Diwali: The Five-Day Festival of Lights – From Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most joyous and widely celebrated festivals in India. It spans five days, each with its own unique rituals, significance, and traditional practices. The festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.
Here’s a look at the five special days of Diwali, starting with Dhanteras and ending with Bhai Dooj:
Day 1: Dhanteras
Date: Two days before Diwali
Significance: Dhanteras marks the beginning of the Diwali celebrations. The word ‘Dhan’ means wealth, and ‘Teras’ refers to the 13th day of the lunar calendar.
- People worship Lord Dhanvantari, the God of health and Ayurveda, and Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth.
- It is considered highly auspicious to buy gold, silver, or utensils on this day to bring prosperity.
- Homes are cleaned and decorated with rangolis and diyas to welcome positive energy.
Day 2: Choti Diwali (Naraka Chaturdashi)
Date: One day before Diwali
Significance: This day commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, symbolizing the end of evil and ignorance.
- Homes are illuminated with oil lamps (diyas).
- People begin lighting fireworks in the evening.
- Some regions also perform a ritual bath known as Abhyanga Snan, believed to cleanse the body and soul.
Day 3: Diwali (Lakshmi Puja)
Date: The main festival day
Significance: This is the most important day of the five. It celebrates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over Ravana. It is also the night of the new moon (Amavasya).
- People perform Lakshmi Puja in the evening to invite wealth and prosperity into their homes.
- Houses and temples are lit with countless diyas and candles.
- Firecrackers, sweets, gifts, and joyous gatherings define the celebration.
- It’s a time for family bonding, spiritual worship, and new beginnings.
Day 4: Govardhan Puja / Annakut
Date: The day after Diwali
Significance: This day is associated with Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from torrential rains.
- Devotees prepare and offer a large variety of vegetarian food items (Annakut) to the deity.
- In some states, especially in North India, this day is also known as Padwa and is celebrated as a day for husband-wife bonding, where wives pray for their husband’s long life.
Day 5: Bhai Dooj (Bhau Beej)
Date: Two days after Diwali
Significance: Bhai Dooj celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters, much like Raksha Bandhan but with the sister performing aarti and praying for her brother’s long life and happiness.
- Sisters apply a tilak on their brother’s forehead and offer sweets.
- Brothers give gifts in return and promise to protect and support their sisters.
- It’s a day of love, respect, and family bonding.
Final Thought
The five days of Diwali are not just about lights and festivities—they are filled with deep spiritual meaning, family traditions, and timeless values. From health and wealth (Dhanteras) to love and sibling bonds (Bhai Dooj), each day offers a unique way to celebrate life, togetherness, and hope.
Panchang Official