Diwali is celebrated as a five-day festival. Each day of Diwali holds its own special significance and rituals:
- Day 1 - Dhanteras: Worship of Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi, buying gold, silver, or utensils is auspicious, homes are cleaned and decorated.
- Day 2 - Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali): Also known as small Diwali, includes holy oil bath rituals and marks the victory of Krishna over the demon Narakasura.
- Day 3 - Lakshmi Puja (Main Diwali Night): The primary day of the festival when Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and Kuber are worshipped, and homes are illuminated with diyas.
- Day 4 - Govardhan Puja (Annakut): Commemorates Lord Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill; large food offerings are made.
- Day 5 - Bhai Dooj: Celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters with tilak application and gift exchanges.
Thus, Diwali celebrations span five days in total, with each day enriched with distinct cultural and spiritual meanings.
