Diwali 2024: The auspicious “shubh muhurat” for Lakshmi-Ganesh puja is set between 6:27 PM and 8:23 PM on Thursday. Known widely as Deepavali, this “Festival of Lights” marks the victory of good over evil and the arrival of joy and hope. Celebrated on the Amavasya Tithi of the Kartik month, it commemorates the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya after 14 years in exile. Legend has it that Ayodhya’s people welcomed him by lighting thousands of diyas, a tradition that remains alive to this day.
According to Acharya Satyendra Maharaj, the head priest of the Ayodhya Ram Temple, Badi Diwali will take place on October 31 this year. During this festival, devotees worship Maa Lakshmi, Lord Ganesh, and Lord Kuber, praying for blessings of prosperity and well-being.
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20:38 Oct 31 In Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district, the Indian Army’s Romeo Force celebrated Diwali with local residents in DKG Dehra Ki Gali of Tapa Pir and Manyal village. Soldiers distributed sweets and shared in the celebrations, strengthening bonds with the community. Solar lights were also installed in the village to brighten homes and streets for the occasion.
20:34 Oct 31 Actor Suniel Shetty shared a Diwali photo with his family, including daughter Athiya Shetty and son-in-law KL Rahul. He sent Diwali greetings to fans, though he mentioned missing his son, Ahan Shetty.
20:22 Oct 31 In Kerala’s Kottayam, residents lit earthen and electric lamps as part of Diwali celebrations.
20:21 Oct 31 Former Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah extended Diwali wishes, expressing hope for peace and prosperity in every household.
19:56 Oct 31 In Jharkhand’s Bokaro district, several temporary firecracker shops were engulfed in flames. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and officials are investigating the cause.
19:51 Oct 31 Delhi’s Rashtrapati Bhavan and Parliament buildings were illuminated for Diwali.
19:39 Oct 31 Diwali was celebrated with zeal in Rajasthan. The walled city of Jaipur was decorated with lights, and markets were bustling with festive shoppers.
19:17 Oct 31 In Madhya Pradesh, CM Mohan Yadav and state BJP leaders performed Lakshmi-Ganesh puja at their party office in Bhopal, praying for happiness and prosperity.
18:51 Oct 31 Delhi’s air quality worsened to the “very poor” category due to Diwali festivities. The city’s 24-hour AQI was recorded at 328, reflecting increased pollution levels.
18:41 Oct 31 Actress Parineeti Chopra joined Diwali celebrations, sharing festive photos dressed in a green traditional suit and wishing fans a “Chamkila Diwali.”
Diwali, with its pujas, decorations, and family gatherings, continues to be celebrated enthusiastically across India. From lighting diyas to honoring Goddess Lakshmi, this day holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for millions.