Diwali 2024 will be celebrated on October 31. It is a significant Hindu festival symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. It spans five days, each representing various traditions and rituals. Dhanteras marks the festival's start with people buying precious metals, especially gold and silver, symbolizing wealth. 

Diwali 2024: Lakshmi Puja with Healthy Snack Ideas for Kids

On Diwali day, families gather to perform Lakshmi Puja, a key ritual to invite prosperity, luck, and happiness into their homes. This ritual, honoring Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, includes lighting oil lamps, creating vibrant rangoli designs, and offering sweets, fruits, and flowers to the deities.

Diwali 2024 Lakshmi Puja

Puja timings vary by city to match the most auspicious "muhurat," or timing, which aligns with Hindu traditions. 

• In New Delhi, for instance, the Lakshmi Puja muhurat is between 5:36 PM and 6:16 PM. 
• In Mumbai, it’s between 6:57 PM and 8:36 PM. During this time, it is considered ideal to worship to maximize the blessings of prosperity and light. 
• Across India, this special window, known as "Pradosh Kaal" and "Vrishabha Kaal," allows families to synchronize their worship for heightened spiritual benefits.

Want to know more about diwali dates and significance, head over to our Diwali 2024 blog!

To conduct the Lakshmi Puja, many follow guidelines like covering the altar area with a red cloth, placing idols of Goddess Lakshmi, Goddess Saraswati, and Lord Ganesha on it, and surrounding them with symbols of wealth such as gold or silver items. A prayer is then performed, seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and protection.

Top 5 Healthy Snacks for Kids in Diwali 2024

Diwali is the perfect time to indulge in festive treats, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your health goals. With nutritious ingredients and thoughtful preparation, you can enjoy traditional Diwali flavors without the extra calories. 

Here are the top five healthy Diwali snacks to keep your celebrations delicious and guilt-free.

1. Baked Samosas

A healthier twist is to bake them using whole wheat pastry and a filling of spiced vegetables or lean proteins. Baking these samosas maintains the crispiness while cutting down on unhealthy fats, making them a perfect party snack. To prepare, brush the samosas lightly with oil and bake until golden brown, which keeps them crunchy yet low-calorie.

2. Roasted Makhana (Fox Nuts)

Makhanas, or fox nuts, are a popular Diwali snack known for their light and crunchy texture. They’re naturally low in calories and packed with protein, fiber, and antioxidants, making them an excellent choice for those watching their health. Roast makhanas in a pan with minimal oil and season with spices like cumin, turmeric, or black salt for added flavor.

3. Multigrain Murukku

For a healthier version, try making multigrain murukku using a mix of rice, millet, and lentil flours, which are high in fiber and protein. Baking or air-frying the murukku further reduces oil usage without sacrificing its signature crunch.

4. Oats and Nuts Ladoo

Ladoos are a classic Diwali treat, but they’re often laden with sugar and ghee. A healthier version can be made by using oats and nuts, such as almonds, cashews, and dates, for natural sweetness. These ladoos are packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making them an energy-boosting snack that satisfies your sweet tooth without refined sugar. 

5. Baked Vegetable Chips

Instead of traditional potato chips, opt for baked vegetable chips made from nutrient-rich options like sweet potatoes, beets, and zucchini. Thinly slice the vegetables, season with a pinch of salt and spices, and bake until crispy. Baking them reduces the need for excessive oil, so you get a crunchy, flavor-packed snack without the guilt. 

From mindful Lakshmi Puja rituals that invite blessings to healthy snacks that satisfy cravings, this festival can be both joyous and balanced. May this Diwali bring light, health, and prosperity to your family, allowing you to cherish these traditions meaningfully and healthily. Happy Diwali

Checkout our blogs on "Top 7 bedding set designs for Kids" and "Raising Happy and Healthy kids"