Deepavali, often referred to as Deepavali or Diwali  in 2023, is a festival that holds a special place in the hearts of Hindus throughout. A celebration that is closely woven into the colorful fabric of Indian culture, it exudes light, love, and joy. This enchanted event stands for the triumph of good over evil, wisdom over ignorance, and joy over suffering. Our senses are heightened and our spirits are raised as we set off on this five-day voyage of celebration Diwali 2023.
Table of Contents
When is Diwali in 2023?
Diwali is observed on the new moon day, Amavasya, which falls on the 15th day of the Kartik month in the Hindu calendar. In 2023, mark your calendars for November 12th, a Sunday, to celebrate Diwali. This significant day is recognized as a public holiday throughout the country.
History and Significance of Diwali
Diwali’s origins are shrouded in the mists of time, with various legends and tales associated with this festival. Yet, a common thread unites them all—the victory of good over evil. In Northern India, Diwali commemorates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya with his wife Sita, brother Lakshman, and the faithful Hanuman after vanquishing the demon king Ravana. The night of their return, a new moon (Amavasya) night, is marked by the illumination of earthen lamps and candles.
In the South, it is celebrated as the day Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura, signifying the triumph of righteousness. Additionally, Diwali holds the sacred significance of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi’s wedding day. Some legends even state that Goddess Lakshmi was born on the new moon day of Kartik month.
5-Day Diwali 2023 Celebrations
Diwali unfolds over five days, each with its unique significance and customs:
- Dhanteras (Trayodashi) – November 10, 2023: Dhanteras marks the beginning of Diwali, a day to celebrate wealth and prosperity. Homes are cleaned, new clothes are worn, and gold and silver are bought as auspicious symbols.
- Choti Diwali (Chaturdashi) – November 11, 2023: Choti Diwali sets the stage for the grand festival, with homes adorned in colorful rangoli and oil lamps.
- Diwali (Amavasya) – November 12, 2023: The main day of Diwali is celebrated with new clothes, family prayers, and the exchange of gifts and sweets. Diyas and fireworks light up the night sky as people enjoy delicious cuisine.
- Govardhan Puja and Padwa (Pratipada) – November 13, 2023: Govardhan Puja pays tribute to Lord Krishna, with devotees creating a mountain of food as an offering. Padwa celebrates the bond between husband and wife, and it’s an auspicious day to start new ventures.
- Bhai Duj (Dwitiya) – November 14, 2023: Bhai Duj is a day to honor the special bond between brothers and sisters, strengthening the ties of love and affection.
Diwali Celebrations Across India
Diwali is celebrated with unbridled enthusiasm and joy by Hindus worldwide. It is a time for worship, family gatherings, and the exchange of sweets and gifts. Fireworks light up the night sky, and diyas brighten homes and streets.
Here are the top 5 places in India where Diwali celebrations reach an all-time high:
1. Jaipur, Rajasthan: Jaipur is a feast for the eyes during Diwali, with the entire city adorned in colorful lights and lanterns. Markets like MI Road, Nehru Bazaar, Tripolia Bazaar, and Bapu Bazaar dazzle with decorations, and a shopping festival adds to the excitement.
2. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: The sacred city of Varanasi comes alive with a thousand lights and diyas during Diwali. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga aarti and experience the city’s vibrant celebrations.
3. Kolkata, West Bengal: Kolkata, known as the City of Joy, sparkles during Diwali, as Bengalis worship Goddess Kali. The city’s vibrancy and grandeur shine even brighter during this festive season.
4. Amritsar, Punjab: The magnetic spirit of Punjab comes to the forefront during Diwali, with the majestic Golden Temple illuminated with a thousand lights and diyas.
5. Mumbai, Maharashtra: The ‘City of Dreams’ celebrates Diwali with visual fireworks and a range of events. Markets like Zaveri Bazaar, Crawford Market, and Chira Bazaar offer a shopping paradise. Marine Drive takes on a heavenly aura during this season.
Conclusion
Diwali 2023 is a celebration of light, love, and tradition. From November 10th, it unites families and communities in India to mark the victory of good over evil.
This five-day festival, with its unique customs and rituals, brings people closer and strengthens bonds. Diwali’s grandeur is witnessed in places like Jaipur, Varanasi, Kolkata, Amritsar, and Mumbai.
As we anticipate Diwali’s arrival, let its light guide us in life, renew our spirits, and fill us with joy and celebration. Happy Diwali! 🪔💖🎉
Frequently Asked Questions
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a Hindu festival celebrated in 2023 on November 12th. It’s a special occasion marked by light, love, joy, tradition, and celebration.
on November 12th. It’s a special occasion marked by light, love, joy, tradition, and celebration.
Diwali signifies the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. It’s celebrated to honor various legends, such as Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya, Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, and the sacred wedding of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.
Diwali is a five-day festival. It begins with Dhanteras on November 10th, followed by Choti Diwali, Diwali (the main day) on November 12th, Govardhan Puja and Padwa on November 13th, and Bhai Duj on November 14th.
- Dhanteras is a day to celebrate wealth and prosperity.
- Choti Diwali is marked by colorful decorations and oil lamps.
- Diwali is the main day with new clothes, prayers, gifts, and delicious food.
- Govardhan Puja pays tribute to Lord Krishna, while Padwa celebrates husband-wife relationships.
- Bhai Duj honors the bond between brothers and sisters.
Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm, including worship, family gatherings, sweets, and gift exchanges. Fireworks light up the sky, and lamps brighten homes and streets. Celebrations vary in different regions, with some of the top places being Jaipur, Varanasi, Kolkata, Amritsar, and Mumbai.
To celebrate Diwali at home, you can decorate with lamps and rangoli, wear new clothes, offer prayers, exchange gifts, and enjoy special festive dishes. Lighting diyas and bursting fireworks in the evening are also common traditions.
Yes, Diwali is recognized as a public holiday throughout India, allowing people to come together and celebrate the festival with their families.
 Lighting lamps symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Fireworks are used to celebrate the victory of light, and they also add to the festive atmosphere.
 Yes, Diwali is known for its delicious sweets and snacks like ladoos, jalebi, and samosas. Families prepare a variety of special dishes to enjoy during the festivities.
 You can wish someone a Happy Diwali by saying, “Happy Diwali!” or by sending a heartfelt message or greeting card. You can also use traditional Diwali greetings like “Shubh Deepavali” or “Wishing you a joyous Festival of Lights.
Web Stories
