Diwali 2024: Deepavali Puja Timings, Dos And Don’ts For Joyous Celebrations

Diwali day has finally arrived, bringing with it a sense of joy and celebration. On this special day, young and adults alike celebrate the Festival of Lights with great enthusiasm, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance.

What is Diwali Puja?

Every festival in India is associated with specific pujas and rituals dedicated to deities, and for Deepavali, the celebrations honour Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, who bring wealth, prosperity, and protection from obstacles.

Participating in Diwali Puja is important to invite blessings into the home and to celebrate the victory of light over darkness.

Diwali Puja Shubh Muhurat

The best time to perform Lakshmi Puja, a central part of Deepavali celebrations, is on October 31, from 5:32 pm to 8:51 pm.

Dos for Diwali Puja

• Maintain cleanliness: A clean home shows respect and purity for Goddess Lakshmi.
• Use brass or silver vessels: Offer water to the deities in brass or silver vessels for purity.
• Perform the Puja during the Shubh Muhurat: Consult a trusted Panchang to find the most favourable time for the rituals.
• Recite or play mantras: Chant or play mantras for Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi to attract positive energy and create a divine atmosphere.
• Light diyas and lamps: Place diyas and lamps on the altar and around the home to symbolize the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance.
• Set up a sacred altar: Decorate with flowers, rangoli, and idols or images of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha. Ideally, place the altar in the northeast or east direction according to Vastu principles.

Don’ts for Diwali Puja

• Avoid non-vegetarian food and alcohol: Consuming non-vegetarian food and alcohol is considered inauspicious on special days like this as it may negate the positive energy of the rituals.
• Do not use damaged puja items: Using broken or damaged items can be seen as disrespectful in the rituals.
• Avoid performing puja outside the auspicious timings: It is always advised to conduct the rituals during the designated Muhurat.