New Delhi: The sacred period of Yam Panchak begins on 29 October 2024 (Tuesday), marking five days of rituals and traditional practices in Hindu households across the country. Starting from Dhanteras and culminating with Bhai Dooj, Yam Panchak is observed during the Krishna Paksha of the Kartik month, a time believed to be under the heightened influence of Yama, the god of death. Many follow specific customs during this period to invite health, peace, and prosperity while taking measures to avoid misfortune.
This five-day period is traditionally linked with cautionary customs, as activities like weddings, housewarmings, and long journeys are generally avoided. Rituals during Yam Panchak include lighting lamps in honour of Yama, making offerings, and performing acts of charity, especially for the needy, which are thought to counteract any inauspicious effects. Each day holds special significance and is dedicated to distinct deities, from Dhanvantari and Lakshmi to Krishna and Yama, underscoring the spiritual and cultural importance of this time.
What is Yam Panchak?
Yam Panchak includes five days starting with Dhanteras and ending with Bhai Dooj. Traditionally, weddings, new projects, and long-distance travel are avoided during this period. Many believe that Yama’s influence is heightened, leading devotees to perform rituals focusing on protection, wellness, and acts of charity.
The Five Days of Yam Panchak
|
Day |
Date |
Significance |
| Dhanteras | October 29 | Worship for health and prosperity |
| Naraka Chaturdashi | October 30 | Rituals for purification and protection |
| Diwali | October 31 / November 1 | Worship of Lakshmi and Ganesh for prosperity |
| Annakut and Govardhan Puja | November 2 | Offerings to Krishna and honouring nature |
| Bhai Dooj | November 3 | Celebrating the bond between siblings |
Each day of Yam Panchak holds distinct rituals and meaning, with observances that invite spiritual balance, health, and prosperity.
Day-by-Day Observances
Dhanteras (October 29): The first day of Yam Panchak, Dhanteras is dedicated to health and longevity. Families light the Yama Deep to honour Yama and protect against untimely death. Devotees also worship Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, to seek blessings for health and well-being.
Naraka Chaturdashi (October 30): Also known as Choti Diwali, this day is observed with purification rituals. Devotees start with a morning bath using mustard oil and light a four-wick lamp in the evening. This day symbolises the victory of good over evil, commemorating Krishna’s triumph over Narakasura.
Diwali (October 31/November 1): Diwali, one of the most cherished festivals, symbolises the triumph of light over darkness. Homes are adorned with lamps, and Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha are worshipped for prosperity and wisdom. Charity is encouraged, reflecting the festival’s spirit of generosity.
Annakut & Govardhan Puja (November 2): This day honours Krishna’s protection of his devotees and nature itself. The grand Annakut feast, filled with various offerings, is prepared in Krishna’s name, celebrating his lifting of Mount Govardhan to protect his village from heavy rains.
Bhai Dooj (November 3): The final day of Yam Panchak, Bhai Dooj, celebrates the sibling bond. Sisters perform rituals for their brothers’ long lives, with brothers reciprocating with gifts, marking the end of the Yam Panchak period.
Spiritual Precautions and Observances
Throughout Yam Panchak, new beginnings and long journeys are traditionally avoided, as these days are considered inauspicious. Devotees are also mindful of their health, with extra care taken to avoid illness, as it is believed that health issues may arise more easily during this period.
Charity is highly encouraged, especially toward the elderly and the underprivileged. Worshipping deities like Vishnu and Yama during Yam Panchak is thought to lessen negative influences, offering protection and stability. For many, following these customs invites blessings and mitigates misfortune, creating harmony and balance in homes and families.
As Yam Panchak unfolds, millions are expected to observe these rituals across India, highlighting the enduring influence of tradition in the lives of Hindus today. The observances during these five days not only uphold cultural values but also offer a time for spiritual renewal and connection.
