Diwali 2023: Almost everyone in India looks forward to Diwali, a joyful celebration that falls on the fifteenth day of the Hindu luni-solar month of Kartik. The event is held on November 12 this year, which makes it a very important day. Diwali, also known as the “Festival of Lights,” is inextricably linked to concepts of joy, warmth, prosperity, and wealth.
The Legend of Lord Rama’s Return
A widely famous Diwali legend is around Lord Rama, who is considered to be a highly esteemed avatar of Lord Vishnu. After fourteen years of exile, during which time he slew the mighty King Ravana of Lanka, Lord Rama made his way back to his native Ayodhya. The inhabitants of Ayodhya lit numerous diyas (oil lamps) around their environs to celebrate his return. Lighting diyas to commemorate Lord Rama’s return is still a beloved custom today. Another meaning of Diwali links it to the return of the Pandavas to their homeland after a 12-year exile, which followed their heartbreaking defeat by the Kauravas in a dice game.
Goddess Lakshmi and Diwali
The goddess of wealth and prosperity, Lakshmi, is also closely linked to the event. The Samudra Manthan is the legend that Goddess Lakshmi arose from the churning of the ocean. The significance of this occasion is further enhanced by the fact that she married Lord Vishnu after making his choice.
Diwali Date and Day in 2023
Diwali will be observed on November 12, 2023, which falls on a Sunday. The best time to perform the Diwali puja is during the “pradosh” period, which begins after sunset. Based on the occurrence of Amavasya tithi (new moon) during pradosh, this period was chosen. Even though the Diwali puja muhurat during pradosh is only available for one ghati, or around 24 minutes, it is seen to be the most auspicious of all. The most auspicious and spiritually meaningful Diwali celebration can be had during this period.
Keep watching our YouTube Channel ‘DNP INDIA’. Also, please subscribe and follow us on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and TWITTER.