Diwali 2024: Everything You Need to Know About the Spectacular Festival of Lights

Diwali 2024, also known as Deepawali or Deepawali, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and among Indian communities around the world. The festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. In 2024, Diwali will be celebrated on Thursday, October 31, bringing families together for five days of joy, light, and celebration.

In this article, we will learn about the significance of Diwali, the history behind it, the ways it is celebrated in different regions and the important traditions followed during this auspicious festival.

When is Diwali in 2024?

In 2024, Diwali falls on October 31, Thursday. However, the festival lasts for five days, and each day has its own significance:

• Day 1: Dhanteras – October 29, 2024
• Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali) – October 30, 2024
• Day 3: Lakshmi Puja (Main Diwali Night) – October 31, 2024
• Day 4: Govardhan Puja – November 2, 2024
• Day 5: Bhai Dooj – November 3, 2024

The Significance of Diwali

Diwali, also known as the “festival of lights”, is celebrated to mark the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. According to Hindu mythology, the people of Ayodhya lit lamps to welcome their beloved king, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.

Diwali is also significant in other regions for different reasons. In Gujarat it marks the New Year, while in West Bengal it is associated with the worship of Goddess Kali.

How Diwali, Deepavali, and Deepawali Are Celebrated

The festival is known by various names across India — Diwali in the north, Deepavali in the south, and Deepawali in many regions—but its essence remains the same: spreading joy, light, and positivity.

Cleaning and decoration

In preparation for Diwali, houses are thoroughly cleaned and decorated with colourful rangolis and bright oil lamps. People also hang decorative lights to illuminate their homes, symbolising the victory of light over darkness.

Lakshmi puja

On the main night of Diwali, families perform Lakshmi Puja, praying to Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. This ritual is important as it brings wealth and happiness to homes.

Bursting Firecrackers

Bursting firecrackers is a tradition to ward off evil spirits. However, in recent years, many people have turned to eco-friendly alternatives to celebrate Diwali in a more environmentally conscious way.

Exchange of gifts and sweets

Diwali is incomplete without the exchange of gifts and sweets among friends and family. Traditional Indian sweets like laddu, barfi and kaju-katli are enjoyed during the festival.

Regional Variants of Diwali Celebrations

Although Diwali is celebrated all over India, each region has its own unique customs and traditions:

• North India: In states like Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Punjab, Diwali is celebrated to commemorate the return of Lord Rama. The entire city is lit up with diyas and grand fairs are organized.
• South India: Here Diwali is known as Deepawali and is celebrated to commemorate the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. On this day, oil baths and special prayers are usually performed early in the morning.
• Western India: In Gujarat and Maharashtra, Diwali marks the beginning of a new year. Traders and businessmen close their accounts and start afresh.
• Eastern India: Kali Puja is celebrated on the night of Diwali in West Bengal. Devotees worship Goddess Kali and light candles to honor her power.

Global Celebration of Diwali

Diwali is not just confined to India; it is celebrated by millions of people around the world. Countries like Nepal, Malaysia, Singapore and Mauritius have a public holiday on Diwali and people of Indian origin celebrate it with great enthusiasm. Indian communities in Western countries like the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia also organize grand Diwali events, often including cultural performances, fairs and fireworks displays.

Eco-Friendly Diwali: A Growing Trend

As awareness about environmental issues is rising, many people are choosing to celebrate Diwali in an eco-friendly way. Here are some tips to make Diwali 2024 celebrations more sustainable:

• Choose eco-friendly diyas made of clay instead of electric lights.
• Avoid burning loud crackers; choose green crackers or enjoy a cracker-free celebration.
• Use natural materials like flowers and organic colours to create your rangoli.
• Donate old clothes and items to the needy, which will spread happiness and the true spirit of charity.

Conclusion

Diwali 2024 promises to be a grand celebration of light, love and positivity. Whether you call it Diwali, Deepawali or Deepawali, this festival brings people together, transcends boundaries and spreads happiness across the world.

So, while you prepare for this festival of lights, don’t forget to celebrate it with love, care and an eco-friendly touch. Wishing you a happy and prosperous Diwali 2024.

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