Do’s and don’ts, subh muhurat, rituals and much more

Diwali, known as the festival of lights, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy. The houses are beautifully lit, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. This festive event highlights the importance of togetherness as families and friends come together to celebrate the occasion. However, in times of anxiety, it is important to remain kind and reasonable, showing understanding towards others. To ensure a safe and joyful Diwali, here are some important rules to keep in mind during the celebrations.

Diwali 2024: Do’s and Don’ts of Today

1. Transforming your home to attract positive energy is important during Diwali. Get creative with your rangoli design, decorate with flowers, light candles and diyas. However, it is important to be careful when lighting candles; It is advisable to have a first aid kit with burn creams on hand for immediate assistance in case of any accidents.

2. This Diwali, consider adding an innovative twist to your gifts for loved ones. Instead of choosing standard store-bought bags, get creative and add your own personal touch to gifts. Personalizing them with heartfelt notes or including handmade art and crafts can make gifts more meaningful. Otherwise, they risk becoming just another box of overly gifted soan papdis.

3. During Diwali, it is important to take care of the welfare of stray animals, who are often disturbed by the loud sounds of firecrackers. To help them, residents are encouraged to place bowls of water outside their homes, as homeless people may feel dehydrated and be reluctant to come out of their shelters. If possible, not having blankets can also provide comfort for these animals during the holiday.

4. Diwali is a celebration of togetherness with family and friends. To enhance the festive spirit, people are encouraged to participate in fun activities and games including traditional card games, tambola and even dancing and singing. The essence of Diwali is to spend time with loved ones.

5. This Diwali, consider helping those less fortunate by making a donation to brighten up their festival with lights. Being a time of joy and abundance, your generosity can make a significant difference in someone’s life. To spread the holiday spirit, you can donate clothing, food, or money to local charities, shelters, or community organizations.

Diwali 2024: Lakshmi Puja Time

The timing of Lakshmi Puja, the central ritual of Diwali, is of great importance. This puja is performed during Pradosh Kaal, which occurs shortly after sunset, and is ideally performed during Mahanishita Kaal or late night hours. It is believed that performing Lakshmi Puja at this auspicious time brings prosperity, happiness and peace to the home.

• Lakshmi Puja Muhurat – from 18:52 to 20:41.
• Pradosh Kaal – from 18:10 to 20:52.
• Vrishabha Kaal – from 18:52 to 20:41.

Diwali 2024: Rituals

On the occasion of Diwali, devotees primarily worship Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi. Before starting the rituals, it is important to thoroughly clean the Puja Sthal. After cleaning, the idols of the deities should be installed by placing Goddess Lakshmi to the right of Lord Ganesha.

The puja rituals begin with the worship of Lord Ganesha. Devotees perform Aarti and offer Modak to the deity. After this, cinnabar is applied to the forehead of Goddess Lakshmi and her Aarti is performed. The spiritual offerings, known as Prasad, are then distributed to family members and loved ones.

Diwali 2024: meaning

Diwali is celebrated for various reasons, but the most famous story among Hindus is the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya after his exile in Vanvas. As per tradition, the people of Ayodhya welcomed their King Ram with great enthusiasm by lighting Diyas and holding huge celebrations.