Diwali 2024: Will October 31 or November 1 mark the festival of lights?

NEW DELHI: As communities worldwide prepare for Diwali , the festival of lights , speculation surrounding the date of this auspicious celebration has been settled. The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has confirmed the official date for Diwali this year, clarifying whether it will fall on October 31 or November 1.

Sharad Sharma, spokesperson for the VHP, told India Today TV, "The festival of Diwali this year coincides with Amavasya —the new moon phase, which begins that afternoon." Consequently, Diwali festivities are set to commence on the evening of October 31, marking a spiritually significant time for reflection and celebration. The Drik Panchang also confirms that Diwali will be celebrated on the Amavasya Tithi of the Kartik month, with Lakshmi Puja observed on October 31, 2024, as "the Amavasya moon will be visible on October 31."

For clarity, here are the auspicious timings for Diwali rituals this year:

• Amavasya Tithi: Begins at 03:52 PM on October 31, 2024, and ends at 06:16 PM on November 1, 2024.
  Pradosh Kaal: Ideal period for Lakshmi Puja, from 05:12 PM to 07:43 PM on October 31.
• Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: Set for 05:12 PM to 06:16 PM on October 31.
• Vrishabha Muhurat: From 06:00 PM to 07:59 PM on October 31.

Leading up to Diwali, October 30 will witness the celebration of Deepotsav , an event marked by the lighting of diyas and decorating homes to set the stage for Diwali itself. This year, Deepotsav also coincides with Hanuman Jayanti, a revered celebration in Ayodhya that honors the birth of Lord Hanuman.

Diwali, celebrated as the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, unites families and communities in joy and gratitude. With celebrations officially set to begin on October 31, millions worldwide are ready to embrace this sacred festival with devotion and tradition.