Dear Lykkers! Diwali, one of India's most cherished festivals, marks the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

The festival spans five days, each carrying its own distinct significance and customs.

In 2024, Diwali begins with Dhanteras on November 1 and ends with Bhai Dooj on November 5, culminating in a period filled with lights, joy, and traditional celebrations.

Dhanteras (November 1, 2024)

Significance

Dhanteras, the first day of Diwali, is dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari, symbolizing wealth and health. Families pray for prosperity and well-being and often purchase valuable items like gold, silver, and new utensils, believing they will bring good fortune.

Traditions

Homes are cleaned and decorated with rangoli, and lamps are lit to welcome Goddess Lakshmi. Many people make their first Diwali purchase on this day, setting the tone for the festival of abundance.

Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali (November 2, 2024)

Significance

Also known as Choti Diwali, this day commemorates Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. It's considered a day to cleanse and purify oneself and the surroundings in preparation for the grand Diwali celebration.

Traditions

People take an oil bath early in the morning, and in the evening, small diya lamps are lit outside the homes. Sweets and gifts are exchanged, adding to the festive spirit.

Diwali or Lakshmi Puja (November 3, 2024)

Significance

The main day of Diwali is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. Diwali night is also associated with the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile, and the city was said to be lit with lamps to welcome him home.

Traditions

Families perform Lakshmi Puja to invite prosperity into their lives and light rows of diyas to ward off darkness. Fireworks fill the night sky, and homes are filled with sweets, laughter, and shared moments with loved ones.

Govardhan Puja or Annakut (November 4, 2024)

Significance

The day following Diwali is dedicated to Lord Krishna's victory over Lord Indra. It commemorates the time Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from torrential rains sent by Indra, symbolizing nature's importance and the bond between humans and the divine.

Traditions

Offerings of sweets, grains, and fresh produce are prepared, known as the Annakut. People visit temples, perform rituals, and express gratitude for nature's abundance.

Bhai Dooj (November 5, 2024)

Significance

The final day of Diwali is dedicated to the special bond between brothers and sisters. Bhai Dooj symbolizes the love and duty shared by siblings, echoing the Raksha Bandhan festival's spirit of care and protection.

Traditions

Sisters perform aarti for their brothers and apply a tilak on their foreheads, praying for their prosperity and well-being. Brothers, in turn, give gifts to their sisters as a gesture of love and protection.

The five-day Diwali celebration beautifully reflects India's cultural values, emphasizing family, gratitude, and the power of light. From invoking prosperity on Dhanteras to cherishing sibling bonds on Bhai Dooj, each day enriches the spirit of togetherness.

Dear Lykkers, as homes glow with diyas and fireworks illuminate the skies, Diwali reminds us that light will always prevail over darkness, filling hearts with joy, hope, and love.