Deepawali 2024: Is Diwali on Oct 31 or Nov 1? Know the Correct Date and Why There's Confusion

Diwali 2024 - Is it on October 31 or November 1? This year, there is a significant confusion surrounding the correct date for Diwali puja, with some sources listing it as October 31 and others as November 1. Here, we will clarify the correct date based on the Hindu Panchang and explain why this confusion arises.

Why is there confusion about the Diwali date?

The date confusion for Diwali 2024 largely stems from the Hindu lunar calendar or Panchang, which governs most Hindu festival dates. Diwali, or the main Lakshmi Puja, occurs on Amavasya (the new moon night) during the Pradosh Kaal (early evening). Since Amavasya spans from October 31 into November 1, the timing of Lakshmi Puja may fall on either day, depending on location and interpretation of the auspicious time.

The overlap in Amavasya timing:

Amavasya Tithi begins at 3:52 PM on October 31 and ends at 6:16 PM on November 1. This overlap leads to regional variations and slightly different Muhurats (auspicious timings) for Lakshmi Puja across different locations.

Diwali 2024 Date and Lakshmi Puja Timings as per the Hindu Panchang

According to the Panchang, the primary auspicious time for Lakshmi Puja falls on Thursday, October 31, 2024. Here are the recommended Muhurats:

PRADOSH KAAL MUHURAT FOR LAKSHMI PUJA

• Lakshmi Puja on October 31, 2024
• Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: 6:54 PM to 8:33 PM (Duration: 1 hour 39 minutes)
• Pradosh Kaal: 6:02 PM to 8:33 PM
• Vrishabha Kaal: 6:54 PM to 8:54 PM

NISHITA KAAL MUHURAT (LATE NIGHT)

• Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: 11:53 PM to 12:43 AM, November 1
• Mahanishita Kaal: 11:53 PM to 12:43 AM
• Simha Kaal: 1:19 AM to 3:27 AM, November 1

These timings indicate that, as per the Panchang, the main Lakshmi Puja can ideally be observed during the Pradosh Kaal on October 31. This recommendation aligns with the traditional practice of performing Lakshmi Puja during the Pradosh period of Amavasya.

LAKSHMI PUJA MUHURAT ACROSS MAJOR CITIES

Diwali timings vary slightly across different cities in India due to geographic differences. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Pune: 6:54 PM to 8:33 PM (Oct 31)
• Mumbai: 6:57 PM to 8:36 PM (Oct 31)
• Bengaluru: 6:47 PM to 8:21 PM (Oct 31)
• Ahmedabad: 6:52 PM to 8:35 PM (Oct 31)

In Northern cities like Delhi and Chandigarh, the Lakshmi Puja Muhurat on November 1 is between 5:35 PM to 6:16 PM, after the end of Amavasya. This variation is a primary reason for confusion, as some follow the Muhurat closer to the end of Amavasya on November 1, while others follow the Pradosh Kaal on October 31.

CHOGHADIYA MUHURATS FOR DIWALI PUJA

For those following the Choghadiya (auspicious periods throughout the day), here are the recommended times:

• Afternoon Muhurat (Shubha): 4:36 PM to 6:02 PM
• Evening Muhurat (Amrita, Chara): 6:02 PM to 9:10 PM
• Night Muhurat (Labha): 12:18 AM to 1:52 AM, Nov 1
• Early Morning Muhurat (Shubha, Amrita): 3:26 AM to 6:34 AM, Nov 1

These Choghadiya Muhurats offer alternative auspicious timings for Diwali rituals for those who may miss the primary Lakshmi Puja Muhurat.

Which Date Should You Choose for Diwali Puja - Oct 31 or Nov 1?

According to the Hindu Panchang and astrologers, October 31 is generally considered the primary date for Lakshmi Puja during Diwali 2024, especially during the Pradosh Kaal. However, if you’re in a location where the auspicious timing falls closer to November 1 or if you follow the Nishita Kaal (late night), either date may be chosen for the Lakshmi Puja.