The gleam of diyas, the sparkle of phuljhadis and the aroma of sweets herald the arrival of Diwali, one of the most widely celebrated Hindu festivals. Falling usually in autumn-winter, this year the festival of lights will be celebrated on 19 October, according to the Drik Panchang. The festival of Deepawali usually falls in the month of Kartika on the day of Amavasyaa, according to the Bikram Sambat calendar.
The preparations for Diwali start months in advance with people cleaning their homes and getting the walls whitewashed, among various other renovations. On the day of the festival and a couple of days before and after, they light their homes and workplaces with diyas and coloured fairy lights. The most important ceremony of the festival however, is the Lakshmi-Ganesh pujan for wealth, prosperity and abundance. After this, kids burn crackers and families and friends exchange sweets and gifts amongst each other.
What are the Extended Diwali Celebrations?
The mood for Diwali festivities is set with Dhanteras, the day when people buy gold, ornaments, vessels and the idols of Ganesh-Lakshmi. This is followed by Narak Chaturdasi – also popularly known as Choti Diwali – and finally Diwali on the third day. The next day after Deepawali is celebrated as Diwali Padwa, which is also known as Govardhan Puja followed by Bhai-Dooj – celebrating the bond between brother and sister – on the fifth day.
In some parts, Diwali night is also marked for Kali Puja celebrations by Bengalis.
Why Is Diwali Celebrated?
There are several legends associated with Diwali and its origin. As per one of the more popular legends, Diwali is celebrated to mark the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita and brother Laxman after 14 years of exile. According to yet another legend, Diwali is celebrated to commemorate the return of the Pandavas after 12 years of exile and one year of incognito-exile.
What’s the Most Auspicious Time for Lakshmi-Ganesh Puja This Year?
According to Drik Panchang:
Diwali Puja Muhurat
Lakshmi Puja Muhurta on 19 October is between 7:44 pm and 8:38 pm.
Duration: 54 Mins
Pradosh Kaal: 18:09 to 20:38
Vrishabha Kaal: 19:44 to 21:44
Amavasya Tithi begins at 00:13 on 19 October
Amavasya Tithi ends on 00:41 on 20 October
Pradosh Kaal is the optimal time for Diwali puja, as per Drik Panchang.
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