Jaipur : Amidst the ongoing controversy regarding the date of Diwali in the state, the All India Academic Council has organized a religious assembly and has given opinion in favor of celebrating the festival on 31st October. However, many almanac makers of the city are still adamant in favor of celebrating Diwali on 1st November.
This matter was discussed by the All India Academic Council in the Central Sanskrit University Auditorium. During this time, Jaipur’s senior most scholar Prof. Under the chairmanship of Rampal Shastri, scholars, professors and astrologers presented their views. Interpreted on the basis of contexts mentioned in various theology. On the basis of which it was decided that the festival will be celebrated on 31st October according to Surya Siddhanta. Synagogue convener Prof. Mohanlal Sharma told that the Pradosh period of Amavasya is starting on 31st October itself. Which will last all day and night only for a short period on 1st November. According to the scriptures, it is best to worship Lakshmi during Pradosh period.
Dharmasindhu is considered the definitive text.
On the other hand, Pt. Damodar Prasad Sharma, creator of the city’s leading Banshidhar Panchang, said that Dharmasindhu is considered to be the decisive text of fasts and festivals. It is clearly mentioned in it that on Amavasya of Kartik month, morning study, bath, lamp donation at Pradosh time and Lakshmi worship is best. In this, if there is Amavasya for more than one hour i.e. 24 minutes after sunrise to sunset, then there is no doubt in celebrating the festival on the second day.
