Jodhpur, October 17 (Daily Kiran): The festival of lights, Diwali, will begin on Saturday, October 18, with the celebration of Dhanteras, marking the start of a six-day festive period this year. Unlike last year’s five-day celebration, the Diwali festivities will extend over six days due to variations in lunar dates.
The sequence of the festival will be as follows — Dhanteras on October 18, Chhoti Diwali (Roop Chaudas) on October 19, Main Diwali and Lakshmi Puja on October 20, followed by Annakoot and Govardhan Puja on October 22, and concluding with Bhai Dooj on October 23.
Lakshmi Puja on October 20 Night
According to astrologer Arun Kumar, Lakshmi Puja should be performed on the night of October 20, as the Amavasya Tithi (new moon) will prevail during the night. The Amavasya will begin at 2:27 PM on October 20 and end at 3:56 PM on October 21, making October 20 the most auspicious day for Diwali worship.
Traditionally, devotees light lamps in honour of Lord Yama on Dhanteras night and worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari, who is also believed to have appeared on this day during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean).
Chhoti Diwali on October 19
The following day, Roop Chaudas or Narak Chaturdashi, will be observed. On this day, Lord Krishna is believed to have slain the demon Narakasura. People light a four-wick lamp outside their homes at sunset, a ritual said to prevent suffering in the afterlife. The day also carries the custom of applying ubtan (herbal paste) before bathing.
Diwali and Its Significance
The main Diwali celebration on October 20 marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over Ravana. Devotees light diyas to welcome Lord Rama and seek blessings from Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity and happiness.
Annakoot and Bhai Dooj
On October 22, Annakoot Mahotsav and Govardhan Puja will be celebrated, during which Lord Krishna is offered a grand food feast (Annakoot). The celebrations will conclude with Bhai Dooj on October 23, symbolizing the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform tilak ceremonies, while brothers visit their homes and share festive meals.
Markets Glow Ahead of Dhanteras
With Dhanteras marking the start of the festivities, markets are already abuzz with festive energy. Shoppers are expected to buy gold, silver, utensils, electronic goods, and property, as these purchases are considered auspicious on Dhanteras. Traders across Rajasthan have made special preparations, anticipating a surge in sales ahead of the festive weekend.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
