The Significance of Diwali: A 5-Day Festival of Lights and Triumph

Strategic Insights -

Diwali, or the festival of lights, is one of the largest and most significant festivals in India. Observed over five days, it is a time of great celebration and ritual, with deep cleaning of homes, gifting new clothes, and worship of various deities. This year, the festival will begin on October 29 with Dhanteras, an auspicious day to purchase gold and start new ventures, followed by Choti Diwali, Lakshmi Puja, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj.

Key Takeaways:

  • Dhanteras will be observed on October 29, with the Trayodashi Tithi beginning at 10:31 AM and ending at 1:15 PM.
  • Dhanteras is considered an auspicious day to purchase gold, silver, and other precious metals.
  • Choti Diwali, also known as Narak Chaturdashi, commemorates the triumph of Lord Krishna against Narakasura.
  • Lakshmi Puja will be observed on October 31, with the Amavasya Tithi beginning at 3:52 PM and ending at 6:16 PM on November 1.
  • Govardhan Puja falls on November 2, commemorating Lord Krishna's triumph against God Indra.
  • Bhai Dooj celebrates the bond between a brother and a sister, with the sister praying for the brother's longevity and good health.

Statistics:

  • 5: Number of days of the Diwali festival.
  • 10:31 AM: Time when the Trayodashi Tithi begins on October 29.
  • 1:15 PM: Time when the Trayodashi Tithi ends on October 29.
  • 6:37 PM: START of Yama Deepam on October 29.
  • 7:56 PM: END of Yama Deepam on October 29.
  • 3:52 PM: Time when the Amavasya Tithi begins on October 31.
  • 6:16 PM: Time when the Amavasya Tithi ends on November 1.
  • 2: Day of Govardhan Puja, commemorating Lord Krishna's triumph against God Indra.

Sources:

  • HT Digital Content Services with permission from Hindustan Times.