Diwali 2026 falls on Sunday, November 8. The main ritual of the evening, Lakshmi Puja, is traditionally done during pradosh kaal, the period after sunset, when the amavasya tithi is in effect.
Lakshmi Puja 2026 timings (New Delhi)
- Lakshmi Puja muhurat: about 5:54 PM to 7:50 PM
- Pradosh kaal: about 5:31 PM to 8:09 PM
- Amavasya tithi: from about 11:28 AM on November 8 to 12:32 PM on November 9
These timings are for New Delhi as listed by several panchangs; one source gives a slightly later window. Timings change by city, often by 20 to 40 minutes, so check a local panchang.
The five days around Diwali
Dhanteras falls on Friday, November 6, when many families buy gold, silver or utensils. Diwali is on November 8, followed by Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj. For gold buying, see our gold price guide before Dhanteras.
Simple puja steps
- Clean the home and the puja space; draw a rangoli at the entrance.
- Place idols or images of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha on a red cloth.
- Offer flowers, sweets, rice and coins; light diyas.
- Recite Lakshmi aarti and keep lamps lit through the evening.
Quick answers
When is Diwali 2026? Sunday, November 8, 2026.
What is the Lakshmi Puja muhurat on Diwali 2026? About 5:54 PM to 7:50 PM in New Delhi.
When is Dhanteras 2026? Friday, November 6.
Questions to think about
- Are green crackers and diyas enough to cut Diwali air pollution?
- Has online shopping changed how families celebrate Diwali?
Sources: panchang timings as listed by Hindu Festival Hub, Mangalmay and Astroveena for New Delhi.
