Diwali 2024 date confusion: October 31 or November 1? Check date, Shubh Muhurat, Deepawali Puja Time, and everything you need to know

Diwali, or Deepawali, is the largest and most celebrated Hindu festival worldwide, lasting five days. It traditionally begins with Dhanteras and ends with Bhaiya Dooj. In certain regions, such as Maharashtra and Gujarat, celebrations start even earlier with additional observances like Govatsa Dwadashi and Agyaras, leading up to Labh Panchami.

While each day of Diwali has its distinct rituals, the new moon day dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, known as Lakshmi Puja, is central to the festivities. This day is especially significant for families and businesses, marked by Lakshmi-Ganesh Puja, where devotees seek blessings for prosperity and happiness.
This year, there’s some confusion over the exact date of Diwali. While some sources indicate it will be observed on October 31, others suggest November 1.


Read More: Diwali 2024 Calendar: Date for Diwali, Goverdhan Puja and Bhai Dooj Celebration in India

Diwali 2024: Who's saying what

• Drikpanchang: According to Drikpanchang, Lakshmi Puja falls on Thursday, October 31, with the most auspicious time for the puja from 6:56 PM to 8:27 PM. The Amavasya Tithi, marking the new moon phase, begins at 3:52 PM on October 31 and ends at 6:16 PM on November 1, 2024.
• Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP): The VHP also confirmed that Diwali will be celebrated on October 31 this year.
• Anil Mishra: A member of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which runs the Ayodhya Ram temple, Mishra confirmed October 31 as the date for Diwali celebrations.

Diwali 2024 Puja Timings and Muhurat

• Naraka Chaturdashi: Thursday, October 31, 2024
  • Abhyang Snan Muhurat: 5:20 AM to 6:32 AM
  • Chaturdashi Tithi: Begins at 1:15 PM on October 30 and ends at 3:52 PM on October 31
• Diwali (Lakshmi Puja): Friday, November 1, 2024
  • Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: 5:36 PM to 6:16 PM
  • Amavasya Tithi: Begins at 3:52 PM on October 31 and ends at 6:16 PM on November 1
  • Additional Puja Timings: Experts suggest the ideal time for Lakshmi Puja is between 6:27 PM and 8:32 PM on October 31, with the Nishita Muhurta (late-night muhurat) occurring from 11:39 PM to 12:31 AM.

Read More: Diwali 2024 Date, Time, Puja Shubh Muhurat

Given these timings, Diwali will be celebrated with Lakshmi Puja on October 31, though some regions may continue celebrations into November 1 based on local traditions.