Government of India calendars list Diwali on Sunday, 8 November 2026. The surrounding observances follow lunar Tithis, so the popular тАЬfive daysтАЭ can span six civil dates and regional calendars may group some rituals differently.
Diwali 2026 date sequence
- Friday, 6 November: Dhanteras or Dhantrayodashi.
- Sunday, 8 November: Naraka Chaturdashi in some calendars and the main Diwali/Lakshmi Puja evening.
- Monday, 9 November: Govardhan Puja in Government of India holiday lists.
- Wednesday, 11 November: Bhai Dooj in Government of India holiday lists.
The gap occurs because a lunar Tithi does not begin and end at midnight. Confirm the sequence for your city and community before arranging travel or puja.
Stories associated with Diwali
Traditions include Rama, Sita and Lakshmana's return to Ayodhya; Lakshmi Puja on the Amavasya evening; Krishna's victory over Narakasura; Govardhan Puja; and the sibling observance of Bhai Dooj. Regional emphasis differs, so no single story represents every community.
A simple Lakshmi Puja outline
- Clean the worship area and keep exits clear.
- Place Lakshmi and Ganesha images according to family practice.
- Offer water, flowers, fruit or sweets used in your tradition.
- Read a Lakshmi prayer or Om Jai Lakshmi Mata Aarti.
- Keep diyas on stable, fire-safe surfaces and away from children, pets and curtains.
Puja timing
Lakshmi Puja is commonly performed during the local Pradosh period on the Amavasya evening. Exact start and end times vary by city. Use the location-based Panchang nearer the date rather than a copied national time.
Responsible celebration
Follow local fire, noise and air-quality rules. Never leave diyas unattended. Choose reusable decoration, supervise electrical lights and consider neighbours, older adults, children and animals.
Note: Interpretations in this article describe traditional beliefs. Dates and observance times can differ by location, calendar and family tradition. Important decisions should rely on relevant facts and qualified advice.
Editorial sources
Date-sensitive details were checked against the references below. Local observance and Panchang conventions can vary.