Dhanteras: Beginning Festivities
Dhanteras marks the inaugural day of Diwali celebrations. In 2025, this auspicious day falls on the first day of the festive period. Traditionally, Dhanteras is a time
for purchasing gold, silver, or new utensils, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. The act of buying new items is believed to bring wealth and success. The day is also dedicated to the worship of Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, and it's common to light diyas (oil lamps) to ward off evil. Preparations for Diwali begin in earnest on this day, setting a vibrant tone for the upcoming days of celebration and joy. Families often decorate their homes and start planning for the week's festivities.
Choti Diwali: Second Day
Following Dhanteras, the second day of the festivities is Choti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi. This day is celebrated with the ritual of applying ubtan (a paste of herbs and oils) and taking a bath before sunrise, symbolizing the cleansing of sins. Homes are adorned with diyas, and families often enjoy delicious meals together. It's a time of joy and preparation for the main Diwali celebrations, with the anticipation building for the illumination and joy that the festival brings. The atmosphere becomes lively as people exchange greetings and begin preparing for the grand Diwali night.
Diwali: Main Event
Diwali, the main event, falls on the third day of the celebrations. It is the most important day, marked by the lighting of countless diyas and candles, illuminating homes and streets. Families come together to perform Lakshmi Puja, worshiping the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Firecrackers are lit, and sweets are exchanged, signifying the triumph of good over evil. The night is filled with vibrant energy, as homes are adorned with colorful lights and rangoli designs. It’s a time for family reunions, festive meals, and the exchange of gifts, spreading love and happiness.
Govardhan Puja: Fourth Day
The fourth day of the Diwali celebrations is Govardhan Puja. This day is dedicated to the worship of Lord Krishna and the Govardhan hill. Many communities create a small hill of cow dung, symbolizing the Govardhan parvat, and offer prayers. It commemorates the story of Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan hill to protect the villagers from the wrath of Indra. This day also involves preparing and offering a variety of vegetarian dishes. The significance lies in honoring nature and expressing gratitude for the blessings of the earth and the protection it provides, further emphasizing the core values of the festival.
Bhai Dooj: Last Day
Bhai Dooj is the final day of the Diwali festivities, celebrated to honor the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform a special ceremony for their brothers, applying a tilak (mark) on their foreheads and praying for their well-being. Brothers, in return, offer gifts and blessings to their sisters. This day highlights the importance of familial love and the special relationship between siblings. It marks a sweet closure to the five days of Diwali, filled with cherished moments and strengthening the bonds between family members. The focus is on mutual love, appreciation, and the enduring ties within families.
