One of India’s most cherished holidays is Diwali, the festival of lights, which represents the triumph of virtue over evil. The five-day celebration, which starts with Dhanteras and ends with Bhai Dooj, is very important in Hindu culture. Diwali’s time has come up for debate in 2024 as followers try to figure out when to celebrate.
Understanding Diwali’s Timing
The Hindu month of Kartik, which often falls in October or November, has the Amavasya (new moon) on which Diwali is traditionally celebrated. Devotees are unsure and debating the best day for Diwali Puja because this year’s Amavasya Tithi falls between October 31 and November 1.
The Astrologers’ Views
Bhopal astrologer Vinod Soni Pauddar stresses that the night of Amavasya is the ideal time to celebrate Diwali. He mentions that the Amavasya Tithi lasts till the morning of November 1 and starts on October 31 at 2:40 PM. Pauddar emphasizes the importance of celebrating Diwali Puja on October 31 and suggests that Shastra Samvat views celebrations on November 1 as unfortunate.
Pandit Nandkishore Mudgal from Devghar agrees, stating that Diwali should be celebrated mostly on October 31 because the Amavasya officially starts at 3:12 PM on that day and finishes at 5:14 PM on November 1. In Ayodhya, however, there are opposing views; some local officials support holding the ceremony on November 1.
Key Dates and Timings for Diwali 2024
As preparations for Diwali begin, here are the key dates, times, and rituals for 2024:
- Lakshmi Puja Muhurta – From 06:52 PM 08:41 PM
- Duration – 01 hours 50 minutes
- Pradosh period -From 06:10 P.M. 08:52 PM
- Taurus period -From 06:52 PM to 08:41 PM
- Amavasya Date Start -October 31, 2024 at 06:22 AM
- Amavasya date ends -November 01, 2024 at 08:46 AM
