Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in Hindu culture. This festival of lights signifies the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm and zeal, and it spans five days of joy, devotion, and tradition. Each day holds its unique customs and rituals, adding depth and meaning to the overall celebration. Here are the five days of Diwali festival 2023:
Day 1: Dhanteras – Welcoming Wealth and Prosperity The festivities kick off with Dhanteras, which marks the beginning of Dipawali 2023. Falling two days before Diwali, Dhanteras holds great importance as it's linked to Rishi Dhanwantari, known as the father of Ayurveda. Today, people prepare their homes and purchase new utensils, jewellery, and light lamps to invite good fortune. The act of purchasing silver and gold is a symbol of welcoming Goddess Laxmi into one's life and celebrating prosperity.
Dhanteras 2023 date and Shubh Muhurat: Date and Time In 2023, Dhanteras will be celebrated on November 10. The auspicious time for Dhanteras puja falls between 5:47 and 7:43 pm on November 10, 2023.
Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali) – Conquering Darkness Naraka Chaturdashi, commonly known as Choti Diwali, falls the day before the main Diwali festival. This day is associated with the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. People light lamps and perform rituals to dispel darkness and evil from their lives.
Choti Diwali 2023 date and shubh muhurat: Date and shubh muhurat Choti Diwali, or Narak Chaturdashi, will be celebrated on November 11, 2023. The auspicious time for ‘deepdaan' begins at 5:29 pm and ends at 8:07 pm.
Day 3: Diwali (Deepavali) – The Main Festival Day The third day, Diwali (Deepavali), is the heart of the celebration. It is the day when the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil is celebrated enthusiastically. People illuminate their homes with oil lamps, burst fireworks, exchange gifts, and offer prayers to deities, particularly Goddess Lakshmi.
Diwali 2023 date and shubh muhurat: Date and Time Diwali in 2023 falls on November 12. The auspicious time for Lakshmi Puja on Diwali is from 5:39 pm to 7:35 pm.
Day 4: Govardhan Puja (Annakut) – Honoring Lord Krishna Govardhan Puja is celebrated on the day after Diwali. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is linked to the legend of his lifting of Govardhan Hill. Devotees prepare a wide array of food offerings (annakut) and offer their worship in temples and homes.
Govardhan Puja 2023 date and shubh muhurat: Date and Time In 2023, Govardhan Puja will be observed on November 13. The muhurat for Govardhan Puja is from 6:43 am to 8:52 am.
Day 5: Bhai Dooj – Celebrating Sibling Bonds The final day of the Diwali celebration is Bhai Dooj, also known as Bhaiya Dooj or Bhau Beej. This day celebrates the special bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform aarti for their brothers, apply a tika on their foreheads, exchange gifts, and share well-wishes. Bhai Dooj is a day to express the love and affection between siblings.
Bhai Dooj 2023 date and Shubh Muhurat: Date and Time In 2023, Bhai Dooj will be celebrated on November 14. The Aparahna time for the rituals will last from 01:10 pm to 03:19 pm.
Conclusion: The Resplendent Festival of Diwali is a time of joy, unity, and spiritual reflection. It celebrates the victory of light, knowledge, and goodness over darkness and evil. The five days of Diwali, from Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj, offer a rich tapestry of traditions and rituals that bring families and communities together. As the oil lamps and fireworks light up the night and prayers are offered to deities, Diwali continues to symbolize the enduring hope and the triumph of good in our lives.
