Diwali 2026 Date: Diwali is considered one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm and grandeur across the country. From celebrities to the common man, everyone celebrates this festival with immense joy. The festive spirit of Diwali can already be seen in the markets.
According to tradition, it was on this day that Lord Rama, accompanied by Goddess Sita and Lakshmana, returned to Ayodhya after completing a 14-year exile. At that time, the residents of the city illuminated all of Ayodhya with earthen lamps (diyas). The tradition of celebrating Diwali has continued ever since.
On the day of Diwali, devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha with prescribed rituals. It is believed that those who worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha on this divine night are blessed with an abundance of wealth and prosperity, ensuring they never face a shortage of food or resources.
During Diwali, people decorate not only their homes but also entire markets with lights. This festival is considered a symbol of joy, illumination, and prosperity. As is often the case, there is some confusion regarding the date of Diwali this year; some suggest celebrating it on November 8th, while others point to November 9th. Let us clear up this confusion and determine the correct date for Diwali and the auspicious timing (shubh muhurat) for Lakshmi Puja.
Diwali 2026 Date
According to the Hindu calendar, the *Amavasya Tithi* (new moon phase) of the month of Kartika begins at 11:28 AM on November 8th and concludes at 12:32 PM on November 9th. Taking into account the *Udaya Tithi* (the lunar day at sunrise) and the *Pradosh Kaal* (the evening period), Diwali will be celebrated with great fervour across the country on Sunday, November 8th.
What is the auspicious timing (shubh muhurat) for Lakshmi Puja on Diwali?
Lakshmi Puja Muhurat (auspicious time): 5:54 PM to 7:50 PM
Pradosh Kaal Muhurat: 5:41 PM to 8:17 PM
Nishita Kaal Muhurat: 11:44 PM to 12:36 AM
You may perform your prayers and rituals during these auspicious times. According to religious belief, worshipping Goddess Lakshmi on the night of Diwali brings happiness, peace, and prosperity to the home.
Items required for Diwali Puja: –
You will need idols of Lakshmi and Ganesha, a platform (chowki) for the deities, a red cloth, roli (vermilion), kumkum, sandalwood paste, akshat (unbroken rice grains), betel leaves, betel nuts, panchamrit, a coconut, Gangajal (holy water from the Ganges), a kalash (vessel), mango leaves, mauli (sacred thread), and a janeu (sacred thread worn across the torso). Also, keep flowers, fruits, durva (sacred grass), incense, camphor, a lamp (diya), and cotton wicks for the puja. Additionally, puffed rice (kheel), sugar drops (batashe), and sweets are offered during the worship.