Diwali, the festival of lights, is being celebrated across India on Sunday, November 8, 2026. Homes and markets are decorated with colourful lights and diyas, while families prepare for prayers and festivities. However, the timing of the Amavasya Tithi has created some confusion about whether Diwali should be observed on November 8 or November 9.
According to the Hindu calendar, Diwali falls on Amavasya, the new moon day of the Kartik month. In 2026, the Amavasya Tithi begins at 11:28 AM on November 8 and concludes at 12:32 PM on November 9.
Although the Tithi continues into Monday, Diwali is being observed on November 8 because the evening Pradosh Kaal is an important consideration when determining the festival date. This period is traditionally considered suitable for Lakshmi Puja.
Diwali 2026: Lakshmi Puja Muhurat and Important Timings
Worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha is one of the most important traditions of Diwali. Devotees perform the evening puja during the auspicious period mentioned in the local Panchang.
Here are the important timings for Diwali 2026:
| Occasion | Timing |
|---|---|
| Lakshmi Puja Muhurat | 5:54 PM to 7:50 PM |
| Pradosh Kaal | 5:41 PM to 8:17 PM |
| Nishita Kaal | 11:44 PM to 12:36 AM |
Devotees can use these timings to plan their evening worship and other religious activities.
Why Are Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha Worshipped on Diwali?
According to Hindu religious beliefs, Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped on Diwali to seek blessings for wealth, happiness, peace and prosperity. Devotees pray for financial stability and the overall well-being of their families.
Lord Ganesha is worshipped alongside Goddess Lakshmi. He is traditionally known as the remover of obstacles and is prayed to before beginning auspicious activities. Together, the two deities are worshipped for prosperity, success and a peaceful life.
Why Is Diwali Celebrated? Know Its Religious Significance
Diwali represents the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. According to the Ramayana, the festival commemorates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana and completing 14 years of exile.
It is believed that the people of Ayodhya welcomed Lord Rama by lighting thousands of lamps throughout the city. This tradition is associated with the beginning of Diwali celebrations and continues today, with people decorating their homes, temples and streets with diyas and lights.
The Amavasya night also holds special importance in the festival. Lighting lamps symbolises the triumph of righteousness over wrongdoing and hope over darkness.
Beyond the religious ceremonies, Diwali conveys a message of faith, positivity and hope. The festival encourages people to remain optimistic and reminds them that light can overcome even the darkest situations.