November 8, 2026 • Sunday
Amavasya, Kartik Month
Date
November 8, 2026
Tithi
Amavasya, Kartik Month
Muhurat
Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM (IST)
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals. In 2026, Diwali falls on November 8th (Sunday), on the Amavasya tithi of the Kartik month. The festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. According to the Ramayana, it marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over Ravana.
Diwali 2026 falls on November 8th, Sunday. The Amavasya tithi begins on the evening of November 7th.
The auspicious Lakshmi Puja muhurat on Diwali 2026 is approximately 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM IST. Verify with your local panchangam for city-specific timing.
Diwali commemorates Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya, the victory of Lord Krishna over Narakasura, the release of Goddess Lakshmi from the ocean, and Mahavira's attainment of nirvana.
Dhanteras (Nov 6), Naraka Chaturdashi/Choti Diwali (Nov 7), Main Diwali (Nov 8), Govardhan Puja (Nov 9), and Bhai Dooj (Nov 10).
You need: idol or image of Lakshmi-Ganesha, red cloth, lotus flowers, kheel (puffed rice), batasha, 5 dry fruits, incense sticks, ghee diya, kumkum, turmeric, rice, coins, sweets (especially kheer), and a kalash with water.
Ask Pandit Shivananda for puja guidance and spiritual advice.