Written by Saurabhh | October 4, 2024, 02:35 PM
The festival of Diwali, celebrated annually on the new moon (Amavasya) of Kartik month as per the Hindu lunar calendar, is a time of joy, lights, and devotion. People worldwide, not just in India, celebrate this day by worshiping Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Kubera, decorating their homes with lights, lamps, and rangoli. It is believed that on this day, Goddess Lakshmi visits the earth, so homes are cleaned thoroughly, and people illuminate their houses with oil lamps to welcome prosperity and abundance.
However, in 2024, there is significant confusion regarding the exact date of Diwali because the Amavasya falls on two days—October 31st and November 1st. Some suggest celebrating on October 31st, while others recommend November 1st. Let’s clear up this confusion with insights from astrologers and learn the exact Lakshmi Puja timings and the complete Diwali calendar for 2024.
The Correct Date for Diwali 2024: October 31st or November 1st?
Astrologer’s shed light on the situation. Diwali is always celebrated on the Amavasya (new moon) of the Kartik month. This year, Amavasya falls on both October 31st and November 1st, creating confusion. Technically, the Amavasya will last from 3:12 PM on October 31st to 5:14 PM on November 1st. However, the festival of Diwali is traditionally observed on the evening of Amavasya, making October 31st the ideal date for celebrations.
The reason for this is the presence of the Pradosh Kaal (auspicious evening period) on October 31st, while November 1st does not have the right “Nishita” muhurat, which is crucial for Diwali rituals. Therefore, Diwali will be celebrated on October 31st, 2024, with Lakshmi Puja taking place in the evening.
Lakshmi Puja Timings for Diwali 2024
- Nishita Muhurat for Lakshmi Puja: 11:39 PM to 12:31 AM (October 31st)
- Shubh Muhurat for Lakshmi Puja: 6:27 PM to 8:32 PM (October 31st)
These are the auspicious times to worship Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity, wealth, and success. Ensure your prayers are conducted within these time frames for maximum spiritual benefits.
Diwali 2024 Calendar
| Event | Date | Day | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dhanteras | October 29, 2024 | Tuesday | Celebrate Dhanvantari Jayanti for health & wealth |
| Choti Diwali | October 30, 2024 | Wednesday | Naraka Chaturdashi – day before Diwali |
| Diwali (Lakshmi Puja) | October 31, 2024 | Thursday | Main celebration with Lakshmi Puja |
| Govardhan Puja | November 2, 2024 | Saturday | Dedicated to Lord Krishna |
| Bhai Dooj | November 3, 2024 | Sunday | Celebrating sibling bonds |
Why Diwali Is Celebrated
Diwali marks the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana. The people of Ayodhya lit lamps to welcome their king, starting the tradition of illuminating homes with lights and candles. The festival also honors Goddess Lakshmi, who blesses devotees with wealth and prosperity. This is why homes are decorated and prayers are offered, especially during the Lakshmi Puja, which is considered the most auspicious time of the year for wealth and financial growth.
Remedies for Wealth and Prosperity on Diwali
- Lakshmi Puja: Perform the ritual with full devotion during the Nishita Muhurat. Use lotus flowers, sandalwood paste, and offer sweets to Goddess Lakshmi.
- Lighting Diyas: Light 13 diyas (lamps) at different corners of the house to ward off negative energies and attract positive vibes.
- Place a Kubera Yantra: A Kubera Yantra, placed in the house’s north direction, can bring wealth and abundance.
- Rangoli: Create a rangoli with rice flour and colored powders near the entrance of the house to invite Goddess Lakshmi.
- Charity: Donating food, clothes, or money to the needy on Diwali can enhance your karma and bring blessings of prosperity.
FAQs
1. Why is there confusion about Diwali 2024?
The confusion arises because the Amavasya (new moon) falls on both October 31st and November 1st. However, astrologers recommend celebrating Diwali on October 31st due to the presence of the Pradosh Kaal.
2. What are the Lakshmi Puja timings for Diwali 2024?
The Nishita Muhurat for Lakshmi Puja is from 11:39 PM to 12:31 AM, while the Shubh Muhurat is from 6:27 PM to 8:32 PM on October 31st, 2024.
3. Can I celebrate Diwali on November 1st?
Astrologically, October 31st is the most auspicious date for Diwali in 2024, as the proper Nishita muhurat and Pradosh Kaal fall on this day.
4. What should be done during Lakshmi Puja?
During Lakshmi Puja, offer lotus flowers, light lamps, and pray with devotion during the Nishita Muhurat. Also, maintain cleanliness to invite prosperity.
5. What remedies can be done for financial growth on Diwali?
Besides Lakshmi Puja, light 13 diyas, use a Kubera Yantra, and perform charity to boost financial and spiritual growth.