Date Of Diwali In 2017

Diwali in 2017: A Celebration of Light and a Deeper Dive into its Date

Diwali, the "Festival of Lights," is a vibrant and significant Hindu festival celebrated with enthusiasm across the globe. Understanding the date of Diwali in a specific year, like 2017, requires a look into the complexities of the Hindu lunisolar calendar. This article delves into the date of Diwali in 2017, explaining the astronomical basis for its timing and exploring the rich cultural and religious significance of this joyous occasion. We'll also address frequently asked questions to offer a complete understanding of Diwali's 2017 celebration.

Understanding the Lunar Calendar and Diwali's Date

Diwali isn't fixed to a specific date on the Gregorian calendar. Its timing is determined by the Hindu lunisolar calendar, a system that combines lunar cycles with solar cycles. This means the date shifts each year. The primary determinant for Diwali's date is the Amavasya, or new moon, during the month of Kartik, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. Diwali is celebrated on the new moon night of the month of Kartik. This specific new moon night is considered auspicious because it marks the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance – themes central to Diwali's narrative.

Diwali 2017: The Specific Date and its Significance

Diwali in 2017 was celebrated on October 19th. This date marks the new moon night of Kartik, making it the most significant day of the five-day Diwali festival. This date is not arbitrary; it's calculated based on precise astronomical observations and aligns with the traditional beliefs associated with the festival. The celebrations, however, often span several days before and after the 19th, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the festival.

The Five Days of Diwali 2017 (and their Significance)

While October 19th was the main day of Diwali in 2017, the festival truly encompasses a five-day period, each day holding its own unique significance:

1. Dhanteras (October 17th, 2017): This day is associated with prosperity and wealth. People traditionally purchase new utensils, jewelry, or other precious items, believing it to be auspicious for the coming year. The legend associated with Dhanteras often involves the tale of Lord Dhanvantari, the physician of the gods, who emerged from the ocean of milk carrying the pot of Amrita, the elixir of immortality.

2. Naraka Chaturdasi (October 18th, 2017): This day is dedicated to the victory of good over evil, symbolized by Lord Krishna's triumph over the demon Narakasura. People take early morning oil baths and enjoy sweets and snacks. It is a significant day focusing on cleansing and purification.

3. Lakshmi Puja (October 19th, 2017 - Diwali Main Day): This is the main day of Diwali, dedicated to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Homes and businesses are meticulously cleaned, decorated with diyas (oil lamps), rangoli (colourful floor designs), and illuminated with lights. Prayers are offered to Lakshmi for blessings and good fortune. The significance of the new moon highlights the darkness being overcome by light.

4. Govardhan Puja (October 20th, 2017): This day celebrates Lord Krishna lifting Mount Govardhan to protect the villagers from Indra's wrath. It's a day dedicated to expressing gratitude for nature's bounty and celebrating the power of faith.

5. Bhai Dooj (October 21st, 2017): This day is specifically dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform aarti (a prayer ritual) for their brothers, wishing them well and seeking their protection. This day further emphasizes the importance of family bonds within the context of Diwali's broader message of harmony.

The Myths and Legends Behind Diwali's Celebration

The timing of Diwali, particularly its alignment with the new moon, isn't merely a calendar designation; it's deeply embedded in several powerful myths and legends that enrich its cultural significance:

• Lord Rama's Return to Ayodhya: One of the most popular narratives links Diwali to Lord Rama's triumphant return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. The people of Ayodhya illuminated their city with diyas to welcome him, thereby celebrating his victory over Ravana and the return of good to the kingdom. This story highlights the victory of good over evil and the restoration of dharma (righteousness).

• Lord Krishna's Defeat of Narakasura: Another widely celebrated story connects Diwali to Lord Krishna's triumph over the demon Narakasura. This victory symbolizes the eradication of evil and the ushering in of a new era of peace and prosperity. This story often ties into Naraka Chaturdasi celebrations.

• Goddess Lakshmi's Birth: Some traditions associate Diwali with the birth of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. The festival is thus seen as a celebration of her arrival and a plea for her blessings for the coming year.

The Scientific Perspective: The Astronomy Behind the Date

The date of Diwali's celebration, tied to the Amavasya (new moon) in Kartik, is directly linked to astronomical occurrences. The new moon phase is determined by the moon's position relative to the sun. When the moon is between the earth and the sun, the sunlit side of the moon is facing away from the earth, resulting in a new moon. Precise astronomical calculations are employed to determine the exact date and time of the new moon in any given year, ensuring the accurate scheduling of Diwali.

Diwali Beyond Religious Connotations: A Global Festival

While Diwali's roots are deeply embedded in Hindu traditions, its celebration transcends religious boundaries. It's a time for families and communities to come together, irrespective of their religious beliefs. The vibrant display of lights, the joyous atmosphere, the exchange of gifts and sweets—these aspects make Diwali a captivating spectacle for everyone. The festival promotes a sense of unity, sharing, and collective joy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why does the date of Diwali change every year?

A: Diwali's date is determined by the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which aligns with the lunar cycles and hence changes every year.

Q: What is the significance of the lights during Diwali?

A: The lights symbolize the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. They represent hope, prosperity, and the driving away of negativity.

Q: What are some common Diwali traditions?

A: Common traditions include lighting diyas (oil lamps), decorating homes with rangoli (colourful floor designs), performing Lakshmi Puja, exchanging gifts and sweets, and enjoying fireworks displays (where permitted).

Q: Is Diwali celebrated only in India?

A: No, Diwali is celebrated globally by Hindu communities and is increasingly recognized and appreciated by people from different cultural backgrounds.

Q: What is the importance of Lakshmi Puja?

A: Lakshmi Puja, performed on the main day of Diwali, is a prayer ritual dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, seeking blessings for wealth, prosperity, and good fortune.

Conclusion: Diwali 2017 and its Enduring Legacy

Diwali in 2017, celebrated on October 19th, was a testament to the enduring appeal and significance of this ancient festival. Its date, determined by the intricacies of the lunisolar calendar and grounded in rich mythological narratives, highlights the interplay between astronomy, religious beliefs, and cultural practices. The festival's message of light overcoming darkness, good prevailing over evil, and the importance of family and community continue to resonate with millions across the globe, making Diwali a truly exceptional and universally appreciated celebration. Understanding the specific date of Diwali in 2017, therefore, allows for a deeper appreciation of its rich history, religious significance, and enduring legacy as a festival of hope, prosperity, and unity.