When is Diwali? Puri Mukti Mandap Sabha clarifies on ‘Payashraddha’, ‘Deepadaan’ timings

As the festival of lights approaches, devotees are facing confusion over the exact date for celebrating Diwali this year, especially regarding the rituals of ‘Payashraddha’ and ‘Deepadaan’. 

According to five calendars approved by the Shree Jagannath Temple, ‘Shyama Puja’, along with ‘Payashraddha’ and ‘Deepadaan’, is scheduled for October 20. However, several other calendars mark October 21 as the date for ‘Payashraddha’ and ‘Deepadaan’, which coincides with a government holiday.

In response to the confusion, the Mukti Mandap Pandit Sabha on Wednesday issued a press note emphasising the importance of performing ‘Payashraddha’ and ‘Deepadaan’ on October 20, in line with the temple-sanctioned schedule. The Sabha has urged devotees to follow the Shree Jagannath Temple-approved calendar to maintain the sanctity of the rituals.

The uncertainty over the dates has left many devotees wondering when Kali Puja will be performed and on which day they should offer ‘Payashraddha’. Authorities and religious scholars have appealed for calm and adherence to the temple’s guidance to ensure that the traditional observances are carried out correctly.

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“As Diwali, Kali Puja, Laxmi Puja and Payashraddha are observed in the night. So people can observe the ritual after 3.23 pm on October 20. People can also offer ‘Deepadaan’ on the same date.  Those who are sanatani must perform the rituals on October 20, and the government should declare a holiday on that day,” said Aditya Hrudaya Mishra, executive president of Mukti Mandap Sabha.