Diwali in Uttarakhand 2024:The Uttarakhand government has announced an additional public holiday on November 1, 2024, for Diwali celebrations, extending the festival across two days. With Diwali scheduled on October 31, the state had already declared a holiday, but popular demand has led the Dhami government to add November 1 as a public holiday as well.
Diwali in Uttarakhand 2024:Why Two Diwali Dates in Uttarakhand?
This year, Diwali in Uttarakhand has sparked significant debate over the auspicious date for celebrations. Traditionally, Diwali is observed on the Amavasya (new moon) in the Hindu month of Kartik, yet, due to unique astrological events this year, both October 31 and November 1 are being considered for celebrations.
- October 31: As per astrologers in Haridwar, October 31 holds significance due to the alignment of Pradosh Kaal, Nishith Kaal, Maha Nishith Kaal, and the Swati Nakshatra, which are all available on this night. These periods are regarded as ideal times for Lakshmi Puja, leading many to believe that Diwali should be celebrated on October 31.
- November 1: Alternatively, astrological interpretations from the revered Ganga Sabha in Haridwar suggest celebrating Diwali on November 1. According to their analysis, Amavasya is present during sunrise and Pradosh Kaal on November 1, marking it as a suitable day for Lakshmi and Ganesha Puja. Devotees from Chardham (Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri) will observe Diwali on this day.
Diwali in Uttarakhand 2024:Government’s Holiday Announcement
Given the importance of Diwali and its spiritual connotations, many in Uttarakhand petitioned the government to declare a holiday on November 1 as well. Responding to public sentiment, the Uttarakhand government issued an order granting public holidays on both October 31 and November 1.
Diwali in Uttarakhand 2024:The Mythological Significance of Diwali
The festival of Diwali has deep-rooted significance in Hindu mythology, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. Diwali is associated with two primary events from Hindu tradition:
- Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean): During Satya Yuga, Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the ocean on the Amavasya of Kartik, marking the beginning of Lakshmi Puja. The tradition of honoring the goddess of wealth has continued since then.
- Lord Rama’s Return to Ayodhya: In Treta Yuga, Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile on Diwali, where he was welcomed with rows of oil lamps. This symbolic triumph of good over evil is commemorated with lights and festivities on Diwali night.
Diwali in Uttarakhand 2024:The Spiritual Importance of Lakshmi-Ganesha Puja During Diwali
Performing Lakshmi-Ganesha Puja during Diwali is believed to invite prosperity and remove obstacles from devotees’ lives. The following time periods are considered auspicious for Diwali Puja:
- Pradosh Kaal: The two-hour period after sunset on October 31 and November 1 is considered ideal for the rituals.
- Nishith Kaal and Maha Nishith Kaal: Available only on the night of October 31, these late-night hours are viewed as highly auspicious for Lakshmi Puja.
Conclusion: A Unique Two-Day Celebration in Uttarakhand
Diwali in Uttarakhand 2024 will witness celebrations spanning across two days, allowing devotees to honor tradition on their preferred date. This two-day festival reflects the state’s rich cultural heritage and the flexibility of Hindu customs, offering both days to welcome light, prosperity, and joy into their homes.
Wishing everyone a bright and blessed Diwali!
Read also :Diwali 2024 Laxmi Puja Muhurat: Date, Time, and Significance of Lakshmi-Ganesha Worship
