Diwali - Festival of Lights in India? Why do we celebrate it?

Diwali

Diwali, also known as the "Festival of Lights," is one of the most popular and widely celebrated festivals in India. It is a five-day festival that signifies the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. 

Diwali 2023 is expected to be celebrated in mid-November, and it is never too early to start planning for the festivities. In this article, we will explain each day of the five-day festival and include the shubh muhurt for Laxmi Puja.

Day 1 - Dhanteras

The first day of Diwali is called Dhanteras, which falls on the 13th lunar day of the Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik. 

On this day, people buy gold, silver, and other items of prosperity to bring good luck and wealth into their homes. 

It is also customary to light diyas (lamps) in the evening to ward off evil spirits.

Day 2 - Naraka Chaturdashi

The second day of Diwali is known as Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali. 

It is celebrated on the 14th lunar day of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Kartik. 

This day is dedicated to the vanquishing of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna. 

People wake up early in the morning, take an oil bath, and decorate their homes with rangolis (patterns made with colored powders).

Day 3 - Diwali

The third day of Diwali is the main day of the festival and is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm. 

On this day, people wear new clothes, offer prayers to Goddess Laxmi (the Goddess of Wealth), and light diyas and firecrackers to celebrate the victory of good over evil. 

In the evening, families and friends get together to exchange sweets and gifts.

Day 4 - Govardhan Puja / Padwa 

The fourth day of Diwali is called Govardhan Puja or Annakut. 

It is celebrated on the first lunar day of the Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik. 

On this day, people prepare a variety of vegetarian dishes and offer them to Lord Krishna. 

This day is also celebrated as the day when Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill to protect the people of Vrindavan from the wrath of Indra, the God of Rain.

Day 5 - Bhai Dooj

The fifth and final day of Diwali is called Bhai Dooj, also known as Bhau Beej. It is celebrated on the second lunar day of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Kartik. 

On this day, sisters pray for the long life and prosperity of their brothers, and brothers offer gifts to their sisters.

The celebrations of Diwali 2023 last for 5 days. 

• Diwali Day 1: November 10th, 2023 Trayodashi - Dhanteras 
• Diwali Day 2: November 11th, 2023 Chaturdashi - Naraka Chaturdashi 
• Diwali Day 3: November 12th, 2023 Amavasya - Diwali 
• Diwali Day 4: November 13th, 2023 Pratipada - Govardhan Puja / Padwa
• Diwali Day 5: November 14th, 2023 Dwitiya - Bhai Dooj

Shubh Muhurt for Laxmi Puja

Laxmi Puja, which is performed on the third day of Diwali, is the most important ritual of the festival. The shubh muhurt for Laxmi Puja in 2023 is as follows:

Date: November 4, 2023

Muhurat Time: 06:24 PM to 08:20 PM

Duration: 1 Hour 55 Minutes

Conclusion

Diwali is a time to celebrate with family, friends, and loved ones. It is a time to spread happiness, positivity, and love. 

By understanding the significance of each day of the festival and performing the rituals with devotion and enthusiasm, we can make the most of this auspicious occasion. 

Let us light up our homes and our hearts with the joy and spirit of Diwali.

#diwali