Diwali 2024 Live Updates: One killed as firecracker-laden two-wheeler explodes in Andhra Pradesh

Delhi's air quality continued to deteriorate, remaining in the "very poor" category on Diwali, with levels expected to worsen to the "severe" category due to bursting of firecrackers at night.

Delhiites woke up Thursday to a sky shrouded in a thick layer of smog. The air in Anand Vihar, a major terminus, was extremely polluted with the AQI in the "severe" category. The city's 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 328 at 4 pm, up from 307 on Wednesday when the city celebrated Chhoti Diwali.

A man died after the firecrackers he was carrying on a two-wheeler exploded in Eluru town of Andhra Pradesh on Thursday, police said. The incident occurred when two persons were transporting a bag of firecrackers bought for Diwali celebrations.

The bag containing 'onion bombs' and other crackers exploded after falling on the road, resulting in the death of the rider on the spot, a senior police official told PTI based on preliminary investigation.

The UK is very keen to clinch the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India and is building towards that magic moment, Britain’s minister in charge of the Indo-Pacific said during a special Diwali reception in London.

Catherine West, parliamentary under-secretary of state in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), referenced the previous Conservative government’s Diwali 2022 deadline to complete the FTA negotiations as she reiterated the recently elected Labour government’s commitment to get the deal done. The FTA negotiations, which were paused for general elections in both countries, are aimed at significantly enhancing the estimated GBP 38.1 billion a year bilateral trading partnership.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on October 31 celebrated Diwali with the soldiers of Garhwal Rifles in Lansdowne. He expressed his gratitude towards the soldiers and saluted their bravery and sacrifice. "The role of the soldiers and their families dedicated day and night in the service of the nation is highly commendable. Our soldiers have always shown unparalleled courage and sacrifice to protect the country. Our government is committed to the welfare of the soldiers and their families," Dhami said.

PM Modi emphasized that India only trusts the determination of its brave jawans and at no point will it compromise on even an inch of its borders. "Today, Bharat cannot compromise on even an inch of its borders. That's why our policies are aligned with the resolve of our armed forces. We trust the determination of our soldiers, not the words of our enemies," the Prime Minister tells our security forces in Gujarat's Kutch district.

India is equipping the Army with all modern resources today keeping the need of the 21st century in mind. "Keeping in mind the need of the 21st century, today we are equipping our Army, our security forces, with modern resources. We are putting our Army in the league of the world's most modern military forces. The basis of these efforts is self-reliance in the defence sector," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday celebrated the festival of lights with the personnel of the Border Security Force (BSF), Army, Navy and Air Force near the Indo-Pak border in Gujarat's Kutch district.

Speaking in Gujarat later, the Prime Minister said, “Getting an opportunity to celebrate the festival of Diwali with the jawans is the biggest happiness… I extend my best wishes to you all.”

"Whenever I celebrate my Diwali with you all, my joy increases several times. This time, Diwali is special as Lord Ram has returned to his abode in Ayodhya after 500 years," he added further.

Himachal Pradesh chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu extended his wishes to people on the occasion of Diwali. “My heartfelt greetings to the dear people of the state on this holy festival of Diwali, the victory of truth over untruth, light over darkness and religion over unrighteousness,” he wrote.

“May this great festival bring new hopes in your life and the blessings of Maa Lakshmi spread the immense light of happiness, prosperity and joy in your home and family,” the chief minister added.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi along with his family purchased rangoli colours and diyas on the occasion of Diwali from local vendors to support the ‘vocal for local' initiative in Bhubaneswar.

Diwali 2024 Live Updates: PM Modi celebrates Diwali with jawans in Kachchh, Gujarat

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge extended heartfelt greetings to all the countrymen on the occasion of Diwali. “May this unique festival that takes us from darkness to light bring happiness in the lives of all of you; may everyone's life be prosperous and happy, this is my wish,” he wrote.

“There should be love, brotherhood, harmony and goodwill in the society, and we all should remain united and continue to fight against injustice, ignorance and discrimination so that the light of justice and truth can guide us,” the Congress leader added.

Do’s:

It is considered most favorable to conduct the Diwali Puja during the designated auspicious time (shubh muhurat).

A clean and organized home is essential for Diwali, as it symbolizes purity and prepares a welcoming space for Goddess Lakshmi during the puja ceremonies.

Enhance your home's spiritual atmosphere by chanting mantras for Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi, or playing devotional bhajans, which create an aura of peace and divinity.

Don’ts:

During Diwali puja, abstain from alcohol and non-vegetarian foods, as they are believed to diminish the ritual's sacred benefits.

As Diwali celebrates wealth and prosperity, treat money with respect by preserving currency, maintaining cleanliness, and avoiding food waste.

Embrace positivity during Diwali by maintaining a peaceful mindset, as negative thoughts and anger are believed to dispel the festival's auspicious energy.

Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini extended heartfelt greetings and best wishes on the occasion of Diwali. “Today is the auspicious festival of Deepawali. I extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the people of the state on this auspicious festival. I pray to God that it brings happiness, prosperity and wealth to all of you,” he said.

After Indian and Chinese troops completed disengagement at Demchok and Depsang Plains in eastern Ladakh, they exchanged sweets at several border points along LAC on the occasion of Diwali, Army sources told PTI.

The process follows the agreement firmed up between the two countries on patrolling and disengagement of troops along the LAC in eastern Ladakh, a major breakthrough to end the over four-year standoff.

Diwali 2024 Live Updates: IMF's Gopinath shares video of White House military band playing 'Om Jai Jagdeesh Hare'

Diwali celebrations took off in the coastal state of Goa after the burning of Narakasur demon effigies in the early hours of Thursday.

As per traditions, the effigies were taken around before they were burnt to mark the victory of good over evil.

Governor of Goa P S Sreedharan Pillai extended his Diwali greetings to the people of the state.

Calling Diwali one of India’s biggest festivals, the governor said people celebrate it with great enthusiasm, irrespective of caste, creed or religion. Most importantly, this event represents the triumph of light over darkness, he said.

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant also greeted citizens on the occasion.

In his message to the public, CM Sawant said, “Diwali inspires people and builds a society filled with peace, amity and brotherhood. People are united on this occasion by culture and tradition. This is a time to create beautiful memories, embrace forgiveness, and spread kindness.” He said Diwali brings families and communities together to cherish moments of togetherness. The glow from lamps would brighten lives while uniting the people to defeat all disruptive forces, he said.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced modified service timings for October 31 in observance of Diwali.

As per the DMRC, the last metro train on Thursday will operate at 10.00 pm from terminal stations of all lines, including the Airport Express line. The services are usually operational till 11:00pm on regular days. However, it added that the metro train services will run as usual for rest of the day from routine commencement timings on all the lines.

New York City has made a landmark decision to declare Diwali an official school holiday, allowing its 1.1 million students to celebrate the festival of lights.

Starting this year, New York City public schools will observe Diwali as an official holiday, following legislation signed by State Governor Kathy Hochul in 2023.

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Delhi Police maintains heightened surveillance to prevent firecracker usage in the city, particularly in light of recent intelligence alerts.

A total of 377 teams of Delhi Police and government officials have been deployed on ground to ensure blanket ban on sale and purchase of fire crackers in the city on Diwali. "Legal actions will be taken against those caught bursting crackers during the festival," a senior police officer told PTI.

Police will also be deployed in civil dress seeing that the ban on crackers is followed.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in the 'Diwali Milan with Soldiers' program in Lansdowne Cantonment, Pauri Garhwal.

“We all are celebrating Diwali happily and safely because of our brave soldiers who are here to protect us 24x7...Garhwal regiment has a long history and they have also contributed to many wars,” he said.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi took to X and extended wishes on the occasion of Diwali. “Heartiest greetings of Deepawali to all countrymen,” he wrote.

“I hope that the light of this festival will remove the darkness from your life and illuminate it with happiness and prosperity,” Gandhi added further.

President Droupadi Murmu extended greetings and good wishes to all Indians living in India and abroad.

“On the auspicious occasion of Diwali, we should illuminate our conscience, adopt virtues of love and compassion, and promote social harmony. This festival is also an opportunity to help the deprived and needy and share our happiness with them…,” the post read.

Union home minister Amit Shah extended Diwali wishes to the people of India. He took to X and wrote, “Heartiest greetings to all countrymen on the festival of lights, Diwali. May this festival of lights bring new energy, health and prosperity in the lives of all of you.”

On his visit to the Ayodhya Ram temple on Thursday, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath said "First of all, I heartily congratulate you and the people of the entire state on Deepawali. I wish that this festival of Deepawali brings joy, happiness and prosperity to your family. Those who saw yesterday's Deepotsav in Ayodhya were overwhelmed...After 500 years, Ram Lalla has been seated in Ayodhya Dham. When the people of Ayodhya will celebrate the first Diwali in the presence of Ram Lalla in the presence of Ayodhya, the entire state, the entire country and the world light lamps in their homes. The lamps will be of happiness, enthusiasm, excitement, faith, unity..."

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath visits to pray at Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Temple, Ayodhya, on the morning of Diwali.

On Diwali, PM Modi Prays for a Bright, Healthy, and Prosperous Future for All

Early this morning, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared warm Diwali greetings on X, extending his wishes for a prosperous and joyful celebration to everyone. His message read, "Heartfelt Diwali wishes to all the people of the nation. On this divine festival of lights, I wish everyone a healthy, joyful, and prosperous life. May the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha bring well-being to all."

देशवासियों को दीपावली की अनेकानेक शुभकामनाएं। रोशनी के इस दिव्य उत्सव पर मैं हर किसी के स्वस्थ, सुखमय और सौभाग्यपूर्ण जीवन की कामना करता हूं। मां लक्ष्मी और भगवान श्री गणेश की कृपा से सबका कल्याण हो।

The auspicious Lakshmi Puja Muhurat on Diwali 2024 is set for 5:36 PM to 6:16 PM on October 31, aligning with the Pradosh Kaal. This 41-minute window is ideal for worshipping Goddess Lakshmi. Additionally, the Vrishabha Kaal, another favorable period for Diwali rituals, spans from 6:00 PM to 7:59 PM, providing an extended opportunity to seek divine blessings.

Diwali will be celebrated on October 31, 2024, and traditionally observed with Lakshmi Puja, symbolizing the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. The Amavasya Tithi, marking the new moon, starts on October 31 at 3:52 PM and will end on November 1 at 6:16 PM. Many regions celebrate Diwali across these two days due to regional traditions​

On the occasion of Diwali and Lakshmi Puja, PM Modi tweeted, "Many happy wishes to the countrymen on Deepawali. On this divine festival of lights, I wish everyone a healthy, happy and prosperous life. May everyone prosper with the blessings of Maa Lakshmi and Lord Shri Ganesha."

Wishing everyone a happy Diwali, Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi emphasized his commitment to building a developed state and taking it to new heights.

According to the National Stock Exchange (NSE) notification, the Muhurat Trading session will be held on Friday, November 1. Conducted during the evening of Lakshmi Puja, this brief session is not merely ceremonial; it reflects the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi for financial success and prosperity in the coming year.

In line with tradition, retail investors and institutions alike make small but meaningful trades, marking the session with positive sentiment rather than high volume. Even those who aren’t active traders often place token investments, believing these bring fortune and financial gains for the year ahead.

On the occasion of Diwali, the chief minister of Pakistan's Punjab province, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has announced that Rs 15,000 will be distributed among 1,400 Hindu families in the state.

Addressing a gathering, she said, "We are all Pakistanis, and Diwali symbolises peace, harmony, and love."

Details here.

Amavasya, the new moon day, is the most important day of Diwali and is celebrated as Lakshmi Puja. This day, often referred to as Lakshmi-Ganesh Puja, sees households and businesses performing rituals dedicated to invoking blessings of prosperity, health, and success. The worship includes not only Goddess Lakshmi but also other deities such as Lord Ganesha, and in some regions, Goddess Saraswati and Goddess Kali. Diwali Puja is especially significant for Hindu business families, as it marks a ceremonial beginning to their financial year. On this day, ledgers, ink bottles, and pens, known as Davat (दावात) and Lekhani (लेखनी), are symbolically sanctified as a tribute to prosperity. Traditional account books, called Bahi-Khate (बही-खाते), are worshipped alongside.

Diwali Puja is traditionally done in the evening, during the Pradosh Kaal, the time after sunset. The Muhurat (auspicious timing) is considered most powerful during this period, as it is believed that rituals performed during Pradosh bring prosperity and peace. Ideally, the day of Diwali Puja is selected based on when the Amavasya Tithi aligns with the Pradosh Kaal, even if the auspicious timing is brief.

1. Clean and Decorate the Space: Start by cleaning your home thoroughly, as it is believed that Goddess Lakshmi visits only clean spaces. Decorate your home entrance and puja room with rangoli and light oil lamps to welcome the divine.
2. Set up the Puja Area: Arrange a platform and cover it with a clean cloth. Place idols or pictures of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha on the platform. Additionally, set aside new account books, pens, and any symbolic items related to your business or home for blessings.
3. Invoke the Deities: Begin the puja by lighting a diya and chanting prayers. Offer flowers, fruits, sweets, and incense. You can also place a Kalash (pot) filled with water, mango leaves, and a coconut on the platform.
4. Lakshmi Aarti and Offerings: Perform the aarti of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, accompanied by devotional songs. Offer sweets, rice, and coins as a symbol of abundance.
5. Place Diyas Around the Home: Light diyas around your home and leave one diya facing south in honor of Yama, the god of death, to seek protection for your family.
6. Sanctify the Business Items: If you are a business owner, place your account books, pens, and ink bottles in front of the deities.
7. Perform a small prayer for a prosperous financial year ahead.

This time period aligns with both Pradosh Kaal (6:02 PM to 8:33 PM) and Vrishabha Kaal (6:54 PM to 8:54 PM), making it the ideal window for performing the main Lakshmi Puja ritual.

Amavasya Tithi (New Moon Phase): Begins at 3:52 PM on October 31 and ends at 6:16 PM on November 1. As the darkest night of the month, Amavasya is believed to be the most potent for worshipping Lakshmi.

For those observing late-night rituals, the Nishita Kaal Muhurat offers another opportunity. This period spans from 11:53 PM to 12:43 AM on November 1, under Mahanishita Kaal, which is also auspicious for Lakshmi Puja.

Respectfully dress in clean, traditional attire for Puja. Begin after thoroughly cleaning your home to invite positive energy. Light an even number of diyas for harmony, avoiding plastic or synthetic items. Keep the atmosphere calm, avoiding distractions or idle chatter. Avoid consuming non-vegetarian food before the Puja.

The timing of Lakshmi Puja is crucial for optimum blessings. Diwali’s most auspicious period falls during Pradosh Kaal (evening) and Nishita Kaal (midnight), favorable for prosperity rituals. Checking the exact muhurat based on your location is advised. Starting puja at this time invokes divine energies of prosperity.

Lakshmi Puja on Diwali is an age-old tradition celebrating wealth and abundance. Goddess Lakshmi is worshiped as the deity of fortune, blessing homes with prosperity. Diwali, marking her arrival, symbolizes the victory of light over darkness. Performing Lakshmi Puja is believed to attract good fortune and ward off financial obstacles.

Gather essential items like a Lakshmi idol, flowers, incense sticks, diyas, and sweets. You’ll need a Puja thali, vermilion, rice, and coconut for traditional offerings. Kalash (water pot) is also vital for invoking purity. Place an oil diya for Goddess Lakshmi and a ghee diya for Lord Ganesh. Include currency notes or gold for prosperity.

Performing Lakshmi Puja step-by-step is key to inviting prosperity. Begin by purifying your home with water and light incense. Set up a clean, decorated altar with an idol or picture of Goddess Lakshmi. Chant Lakshmi mantras while offering flowers, fruits, and sweets. Conclude with a heartfelt Aarti and meditate on blessings.

Celebrate Diwali 2024 with heartfelt wishes and joyful messages! Discover 50+ unique quotes, messages, and status updates to spread festive cheer with friends, family, and beyond. Click here to access Diwali 2024 Wishes

For the first time, residents in Harris County, Texas, can legally buy fireworks for Diwali, marking a significant recognition of the festival in the region. Celebrations in Houston kicked off with a vibrant Diwali-Dussehra festival hosted by the Shri Sita Ram Foundation, drawing 12,000 attendees and featuring traditional dances, food, and a dazzling fireworks display symbolizing light over darkness. With jewellery and sweet shops bustling and fireworks stores open exclusively for Diwali, Houston’s festivities highlight the growing acceptance of Diwali as a cherished cultural event in the USA.

Archbishop of Goa and Daman, Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao, extended heartfelt Diwali greetings, highlighting that the festival embodies principles shared by all religions—the triumph of good over evil. On behalf of the Catholic community of Goa, he encouraged people to continue spreading the light of harmony and unity, urging everyone to uphold respect for diverse backgrounds and foster an inclusive society. The archbishop’s message emphasized Diwali’s deeper significance, calling for a commitment to peace and respect across all communities.

On the eve of Diwali, Puducherry Lt Governor K Kailashnathan, Chief Minister N Rangasamy, and other prominent leaders extended warm greetings to the people of the Union Territory. Lt Governor Kailashnathan emphasized Diwali’s role in fostering unity and brotherhood and urged citizens to celebrate joyfully while being mindful of air pollution. Chief Minister Rangasamy wished for Diwali to bring “new light and beginnings” to every household, along with joy, prosperity, and a bright future. Political leaders across the region joined in to convey Diwali wishes, highlighting the festival’s significance for unity and renewal.

Ahead of Diwali, gold prices surged by Rs 1,000, breaching the Rs 82,000 per 10 grams mark in Delhi for the first time. This spike reflects heightened demand as jewellers stock up to meet the festive buying surge. The All India Sarafa Association reports that gold of 99.9% purity reached Rs 82,400 per 10 grams, driven by robust festive demand and global market trends. Silver also saw gains, climbing to Rs 1.01 lakh per kg, marking a notable 36% rise since last year’s Diwali season, highlighting the precious metals' appeal during India’s festival of lights.

After successfully completing troop disengagement at Demchok and Depsang Plains in eastern Ladakh, Indian and Chinese forces are set to mark Diwali with a traditional exchange of sweets along the border, Army sources report. This symbolic gesture, resuming after a significant de-escalation, celebrates the recent agreement to ease tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

From 260 miles above Earth on the International Space Station (ISS), astronaut Sunita Williams shared heartfelt Diwali greetings, reflecting on her cultural roots and her father's legacy. “This year, I have the unique opportunity to celebrate Diwali from 260 miles above the Earth on the ISS,” Williams said. She expressed gratitude for growing up in a multicultural household where her parents taught her about Diwali, symbolizing the triumph of goodness. She also thanked President Joe Biden for honoring the Indian community’s contributions during the Diwali celebration at the White House.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described this year’s Diwali as “historic,” as it marks the first celebration in 500 years where thousands of diyas will be lit at the temple built on the birthplace of Lord Ram in Ayodhya. "Many of us have seen many Diwalis, but this Diwali is historic," he remarked, noting that this is a special Deepawali when “our Ram has returned to his home” after a wait of 500 years. He expressed that the current generation is fortunate to witness this celebration, honoring the sacrifices made by many for this momentous occasion.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended warm Diwali greetings to the people, emphasizing its significance in the Sanatan Dharma tradition. Reflecting on the origins of the festival, he noted that Diwali began thousands of years ago to commemorate Lord Shri Ram's return to Ayodhya after 14 years in exile and the start of Ramrajya, a period of peace and prosperity. This year's Diwali is "historic," he added, as Lord Ram has been enshrined in Ayodhya’s new temple after a 500-year wait. Through Deepotsav, the Uttar Pradesh government aims to honor this ancient tradition and share the spiritual grandeur of Ayodhya with the world, lighting innumerable diyas to celebrate the occasion.

President Droupadi Murmu extended heartfelt Diwali greetings, encouraging citizens to illuminate their hearts with love, compassion, and social harmony. Diwali is a celebration of happiness, symbolizing the triumph of knowledge over ignorance and good over evil, celebrated with enthusiasm across India and abroad. The President highlighted the festival as a moment to support those in need and spread joy together. Emphasizing India's rich heritage, she urged everyone to celebrate a pollution-free Diwali and commit to building a prosperous, responsible society.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath led the grand aarti ceremony on the banks of the sacred Saryu River in Ayodhya as part of the Deepotsav 2024 celebrations. The ritual was conducted amid thousands of illuminated diyas, creating a mesmerizing scene along the river, with devotees gathered to witness the spiritual event. The aarti marks a key moment in the Deepotsav, celebrating the divine return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya.

The river Saryu holds immense significance in Hinduism as a sacred river associated with the ancient city of Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama. It is believed that taking a dip in the Saryu cleanses one's sins and brings spiritual purity. The river is mentioned in several Hindu texts, including the Ramayana, and is revered by devotees who visit Ayodhya to connect with its holy waters as part of their pilgrimage.

In the grand celebration of Deepotsav 2024, 2.8 million diyas have been arranged across key sites, including Ram Ki Paidi, Chaudhary Charan Singh Ghat, and Bhajan Sandhya Sthal, with the goal of lighting 2.5 million to set a new world record. Enhanced security is in place with 2,000 personnel deployed, and traffic diversions have been implemented to ensure smooth and safe festivities.

* 28 Lakh Diyas Arranged: A total of 2.8 million diyas have been meticulously arranged for the event.

* World Record Goal: Aim to set a world record by lighting 2.5 million diyas.

* Special Guests: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat will participate in the festivities.

* Key Locations Illuminated: Diyas have been arranged at Ram Ki Paidi, Chaudhary Charan Singh Ghat, and Bhajan Sandhya Sthal.

* Enhanced Security Measures: Strict security arrangements have been made for the celebration.

* Entry Restriction: Only individuals with ID cards will be allowed entry at Ram Ki Paidi.

The Ayodhya Development Authority has introduced an online platform allowing devotees to light diyas from the comfort of their homes, which is especially popular among the youth. The platform, named "Ek Diya Ram Ke Naam" (A Diya for Lord Ram), has seen nearly a thousand devotees register so far to light a diya digitally for the Deepotsav celebrations.

Viewers can catch the live broadcast of Ayodhya's grand Deepotsav 2024 celebrations at Ram Katha Park and Ram Ki Paidi. Watch this mesmerizing event featuring thousands of diyas and festive performances on Doordarshan National or via DD's official YouTube channel, bringing Ayodhya's Diwali magic directly to your screens.

Click here to watch Ayodhya Ram Mandir Deepotsav 2024

As part of Ayodhya’s Diwali celebration, 200 glass-covered diyas will light up the sanctum sanctorum. Each mandap within the temple will feature beautiful flower rangoli designs, enhancing the festive spirit.

During Ayodhya's Diwali festivities, key areas like the Pilgrim Assistance Center, Kirtan Mandap, Yagyashala, Donation Counter, Kuber Tila, and near Gate No. 11 will act as distribution points for diya-related supplies.

Over 300 volunteers will create colorful Diwali rangoli designs across the Ayodhya temple complex for the Diwali celebration. Preparations will begin early, with volunteers arriving at the temple by 1:00 p.m. on the day of Deepotsav.

For the grand Ayodhya Diwali celebration, the Ram Mandir complex is divided into seven zones, each adorned with rows of diyas. Each zone will feature rows or artistic formations with 100 diyas per section.

In Ayodhya, both Deepotsav and Diwali will feature unique diya arrangements at the Ram Temple. On Deepotsav, 51,000 diyas will be arranged to start glowing from 6:00 p.m., creating a mesmerizing display lasting three hours.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted the spiritual resurgence in Ayodhya and Varanasi, hailing them as symbols of Sanatan Dharma's enduring legacy. Speaking on the occasion of a major religious event, Adityanath emphasized, "Ayodhya is the beginning of Sanatan Dharma…Today our Kashi is shining. The world is seeing the grand Kashi."

During an address in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath celebrated the completion of the grand Ram temple construction, attributing it to the “double-engine government” that delivers on its promises. Reflecting on Ayodhya's past, he noted, “Before 2017, Ayodhya lacked even basic amenities like electricity.” Adityanath emphasized that previous leaders who questioned Lord Ram's existence were also challenging the essence of Sanatan Dharma and the heritage of the people.

In a significant move to boost Ayodhya’s tourism, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath, joined by Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, launched a new tourism app aimed at enhancing visitor experiences in the sacred city. Additionally, a book authored by Ayodhya Mayor was released, highlighting Ayodhya's rich cultural and spiritual heritage. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to establish Ayodhya as a premier pilgrimage and tourism destination.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath shared a heartfelt reflection during this year’s Deepotsav, recalling the community’s unwavering spirit from eight years ago. He stated, “When we came to celebrate Deepotsav for the first time, there was enthusiasm in the crowd and only one voice was resonating—‘Yogi ji ek kaam karo, Mandir ka nirman karo.’” He assured the people, “The diyas you light today are not just diyas; they embody the faith of Sanatan Dharma. Lord Ram’s blessings will surely be showered upon us.”

This Diwali, the Yogi Adityanath government is poised to set a new world record by lighting 28 lakh diyas along the banks of the Saryu River in Ayodhya, creating a breathtaking display of devotion and unity. The Ram temple will be illuminated with special eco-friendly lamps, carefully designed to prevent soot and stains on the temple’s sacred structure. These sustainable lamps will stay lit for extended periods, symbolizing an enduring spiritual connection and the vibrant celebration of Lord Ram’s return. This grand event marks a historic Diwali for Ayodhya, uniting millions in a celebration of light and tradition.

This year’s Diwali at Ram Lalla Mandir in Ayodhya promises a grand spectacle, as it is the first celebration with Lord Ram enshrined in his newly constructed temple. The city is preparing to welcome thousands of devotees and light millions of diyas in a glorious Deepotsav celebration, symbolizing the homecoming of Lord Ram after a 500-year wait. The event is set to bring the essence of Diwali to life, with Ayodhya shining as a beacon of devotion, unity, and faith.

For Diwali 2024, the most auspicious time for Lakshmi Ganesh Puja is on October 31 from 06:54 PM to 08:33 PM, coinciding with the Pradosh Kaal. This period is highly recommended for invoking the blessings of Lakshmi and Ganesh. Devotees can also observe the Nishita Kaal Muhurat, which is available from 11:53 PM to 12:43 AM, for those performing puja late at night. Observing these Muhurats ensures that the divine blessings of prosperity and protection are maximized.

The celebration of Diwali is rooted in the Ramayana, symbolizing Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after his 14-year exile and victory over Ravana. The citizens of Ayodhya welcomed him by lighting oil lamps, filling the city with light and joy. This tradition continues today, as diyas are lit to signify the victory of light over darkness, and communities come together to celebrate Lord Rama’s return, embodying hope, resilience, and triumph.

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated to signify the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. Central to Diwali’s rituals is Lakshmi Puja, where families invoke Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, and Lord Ganesh, the remover of obstacles. Houses are meticulously cleaned and decorated with rangolis and diyas to welcome divine blessings. The festival spans five days, each symbolizing different customs and prayers that collectively honor prosperity, peace, and family unity, making Diwali a spiritually enriching and joyful festival for all.

Diwali, also known as Deepawali, will be celebrated on Thursday, October 31, 2024. The festivities are set to start on this auspicious date across India. Diwali celebrations continue into November 1 in some traditions, but the primary day for Lakshmi and Ganesh Puja is October 31, aligning with the Amavasya Tithi, which begins in the afternoon of October 31 and concludes the following evening. This makes October 31 the central day for Diwali festivities, lighting diyas, and performing pujas.