Bhubaneswar: The Mukti Mandap Pandit Sabha has put the debate over the correct date of Diwali celebrations to rest, announcing that Diwali and Paya Shraddha will be observed on October 20. This decision settles the controversy surrounding the dates, with some calendars indicating October 20 and others October 21.
According to the Mukti Mandap Pandit Sabha, the Amavasya (new moon) lasts only 14 minutes on October 21, making it inauspicious for Diwali celebrations.
A press conference was held to declare the correct date after a controversy arose due to different dates being mentioned in various calendars.
According to the priests presiding over the meeting of Mukti Mandap Pandit Mahasabha, Paya Shraddha and Diwali will be celebrated on October 20, starting from 3:23 pm. The decision was made considering the fact that on October 21, the Amavasya (new moon) will last only for 14 minutes, making it inauspicious to celebrate Diwali on that day according to Hindu tradition. As a result, the Mukti Pandit Mahasabha has urged people to observe Diwali on October 20, rather than October 21, to follow the correct rituals and traditions.
As a result, the Sabha has urged the government to declare October 20 a public holiday. The government’s decision is expected to be influenced by the Sabha’s request.
