Confusion over Diwali date leads to two days of festivities

Even as Diwali was celebrated with great enthusiasm in most city areas last night, the festival of lights is being observed in many rural parts of the district today. The difference in dates, arising from variations in traditional calendars, has led to a unique two-day celebration of festivities this year.

In the city, markets remained abuzz till late on Monday evening as families lit earthen lamps, exchanged sweets and burst crackers to mark the occasion. Homes and temples were illuminated beautifully, and fireworks lit up the night sky.

However, in rural belts and adjoining villages, the festive preparations reached their peak only this morning. A majority of the families chose to celebrate Diwali on Tuesday night. Even in urban areas, many performed Lakshmi Puja on Tuesday, following the traditional Panchang that marks the main Amavasya Tithi today.

Local priests explained that the confusion occurred because the lunar date of Amavasya, which determines Diwali, began late on Monday and continued into Tuesday evening.

"As per the Drik Panchang, the most auspicious time for Lakshmi Puja falls tonight. That's why many people in villages decided to celebrate today," said a temple priest from Majitha. As per Sikh traditions, Diwali is celebrated as Bandi Chor Divas to mark Guru Hargobind's release and the freedom of 52 kings.

Despite the divided observance, the spirit of Diwali remains undiminished. In both rural and urban areas, families have decorated their homes with lights, flowers and colourful rangolis for the second successive day.

However, the residents are confused too. A local resident said, "I had my Diwali holiday yesterday. It was also a holiday in government institutes. However, my wife's institute has declared holiday for today (Tuesday). Even the children are confused." He said that it has given them an opportunity to celebrate the festival for two days.

An elderly Jagwinder Singh said, "Whether

celebrated last night or today, Diwali has once again brought joy and togetherness."