Even Google confused over Diwali date this year: October 31 or November 1?

As Diwali approaches, a pertinent question has been puzzling people: on which day should the Festival of Lights be celebrated this year? While Google’s holiday calendar shows conflicting dates for Diwali – listing both Thursday (October 31, 2024) and Friday (November 1) as potential dates – households across India are left wondering which day to finalise for festivities and the all-important Lakshmi Puja. Even official public holiday announcements add to the ambiguity, with Friday marked as the holiday date.

The uncertainty over Diwali’s exact date has quickly turned into one of the most searched topics on Google as lakhs try to pin down the correct day for the festival. This year, the date confusion has fueled endless discussions, making it a top query on the search engine as people seek clarity amid differing opinions from astrologers, pandits and even family members.

Also Read: https://thenewzradar.com/confusion-over-when-to-celebrate-diwali-this-year-renowned-astrologer-clears-the-air/

Articles dissecting the reasons behind the varying dates are attracting high traffic, with users keen to understand why the date varies. The question has become a trending topic not only in India but among the global diaspora and people want to plan accurately for festivities, shopping, travel and worship.

Double Amavasya creates confusion

Traditionally, Diwali is celebrated on Amavasya, the new moon day of the Hindu month of Kartika. However, the confusion arises from an unusual celestial event: a “double Amavasya”, where the traditional new moon (Amavasya) period extends across two days, overlapping October 31 and November 1.

Astrologers and religious leaders are divided. While some say October 31 is the correct date, others believe November 1 aligns more accurately with the traditional calendar. The Drik Panchang and leading astrologers, however, suggest celebrating Diwali on October 31, aligning with the start of Amavasya.

Best time for Lakshmi Puja

“Amavasya starts at 4 pm on October 31 and ends at 6.16 pm on November 1,” explains Pandit Hemant Sharma, a renowned astrologer. According to him, the most auspicious time for Lakshmi Puja, known as Pradosh Kaal, falls on October 31 from 5.12 pm to 6.16 pm. This period is considered ideal for invoking the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.