is celebrated through various rituals, including lighting diyas, decorating homes, and indulging in delectable sweets and savouries.
- The festival has transcended geographical boundaries, with vibrant celebrations in many countries.
- Diwali's universal appeal lies in its message of hope, prosperity, and the celebration of good over evil.
Why Diwali is Celebrated?
Deepavali, or Diwali, is celebrated in various ways by different communities across India. However, different regions have their interpretations of how to celebrate the Diwali festival. The key points of this discussion are highlighted below:- The most popular story about Deepavali or Diwali is the return of Lord Sri Rama and Mother Sita to Ayodhya after completing their 14-year exile. To welcome their arrival, the entire population of Ayodhya lit ghee lamps and the entire city sparkled with light. The day of Lord Sri Rama and Mother Sita's arrival in Ayodhya after defeating the mighty Ravana heralds the festival of Diwali.
- On the other hand, in most parts of India, except East India, Hindu communities worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha during Diwali. On this day, every home is cleaned, and old items are removed. Lamps are kept burning throughout the night in every house. According to popular belief, Goddess Lakshmi visits and blesses those homes with wealth and prosperity."
- There is a special reason behind the celebration of Diwali in South India. It is said that Lord Krishna defeated Narakasura and freed the entire world from Narakasura's tyranny. So people of South India celebrate the Diwali festival on this day.
- Diwali festival is known as Kalipuja in East India, especially in West Bengal, Assam, and Odisha. It is also called Deepanwita Kali Puja. Deepanwita Kali Puja is mentioned in the book "Shyamasparyavidhi" written by Kashinath in 1777 AD. It is said that King Krishnachandra Roy of Nadia introduced Kalipuja in the 18th century by scaring his subjects. On this day of Diwali, fairs and events are organized in various places in West Bengal and fireworks are lit.
- On the other hand, the Jain Tirthankara Mahavira attained nirvana or salvation on Diwali in 527 BCE. Hence, this day is observed by the followers of Jainism.
- In 1619 AD Hargobind Singh, the sixth Guru of Sikhism, was released from Mughal prison on Diwali along with 52 other princes. Hence this day is called “Bandi Chhor Divas”.
- Arya Samaj observes the death anniversary of Swami Dayananda Saraswati on Diwali.
- Additionally, Diwali marks the start of the Hindu New Year for many communities, making it a time of fresh beginnings, reflection, and gratitude.
When is Diwali 2024?
Diwali festival is one of the most important festivals in India. This festival is held annually on the Amavasya Tithi of the month of Kartik. Diwali festival in India starts with “Dhanteras” and ends with “Bhai Dooj”. |
| When is Diwali 2024? |
Although the festival lasts five days, it begins on “Govatsa Dwadashi” a day before “Dhanteras” in Maharashtra. On the other hand in Gujarat two days earlier “Agyaras” started and ended on the “Labh Panchami”. In 2024, Diwali will be celebrated on 1st November, 2024.
Diwali 2024 Date and Day
The Significance of Diwali
Diwali, known as the "Festival of Lights," is very important in Hindu culture. It has deep symbolism and traditions. The lighting of diyas (oil lamps) and firecrackers symbolizes overcoming darkness and finding inner light. This represents the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.Diwali is also a time for renewal, prosperity, and strengthening family and community ties. The Deepavali meaning is about spiritual change. It brings hope, happiness, and harmony.
Symbolism and Cultural Importance
The Festival of Lights symbolism centres on honouring the divine light in each person. Lighting diyas symbolizes the soul's illumination, guiding us to enlightenment and peace. This act is both physical and metaphorical, showing the victory of right over wrong and knowledge over ignorance.The Diwali significance goes beyond the physical. It also strengthens family and community bonds. Diwali is a time for family gatherings, gift exchanges, and sharing joy. It brings unity and a sense of belonging.
Diwali is not just a festival of lights, but a celebration of the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.
Traditions and Rituals of Diwali
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is filled with Diwali traditions and Diwali rituals. The lighting of diyas, or oil lamps, is at its core. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and the illumination of the soul.
Diwali home decor is key to the celebrations. Families decorate their homes with rangoli (colourful floor designs), fresh flowers, and lights. This makes their homes warm and inviting, perfect for joyous gatherings and the exchange of gifts and sweets.
Lighting Diyas and Decorating Homes
- Lighting diyas, or oil lamps, is a central ritual during Diwali, representing the triumph of light over darkness.
- Homes are adorned with rangoli, vibrant floor designs created using colourful powders, flowers, and other materials.
- Strings of lights and fresh flowers add to the festive ambience, creating a welcoming and celebratory atmosphere.
- Families and communities come together to exchange gifts, sweets, and blessings, strengthening the bonds of love and unity.
Diwali is a time to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.
Through these Diwali traditions and Diwali rituals, the Festival of Lights shines brightly. It illuminates the hearts and souls of those who celebrate its timeless traditions.
The Festival of Lights
The festival of lights, also known as Diwali or Deepavali, lights up the world with its bright lights, colours, and joy. Firecrackers light up the sky, and homes and streets shine with diyas and fairy lights. This festival of lights shows the victory of light over darkness. It's a time for families and communities to unite and celebrate.The Deepavali festival is celebrated with lots of excitement. People decorate their homes, give gifts, and enjoy tasty Diwali delicacies. It's a time to reflect on the victory of good over evil and hope over despair.
The Festival of lights brings families together to share in the fun and make memories. It's a time to see the beauty of the world, the strength of community, and the power of light to chase away darkness.
Diwali is not just a festival of lights, but a celebration of the triumph of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair.
Conclusion
The Diwali festival, known as the Festival of Lights, brings people together from all walks of life. It celebrates joy, unity, and the victory of light over darkness. This festival is filled with rich traditions, delicious foods, and deep cultural significance.When we light diyas, give gifts, and enjoy the festivities, we connect with Diwali's true meaning. It's a time to add more light, knowledge, and goodness to our lives and the world. Diwali reminds us that light and unity can conquer even the darkest times.
May Diwali's light guide us, warm our hearts and inspire a brighter future for everyone. Let's keep the Diwali spirit alive, spreading messages of harmony, prosperity, and the victory of good over evil.
FAQ
What is the significance of Diwali?
Diwali is very important in Hindu culture. It shows the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. The lighting of diyas and firecrackers symbolize the soul's illumination.
Why is Diwali celebrated?
Diwali is celebrated for many reasons, all rooted in Hindu mythology. The most famous story is about Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after 14 years.
What are the traditions and rituals of Diwali?
How is Diwali celebrated around the world?
Diwali is celebrated worldwide, not just in India. It brings people together with its diverse and universal festivities. From grand celebrations in India to street parades in Singapore, Diwali lights up homes everywhere.
What are the delectable Diwali delicacies?
Diwali is a time for delicious food. From creamy barfi to aromatic samosas, every dish has its own flavour and cultural importance. Homes around the world prepare these treats, making Diwali a feast for the senses.
