Deepawali Celebrations: Special muhurat for getting abundant Prosperity
Deepawali, or Diwali, is one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism, celebrated with immense joy, lights, and reverence across India and the world. This five-day festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. Each day of Diwali has its own unique significance, with special rituals and ceremonies aimed at promoting prosperity, health, and well-being.Here is an expanded look at the five days of Deepawali, with a focus on specific muhurtas (auspicious times) that are considered crucial for ensuring prosperity and happiness during the festival.
Day 1: Dhanteras (Dhantrayodashi) – Celebrating Wealth
Dhanteras marks the first day of the Deepawali celebration, falling on the thirteenth day of the Vedic lunar calendar (Trayodashi Tithi) in the month of Kartik. This day, which emphasizes the importance of wealth and prosperity, is dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician who appeared during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) with the nectar of immortality (Amrita).
In 2024, Dhanteras falls on October 29th, and it is traditionally believed that purchasing items, particularly precious metals like gold and silver, brings good luck and fortune. Many people also invest in new household items or appliances on this day. However, the custom of purchasing on Dhanteras is a modern addition and is not directly mentioned in ancient scriptures. According to Shastras, the focus is more on lighting a lamp (deepak or diya) for Lord Yama, the god of death, in the evening to seek protection and good health for the family. This symbolic ritual reminds devotees of the importance of safeguarding one’s health and life.
Muhurat for Purchases: On October 29, 2024, after 10:32 a.m., it is considered auspicious to make purchases, though this is a personal choice and not mandatory according to scriptures.
Day 2: Dhanvantari Jayanti – Worship of Health and Medicine
The second day of the festival, October 30th, 2024, is dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari, the god of health and medicine. On this day, devotees pray for health and longevity, invoking the blessings of the divine healer. Lord Dhanvantari is worshipped primarily by those who seek protection from diseases and wish to enhance their well-being.
This day is also special for the worship of Lord Hanuman in many regions, especially in Northern India. Lord Hanuman, the monkey god, symbolizes devotion, strength, and loyalty. His birthday is observed on this day by performing Hanuman Puja, which is believed to provide strength and protection from negative influences.
Additionally, on this day, many households perform a unique ritual to drive away poverty (Alakshmi), the goddess of poverty and misfortune, believed to be the elder sister of Goddess Lakshmi. This ritual involves a thorough cleaning of the home, symbolically banishing poverty to welcome prosperity.
Muhurat for Dhanvantari Puja: On October 30, Trayodashi Tithi ends at 1:16 p.m., making the morning the ideal time for the worship of Lord Dhanvantari.
Day 3: Narak Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali) – Victory Over Negativity
Narak Chaturdashi, observed on October 31st, 2024, marks the third day of Diwali, commonly known as Choti Diwali. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura on this day, liberating 16,000 women whom the demon had held captive. The victory of Krishna over Narakasura represents the triumph of good over evil and the removal of negative energies.
This day is also celebrated as Roop Chaturdashi or Roop Chaudas, where people focus on personal beautification and appearance. Traditionally, special pastes and oils are used for body massages and cleansing, symbolizing purification of the body and soul.
Muhurat for Narak Chaturdashi: The Chaturdashi Tithi ends on October 31 at 3:53 p.m. The best time for performing the Narak Chaturdashi rituals is during the early morning hours, ideally before sunrise, after taking an oil bath.
Day 4: Lakshmi Puja – The Main Day of Diwali
The fourth day, November 1st, 2024, is the most important day of the Deepawali festival, commonly referred to as Diwali or the “Festival of Lights.” The day is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. People light oil lamps (diyas) and decorate their homes with rangoli (traditional art) to welcome the goddess, praying for wealth, happiness, and success.
Lakshmi Puja is performed during the Amavasya (new moon) period, which begins on October 31st and continues until the evening of November 1st. According to scriptures, performing the Lakshmi Puja during the fixed ascendant time brings stability in wealth and ensures long-term prosperity.
Muhurat for Lakshmi Puja: The most auspicious time for Lakshmi Puja on November 1, 2024, is between 6:25 p.m. and 8:29 p.m., with the peak being from 6:51 p.m. to 7:29 p.m. Those following the Vam Marg (Tantric practices) should perform the Puja during the midnight hours, between 12:55 a.m. and 3:12 a.m. on November 1st, with the peak being from 2:26 a.m. to 3:12 a.m.
Day 5: Govardhan Puja – Celebrating Nature’s Abundance
Govardhan Puja, also known as Annakut, is celebrated on November 2nd, 2024. This day commemorates the story of Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect the villagers of Vrindavan from torrential rains sent by Lord Indra. This act of divine protection symbolizes the importance of nature and how devotion can protect one from calamities.
Devotees prepare a variety of vegetarian dishes, known as ‘Chhappan Bhog’ (56 offerings), as an offering to Lord Krishna. This day is a celebration of abundance and gratitude for nature’s bounty.
Day 6: Bhai Dooj – Celebrating the Bond Between Siblings
The final day of the Diwali celebration, November 3rd, 2024, is Bhai Dooj or Yama Dwitiya. This festival celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters, much like Raksha Bandhan. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Yama, the god of death, visited his sister Yamuna on this day, and she welcomed him with affection. In return, Yama blessed her with long life and protection.
On Bhai Dooj, sisters perform rituals for their brothers, praying for their well-being, and brothers, in turn, promise to protect their sisters and often give them gifts. The festival strengthens familial bonds and is celebrated with love and joy across India.
Important Note: The timings provided are specific to New Delhi, India. If you are in another city or country, the muhurat may vary. You can request specific timings according to your place in the Comments Section.
The five days of Deepawali are filled with rich traditions, meaningful rituals, and celebrations that highlight the importance of prosperity, health, family, and the triumph of good over evil. Each day offers unique spiritual and cultural significance, allowing devotees to connect with divine energies and seek blessings for abundance and happiness in life.