Dhanteras To Bhai Dooj: All You Need To Know About 5 Days of Diwali

Diwali, the five-day festival filled with lights, prayers, and family gatherings, starts this year today, October 29 and continues till November 3. Each day holds its own significance, with traditions that honour gods, celebrate good over evil, and cherish family bonds. Here’s a look at what each day represents and how it’s celebrated.

From Dhanteras To Bhai Dooj: The Five Days of Diwali

October 29: Dhanteras

The first day of Diwali is Dhanteras, a time to seek blessings for wealth and prosperity. Devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, along with Lord Kuber, the god of riches, on this auspicious day. 

People commonly buy new items as symbols of prosperity, including gold coins, bars, or jewellery, believing it will bring fortune into their homes. This ritual of purchasing valuables is meant to invite abundance and happiness for the coming year, setting a positive tone for the Diwali celebrations.

October 31: Choti Diwali or Naraka Chaturdashi

The second day, known as Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali, marks Lord Krishna’s legendary victory over the demon Narakasura. This day symbolises the triumph of good over evil and offers a moment for spiritual cleansing. 

People often clean their homes and prepare for the main day of Diwali, lighting lamps and decorating their spaces with rangoli, colourful patterns made with powdered colours, flowers, or rice flour. Choti Diwali represents the clearing away of darkness and negativity, paving the way for a brighter future.

October 31: Diwali and Lakshmi Puja

The third day is the heart of Diwali. It celebrates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after a 14-year exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana. To mark this occasion, people illuminate their homes with diyas (small earthen lamps), lights, and vibrant rangolis, filling the night with a warm glow. 

Families gather in the evening to perform Lakshmi Puja, offering prayers to the goddess for wealth, good fortune, and happiness. Diwali’s essence lies in spreading joy, togetherness, and the hope that good will always conquer evil.

November 2: Govardhan Puja

On the fourth day, people celebrate Govardhan Puja, which commemorates Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan mountain to shield the people of Mathura from the wrath of Lord Indra, the god of rain. This act is remembered as a symbol of Krishna’s protection and kindness, and on this day, devotees honour him with offerings and traditional prayers.

November 3: Bhai Dooj

The Diwali celebrations conclude with Bhai Dooj, a day dedicated to the unique relationship between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform a special ritual to wish their brothers prosperity and long life, while brothers offer their sisters gifts in return. This heartfelt tradition emphasises family unity, love, and the supportive bond siblings share.