This year, there is some debate about when Diwali, particularly the main day of Lakshmi Puja, should be celebrated: on October 31 or November 1. According to Drik Panchang and other Hindu religious sources, Diwali’s main day — Lakshmi Puja —should occur on Thursday, October 31, during the Amavasya (new moon) Tithi.
Lakshmi Puja, which is a central event of Diwali, is performed to honor the Goddess Lakshmi, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. Drik Panchang specifies the best time for this ritual, known as the auspicious Muhurat, between 7:19 PM and 9:11 PM on October 31.
The confusion about when Diwali is celebrated is because of the fact that the festival spans five days, each with its own significance and rituals. While the main day of Diwali, focused on Lakshmi Puja, is set for October 31. In many northern states, additional celebrations may occur that extend beyond October 31, sometimes spilling into November 1. For example, some communities may choose to celebrate certain aspects of Diwali, such as Govardhan Puja or Bhai Dooj, on November 1.
In Maharashtra and Gujarat, Diwali preparations start a day or two earlier, with rituals like Govatsa Dwadashi and Agyaras. Despite these early celebrations, the central observance of Diwali, particularly Lakshmi Puja, still remains on October 31, as per the Hindu lunar calendar.
Banks in several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Gujarat, will close on October 31, affirming this as the official day for Diwali, The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) designates this day for bank holidays, underscoring its importance as the main day of the festival.
