Diwali 2024: Celebrations and Traditions Across India

Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated with diverse customs and rituals, highlighting the triumph of light over darkness.

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a major Hindu festival celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and some Buddhists worldwide, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.
In West Bengal and other eastern states, Kali Puja coincides with Diwali, where devotees worship Goddess Kali instead of Lakshmi, marking the day with unique regional traditions.
The festival typically lasts five days, beginning with Dhanteras and ending with Bhai Dooj, with each day having its own significance and rituals.
Diwali is marked by lighting diyas, exchanging gifts, decorating homes with rangoli, and performing puja rituals dedicated to deities like Lakshmi and Ganesha.
In 2024, Diwali falls on October 31, with various Indian states declaring public holidays to celebrate this auspicious occasion.