The 5-day festival calendar of Diwali 2022: From Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj

The five-day Diwali celebration begins with Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi.  On this day, people worship Lord Kubera and Goddess Lakshmi and buy some new goods. People buy silver, gold, clothes, and electronics as it is believed that doing so will bring good fortune. The gods of wealth are the sole focus of this day.

It is believed that Lord Krishna fought the demon Narakasura and killed him, according to Hindu mythology and legend. In Tamil Nadu, this day is celebrated as Diwali. Choti Diwali, also known as Tamil Deepavali, is celebrated a day before Diwali in North India.

Diwali, when people perform Lakshmi Pujan, is the biggest of all festivals. On this day, the main Diwali festivities take place, and it is today that after killing Ravana, Lord Rama fought his way back to Ayodhya. The goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, is welcomed by people because she is thought to bestow luck and prosperity. People also worship Ganesha and Maa Sarawati with goddess Lakshmi on this day.

A day after Diwali, people celebrate Govardhan Puja, a day dedicated to the worship of Lord Krishna. Religious scholars believe that Lord Krishna lifted the mountain known as "Govardhan" to protect the citizens of Mathura from Lord Indra's constant heavy rains.

The last and another significant day is known as Bhai Dooj or Bhau Beej, which celebrates the special relationship between brothers and sisters. It is a festival that is similar to Raksha Bandhan in that it celebrates the bond sibling share.