Diwali, also known as Deepawali, is a vibrant five-day festival that includes Dhanteras and Bhai Dooj celebrations. Here’s the complete calendar for Diwali 2024:
DIWALI Day 1: Dhanteras
Dhanteras marks the beginning of the Diwali festivities. On this day, people worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kuber, seeking blessings for prosperity and wealth. Devotees often purchase new items, such as gold coins, bars, or jewelry, as it is considered auspicious. The day is filled with joy and anticipation for the celebrations to come.
DIWALI Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali)
Choti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, is celebrated on the second day of the festival. This day honors Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. People often wake up early to take a ritual bath and light diyas to mark the occasion. The celebrations are marked by joy and the anticipation of the main Diwali festivities to follow.
DIWALI Day 3: Diwali OR Lakshmi Puja
Diwali celebrates the return of Lord Rama, Mata Sita, and Lakshman to Ayodhya, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. On this auspicious day, people decorate their homes with earthen lamps (diyas), vibrant rangoli, and lights. In the evening, devotees perform Lakshmi and Ganesh Puja, inviting prosperity and happiness into their lives. The atmosphere is filled with joy and festivity as families come together to celebrate.
DIWALI Day 4: Govardhan Puja
Govardhan Puja is celebrated the day after Diwali and is dedicated to the worship of Govardhan Parvat (mountain). This day commemorates the legend of Lord Krishna lifting the mountain to protect the people of Mathura from the wrath of Lord Indra. Devotees create small mounds of food to represent Govardhan and offer prayers, expressing gratitude for Krishna’s divine intervention. The celebration fosters a spirit of community and reverence.
DIWALI Day 5: Bhai Dooj
The final day of the Diwali festivities is celebrated as Bhai Dooj, Bhau Beej, or Bhaiya Dooj. This day honors the special bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform aarti for their brothers, pray for their well-being, and apply a tilak on their foreheads, while brothers give gifts in return and vow to protect their sisters. It’s a joyful occasion filled with love, affection, and family togetherness, bringing the Diwali celebrations to a heartfelt conclusion.
