Diwali or Deepavali is also recognized as the “Festival of Lights.” This auspicious festival is one of the most celebrated and much-awaited festivals in India.
The term Deepavali comprises two words: “Deep” means lamp and “Vali” means row, and thus, it means “row of lights.” The people celebrate this festival with much enthusiasm, energy, and fervor. It represents the victory or triumph of good over evil, and wisdom over ignorance.
On this day, Lord Shri Ram came back to Ayodhya with Mata Sita and brother Lakshman after fourteen exile years and gaining victory over Asura King Ravana. On this day, people draw vibrantly colorful rangolis and light their houses with candles, lamps, and lights. This festival is not just a religious or spiritual celebration, but it also helps people connect. This auspicious festival starts with Dhanteras and concludes with the Bhai Dooj Puja, including other auspicious days in between such as Chhoti Diwali or Narak Chaturdashi and Govardhan Puja/ Anna Koot.
Now, if you have been wondering when Diwali 2026 is and what its various rituals are, then let us shed some light on the same.
When is Diwali 2026? Date and Muhurta
Diwali is a five-day festival, and as per the English Calendar, it usually falls in October and November. This year in 2026, the schedule for Diwali is as follows:
- Dhanteras: 6th November, 2026, Friday
- Chhoti Diwali: 7th November, 2026, Saturday
- Diwali/ Lakshmi Pooja: 8th November, 2026, Sunday
- Govardhan Puja / Anna Koot: 10th November, 2026, Tuesday
- Bhai Dooj: 11th November, 2026, Wednesday
The Amavasya Tithi will begin at 11:27 AM on 8th November, 2026, and will end at 12:31 PM on 9th November, 2026. The Lakshmi Puja Muhurta starts on 8th November, 2026, from 5:54 PM to 7:50 PM.
Diwali 2026: Rituals, Traditions and Celebrations
Dhanteras is the first day of Diwali festivities, and on this day, Maa Lakshmi and Lord Kuber are worshipped. As the Maa Lakshmi and Lord Kuber denotes wealth and abundance, that is why, the day is known as “Dhanteras.” Then, on the second day, it falls on Narak Chaturdashi or Chhoti Diwali. On this day, Lord Krishna is worshipped. Then, the main Diwali day falls, and on this day, Maa Lakshmi along with Lord Ganesh is worshipped. On this day, people light lamps in their homes and draw colorful rangolis to welcome Maa Lakshmi.
On the fourth day, Govardhan Puja or Anna Koot falls. And, on the last day, Bhai Dooj is celebrated, which is the festival dedicated to the divine sibling bond. On this day, the sisters put “Tilak” on the forehead of their brothers and, in return, brothers take a pledge to support and protect their sisters.
Diwali Puja is not only conducted in the homes but also in the offices. According to the best Vedic Astrologer in Delhi/ NCR, it is considered auspicious to worship your business’s account books on the main day of Diwali.
People also exchange gifts and sweets with their family, relatives, friends, and loved ones. Thus, this festival denotes family unity and rejuvenation of relations also.
We wish everyone a very Happy and Blessed Diwali! May Maa Lakshmi shower her divine blessings on everyone for good health, wealth, and abundance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. When are the celebrations for the main day of Diwali 2026?
A1. The main day of Diwali 2026, or the Lakshmi-Ganesh Puja, will be observed on 8th November, 2026, Sunday.
Q2. What does the Bhai Dooj festival denote?
A2. The Bhai Dooj festival denotes the celebration of the divine bond between brothers and sisters.