When to Celebrate Diwali: October 31 or November 1?

This year, the timing of Diwali celebrations has sparked considerable debate. Many people are wondering whether to observe the festival on October 31 or November 1. The confusion stems from the fact that the Amavasya (new moon) begins on the evening of October 31 and continues throughout November 1. Let’s clarify the best day to celebrate Diwali this year.

Calculation Based on Panchang

Most festivals in Sanatan Dharma are determined by the Panchang (Hindu calendar). Traditionally, Diwali is celebrated on Kartik Amavasya. This year, the Amavasya spans two days, leading to the uncertainty. Some scholars argue that the “Udaya Tithi” (the date that is valid at sunrise) is crucial, suggesting that Diwali should be celebrated on November 1. Conversely, others maintain that the special worship of Goddess Lakshmi occurs during the “Pradosh Kaal” (the time just after sunset), which concludes before November 1, indicating that Diwali should be celebrated on October 31.

Vaidik Guidelines for Diwali Celebration

Certain mythological beliefs state that worship of Lakshmi during Diwali should take place after sunset in the Pradosh Kaal. There is also the option to perform it during the Nishith Kaal (midnight period). On October 31, Amavasya will be observed in the afternoon, making it an auspicious day for Diwali celebrations. It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi manifested during the Pradosh Kaal, which is why worship during this time is especially beneficial. According to the Panchang, the Amavasya will begin at 3:12 PM on October 31 and will last until the evening of November 1. Thus, all Vedic conditions for celebrating Diwali will apply on October 31, even though Amavasya will still be in effect on November 1 until 6:16 PM.

The conclusion is that while the Udaya Tithi is important in many situations, there are times when earlier dates take precedence. This is why numerous astrologers suggest celebrating Diwali on October 31.

 Lakshmi Puja time on Diwali

As per the Panchang, Diwali is observed on the Pradoshvyapini Amavasya of the Krishna Paksha (the waning phase of the moon) in the month of Kartik. On October 31, the Pradosh Kaal will occur from 5:36 PM to 8:11 PM. The Taurus Lagna (ascendant) will be from 6:25 PM to 8:20 PM (Delhi time). This timeframe is considered perfect for conducting Lakshmi Puja.

Lakshmi Puja Timing (Nishith Kaal) for 2024 – October 31
For Tantric rituals, it is believed that performing ceremonies during Nishith Kaal is extremely beneficial. On October 31, the auspicious window for such worship will be from 11:39 PM to 12:31 AM.

Importance of Stable Lagna and Pradosh Kaal for Lakshmi Puja

It is thought that Goddess Lakshmi appeared during the Pradosh Kaal, and worshipping during a stable Lagna amplifies her presence. Therefore, conducting the puja during the Pradosh Kaal with the Taurus Lagna on Diwali is seen as very auspicious. On October 31, the Taurus Lagna will align with the Pradosh Kaal, making the period between 6:25 PM and 7:13 PM especially favorable for Lakshmi Puja. This 48-minute window is regarded as the optimal time for honoring Goddess Lakshmi.