The luminous glow of a thousand lamps, the aroma of sweet delicacies wafting through the air, and the sound of laughter and joy echoing in every corner are the unmistakable signs that Diwali is upon us.
Diwali or Deepavali, also known as the festival of lights, transcends borders and brings people of diverse backgrounds together to celebrate hope, prosperity and happiness.
As we eagerly await theDiwali date 2023, let's find out the significance of each day in the five-day-long celebration and the muhurat timings considered auspicious.
Diwali Dates in 2023
The Deepavali 2023 dates depend on the five days of celebration. Each of the five days has a unique significance and tradition. Based on this, the Diwali 2023 dates are as follows -
1. Dhanteras - 10 November 2023, Friday.
2. Chhoti Diwali - 11 November 2023, Saturday.
3. Lakshmi Puja or Diwali - 12 November 2023, Sunday.
4. Govardhan Puja - 13 November 2023, Monday.
5. Bhaiya Dooj- 14th November 2023, Tuesday.
Muhurat Timings for Diwali Date in 2023
Muhurat timings are pivotal in Diwali celebrations, as they determine the most auspicious moments to perform rituals and ceremonies. These timings are based on the position of celestial bodies and are believed to harness positive energies. The most important day among the five days of Diwali is considered to be Lakshmi Puja.
In 2023, Deepavali date has Lakshmi Puja Muhurat from 05:40 PM to 07:36 PM on 12 November. This time frame is believed to be the most auspicious to offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi and seek her blessings for prosperity, happiness, and well-being.
Muhurat timings may vary across geographies and time zones, so consult local calendars and pundits for exact Muhurat timings this Diwali in 2023. Dates and time are important considerations in such religious puja.
Why is Diwali celebrated?
Diwali, celebrated as the "Festival of Lights," is a vibrant tapestry of legends, traditions, and spiritual significance. Its name is derived from the Sanskrit term Deepavali, meaning "rows of lights," symbolising the victory of light over darkness.
One of the most renowned legends associated with Diwali is from the Hindu epic Ramayana. This tale recounts the triumphant return of Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman to Ayodhya after a 14-year exile, marking the defeat of the demon king Ravana. The city of Ayodhya celebrated their return by illuminating it with countless lamps.
Another legend from the Mahabharata speaks of the Pandava brothers' return to their kingdom after years of exile, with their citizens lighting numerous lamps in their honour. In the southern parts of India, Diwali celebrates Lord Krishna's victory over the demon king Narakasura.
Lakshmi, the Goddess of fortune, is central to the Diwali celebrations. A legend tells us that the Goddess, annoyed with Indra's arrogance, left the divine world and entered the Milky Ocean. Fearing that the world would turn dark in her absence, the ocean was churned for 1,000 years to facilitate her re-emergence.
As we approach the Diwali 2023 date, these stories remind us of the festival's profound cultural and spiritual roots.
5 Days of Diwali: Significance
Diwali spans five days, each significant and rooted in ancient legends and traditions.
Dhanteras - 10 November 2023 (Friday)
Significance: The festival commences with Dhanteras, which translates to the "worship of wealth." On this day, devotees pay homage to Lord Dhanwantari, the god of Ayurveda and healing practices, thus signifying that health is the true wealth.
Traditions: People traditionally clean their homes, light a diya lamp around the Tulsi plant, and pray to Lord Yama for their well-being. There's also a custom of purchasing something precious, often gold, symbolising the ushering in of prosperity.
Narak Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali - 12 November 2023 (Sunday)
Significance: This day commemorates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasur, who had kidnapped the gopis.
Traditions: People wake up early, apply aromatic oils, and bathe. This is believed to cleanse sins and impurities. Homes are decorated, and clay lamps are lit. Some also create rangolis.
Lakshmi Puja - 12 November 2023 (Sunday)
Significance: The third day and the main Diwali festival celebrates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya and the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. It's believed that Goddess Lakshmi graces homes on this day, blessing inhabitants with good fortune.
Traditions: Homes are illuminated with oil diyas, candles, and electric lights. Families gather to exchange gifts, burst crackers, and perform the Lakshmi Pujan, seeking blessings for prosperity and good fortune.
Govardhan Puja or Padva - 13 November 2023 (Monday)
Significance: The fourth Deepavali 2023 date commemorates the legend of Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Mountain to shield Gokul's people from Lord Indra's wrath.
Traditions: Devotees create a small hillock, often from cow dung, symbolising Govardhan and worship it. It's also a day for visiting friends and relatives and exchanging gifts.
Bhai Dooj - 15 November 2023 (Wednesday)
Significance: The fifth and final day of the Diwali celebrations is Bhai Dooj, which celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. The day is associated with the tale of Lord Yama and his sister Yami, emphasising the enduring nature of sibling relationships.
Traditions: Sisters invite their brothers for a meal and perform a tilak ceremony, praying for their long life and well-being. In return, brothers present gifts to their sisters, strengthening the bond of love and care.
In Conclusion
As we approach the festive season, the anticipation and excitement surrounding the Diwali date 2023 is palpable. Empowered with a comprehensive understanding of why Diwali is special in millions of hearts worldwide, you can now make the most out of your celebrations.
This Diwali, let us pay homage to this festival's deep significance, traditions and legends and make it a true "Festival of Lights" that illuminates our homes and souls.
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30 October 2023
5 mins read
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