Diwali, India's much-awaited festival of lights is scheduled to be celebrated on October 31, 2024, as confirmed by the Drik Panchang.
This auspicious occasion honors Goddess Laxmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. Diwali falls on the Amavasya Tithi of the Kartik month, with the auspicious period beginning at 3:52 pm on October 31 and concluding at 6:16 pm on November 1. While most regions will observe the festival on October 31, some areas will celebrate on November 1 due to local traditions.
Date confusion surrounding Diwali 2024:
The date of Diwali 2024 has sparked discussions due to the Amavasya Tithi spanning both October 31 and November 1. To clarify this, the ‘Deepawali Nirnay Dharmasabha,’ a gathering of over 100 astrologers and religious scholars, convened at Central Sanskrit University in Jaipur. After thorough deliberation, they determined that October 31 is the most suitable day for Diwali celebrations, aligning with the Pradosh Kaal—an auspicious time after sunset essential for performing Laxmi Puja.
The Pradosh Kaal on October 31 runs from 5:12 pm to 7:43 pm, making it the ideal time for worship. In contrast, on November 1, the Amavasya Tithi concludes at 6:16 pm, shortening the Pradosh Kaal and reducing the time available for Laxmi Puja.
Laxmi Puja Muhurat for Diwali 2024:
For those celebrating on October 31, Laxmi Puja should take place during the Pradosh Kaal from 5:12 pm to 7:43 pm, regarded as the most auspicious time to seek the blessings of Goddess Laxmi. Meanwhile, those choosing to celebrate on November 1 will have a significantly shorter puja window, from 5:36 pm to 6:16 pm, just before the end of the Amavasya Tithi.