Dhanteras and Diwali 2021 date: Everything you need to know

Diwali begins with Dhanteras or Dhan Trayodashi. It is observed on the thirteenth day of the waning phase of the Lunar fortnight in Kartik month while Diwali is celebrated on the Amavasya Tithi (New Moon day). Read on to know the Dhanteras and Diwali 2021 dates.

Diwali, traditionally referred to as Deepawali (Deepon ki awali or a row of lamps), otherwise famous as the festival of lights, is one of India’s biggest festivals. It is celebrated on the Amavasya Tithi or the New Moon Day in the month of Kartik. Diwali festivities are spread over five days, and they include Govatsa Dwadashi, Dhanteras, Yama Deepam or Naraka Chaturdashi, Diwali, Govardhan Puja, and last but not last least, Bhai Dooj.

Day 1 — Dhanteras: November 2, 2021 (Tuesday) Dwadashi

This is the first day of the festival when people clean their homes and prepare for the events ahead. This is also a busy shopping day, when it is considered lucky to go to markets and buy gold or new kitchen items.

Day 2 — Choti Diwali: November 3, 2021 (Wednesday) Trayodashi

The second day is when people start decorating their homes. Many families will put up string lights and start creating their rangoli, which are intricate designs placed on the floors of homes.

Day 3 — Diwali and Lakshmi Puja: November 4, 2021 (Thursday) Amavasya

The most important part of the celebration is the ritual that takes place on this day.

Clay oil lamps or diyas are lit and rituals worshipping the goddess Lakshmi are performed. The most auspicious time for worship (Puja) is from 6:09pm to 8:04pm. The worshipping can be done at temples or at home by placing a red cloth on the puja chowki (‘worship table’), putting the idol on it, and then offering flowers, fruits (water chestnuts, pomegranate, quince, and coconut), and sweets (notably kesari bhaat — semolina pudding with saffron, nuts, and sugar) to Goddess Lakshmi, then prostrating in front of the idol and joining your palms for prayers.

Day 4 — Padwa: November 5, 2021 (Friday) Pratipada

The fourth day of celebrations is dedicated to the love between husband and wife, and men will often buy gifts for their wives. Many businesses open new accounts on this day as it is considered auspicious.

Day 5 — Bhai Duj: November 6, 2021 (Saturday) Dwitiya

Bhai Duj (Bhaubeej), the last day of celebrations is dedicated to brothers and sisters. To celebrate their bond, sisters perform a special ceremony for their brothers for their protection. Brothers give presents to their sisters.