Why Diwali 2024 Date Varies Across India?

Diwali 2024 Date: October 31 or November 1?
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Diwali, the radiant ‘Festival of Lights,’ illuminates India with its joyous spirit, embodying the eternal victory of light over darkness, hope over despair, and goodness over malevolence. In 2024, there has been some confusion regarding the exact date of Diwali, with celebrations either on October 31 or November 1, depending on regional traditions. In Maharashtra, these festivities begin with Govatsa Dwadashi a day earlier, while in Gujarat, the celebrations start two days earlier on Agyaras. Lakshmi Puja, the central ritual, is performed when the Amavasya (new moon) is visible, marking the most auspicious time. For many regions, the official date for Lakshmi Puja is October 31, 2024, with the Muhurat (auspicious time) for performing the ritual being between 5:36 p.m. and 6:16 p.m. The Amavasya Tithi begins on October 31 at 3:52 p.m.. It concludes on November 1 at 6:16 p.m., meaning some areas will observe Diwali on November 1.

Diwali celebrations span five days, each with its significance. The timeline highlights Dhanteras on October 29 (Tuesday), Choti Diwali on October 31 (Thursday), Badi Diwali on November 1 (Friday), Govardhan Puja on November 2 (Saturday), Bhai Dooj on November 3 (Sunday). Goddess Lakshmi, the auspicious deity of wealth and prosperity, is revered and worshipped during this festive occasion. However, gods such as Lord Ganesha, Goddess Saraswati, and Lord Kuber are worshipped. This Festival is especially significant for business owners, who perform rituals for their accounting books and other professional tools, seeking blessings for financial success in the coming year. As part of the rituals, families light oil lamps throughout their homes to invite Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings and to dispel darkness, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.