The Extended Festivities of Diwali 2023: A Six-Day Celebration Guide
Introduction
Diwali is more than just a one-day affair; it’s a series of joyous festivities that have been celebrated for thousands of years. Traditionally, Diwali spans five days, but 2023 is special! This year, Diwali will extend to a six-day celebration. Curious to know why and how? Keep reading to find out all about the festivals from Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj, and the unique celestial coincidence that adds an extra day to this year’s celebrations.
A Longer Diwali in 2023
Traditionally, Diwali festivities last for five days, beginning with Dhanteras and concluding with Bhai Dooj. The sequence is based on Hindu religious texts and aligns with the lunar calendar. However, this year is unique, and Diwali will be celebrated for six days. Let’s dive into the whys and hows of this fascinating extension.
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Kickstarting the Celebrations: When is Dhanteras?
The festival of Dhanteras marks the official start of the Diwali celebrations. According to the Panchang, Dhanteras will fall on Friday, October 10. On this auspicious day, not only is Kuberdev, the god of wealth, worshipped but Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, is also honored. It’s the perfect day for some festive shopping, so go ahead and splurge a little!
The Essence of Roop Chaturdashi: The Eve Before Diwali
Following Dhanteras, Roop Chaturdashi takes place on Saturday, October 11. Also known as Narak Chaturdashi, this day is all about self-care and wellness. A morning Abhyanga bath is traditional, followed by an evening lamp donation to Yamraj, the god of death, setting the spiritual tone for the main Diwali celebrations.
The Grandeur of Diwali: When is It Celebrated?
The third day, which is Diwali itself, falls on Sunday, November 12. Celebrations begin in the evening and align with the lunar phase of Amavasya. This year, Lakshmi Puja, the worship of the goddess of wealth, will be performed on this night, marking the pinnacle of the Diwali celebrations.
The Uncommon Occurrence: Somvati Amavasya
Now, what makes 2023 special? The next day after Diwali, which is Monday, November 13, the festival of Somvati Amavasya will be celebrated. On this day, it’s considered especially auspicious to bathe in a holy river and make donations to those less fortunate. This rare alignment extends the festivities to a sixth day!
The Significance of Govardhan Puja
Govardhan Puja falls on Tuesday, November 14. On this day, families come together to create mini replicas of the Govardhan Mountain using cow dung. Known as Suhaag Padwa in some regions, married women participate in the celebrations and seek blessings from the family’s elder women.
Wrapping up the Festivities: Bhai Dooj
The celebrations come to an emotional close on Wednesday, November 15, with Bhai Dooj. Sisters invite their brothers for a meal and apply tilak on their foreheads, a simple act believed to extend the brothers’ lifespans.
Final Words
Remember, the dates and rituals mentioned in this article are based on religious texts, astrological insights, and cultural beliefs. Consider this as a guide to understanding the rich tapestry of Diwali 2023, especially the unique six-day extension. Happy celebrating!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as expert astrological advice.
