Diwali Padwa 2024, also called Bali Puja or Bali Pratipada, is celebrated on Kartik Pratipada, the day right after Diwali. This day coincides with Govardhan Puja; however, while Govardhan Puja honors Lord Krishna and the Govardhan Hill, Bali Puja is dedicated to King Bali, a revered demon king.
Granted a special boon by Lord Vishnu, King Bali symbolizes the victory of good over evil, making this day especially meaningful for devotees. Keep reading for details on the date, significance, and exact timings of this unique celebration.
Diwali Padwa 2024
Diwali Padwa, or Balipratipada, is a special festival celebrated the day after Diwali. In 2024, it will be observed on November 2, aligning with Kartik Shukla Pratipada in the Hindu calendar. This day holds deep significance as it celebrates the bond between husband and wife, symbolizing prayers for a long and joyful married life.
Marked by rituals, pujas, and festive traditions, Diwali Padwa embodies blessings of prosperity and well-being, making it a cherished occasion for couples and families alike.
Diwali Padwa 2024 Date
This year, the auspicious festival of Bali Pratipada will be celebrated on Saturday, November 2.
Diwali Padwa 2024 Shubh Muhurat
This year, the festival of Bali Pratipada will be celebrated on Saturday, November 2. As per Drik Panchang, the auspicious timings for this day are:
| Diwali Padwa 2024 Date and Timings | ||
|---|---|---|
| Puja Timing | Time | Duration |
| Bali Puja Pratahkala Muhurat | 06:34 AM to 08:46 AM, Nov 2 | 2 hours 12 minutes |
| Bali Puja Sayankala Muhurat | 03:23 PM to 05:35 PM, Nov 2 | 2 hours 12 minutes |
| Pratipada Tithi Begins | 06:16 PM on Nov 1, 2024 | – |
| Pratipada Tithi Ends | 08:21 PM on Nov 2, 2024 | – |
Diwali Padwa 2024 History
In the story of Lord Vishnu’s Vamana Avatar, it is said that King Bali, a powerful demon king, ruled over all three worlds. King Bali was known for his kindness and generosity, even though he was a demon. To stop his growing power, Lord Vishnu took the form of a dwarf named Vamana and asked King Bali for three steps of land.
When Bali agreed, Lord Vishnu grew in size and covered the earth and the heavens in two steps. For the third step, Bali offered his own head, showing his humility. Impressed by Bali’s devotion, Lord Vishnu sent him to Patala (the underworld) but granted him a special blessing.
Lord Vishnu promised King Bali that he could return to Bhulok (earth) for three days each year to meet his followers. During these days, it is believed that King Bali blesses his devotees, spreading joy and prosperity.
According to religious texts, during Bali Puja, people place an image of King Bali and his wife, Vindhyavali, at the center of their homes. This image is decorated with five different colors to symbolize good fortune and positivity. Devotees then worship this colorful representation of King Bali to honor his kindness and seek his blessings.
Diwali Padwa 2024 Rituals
Bali Pratipada rituals vary across regions in India, but most celebrate by honoring King Bali and the deities with gift exchanges. The day typically begins with a ceremonial oil bath, after which people dress in new clothes.
Colorful Rangoli or Kolam designs are made at the entrances of homes, and images of King Bali and his wife, Vindhyavali, are worshipped. These images are often crafted from clay or cow dung to honor traditional practices.
As evening arrives, lamps are lit at doors and in temples. Festivities include community games, feasts, and playing pachikalu, a dice game rooted in a story featuring gods Shiva, Parvati, Kartikeya, and Ganesha.
In western India, cultural programs and music concerts are part of the celebration. Farming communities in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka add their own traditions, such as Kedaragauri Vratam, Gopuja, and Gouramma Puja, where cowsheds are cleaned and decorated images of King Bali are worshipped to show respect for animals and the harvest.
| Related Links | |
|---|---|
| Govardhan Puja 2024 | Bhai Dooj 2024 |
| Govatsa Dwadashi 2024 | National Unity Day 2024 |
| Karnataka Rajyotsava 2024 | World Vegan Day 2024 |
Diwali Padwa 2024 FAQs
Q.1. What is Diwali Padwa or Bali Pratipada?
Ans. Diwali Padwa, or Bali Pratipada, is a festival observed the day after Diwali to honor King Bali and celebrate prosperity, family, and marital blessings.
Q.2. When is Diwali Padwa 2024 celebrated?
Ans. In 2024, Diwali Padwa will be observed on Saturday, November 2, coinciding with the Kartik Shukla Pratipada in the Hindu calendar.
Q.3. What is the significance of Diwali Padwa?
Ans. Diwali Padwa celebrates the blessings of King Bali, symbolizing the victory of good over evil, and highlights the bond between husband and wife with prayers for a long, joyful life.
Q.4. What are the main rituals of Diwali Padwa?
Ans. Key rituals include a ceremonial oil bath, decorating homes with Rangoli, worshipping images of King Bali and Vindhyavali, and lighting lamps as a symbol of good fortune.
Q.5. How does Diwali Padwa differ from Govardhan Puja?
Ans. While Govardhan Puja honors Lord Krishna and the Govardhan Hill, Diwali Padwa celebrates King Bali and is dedicated to blessings of prosperity and marital happiness.
