What is Diwali? When is it in 2024? Traditions of knowing more

Diwali is an important holiday celebrated by many South Asian religious communities, which will soon observe it and take part in its celebrations in the coming days.

What is Diwali? When is Diwali? Here's what you should know.

When is Diwali?

According to The Times of India, Diwali begins on October 31, 2024. It will be celebrated for five days. Dhanteras, the preparation period leading up to the peak of Diwali on October 31, begins two days earlier, on October 29.

The date of Diwali is determined by the lunar calendar. According to Almanac.com, Diwali begins on the darkest day, the night of the new moon. According to Britannica, this day usually falls on the 13th day of the dark half of the lunar month, Ashvina.

Diwali usually occurs in autumn and usually takes place in late October or early November.

What is Diwali? Which religions celebrate it?

According to National Geographic Kids, Diwali or Deepavali is known as the festival of lights. Over time, it has become a national holiday and apart from Hinduism, including Jainism and Sikhism, communities also have their own way of celebrating it.

The word Diwali is derived from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, which means row of lights. This refers to the row (Avali) of clay lamps (Deepa) that observers light outside their homes during Diwali to represent the light that protects against spiritual darkness.

Fun festival of lights: 7 Fun Ways to Celebrate Diwali with Kids

How is Diwali celebrated?

According to Britannica, Diwali customs vary by region and tradition.

It is most common among Hindus to light diyas (small clay lamps filled with oil) on the night of the new moon to invoke the goddess of prosperity, Lakshmi.

Once the diyas are lit, they are placed in rows in temples and houses or floated on rivers and streams. Houses are traditionally decorated with deliberate patterns called rangolis made of colored rice, sand or flower petals to invoke the goddess Lakshmi to bless their home with wealth and success.

When is Diwali?

What is Diwali? Which religions celebrate it?

How is Diwali celebrated?

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