After the vibrant celebrations of Navratri and Dussehra, our focus will shift to the upcoming festival of Diwali. Known as the festival of lights, Diwali is a time for joy, celebration, and deep-rooted traditions. Diwali, or Deepavali, is one of India’s most celebrated festivals, spanning a five-day period of celebration that begins with Dhanteras and culminates with Bhaiya Dooj. According to the Hindu calendar, Diwali falls in the month of Kartik. This year, Diwali will be celebrated on November 1, 2024. As the date approaches, the preparations for the festival begin earlier. On the day of Diwali, devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha to seek blessings for prosperity and well-being.
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Diwali 2024: Date and Puja Time
Lakshmi Puja will be held on Friday, November 1, 2024. The ideal time to perform Lakshmi Puja is during Pradosh Kaal, which starts after sunset and lasts for about 2 hours and 24 minutes. This is the moment when devotees light lamps, pray, and celebrate the arrival of Goddess Lakshmi to their homes.
Lakshmi Puja on Friday, November 1, 2024
Lakshmi Puja Muhurat – 05:36 to 18:16
Duration – 00 Hours 41 Mins
Pradosh Kaal – 05:36 to 08:11
Vrishabha Kaal – 06:20 to 08:15
Lakshmi Puja Muhurat without Sthir Lagna
Amavasya Tithi Begins – 03:52 PM on October 31, 2024
Amavasya Tithi Ends – 06:16 PM on Nov 01, 2024
(Source: drikpanchang.com)
Also Read: Diwali: 9 Recipes for 3-Course Diwali Menu
Diwali 2024: Significance and Rituals
Diwali marks the return of Lord Shri Ram to Ayodhya with his wife Sita and brother Lakshman. Residents of Ayodhya light up their homes with lamps to celebrate this auspicious occasion, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. The festival also symbolizes the victory of good over evil, a theme central to many Hindu traditions.
Worshiping Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, is an integral part of Diwali celebrations. Cleanliness plays an important role in Diwali preparations, which prompts families to clean and decorate their homes well in advance. Houses are lit up with diyas (oil lamps) and decorated with vibrant rangolis. After the puja, the family comes together to enjoy a variety of delicious dishes and lots of sweets. Another popular tradition is visiting friends and relatives, exchanging gifts, sweets, and dried fruits, strengthening the bond of love and friendship.
Diwali is celebrated with lots of sweets.
Photo Credit: iStock
Diwali 2024: 5 Traditional Sweets You Can Make At Home For Diwali
No Indian festival is complete without indulging in traditional sweets, and Diwali is no exception. Here are five traditional sweet recipes you must try to make your Diwali celebrations even sweeter!
1. Kaju Katli
A true classic, kaju katli is a beloved sweet synonymous with Diwali. Made from finely ground cashews and flavored with cardamom, this diamond-shaped treat is a crowd pleaser. It’s perfect for a gift or just to enjoy at home. Click here for the recipe.
2. Rasmalai
These melt-in-your-mouth sweets are a festive favorite. Rasmalai consists of discs of soft chhena (fresh cheese) soaked in sweetened and flavored milk. It is the perfect end to any meal during Diwali. Click here for the recipe.
3. Chawal Ki Kheer
Kheer is a staple food for Indian festivals. This creamy rice pudding made with basmati rice, milk, and fragrant nuts is a delight that pleases everyone. Click here for the recipe.
4. Motichoor Ladoo
These sweet round balls made of beautiful boondi are a Diwali essential. Motichoor ladoos are soft, flavorful, and absolutely delightful! Click here for the recipe.
5. Jalebi and Milk
Jalebi, a crispy, syrupy treat, is often paired with milk as a popular bhog offering. This combination is not only delicious, but also adds to the festive spirit.
Diwali 2024 promises to be an unforgettable event full of love and light. Happy Diwali!
