Diwali Festival 2026
Date: 8 November 2026
Full Date
6 November 2026 Morning 6:30 AM – 11 November 2026 Evening 8:00 PM
Muhurat Timings in India
Dhanteras
Marks the beginning of Diwali festivities with rituals of wealth and prosperity worship, celebrated on November 6, 2026.
6 November 2026 Morning 6:30 AM – 6 November 2026 Evening 8:00 PM
Lakshmi Puja
The main event of Diwali on November 8, 2026, where Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha are worshipped for wealth and wisdom.
8 November 2026 Evening 5:55 PM – 8 November 2026 Evening 7:51 PM
Bhai Dooj
Fifth and final day of Diwali celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters, observed on November 11, 2026.
11 November 2026 Morning 6:00 AM – 11 November 2026 Evening 8:00 PM
Introduction
Diwali, the festival of lights, symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Celebrated nationwide with lamps, sweets, gifts, and worship of Goddess Lakshmi, it encompasses cultural programs and community festivities.
Other Names
Deepavali, Festival of Lights, Dipawali
Pooja Vidhi
- Thoroughly clean the house before Diwali day.
- Set up an altar decorated with flowers, rangoli, and offerings for Goddess Lakshmi.
- Light diyas and incense sticks around the pooja area.
- Offer flowers, sweets, fruits, coins, and new clothes to the goddess.
- Chant Lakshmi mantras and perform aarti in the evening.
- Distribute prasad to family and guests after the puja.
Rituals
- Clean and decorate homes with rangoli and oil lamps (diyas).
- Perform Lakshmi Puja in the evening during the auspicious period.
- Light fireworks and burst crackers in celebration.
- Exchange gifts and sweets with family and friends.
- Prepare and share traditional festive meals.
- Visit temples and participate in cultural programs and community events.
Regional Highlights
- In West Bengal, Diwali is celebrated primarily with Kali Puja on the same day.
- Gujarat celebrates it as New Year’s Day (Bestu Varas) with special rituals and festivities.
- Southern states focus on lighting oil lamps, temple visits, and preparing signature sweets like Mysore Pak.
- Northern India hosts grand Lakshmi-Ganesha pujas and vibrant fireworks displays lasting late hours.
History
Originating in ancient Hindu traditions, Diwali commemorates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana. It also celebrates Goddess Lakshmi, harvest season, and regional myths, fostering themes of renewal, prosperity, and family.
Additional Information
- Diwali is also significant in Jainism, Sikhism, and Buddhism, each with its own traditions and meanings.
- Environmental initiatives encourage eco-friendly celebrations with minimal use of crackers and sustainable decorations.
- The festival has inspired broad cultural expressions in Indian art, literature, music, and cinema centered on light, hope, and prosperity.