Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most significant festivals celebrated by Hindus worldwide. It is a festival of lights, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. The date of Diwali varies each year, following the Hindu lunar calendar.
In this article, we will explore the Diwali date, how it is determined, the 5-day Diwali celebrations…
When is Diwali 2023/2024?
Diwali in 2023 falls on Thursday, November 2nd.
Diwali in 2024 falls Friday, November 1st.
The date of Diwali changes annually as it is based on the lunar calendar, specifically the 15th day of the Hindu month of Kartika. This festival typically occurs between mid-October and mid-November.
Diwali is celebrated on the darkest night of the month, when the moon is absent, and people light lamps and candles to dispel darkness.
5-Day Diwali 2023 Celebrations
Diwali is not just a one-day festival; it is a grand celebration spanning five days:
| Festival | Date | Thithi | Celebrations |
| Dhanteras | Friday, 10, November 2023 | Trayodashi | Festival of Purchasing Gold and Metals |
| Choti Diwali | Saturday, 11 November 2023 | Chaturdashi | Decorations and Making Rangolis |
| Diwali (Laxmi Puja) | Sunday, 12 November 2023 | Amavasya | Festival of Lights and diyas |
| Govardhan Puja | Tuesday, 14 November 2023 | Pratipada | Offer prayers to Lord Goverdhan (Shri Krishna) |
| Bhai Dooj | Wednesday, 15 November 2023 | Dwitiya | Celebration of brothers and sisters |
Day 1 – Dhanteras (November 10th, 2023)
Dhanteras marks the beginning of Diwali festivities. Homes are thoroughly cleaned and adorned with rangoli designs. In the evening, oil lamps and candles are lit, and it’s customary to buy new items, especially gold or silver, to invite prosperity.
Day 2 – Choti Diwali (November 11th, 2023)
Choti Diwali, or Naraka Chaturdashi, symbolizes the victory of good over evil. People light oil lamps and perform rituals. In some regions, effigies of the demon Narakasura are burned to signify the triumph of righteousness.
Day 3 – Diwali (November 12, 2023)
Diwali, the main day of celebration, features a multitude of activities. Homes are illuminated with countless diyas (earthen lamps) and candles, creating a mesmerizing display of lights. The night sky comes alive with fireworks, and families exchange gifts and sweets. Elaborate feasts with traditional dishes are prepared, and prayers are offered to Goddess Lakshmi for wealth and prosperity.
Day 4 – Govardhan Puja (Annakut – November 13, 2023)
Govardhan Puja commemorates Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect his devotees. Devotees create a mound of food offerings known as ‘Annakut’ and offer prayers to Lord Krishna. This day celebrates the bond between nature, animals, and humanity.
Day 5 – Bhai Dooj (November 14, 2023)
Bhai Dooj is the final day of Diwali festivities, celebrating the special bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters apply tikka on their brothers’ foreheads, perform aarti, and exchange gifts, signifying love, affection, and the strengthening of family ties.
Diwali Dates from 2023 to 2030
Here are the Diwali dates from 2022 to 2030 for reference:
| Festival | Diwali Date |
| Diwali 2023 | November 12, Sunday |
| Diwali 2024 | November 1, Friday |
| Diwali 2025 | October 21, Tuesday |
| Diwali 2026 | November 8, Sunday |
| Diwali 2027 | October 29, Friday |
| Diwali 2028 | October 17, Tuesday |
| Diwali 2029 | November 5, Monday |
| Diwali 2030 | October 26, Saturday |
Is Diwali/Deepavali a Public Holiday?
In India, Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm and is a public holiday in most states. However, it is not a public holiday in all countries, so it may vary depending on your location.
Diwali 2023 Celebrations Across India
Diwali is celebrated with regional variations across India. Some of the notable celebrations include:
- Delhi: In the capital city of Delhi, Diwali is celebrated with grandeur. People visit the iconic Akshardham Temple, beautifully illuminated for the occasion. The markets bustle with shoppers buying gifts and decorative items. The night sky is ablaze with fireworks, creating a spectacular display.
- Mumbai: Mumbai, the financial hub, is known for its vibrant Diwali celebrations. The entire city is adorned with lights, and Marine Drive is a popular spot for watching fireworks. Homes are decked out with lanterns and rangoli, and families come together for special meals.
- Kolkata: In Kolkata, Diwali coincides with Kali Puja. The city is adorned with stunning Kali idols, and people gather at temples to offer prayers to Goddess Kali. The night is filled with cultural performances, and the streets come alive with artistic expressions.
- Jaipur: Jaipur, the Pink City, dazzles during Diwali with illuminated markets and palaces. The iconic Amer Fort is bathed in golden light. The tradition of bursting eco-friendly fireworks is gaining popularity here.
- Chennai: In Chennai, Diwali is celebrated with a focus on religious rituals. Temples are adorned with oil lamps, and devotees visit to offer prayers. Families create intricate kolam (rangoli) designs outside their homes, and the aroma of traditional sweets fills the air.
Culture to Know 