Diwali 2026: People across the country celebrate the festival of Diwali with great enthusiasm. People eagerly await this festival, and the festive spirit is already becoming visible in the markets. On the occasion of Diwali, people decorate their homes with earthen lamps (diyas) and colourful lights; in the evening, they perform prayers (puja) for Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Kuber. According to religious beliefs, worshipping Goddess Lakshmi brings prosperity, abundance, and happiness.
This festival symbolises the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. In Hinduism, it is believed that Lord Ram returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile; Diwali is celebrated to mark the joy of his return.
Did you know that the tradition of lighting five lamps on Diwali is also rooted in specific religious beliefs? While there is no single, universally prescribed scriptural rule for this event, it is a practice based on long-standing customs. Let us explore the tradition in more detail.
When is Diwali 2026?
In 2026, Diwali will be celebrated across the country on Sunday, November 8. The festival is observed annually on the *Amavasya* (new moon day) of the month of Kartik. It is believed that when Lord Ram returned to Ayodhya after 14 years, the residents of Ayodhya lit lamps to welcome him—a tradition that is said to have marked the beginning of the practice of lighting lamps on Diwali.
Symbol of the Five Elements
According to various beliefs, the five lamps represent the five elements of creation (*pancha bhuta*): Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Ether (space). They are also considered a symbol of the destruction of ignorance and evil. The Presence of Goddess Lakshmi
According to religious belief, lighting five lamps before Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha after the Diwali evening puja brings happiness to your life, fosters prosperity and well-being in your home, and increases wealth. Furthermore, it helps to alleviate all your troubles.
First lamp: For the deity
Second lamp: In the kitchen
Third lamp: Near a peepal tree or in a field
Fourth lamp: Where water is stored
Fifth lamp: At the main entrance of the house
Auspicious Timing (Muhurat) for Lakshmi Puja
Amavasya Tithi begins: November 8, at 11:27 AM.
Amavasya Tithi ends: November 9, at 12:31 PM
Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: From 5:54 PM to 7:50 PM
Pradosh Kaal: From 5:31 PM to 8:09 PM