In late October 2024, I had the pleasure of celebrating Diwali Festival 2024, the Festival of Lights, in Dehradun, India. This experience allowed me to immerse myself in the rich cultural traditions and festive spirit that define this auspicious occasion.
Drive Towards Mussoorie
To kick off the festivities, I embarked on a scenic drive from Dehradun to Mussoorie, a popular hill station known for its breathtaking views and colonial charm. The journey through winding roads, surrounded by lush greenery and the Himalayan foothills, was a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle.
Celebrating Diwali Festival 2024 at Home
Returning to Dehradun, I joined my family in preparing for Diwali. The day was filled with activities such as decorating the house with vibrant rangoli patterns and lighting traditional oil lamps (diyas) to symbolize the triumph of light over darkness. As evening approached, the entire neighborhood illuminated with twinkling lights, creating a mesmerizing and joyous atmosphere.
We performed customary prayers, seeking blessings for prosperity and well-being. The night culminated with a delightful feast featuring traditional Indian sweets and savory dishes, embodying the festive spirit of Diwali. The sky lit up with fireworks, and the air resonated with laughter and the warmth of togetherness.
1. When is Diwali Festival in 2024?
Diwali 2024 will be celebrated on Thursday, November 1, 2024, with the main day of Lakshmi Puja falling on this date.
2. What is the significance of Diwali Festival?
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists.
3. How is Diwali celebrated in India?
Celebrations include cleaning homes, lighting diyas and candles, decorating with rangoli, performing puja (prayer), bursting fireworks, sharing sweets, and spending time with family.
4. What are the five days of Diwali in 2024?
The five days of Diwali 2024 are:
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Day 1 – Dhanteras (Oct 29)
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Day 2 – Naraka Chaturdashi / Choti Diwali (Oct 30)
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Day 3 – Diwali / Lakshmi Puja (Nov 1)
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Day 4 – Govardhan Puja (Nov 2)
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Day 5 – Bhai Dooj (Nov 3)
5. What rituals are performed on Diwali day?
On Diwali, people perform Lakshmi Puja to welcome the goddess of wealth into their homes. It involves lighting diyas, chanting mantras, and offering sweets and gifts.
6. What are some traditional Diwali sweets and snacks?
Popular Diwali treats include laddoos, barfis, chakli, namak pare, gujiya, karanji, and kaju katli — shared with family, friends, and neighbors.
7. Why do people light diyas during Diwali?
Lighting diyas represents removing darkness and ignorance and is believed to invite prosperity, happiness, and blessings from Goddess Lakshmi.
8. Is Diwali a public holiday in India?
Yes, Diwali is a national public holiday in most parts of India, with schools, banks, and offices typically closed on the main day of celebration.
9. What are eco-friendly ways to celebrate Diwali in 2024?
Celebrate Diwali in an eco-friendly way by using LED lights, clay diyas, natural colors for rangoli, avoiding loud crackers, and gifting handmade or reusable items.
10. How is Diwali 2024 celebrated outside India?
Diwali is celebrated by Indian communities worldwide in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Singapore, and Malaysia, with public events, cultural performances, temple visits, and fireworks.
