Diwali 2023 Date and Time: When is Deepawali in Calendar, Puja Muhurat – The Festival of Lights

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most celebrated and cherished festivals in the Hindu community. This enchanting festival of lights holds a sacred place in the hearts of millions around the globe. With its origins deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of Indian culture, Diwali signifies the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and joy over despair. In this article, we will explore all aspects of Diwali, including its history and significance, the Diwali 2023 Date and Time, the timing of Lakshmi Puja, and how to celebrate this magnificent festival.

When is Diwali in 2023?

Diwali is traditionally observed on the Amavasya, or new moon day, of the month of Kartik every year. In 2023, Diwali will be celebrated on the 12th of November, which falls on a Sunday. Diwali is observed as a Gazetted Holiday throughout India. According to the Hindu calendar, this year Diwali will be celebrated 20 days after the Dussehra festival in 2023.

History and Significance of Diwali

While there are no official records regarding the exact origin of Diwali, one common theme among various legends associated with this festival is the triumph of good over evil. Different parts of India celebrate Diwali for various reasons:

• In Northern India, Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama, along with his wife Sita, brother Lakshman, and devotee Hanuman, to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. Since their return occurred on a no-moon day (Amavasya), people light earthen lamps on the night of Diwali to welcome them.
• In South India, Diwali commemorates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. Additionally, it is believed that Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi tied the knot on this day, signifying the union of wealth and divinity. Some legends even suggest that Goddess Lakshmi herself was born on the new moon day of the Kartik month.

5-Day Diwali 2023 Celebrations in India

Diwali is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and among Hindus worldwide. This festival spans five days, with each day holding its unique significance and customs:

1. Diwali Day 1: Dhanteras (10th November 2023): Dhanteras celebrates wealth, prosperity, and the auspicious beginning of Diwali. People clean their homes, purchase new clothes, and invest in gold and silver, as it is considered auspicious on this day.
2. Diwali Day 2: Choti Diwali (11th November 2023): Choti Diwali sets the stage for the grand Diwali festival. People decorate their homes, create colorful rangoli designs, and light oil lamps.
3. Diwali Day 3: Diwali (12th November 2023): On the main day of Diwali, people don new clothes and gather with their families for prayers and puja. The most auspicious time for worship or Puja Mahurat is from 05:40 pm to 07:36 pm. The exchange of gifts and sweets is an integral part of Diwali celebrations. Diyas and fireworks light up the night sky, and people enjoy special cuisines and sweets.
4. Diwali Day 4: Govardhan Puja and Padwa (13th November 2023): Govardhan Puja celebrates the divine intervention of Lord Krishna, and devotees create a replica of Govardhan Hill using food items like rice and sweets. Padwa is a celebration of the bond between husband and wife.
5. Diwali Day 5: Bhai Dooj (14th November 2023): Bhai Dooj is a special day that celebrates the beautiful bond between brothers and sisters. It is a time to express love, gratitude, and blessings to strengthen the sibling relationship.

How to Perform Diwali Puja in 2023

Lakshmi Puja is one of the most significant rituals during Diwali. There are numerous ways to perform the puja, but here is an easy step-by-step guide to create the perfect ambiance during Lakshmi Puja:

1. Clean the House: To welcome Goddess Lakshmi, it is essential to create a pure and inviting environment. Clean your house thoroughly, including the walls and floors. Sprinkle Gangajal or water from the Ganga River to purify your home. Decorate your house with banana and mango leaves, and marigold flowers.
2. Prepare the Puja Altar: Find a small raised platform and place a red cloth over it. Keep a handful of rice in the center of the altar.
3. Place the Kalash: Put a bronze or silver kalash in the center of the rice. Fill 3/4th of the kalash with water and add a marigold flower, a pinch of rice, a coin, and a betel nut. Place five mango leaves at the mouth of the kalash. Keep a small plate with turmeric on the mango leaves and draw a lotus flower in the turmeric.
4. Display Lord Ganesha and Lakshmi Figures: Place the picture frame and idol in the center of the table. Position the idol in the southwest direction of the kalash. Keep a small plate of rice in front of Goddess Lakshmi and draw a lotus flower with turmeric on the rice. Also, place a few coins in front of the Goddess.
5. Seek Career Success: Put items related to your career or work, such as pens, laptops, books, or tools, next to Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi to offer your success to the deities.
6. Remove the Darkness: After the above steps, apply a tilak or a mark of turmeric on the idols. Light an oil lamp (diya) and place five wicks inside the diya. Keep this diya on the altar.
7. Chant the Mantra: Gather your family at the altar, sit in front of the platform, and put a tilak on the kalash. Chant the following mantra: “Ya Sa Padmasanastha Vipul-Kati-Tati Padma-Patrayatakshi, Gambhirartav-Nabhih Stana-Bhara-Namita Shubhra-Vasttariya. Ya Lakshmirdivya-Roopairmani-Gana-Khachitaih Svapita Hema-Kumbhaih, Sa Nityam Padma-Hasta Mam Vasatu Grihe Sarva-Maangalya-Yukta.”
8. Offerings to the Goddess: Offer rice grains and flowers to the Goddess after reciting the prayer.
9. Cleanse the Idol Lakshmi: Place the Lakshmi idol on a thali and bathe it with Panchamrita (a mixture of ghee, jaggery, honey, milk, etc.). Clean it with water again, wipe it, and keep it with the kalash.

Symbols of Diwali

Diwali is rich with auspicious customs and traditions. Let’s explore the key symbols associated with this festival:

• Diyas: Diyas, or clay lamps, are lit during Diwali to symbolize the triumph of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and light over darkness. They are filled with oil and cast a warm and inviting glow.
• Rangoli: Rangoli is a traditional Indian art form where intricate and colorful designs are created on the floor using flower petals, rice, and colored powders. It is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.
• Fireworks: Fireworks are an integral part of Diwali celebrations. They create a festive atmosphere and add splendor to the festivities. Traditionally, fireworks were used to scare away negative energy and attract positive vibes.
• Lakshmi: Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped during Diwali as the deity of abundance, prosperity, and wealth. She also symbolizes spiritual enlightenment and purity.
• Ganesha: Lord Ganesha, known as the God of wisdom and beginnings, is highly regarded during Diwali. He symbolizes strength, intelligence, and the ability to overcome challenges.
• Toran: Toran is a traditional decorative element made from marigold flowers, mango leaves, and other colorful elements. It is hung at the entrance of homes to invite good fortune and prosperity.

Diwali 2023 Celebrations Across India

Diwali is celebrated with immense joy and enthusiasm throughout India. In every home, Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi, along with valuable items, are worshipped. After the puja, devotees distribute sweets and gifts among neighbors and friends. Children and adults alike burst crackers and light candles to celebrate the occasion. From clothes to jewelry, furniture to crockery, almost everything gets a fresh look. The aura of Diwali is so enchanting that people from all over come to witness the fervor. Let’s explore the top 5 places in India where Diwali celebrations reach an all-time high:

1. Jaipur, Rajasthan: Jaipur is known for its exceptional decorations and illuminations. The entire city is adorned with lights and lanterns in various colors and shapes. Popular markets like MI Road, Nehru Bazaar, Tripolia Bazaar, and Bapu Bazaar come alive with dazzling displays. Jaipur also hosts a shopping festival where the best-decorated market wins.
2. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: The ghats of Varanasi come alive with thousands of lights and diyas during Diwali. Witnessing the Ganga aarti during Diwali is an awe-inspiring experience. Homes in Varanasi are beautifully decorated with fresh flowers and diyas, and the local street food stalls offer delectable treats.
3. Kolkata, West Bengal: Kolkata, the City of Joy, is equally vibrant during Diwali. Bengalis worship Goddess Kali on this day, and the city is illuminated with lights and gatherings. The vibrancy of the city is infectious and adds to the festive spirit.
4. Amritsar, Punjab: Punjab celebrates Diwali with grandeur, and the Golden Temple in Amritsar is adorned with thousands of lights and diyas, reflecting the faith of the people. The magnetic atmosphere and enthusiasm of the locals make this celebration special.
5. Mumbai, Maharashtra: Mumbai, the ‘City of Dreams,’ dazzles during Diwali. Iconic markets like Zaveri Bazaar, Crawford Market, and Chira Bazaar are bustling with shoppers. Marine Drive becomes even more enchanting during this time of the year. The city hosts numerous events with celebrity appearances, making it a fun place to celebrate.

May the festival of Diwali bring peace and prosperity to your lives!

Here are some WhatsApp messages and wishes you can send to your loved ones for Diwali:

1. May this Diwali bring you happiness, wealth, and prosperity. Wishing you a sparkling festival of lights!
2. Let the light of the diyas guide you on the path of happiness and success. Happy Diwali!
3. May the divine glow of Diwali fill your life with peace, love, and joy. Have a safe and joyous celebration!
4. On this auspicious occasion, may your life be filled with happiness and may you find success in all your endeavors. Happy Diwali!
5. Wishing you a year filled with success, health, wealth, and happiness. Happy Diwali to you and your family!
6. May the warmth and splendor of Diwali fill your life with joy and brighten your path to success. Happy Diwali!
7. As you celebrate the festival of lights, may your life also be filled with light and happiness. Happy Diwali!
8. May this Diwali bring you the brightest and choicest happiness. Shubh Diwali!
9. May the lamps of Diwali illuminate your life, bringing joy and prosperity. Happy Diwali!
10. On this festival of lights, may you be blessed with good health, wealth, and happiness. Happy Diwali!
11. As you light the diya and spread its radiance, may your life also be filled with happiness and prosperity. Happy Diwali!
12. Wishing you a Diwali filled with love, laughter, and the sweetest of moments with your family. Happy Diwali!
13. May the divine blessings of Goddess Lakshmi enrich your life with health, wealth, and success. Happy Diwali!
14. May this Diwali be as bright as ever and bring you love, success, and endless joy. Happy Diwali!
15. Let’s make this Diwali joyous and bright, let’s celebrate in true sense this festival of light. Happy Diwali!
16. May the joyous celebration of this divine festival fill your heart with never-ending joy and happiness! Happy Diwali!
17. On this auspicious occasion, may the glow of the diyas light your path to success and happiness. Shubh Diwali!
18. This Diwali, may you be blessed with good fortune as long as Ganeshji’s trunk, wealth and prosperity as big as his stomach, and happiness as sweet as his ladoos. Happy Diwali!
19. May the festival of lights brighten your life with the glow of joy, prosperity, and health. Happy Diwali!
20. Wishing you and your family a Diwali filled with love, laughter, and countless blessings. Happy Diwali!

Feel free to use these messages to convey your warm wishes to your friends and family on WhatsApp during the festive season!

Diwali 2023 Date and Time – Year-Wise Diwali Observances

Note: Diwali’s date varies each year based on the Hindu calendar.