Dev Diwali, also known as “Dev Deepawali,” will be celebrated on November 15, 2024. This sacred day falls on Kartik Purnima, symbolizing the victory of Lord Shiva over the demon Tripurasur. It is believed that on this day, gods descend to Earth to celebrate Diwali. Here’s a guide on how to observe Dev Diwali and make the most of this spiritually powerful day:
1. Morning Rituals
Holy Bath: Begin the day with an early morning bath. If possible, bathe in a holy river, or add a few drops of Ganga water to your bath for purification.
House Cleaning: Clean your home thoroughly, focusing on the prayer area, as a clean environment is essential for inviting divine energy.
2. Worship of Lord Shiva
Shiva Puja: As Dev Diwali is closely associated with Lord Shiva, perform his worship by offering water, milk, honey, and bel leaves to the Shiva Lingam. Chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” during the ritual brings blessings and positivity.
Lighting Lamps: After worship, light oil lamps (diyas) in your home, placing them around your prayer area as an offering to the deities.
3. Puja Vidhi
Kartik Purnima Puja: Perform puja for Kartik Purnima by offering flowers, fruits, and sweets to Lord Vishnu. Chanting the “Vishnu Sahasranama” or the “Om Namah Shivaya” mantra is considered very auspicious.
Tulsi Worship: Offer prayers to the Tulsi (holy basil) plant, which holds special significance during the month of Kartik. If you haven’t already, many devotees observe Tulsi Vivah during this period, which represents the divine marriage of Tulsi and Lord Vishnu.
4. Evening Celebrations
Ganga Aarti: If you’re near Varanasi or can watch virtually, participating in or witnessing the Ganga Aarti on Dev Diwali evening is a special experience. The Aarti, performed with hundreds of diyas, is considered highly auspicious.
Lighting Lamps in the Evening: Decorate your home with diyas in the evening. Place them on doorways, balconies, and around your home to invite divine blessings.
Floating Diyas in Water: If you live near a river, it is considered meritorious to float diyas on the water as a symbolic offering to the deities.
5. Charity and Donations
Giving to the Needy: Charity is highly encouraged on Dev Diwali. Donate food, clothes, or other essentials to those in need, as this act of kindness attracts divine blessings.
Feeding Cows: Feeding cows, especially with green fodder or sweets, is also seen as an auspicious way to honor the divine on Dev Diwali.
6. Fasting
Observing a Fast: Some devotees choose to observe a day-long fast on Dev Diwali, breaking it only after completing the Kartik Purnima puja and sighting the full moon. This fasting ritual is believed to cleanse one’s soul and draw divine blessings.
By following these rituals on November 15, 2024, you can fully immerse in the celebration of Dev Diwali, creating a peaceful and blessed atmosphere in your home and inviting divine grace for a prosperous life.