Diwali 2026, also known as Deepavali, will be celebrated on Sunday, 8 November. The festival of lights brings homes and streets alive with diyas, colourful rangolis and family celebrations.
The Lakshmi Puja muhurat in New Delhi is from 5:54 pm to 7:50 pm. But when is Choti Diwali in 2026, and why do some calendars list a different date?
What is the story behind Diwali? Why do people worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, exchange gifts and light diyas?
From the Diwali 2026 date and puja timings to the history, rituals and significance behind the festival, here's everything you need to know.
When Is Diwali And Choti Diwali In 2026? Date, Tithi And Puja Timings
Diwali 2026 falls on Sunday, 8 November. The main Lakshmi Puja takes place in the evening during Pradosh Kaal, the period around sunset.
Here are the key Diwali 2026 dates and puja timings for New Delhi:
Dhanteras: Friday, 6 November 2026.
Choti Diwali / Naraka Chaturdashi: The pre-dawn observance falls on Sunday, 8 November, in much of India.
Diwali / Lakshmi Puja: Sunday, 8 November 2026.
Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: 5:54 pm to 7:50 pm.
Amavasya Tithi Begins: 11:27 am on 8 November.
Amavasya Tithi Ends: 12:31 pm on 9 November.
According to the New Delhi calendar published by Drik Panchang, the Lakshmi Puja muhurat lasts 1 hour and 56 minutes. Puja timings may vary by city, so check your local panchang before performing the rituals.
The Choti Diwali 2026 date can differ across calendars because of the timing of the Hindu lunar tithis. Chaturdashi Tithi begins on 7 November and continues into the morning of 8 November, while Amavasya Tithi begins later on 8 November.
This overlap means the pre-dawn Naraka Chaturdashi observance and the main evening Lakshmi Puja fall on the same calendar date in much of India. Some regional calendars mark Choti Diwali or Kali Chaudas on Saturday, 7 November, according to their traditional observance rules.
Why Is Diwali Celebrated? The Meaning Behind The Festival
Diwali celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Its meaning, however, is not limited to one story or a single religious tradition.
For Hindus, the festival is associated with Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over Ravana. It is also linked to Goddess Lakshmi, who represents wealth and prosperity, and to Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura.
The festival carries different meanings across communities. For Jains, Diwali marks the nirvana, or spiritual liberation, of Lord Mahavira. Sikhs associate the occasion with Bandi Chhor Divas, which commemorates Guru Hargobind's release from imprisonment and his return to Amritsar.
These traditions share themes of liberation, renewal and hope, even though their histories and religious significance differ.
The Story Behind Diwali
One of the best-known stories associated with Diwali comes from the Ramayana, the ancient Indian epic that tells the story of Lord Rama, his exile and his battle against Ravana, the king of Lanka.
The story begins when Rama, the prince of Ayodhya and the eldest son of King Dasharatha, is set to become king. However, a promise made by Dasharatha to his wife Kaikeyi changes his fate. Kaikeyi asks the king to send Rama into exile for 14 years and make her son, Bharata, the ruler of Ayodhya.
Bound by his promise, Dasharatha agrees. Rama accepts the decision and leaves the kingdom, accompanied by his wife, Sita, and his younger brother, Lakshmana. Bharata, who does not want to take Rama's place, refuses to rule as king in his own right and instead governs as Rama's representative.
During their exile, Rama, Sita and Lakshmana live in the forests. Their lives take a dramatic turn when Ravana abducts Sita and takes her to Lanka. Rama sets out to find her, eventually receiving help from Hanuman and an army of vanaras, often described as a community of forest-dwelling beings.
Hanuman plays a crucial role in the search for Sita. He crosses the ocean to reach Lanka, finds her in Ashoka Vatika and assures her that Rama is coming to rescue her. He then returns to Rama with news of her whereabouts.
With the help of the vanara army, Rama and his allies build a bridge across the sea to Lanka. A fierce battle follows between Rama's forces and Ravana's army. Rama eventually defeats Ravana and rescues Sita, bringing an end to the conflict.
After completing the 14 years of exile, Rama returns to Ayodhya with Sita and Lakshmana. In the traditional account associated with Diwali, the people of Ayodhya celebrate their return by lighting rows of oil lamps, or diyas, across the city. The illuminated streets symbolise their happiness at welcoming Rama home.
This is why Diwali is often associated with the triumph of good over evil, the return of hope after hardship and the victory of light over darkness. Lighting diyas remains one of the festival's most recognisable traditions.
However, the story of Rama's return is not the only reason Diwali is celebrated. Different regions and religious communities associate the festival with other stories and beliefs, including the worship of Goddess Lakshmi and, in parts of India, the celebration of Lord Krishna's victory over Narakasura.
How Is Diwali Celebrated Across India? Different Regions, Different Traditions
Diwali celebrations vary across India, shaped by local histories, languages and religious customs.
North India
In parts of North India, Diwali is closely associated with Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya. Families clean and decorate their homes, light diyas, perform Lakshmi Puja and share sweets. Public celebrations may include illuminated markets and community events.
Gujarat
Diwali is linked to the Gujarati New Year, which follows the main festival. Businesses may perform Chopda Puja, a ritual involving account books, to mark a fresh financial year. Kali Chaudas is also observed in the region.
West Bengal
Kali Puja is an important part of the celebrations. Devotees worship Goddess Kali, and homes and public spaces are illuminated with lamps and decorative lights.
Maharashtra
The wider Diwali period includes traditions such as Vasu Baras, Dhanteras, Naraka Chaturdashi, Lakshmi Puja, Padwa and Bhau Beej. The exact customs and emphasis vary among families.
South India
In several South Indian traditions, Deepavali celebrations focus on the victory of Lord Krishna over Narakasura. Ritual oil baths, new clothes, sweets and prayers are important parts of the observance.
These examples show why Diwali is best understood as a festival with shared themes and distinct regional practices, rather than one celebration followed identically across the country.
Why Do People Decorate Houses And Streets With Diyas And Candles?
The diya is one of the most recognisable symbols of Diwali. Traditionally made from clay and fuelled by oil or ghee, it represents light overcoming darkness.
In the story of Rama's return to Ayodhya, lamps express the people's happiness at welcoming him home. In the broader symbolism of the festival, light represents hope, clarity and the triumph of good over evil.
Families place diyas near entrances, windows, balconies and prayer spaces. Electric string lights and candles have also become common decorations, illuminating homes, shops and streets.
For some households, lighting lamps is a religious act. For others, it is also a way to welcome guests and create a festive atmosphere.
Why Do People Make Rangolis And What Is Their Significance?
A rangoli is a decorative pattern created on the floor, usually near a home's entrance or prayer area. People make rangolis using coloured powders, flower petals, rice flour and other materials.
Common designs include flowers, geometric patterns, peacocks and lotus motifs. Some families create the same design every year, while others experiment with new patterns.
Rangolis are associated with welcoming guests and inviting auspiciousness into the home. During Diwali, they also complement the lamps and other decorations used for the festival.
The practice varies by region. In some parts of India, similar floor decorations have different names and use distinctive materials or designs.
Why Do People Exchange Gifts During Diwali?
Diwali is a time for reconnecting with family, friends, neighbours and colleagues. Exchanging gifts is one way to express affection, gratitude and good wishes for the year ahead.
Traditional gifts include sweets, dry fruits, clothes, decorative items and household essentials. Businesses may give gifts to employees, clients and partners as a gesture of appreciation.
The custom also reflects the festival's wider emphasis on sharing prosperity. Families often prepare or distribute homemade sweets, while visits between relatives and friends strengthen social ties.
In recent years, gift hampers, personalised presents and online deliveries have become common alternatives. The form of the gift may change, but the intention is usually to share the festive spirit.
Which God Do People Worship On Diwali?
Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha are the principal deities worshipped during the main Diwali Puja in many Hindu households.
Goddess Lakshmi: She is associated with wealth, prosperity, good fortune and abundance. Devotees pray for well-being and prosperity for their families.
Lord Ganesha: He is worshipped as the remover of obstacles and the deity associated with auspicious beginnings.
Goddess Saraswati: Some households also worship her for knowledge, learning and wisdom.
Lord Kuber: In certain traditions, the deity associated with wealth and its guardianship is also worshipped.
The focus depends on the family's tradition and region. In Bengal, for example, Kali Puja is a major part of the occasion, while other communities follow their own religious observances.
The worship of Lakshmi and Ganesha during Diwali is therefore common, but it is not the only form of worship associated with the festival.
When Does The Diwali Puja Take Place?
The main Diwali Puja is generally performed in the evening, around sunset, during the Pradosh Kaal. Families prepare their prayer spaces, arrange offerings and light lamps before beginning the rituals.
For New Delhi in 2026, Drik Panchang lists the Lakshmi Puja muhurat as 5:54 pm to 7:50 pm on Sunday, 8 November.
A typical Lakshmi Puja may include:
Cleaning and decorating the prayer area.
Placing images or idols of Lakshmi and Ganesha.
Offering flowers, sweets, fruits and other traditional items.
Lighting diyas and incense.
Reciting prayers and performing aarti.
Families may follow different procedures depending on their customs and the guidance of their priest.
The muhurat is based on the local Hindu calendar, so the exact window can differ between cities. Anyone following a specific family tradition should consult the relevant local panchang.
What Is The Significance Of Diwali?
Diwali's significance extends beyond its decorations and celebrations. The festival brings together religious beliefs, family traditions and the idea of starting afresh.
Spiritual renewal: The symbolism of light encourages reflection on the difference between knowledge and ignorance, and between good and evil.
Prosperity and new beginnings: Lakshmi Puja expresses hopes for financial stability, abundance and well-being. In some business communities, the festival also marks the start of a new accounting year.
Family and community: Preparing food, visiting relatives, exchanging gifts and participating in prayers create opportunities for people to reconnect.
Cultural diversity: The different stories and customs associated with Diwali reflect India's varied religious and regional traditions.
For many families, the festival is also an annual moment to clean their homes, settle unfinished tasks, welcome guests and begin the coming period with renewed optimism.
The meaning of Diwali is therefore both personal and collective. It can be expressed through worship, shared meals, acts of generosity or the simple act of lighting a lamp.
Why Do People Burn Crackers During Diwali?
Fireworks have become part of Diwali celebrations in several parts of India. People use them to mark the festive occasion, gather with friends and family, and add spectacle to the evening.
However, fireworks are a relatively modern feature of the festival compared with the older traditions of lighting oil lamps and performing religious rituals. They are not a requirement for celebrating Diwali.
Crackers also raise concerns about air pollution, noise and public safety. Fireworks release particulate matter and other pollutants, while loud explosions can disturb children, older people, animals and those sensitive to noise.
In Delhi and the National Capital Region, restrictions on firecrackers can change through government orders and court directions. People should check the applicable rules for their location and year before buying or using them. The fact that fireworks are associated with Diwali does not mean every type is permitted.
Celebrations can also centre on diyas, lights, rangolis, food, music and time with family without using firecrackers.
TL;DR | News At Glance
When Is Diwali 2026?
Diwali 2026 will be celebrated on Sunday, 8 November, across India.
What Is The Diwali 2026 Lakshmi Puja Muhurat?
The Lakshmi Puja muhurat in New Delhi is from 5:54 pm to 7:50 pm on 8 November 2026. Timings may vary by city.
When Is Choti Diwali 2026?
Choti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, has its pre-dawn observance on 8 November in much of India. Some regional calendars mark it on 7 November.
What Are The Diwali 2026 Amavasya Tithi Timings?
Amavasya Tithi begins at 11:27 am on 8 November and ends at 12:31 pm on 9 November 2026, according to the New Delhi calendar.
Why Is Diwali Celebrated?
Diwali celebrates the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. In Hindu tradition, the festival is associated with Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile.
Which Gods Are Worshipped During Diwali Puja?
Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha are commonly worshipped during Diwali Lakshmi Puja for prosperity, good fortune and auspicious beginnings.
What Is The Significance Of Lighting Diyas On Diwali?
Lighting diyas symbolises hope, knowledge and the triumph of good over evil. The tradition is also associated with welcoming Lord Rama back to Ayodhya.
Why Is Rangoli Made During Diwali?
Rangoli is created at entrances and prayer spaces to decorate homes, welcome guests and symbolise auspiciousness during the festival.
Why Do People Exchange Gifts During Diwali?
Exchanging sweets, dry fruits and gifts is a way to express affection, gratitude and good wishes for happiness and prosperity.
Why Do People Burst Crackers On Diwali?
Fireworks are part of some Diwali celebrations, but they are not essential to the festival's religious observance. Air pollution, noise and local firecracker restrictions remain important considerations.
