Diwali 2024: Why Is It Celebrated and the Story Behind the Festival of Lights
Diwali 2024
Diwali, also known as Deepawali, is one of the most anticipated and widely celebrated festivals in India and across the globe. Known as the "Festival of Lights," Diwali represents the victory of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and light over darkness. Diwali 2024 will be celebrated with the same enthusiasm and energy, as it unites millions of people to participate in rituals, light diyas (oil lamps), burst fireworks, share sweets, and exchange gifts.
Diwali is celebrated over five days, with each day carrying unique cultural, religious, and spiritual significance. It begins with Dhanteras and ends with Bhai Dooj, bringing families and communities together to honor tradition, celebrate love, and usher in new beginnings. Let's explore the significance of Diwali, the traditions observed, and how the festival in 2024 will continue to be a grand celebration of life and joy.
The Story Behind the Festival of Lights
Diwali, or Deepawali, is one of the most celebrated festivals in India and around the world also called the Festival of Lights. Let’s explore the stories behind why Diwali is celebrated and what makes this festival so special.
The Return of Lord Rama: Victory of Good Over Evil
In northern India, Diwali is celebrated to honor the return of Lord Rama, the prince of Ayodhya, after a 14-year exile. According to the ancient Hindu epic Ramayana, Lord Rama was exiled to the forest due to the scheming of his stepmother. He was accompanied by his wife, Sita, and his brother, Lakshmana. During this exile, the demon king Ravana kidnapped Sita and took her to Lanka (modern-day Sri Lanka).
After a fierce battle, Lord Rama, with the help of his loyal devotee Hanuman and an army of monkeys, defeated Ravana and rescued Sita upon their victorious return to Ayodhya, the people celebrated by lighting oil lamps (diyas) to welcome their king and queen and to mark the end of their suffering. Illuminating homes with lamps is still practiced today as a symbol of light prevailing over darkness and the return of goodness.
Lord Krishna’s Defeat of Narakasura: The Triumph of Righteousness
In southern India, Diwali marks another significant victory — that of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. Narakasura was a tyrant who caused suffering and fear across the land, even abducting 16,000 women. Lord Krishna, with his wife Satyabhama, took up arms to defeat Narakasura and free the people from his reign of terror.
Krishna's victory symbolizes the triumph of righteousness and the end of oppression. The second day of Diwali, known as Naraka Chaturdashi, commemorates this event, and people celebrate by bursting firecrackers and lighting lamps to signify the end of Narakasura’s tyranny and the return of joy and freedom.
Lakshmi Puja: Inviting Prosperity and Wealth
The third day of Diwali is widely known for Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. Lakshmi Puja is performed in homes and businesses, as people pray for blessings in their financial and personal lives. Houses are cleaned and decorated with rangoli (intricate designs made from colored powders or flowers) and lit with diyas to invite Lakshmi’s presence.
According to legend, Lakshmi emerged from the ocean during the churning of the cosmic Milky Way (Samudra Manthan), carrying wealth and prosperity. On Diwali night, it is believed that she visits the cleanest and brightest homes to bless the residents with wealth and happiness. This day represents new beginnings and is a time for purchasing new clothes, starting new ventures, and making financial investments.
The Return of King Bali: A Story of Generosity and Sacrifice
In southern India, another important story associated with Diwali is that of King Bali, a generous but powerful ruler. Bali became so powerful that the gods feared his growing influence. To curb his power, Lord Vishnu took the form of a dwarf (Vamana) and tricked Bali into giving away all his lands. However, due to his kindness, Bali was allowed to return to Earth once a year to visit his people.
The return of Bali is celebrated as Bali Padyami, in southern India. People light lamps and decorate their homes to welcome the spirit of King Bali and celebrate his generosity and sacrifice.
The Pandavas’ Return: A Celebration of Light and Hope
Another legend linked to Diwali is the return of the Pandavas from their exile, as narrated in the epic Mahabharata. The Pandavas were sent into exile after losing a dice game to their cousins, the Kauravas. Upon their return, the people celebrated by lighting lamps and bursting fireworks. This tradition continues today, as fireworks are an integral part of Diwali celebrations, symbolizing joy and hope for the future.
When is Diwali 2024 celebrated?
Diwali or Deepawali 2024 is celebrated over five days, with each day representing a unique ritual. Let’s take a look at how the festival unfolds
Dhanteras (October 29, 2024)
The first day of Diwali is Dhanteras, which is considered highly auspicious for purchasing gold, silver, and household items. It is a day to honor Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, who emerged during the churning of the ocean carrying a pot of Amrit (nectar of immortality). Homes are thoroughly cleaned, and families pray for good health and prosperity.
Naraka Chaturdasi (October 31, 2024)
The second day, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali, commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura. It symbolizes the cleansing of the soul from negative energies. Ritual oil baths are taken before sunrise, and diyas are lit to eliminate darkness.
Diwali/Deepawali (November 1, 2024)
The third day is the main festival of Diwali/Deepawali, celebrated by performing Lakshmi Puja, lighting diyas, decorating homes, and bursting fireworks. The lighting of diyas symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, while Lakshmi Puja is performed to invoke the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi for wealth, prosperity, and well-being.
Govardhan Puja (November 2, 2024)
The fourth day is Govardhan Puja, which celebrates Lord Krishna lifting Mount Govardhan to protect the people of Vrindavan from torrential rains. On this day, food offerings are made to Lord Krishna, and prayers are performed to thank him for his protection.
Bhai Dooj (November 3, 2024)
On the fifth and final day, Bhai Dooj celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for their brother's long life and prosperity, and brothers offer gifts to their sisters as a token of love and respect.
The Role of Incense in Diwali Celebrations
During Diwali, the use of incense sticks, dhoop, and sambrani cup plays a significant role in rituals and prayers. The aromatic smoke from incense is believed to purify the atmosphere and invite positive energies into the home. Incense sticks not only help in creating a sacred ambiance during the worship of deities but also help to enhance meditation, relaxation, and focus.
For Diwali 2024, you can enhance your spiritual rituals with premium incense products that offer a unique blend of fragrances designed to enrich the senses and purify your space. Here are a few product recommendations which bring together some of the finest aromatic products to help you celebrate Diwali in a serene and peaceful environment.
Assorted Dhoops and Sambrani
A Perfect Addition to Your Diwali Celebrations
The Assorted dhoops and Sambrani combo is a carefully curated selection of premium fragrances that will enhance your spiritual practices during Diwali. The combo includes the calming essence of Vijaya 3 in 1 Cup Sambrani, the rich aroma of White Musk and Black Musk Premium Jumbo Thick Dhoop Sticks, and the soothing fragrance of Liberty Flora Incense Sticks.
Vijaya 3 in 1 Cup Sambrani:Sambrani is traditionally used in Hindu rituals to purify the air and ward off negative energies. Its deep, earthy fragrance creates a peaceful and grounded atmosphere, perfect for prayers during Diwali.
To know more read: Vijaya Cup Sambrani: A 3 in 1 Aromatic Experience from Liberty Agarbathi
White Musk & Black Musk Premium Jumbo Thick Dhoop Sticks: Musk is known for its sensual, rich aroma that promotes relaxation and mindfulness. Whether you are engaging in meditation or performing Lakshmi Puja, these dhoop sticks create an enveloping aura of serenity.
Flora Premium Dhoop Sticks: With its delicate floral fragrance, Liberty Flora is perfect for lighting during the evening prayers on Diwali night. The aroma fills the home with a sense of freshness and spiritual energy, making it ideal for worshiping Goddess Lakshmi.
Assorted Pack 5 in 1 Zipper
A Blend of Premium Aromas
For those seeking variety, the Assorted Pack 5 in 1 Zipper offers a blend of premium incense products suitable for every occasion during Diwali. This pack includes Kushal Mangal 5 in 1 Zipper Pouch and Viva 5 in One Premium Incense Sticks, which are designed to create a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere in your home or during prayers. The variety of scents provides an opportunity to experiment with different aromas throughout the five days of the festival.
Assorted Jumbo Dhoop Sticks
LongLasting Aromas for Diwali 2024
If you prefer long lasting fragrances that enhance your spiritual environment, the Assorted Jumbo Dhoop Sticks combo is perfect for you. This pack features three powerful fragrant Dhoop Sticks: Flora Premium Jumbo Dhoop, 1947 Premium Jumbo Thick Dhoop, and Jai Sree Ram Jumbo Dhoop Sticks. Each of these dhoop sticks offers a unique aromatic experience, filling your space with rich, soothing scents that last throughout your rituals, prayers, or meditation sessions.
All-in-One Assorted Aromas
All in One Collection for Festival Celebrations
Relax and rejuvenate with the All-In-One Assorted Aromas, a thoughtfully curated collection of premium fragrances designed to bring balance and serenity to your space. This combo includes the grounding aroma of Vijaya 3 in 1 Cup Sambrani, the rich and soothing scent of Viva Signature Dhoop Sticks (200g), the convenience of Viva Simple Cones (100g) for quick aromatherapy, and the refreshing floral fragrance of Tridiva Flora Incense Sticks. Together, these products create the perfect ambiance for relaxation and tranquility, whether at home or in the workspace.
Also Read: Begin your Spiritual Journey with Tridiva Flora Incense Sticks
Conclusion
Diwali 2024, or Deepawali 2024, is a festival that brings joy, light, and positivity into people’s lives. It’s a celebration of the human spirit, of overcoming challenges, and of the eternal hope that good will always triumph over evil. Whether you light a diya to welcome Lord Rama, perform Lakshmi Puja for prosperity, or commemorate Krishna’s victory over Narakasura, Diwali unites us in its message of love, hope, and renewal.
Beyond its religious significance, Diwali has also come to represent the spirit of togetherness and renewal. Families clean and decorate their homes, exchange gifts, prepare elaborate meals, and gather to celebrate with loved ones. Communities come together to share the joy of the festival, regardless of religious beliefs.
Diwali is also a time for self-reflection and spiritual growth. Incorporating incense into your Diwali celebrations can enhance the spiritual atmosphere of your home, offering a calming, meditative space for worship and reflection. The assorted packs of incense products are designed to bring peace, serenity, and purity to your space, making them an ideal addition to your Diwali 2024 festivities. The light of the diyas symbolizes the inner light that protects us from spiritual darkness, while the celebrations remind us of the importance of kindness, charity, and forgiveness.
As we prepare to celebrate the Festival of Lights, let us remember that Diwali is not just about lighting lamps but also about igniting the light within ourselves.
May Diwali 2024 bring you happiness, prosperity, and peace in abundance!
