Diwali Puja Muhurat Timing Live Updates: Grand celebration of lights and Laxmi puja across India

Troops of India and China exchanged sweets at several border points along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) on the occasion of Diwali on Thursday, Army sources said. The traditional practice was observed a day after both countries completed the disengagement at two friction points at Demchok and Depsang Plains in eastern Ladakh, bringing a fresh thaw in the Sino-Indian ties.

"Sweets exchange between members of the troops of India and China took place at several border points along the LAC on the occasion of Diwali," an Army source told PTI.

The exchange took place at five Border Personnel Meeting (BPM) points along the LAC, the sources added.

Assam Chief Minister and BJP co-in-charge for Jharkhand Assembly elections Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday extended his Diwali wishes to people in the state.

Speaking to ANI, Assam CM and BJP co-in-charge for Jharkhand Assembly elections Himanta Biswa Sarma wished happy Diwali to the state and the country. "Happy Diwali to the countrymen and best wishes to the people of our Jharkhand too," he said.

Indian and Chinese troops exchanged sweets at several border points along LAC on Diwali, news agency PTI reported quoting Army sources.

This comes after India announced a new agreement with China regarding patrolling along the LAC in eastern Ladakh, marking the end of the prolonged military standoff since 2020.

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday extended greetings on the occasion of Diwali.

Taking to social media platform X, Rahul, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, posted: "Heartiest congratulations to countrymen on Diwali." His post read, "I hope that the brightness of this festival removes darkness from your life and illuminates it with happiness and prosperity. "

Congress leader Priyanka too posted: "A festival of the victory of diyas over darkness; the victory of justice, truth and modesty over injustice, falsehood and arrogance; a festival of colours, lights and happiness. A time of cleanliness and worship; a great festival of bidding farewell to one season with love and welcoming the next - a very happy Deepawali to all the countrymen."

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also extended "heartfelt" greetings of Deepawali.

Diwali celebrations took off in the coastal state of Goa after the burning of Narakasur demon effigies in the early hours of Thursday. As per traditions, the effigies were taken around before they were burnt to mark the victory of good over evil.

An artist dressed as Lord Krishna symbolically kills Narakasur during various 'Narakasur Vadh' (slaying Narakasur) competitions organised across the state, including Margao, Vasco and Ponda in south Goa.

Several events were held on Wednesday night with thousands joining in and the programmes continued till the wee hours of Thursday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday criticised the opposition, claiming that for 70 years, Baba Saheb Ambedkar's Constitution was not fully implemented and accused those who chant the name of the Constitution of insulting it. He attributed this failure to the "wall of Article 370" in Jammu and Kashmir, declaring that "Article 370 has been buried forever."

Addressing the National Unity Day parade in Gujarat's Kevadia, Prime Minister Modi said, "Today the whole country is happy that after seven decades of independence, the resolution of one country and one constitution has been fulfilled. This is my biggest tribute to Sardar Saheb. For 70 years, Baba Saheb Ambedkar's Constitution was not implemented in the entire country. Those who chant the name of the Constitution have insulted it so much."

On 'Rashtriya Ekta Diwas', Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "The people of Jammu and Kashmir have rejected the age-old agenda of separatism and terrorism. They have made the Constitution of India, the democracy of India victorious. They have put an end to the propaganda going on for 70 years with their votes. Today, on National Unity Day, I salute the people of Jammu and Kashmir. In the last ten years, India has resolved many such issues which were a threat to national unity. Terrorists' 'masters' now know that harming India won't yield results, as India won't spare them."

He added, "The Northeast faced numerous challenges, but we have quenched the flames of separatism through dialogue, trust, and development. The Bodo and Bru-Reang agreements have established peace and stability. The National Liberation Front of Tripura's accord has ended long-standing unrest. India is moving forward with peace, development, and prosperity. We have resolved the border dispute between Assam and Meghalaya to a large extent. When the history of the 21st century will be written, there will be a chapter on how India uprooted the disease of Naxalism."

PM Modi on Rashtriya Ekta Diwas said that the 'forces outside India and inside are working to destabilise the country'. He also added that 'they are trying to divide country on caste lines and are against a developed India'

On 'Rashtriya Ekta Diwas', Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the success of One Nation Identity- Aadhar and One Nation One Tax System- GST while also mentioning that the government is now working towards 'one nation, one election'.

PM Modi said, "We strengthened the country's power sector with one nation one power grid. We integrated the facilities available to the poor through one nation one ration card. We have provided the facility of one nation one health insurance to the people of the country in the form of Aayushman Bharat. Under these efforts of ours for unity, we are now working towards one nation one election, which will strengthen India's democracy, which will give optimum outcome of India's resources and the country will gain new momentum in achieving the dream of a developed India. Today, India is moving towards one nation civil code that is a secular civil code."

On Sardar Vallabhai Patel's birth anniversary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the 'National Unity Day' celebrations at Kevadia, Gujarat. He witnessed the aerial display performed by the Indian Air Force's Suryakiran Aerobatic Team, who executed precise formations during their demonstration.

The Ekta Diwas Parade featured diverse participation, including 16 marching contingents representing nine states and one Union Territory, alongside four Central Armed Police Forces, NCC, and a marching band.

The event showcased various performances, including the NSG's Hell March contingent, impressive motorcycle stunts by BSF and CRPF personnel, traditional Indian Martial Arts demonstrations by BSF, a musical performance by school students' piped band, and the highlight being the Indian Air Force's 'Surya Kiran' aerial display.

On 'Rashtriya Ekta Diwas', Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "The last 10 years have been full of unprecedented achievements for the unity and integrity of India. Today, commitment to national unity is visible in every work, every mission of the government. As true Indians, it's our duty to celebrate every effort towards national unity with enthusiasm and energy, strengthening new resolves, hopes, and excitement. This is the true celebration. By promoting India's languages, we strengthen the bonds of unity. The New Education Policy is a shining example, which the nation has proudly embraced."

On 'Rashtriya Ekta Diwas', Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "Today marks the beginning of Sardar Patel's 150th birth anniversary year, and the country will celebrate this milestone for the next two years. This is a tribute to his extraordinary contributions to India. This period will be filled with honouring his remarkable achievements, and national unity will be reflected in every initiative and mission of the government."

He added," When India got independence, there were some people in the world who were estimating that India would disintegrate. They had no hope that a united India could be created by uniting hundreds of princely states, but Sardar Sahib did it. This was possible because Sardar Sahib was a realist in his behaviour, truthful in his resolve, humanitarian in his action and nationalist in his aim."

At the National Unity Day parade in Gujarat's Kevadia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "This time the National Unity Day has brought a wonderful coincidence. On one hand, today we are celebrating the festival of unity and on the other hand, it is also the festival of Deepawali. Deepawali connects the whole country through lamps, illuminates the whole country and now the festival of Deepawali is also connecting India with the world. It is being celebrated as a national festival in many countries. I extend many best wishes of Deepawali to all the Indians living in the country and the world and the well-wishers of India."

At the National Unity Day parade in Gujarat's Kevadia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "Sardar Patel's powerful voice, this grand program near Statue of Unity, this panoramic view of Ekta Nagar and the wonderful performances here, these glimpses of mini India, everything is so amazing, so inspiring. Just like 15th August and 26th January, this event on 31st October fills the whole country with new energy. I wish all the countrymen a very happy National Unity Day."

"Today is Deepavali, I want to extend my heartily wishes to you. In Treta Yug, upon completion of Lord Ram's 'vanvaas', Deepavali was celebrated, even after 1000 years, this festival is celebrated with a lot of respect. This Diwali is special as Lord Ram has returned after 500 years. The consecration of Ram Temple was done on January 22 this year. Everybody is celebrating. This festival unites us and removes darkness from our lives. I pray to Lord Ram to bring prosperity to everyone's lives on Diwali," says UP CM Yogi Adityanath in Ayodhya on the occasion of Diwali.

In a historic move, Diwali will be celebrated as an official school holiday in New York City, enabling over 1.1 million students to observe the festival of lights.

Diwali has been declared a school holiday for New York City public schools beginning this year. Last year, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation making Diwali a school holiday for the city's public schools.

New York City schools will remain closed on November 1 in celebration of Diwali.

Diwali, the festival of lights, exemplifies the common principles between the United States and India, senior US diplomat said during a Diwali celebration event. Richard Verma, who serves as the Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, emphasised, "I've spoken many times about the shared values between the United States and India and that's really what binds us together."

Verma, who previously served as US Ambassador to India, said, "There is no better holiday, no better celebration than this one that really brings out the shared values between us."

The event, which took place at the Kennedy Center, was organized by the US India Strategic and Partnership Forum (USISPF). The gathering included notable attendees from various sectors, including government officials, diplomatic representatives, prominent Indian Americans, and business leaders.

During a visit to Jaipur's Sanganer market on Wednesday, Rajasthan chief minister Bhajanlal Sharma interacted with locals and conveyed his Diwali wishes to the community.

During his walkabout, the chief minister offered blessings to local children and exchanged festive greetings with residents, who responded by presenting him with traditional sweets.

Meanwhile, Jaipur Police have implemented comprehensive security protocols throughout the city for Diwali celebrations. Police have established specific measures to protect citizens and maintain efficient traffic movement in the state capital.

A thick layer of smog covered parts of the National Capital on Thursday, with air quality reaching the 'Severe' category, as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Around 7:00 am, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Anand Vihar was recorded at 419. In Aya Nagar, the AQI was 308, while Jahangirpuri saw an AQI of 395, and Dwarka reached 359, all in the 'Very Poor' category. The CPCB's data highlights significant pollution levels in the National Capital, creating health risks for residents in affected areas.

Meanwhile, Former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP National Convener Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday asked Delhi residents to refrain from bursting firecrackers and light diyas in Diwali, noting that Diwali is a festival of lights and not firecrackers.

Land, water and sky, the energy of positive light that emitted out of the eighth Deepotsav left nothing uncovered in the temple town of Ayodhya on Wednesday. This being the first Deepotsav after the consecration of Ram Lalla on January 22, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said: "This is a historic first as after 500 years Lord Ram is now in his abode for Diwali."

Jawans of the Indian Army's Romeo Force celebrated Diwali away from their homes at an altitude of 8,000 feet in the hilly regions of the Pir Panjal Range on Wednesday.

The jawans of the force sang bhajans, distributed sweets, and lighted sparklers as they celebrated the festival of lights. Visuals show a jawan performing aarti while another distributed laddoos.

Away from their hometowns in the service of the nation, Army jawans also marked Diwali celebrations at the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir. They held Diwali pooja, danced, sang songs, and enjoyed firecrackers to mark the festival.

The city of Kolkata has been lit up with brilliant illuminations as residents prepare for Diwali and Kali Puja celebrations. Markets were filled with people purchasing traditional items like sweets, diyas, decorative pieces, and festive attire.

The celebration honors Shakti, represented by Goddess Kali, demonstrating the victory of Good over Evil. Known also as Shyama Puja, referencing Goddess Kali's alternate name Shyama (meaning black or dark), this festival extends beyond West Bengal to Bihar, Odisha, Assam, Tripura, and parts of Maharashtra. The celebration represents the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

More than 10,000 diyas will be lit at the Swaminarayan Akshardham temple in Gandhinagar on Diwali. "For the last 32 years, Akshardham Temple has been decorated just like this every Diwali with 10,000 diyas. This year too, it will continue till November 8 from 6 pm to 7.45 pm every evening. A beautiful glow garden has also been built here," said Jayesh Mandanka, a 'swayamsevak' at Akshardham Temple.

Jawans of the Indian Army's Romeo Force celebrated Diwali away from their homes at an altitude of 8,000 feet in the hilly regions of the Pir Panjal Range.
The jawans of the force sang bhajans, distributed sweets, and lighted sparklers as they celebrated the festival of lights.

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha inaugurated the Kali puja celebrations in the state capital of Agartala on Wednesday. Chief Minister Saha also announced 5 per cent Dearness Allowance (DA) to government and retired employees as a Diwali gift.

"The government employees work the whole year. We have announced a 5 per cent Dearness Allowance to government employees and retired employees. This is a Diwali gift," said Saha

Ahead of Diwali, Mohali SSP Deepak Pareek on Wednesday observed traffic management and security arrangements along VIP Road in Zirakpur during a foot patrol. During the drive, he instructed police officers to maintain strict vigil, especially during peak hours. The patrol team identified several points requiring additional traffic personnel deployment.

Ayodhya dazzled on Diwali-eve as two Guinness records were set: of most people (1,121) performing aarti and most number of diyas (25L) lit up. On the first ‘Deepostsav’ in Ayodhya since the consecretion of Ram Mandir, M Yogi Adityanath said, “This is a historic first as after 500 years Lord Ram is now in his abode for Diwali”

"The government employees work the whole year. We have announced a 5% Dearness Allowance to government employees and retired employees. This is a Diwali gift," said Tripura CM Manik Saha.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said this is the first Diwali after the consecration ceremony of Lord Ram in his magnificent temple in Ayodhya and asserted that this auspicious moment has come after 500 years with the countless sacrifices and penance of Ram bhakts. Tagging a post by the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra, Modi said in a post in Hindi on X: "Divine Ayodhya! This is the first Deepawali after the consecration ceremony of Lord Shri Ram, the epitome of virtue, in his magnificent temple. The unique beauty of Shri Ram Lalla's temple in Ayodhya is going to overwhelm everyone."

"After 500 years, this auspicious moment has come with the countless sacrifices and penance of Ram bhakts. It is our good fortune that all of us have become witnesses to this historic occasion," Modi said.

"I am confident that the life of Lord Shri Ram and his ideals will continue to be an inspiration for the people of the country in achieving the resolution of a developed India," he added.

The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra, in its post, shared pictures of the temple illuminated by lights and said on the eve of Diwali, the Ram temple shines with a divine glow.

Archbishop of Goa and Daman Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao on Wednesday wished people on Diwali and said the Hindu festival celebrates what every religion should stand for at its core, namely, the upholding of good over evil. In his message on the occasion of Diwali, the archbishop said people may continue to spread the light of harmonious living, taking a stand against divisive forces. Ferrao, greeting Hindu brethren on behalf of the Catholic community of Goa, said, "This festival celebrates what every religion should stand for at its core, namely, the upholding of good over evil, of truth over falsehood and of light over darkness." "It is my sincere wish and prayer that we, the people of this beautiful land, coming from various religious and cultural backgrounds, may continue to spread the light of harmonious living, thus building an illumined society in which respect for all human beings and for God's creation is upheld and actively promoted," the archbishop said in the message.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended Diwali greetings to the people on Wednesday, calling it an important festival of the Sanatan Dharma tradition in India. "Thousands of years ago, in memory of the arrival of Maryada Purushottam Lord Shri Ram in Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and the beginning of Ramrajya, devotees across Bharatkhand started celebrating this festival by decorating their homes with garlands of lamps, " a statement by the CM read.
Adityanath said that this year's Diwali is "historic" as Lord Shri Ramlala has been seated in his abode after a long wait of 500 years.

"Innumerable" lamps will be lit in the new temple built in Ayodhya, he said.

"The state government is re-establishing the ancient and glorious tradition of celebrating Diwali in Ayodhya through the organization of 'Deepotsav' and is working to introduce the entire world community to the glory of Ayodhya," the statement read.

Over 29 lakh destitute women have received the third instalment of pension ahead of Diwali in Uttar Pradesh, the state government said on Thursday. According to a press release, this pension was part of Nirashrit Mahila Pension Yojana and released ahead of the festivals of Diwali and Chhath on the directives of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.


"The move is intended to provide much-needed support to the widows facing financial hardship and help them celebrate the festivals with joy. The Yogi government has ensured they receive this assistance without inconvenience," the release added.

The Nirashrit Mahila Pension Yojana with a monthly pension of Rs 1,000 supports widows aged 18 and above with an annual family income of up to Rs 2 lakh. To qualify, beneficiaries must not be receiving aid from any other state or central government pension scheme. This initiative serves as a lifeline for impoverished women who lack other forms of financial assistance.

CM Adityanath has also instructed officials to ensure timely aid to every eligible woman, reinforcing his commitment to bring festive joy to even the most vulnerable households in the state.

Rishi Sunak bowed out as UK Opposition Leader in Parliament on Wednesday with a reference to his career's Diwali milestones, being appointed the country's first Prime Minister of Indian heritage two years ago during the Festival of Lights. The 44-year-old, who has been serving as interim leader of the Conservatives until a new Tory leader is elected after the party's general election defeat in July, used his final Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs) in the House of Commons for a light-hearted exchange with Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

"I became leader of my party during Diwali and I now stand down during that same festival," said Sunak.

"I'm proud to have been the first British Asian Prime Minister, and I am even prouder that it was not that big a deal; and that speaks volumes about the values of the British people, of our country and of this Parliament. So will the Prime Minister join me in applauding the kindness, decency and tolerance that has always been the British way," he said.

It was during Diwali in October 2022 that Sunak, joined by wife Akshata and daughters Krishna and Anoushka, entered 10 Downing Street and went on to adorn its steps with diyas and rangoli for two consecutive years.

Starmer said all sections of the British Parliament were proud to have had Sunak "representing our diverse country" as prime minister. He also paid tribute to the outgoing Opposition Leader's "hard work, commitment and decency" despite their many political disagreements.

"I wish everyone celebrating in the UK and around the world a joyful Diwali, a time to come together to celebrate and focus on a brighter future," said Starmer.

"Last Diwali, the Leader of the Opposition (Sunak) and his family lit the diyas outside 10 Downing Street. It was a significant moment in our national story. The first British Asian Prime Minister is a reminder that this is a country where people of every background have fulfilled their dreams, and it makes us all proud to be British," added Starmer, who followed up the trend set by his Indian-origin predecessor to light diyas on the steps of 10 Downing Street on Tuesday evening to mark Diwali.

Former Babri Masjid litigant Iqbal Ansari said on Wednesday that there is widespread enthusiasm among the people of Ayodhya for the Diwali festivities, emphasising that there is no discrimination involved.

Ansari highlighted Ayodhya's tradition of exchanging sweets during festivals and noted the continued harmony between Hindus and Muslims in the city. He praised the Uttar Pradesh government's efforts, which he believes have enabled Diwali to be celebrated on such a grand scale.

"This is Ayodhya Nagri. Whatever happens here is always for the best. The city is celebrating Diwali, as it has done for centuries. Credit goes to the government for ensuring Diwali is celebrated with such grandeur. People have come from across the country and the world to enjoy Deepotsav. In this festival, there is no discrimination. We have a culture of exchanging sweets during festivals. Whether Hindu or Muslim, we share a sense of brotherhood here. People celebrate festivals together. Ayodhya has been decorated like a bride for Diwali," Ansari said.

Earlier, Uttar Pradesh Minister Jaiveer Singh remarked that this is the first 'Deepotsav' following the Pran Pratishtha of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, and every effort has been made to enhance the programme's grandeur and divinity.

Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief Air Marshal A P Singh on Wednesday visited Jammu and some of the forward locations where the air warriors of the force are deployed, an official spokesperson said. The visit of the Chief of the Air Staff comes on the eve of Diwali festival. He took a detailed overview of the operational readiness at these locations and interacted with the air warriors and Agniveers posted there, the spokesperson said.
During the interaction, the Air Chief Marshal emphasised on the importance of remaining vigilant and prepared at all times to safeguard national security concerns.

He complimented the air warriors for their dedication and selfless duty at these forward locations.

The visit by the Chief of Air Staff during the festival season was a great reflection of the commitment towards welfare and motivation of the troops deployed on the frontiers, the spokesperson said.

The One World Trade Center in New York which is the tallest building in the US, on Wednesday lit up in colours in the occasion of Diwali.
The building displayed 'diyas' as the US celebrated Diwali.

In a post on X, the Consulate General of India in New York stated, "Shubharambh of Diwali with the tallest building in the USA, One World Trade Center lighting up in radiant colors! Here's to a festival of lights that shines across the globe!"

Away from home in the service of the nation, Indian Army jawans celebrated Diwali on Wednesday evening at the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir.
They held Diwali pooja, danced, sang songs, and enjoyed firecrackers to mark the festival.

A jawan told ANI, "Today, we are celebrating Diwali with our other family--the army jawans. We are far from our families."

He added, "I appeal to my fellow countrymen not to worry about anything. Happy Diwali to all from the Indian Army. We are standing here, guarding the border."

Another army jawan extended Diwali greetings to the nation, saying, "We want to assure our people that we are firmly standing at the LoC. Celebrate the festival with your families."

He continued, "The Army is our home. We spend ten months here and take leave for the remaining two. We mix with the rest of the soldiers like our own family."

Another jawan, visibly emotional, said, "We miss our families, but we are happy to be celebrating Diwali here. I want to tell my countrymen to celebrate Diwali at home."

President Droupadi Murmu Wednesday greeted citizens on the eve of Diwali and said the festival is also an opportunity to help the deprived and needy and share happiness with them. On the auspicious occasion of Diwali, "we should illuminate our conscience, adopt virtues of love and compassion, and promote social harmony", she said.
This festival is also an opportunity to help the deprived and needy, and share "our happiness with them", the President said in a message issued by the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Diwali is a festival of happiness and enthusiasm, Murmu said.

"This festival symbolises the victory of knowledge over ignorance and good over evil. Various communities in India and abroad celebrate this festival with great zeal," she said, adding that this festival also kindles hope for a brighter future.

"Let us be proud of the glorious heritage of India. With faith in goodness, let us celebrate a pollution-free Diwali and pledge to build a healthy, prosperous and responsible society," Murmu said while extending Diwali greetings to all Indians living in the country and abroad.

In an awe-inspiring display, Ayodhya also set a record for the highest number of oil lamps (diyas) lit simultaneously. A total of 25,12,585 diyas illuminated the banks of the Saryu River, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and creating a breathtaking spectacle.

These record-setting moments have added to the grandeur of this year's Deepotsav, capturing the spirit of celebration and devotion in Ayodhya.

The first record was set by 1,121 individuals who performed the rotation of diyas in a synchronized manner during the Saryu Aarti. This carefully coordinated act brought a remarkable visual harmony to the ceremony, emphasizing unity and devotion.