Diwali 2026 falls on Sunday, November 8, with the Lakshmi Puja muhurat in New Delhi from 5:54 PM to 7:50 PM IST. Check the evening puja window for six Indian cities and explore the traditions and foods associated with Deepavali.
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Diwali 2026 Date And Significance
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, will be celebrated on Sunday, November 8, 2026. The main observance falls on Kartik Amavasya, the new moon day of the Hindu lunar calendar. The festival date changes on the Gregorian calendar each year.
The name Deepavali means “row of lamps.” Families place clay diyas along doorways and windows to celebrate light overcoming darkness. In one widely told Hindu tradition, the lamps recall how the people of Ayodhya welcomed Lord Rama home after 14 years in exile.
Diwali 2026 Lakshmi Puja Timings
The Lakshmi Puja muhurat in New Delhi is 5:54 PM–7:50 PM IST on November 8. The broader Pradosh Kaal runs from 5:31 PM to 8:09 PM IST. Amavasya Tithi begins at 11:27 AM IST on November 8 and ends at 12:31 PM IST on November 9.
| City | Lakshmi Puja Muhurat on November 8 (IST) |
|---|---|
| New Delhi | 5:54 PM–7:50 PM |
| Hyderabad | 6:07 PM–8:08 PM |
| Chennai | 6:07 PM–8:09 PM |
| Pune | 6:24 PM–8:24 PM |
| Jaipur | 6:03 PM–7:59 PM |
| Chandigarh | 5:52 PM–7:46 PM |
The puja window varies with local sunset and Panchang calculations. Families in other cities can check their local Panchang for the applicable timing.
Diwali 2026 Traditions And Festive Foods
Many Hindu families decorate their entrances with rangoli made from flower petals or coloured powders. For the evening puja, they prepare a clean space for Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, light diyas and offer sweets or fruit. Families often share the offerings as prasad and exchange boxes of mithai with neighbours and relatives.
The occasion also carries distinct meanings in Sikh and Jain traditions. Bandi Chhor Divas commemorates Guru Hargobind’s release from imprisonment, while Jains remember Lord Mahavira’s attainment of nirvana.
Festive menus vary by region and household. A family meal might include spinach and paneer, a sweet potato and lentil curry, or other favourite dishes served with rice. For a simple homemade sweet, cook grated coconut with jaggery over low heat until the mixture comes together. Let it cool enough to handle, then roll it into small ladoos to serve after the meal or pack as gifts.
