Diwali in Gujarat

Diwali In Gujarat

Diwali is the major Indian celebration, which takes place in autumn. In Gujarat the Diwali celebrations take on a number of distinct characteristics. It occurs in the second (dark) lunar fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the month of Ashvin (Gujarati "Aaso") and the first (bright) fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of Kartika (Guj. "Kartik"). Aaso is the last month of the Gujarati calendar, and Kartik the first.

From Aaso vad Agyaras (11th day from full/no moon) to Dev Diwali people lit the diyas (now uses lamp series also) to decorate the house, which protects them from evil spirits as believed.

Diwali in Gujarat is also special because Gujarat observes atleast five-day official holiday from day of Diwali till day of Labh Pancham, which may get extended sometimes to seven and start early from day of Bhai-beej