AstrologgerDiwali / Lakshmi Puja
8 November 2026 · Lakshmi
2026 dates are good-faith estimates from standard panchang references — confirm the exact date and muhurat against a current Panchang before planning.
Significance
The festival of lights on Kartika Amavasya celebrates Rama's return to Ayodhya, the homecoming of the Pandavas, and the worship of Goddess Lakshmi for wealth and well-being. Rows of diyas illuminate homes across India and the diaspora.
Astrological significance
Diwali falls on the new moon (Amavasya) of Kartik, the darkest night of the lunar month, which is exactly why the festival of lights fills the darkness with lamps. Lakshmi Puja is traditionally performed during the pradosh and evening window on the Amavasya tithi, timed by the panchang. Because it is anchored to the Kartik new moon, its Gregorian date shifts within October and November each year.
Month: Kartik · Paksha: Krishna · Amavasya (new moon) of Kartik — the darkest night of the month, when the diyas are lit.
How Diwali / Lakshmi Puja is observed
- Lighting rows of diyas and drawing rangoli
- Performing Lakshmi and Ganesha puja in the evening
- Cleaning and decorating the home to welcome Lakshmi
- Exchanging sweets and gifts with family and friends
- Bursting firecrackers where customary
Frequently asked questions
When is Diwali in 2026?+
In 2026 it falls on 8 November 2026. As Diwali is set by the Kartik new moon, the date shifts each year, so confirm against a current panchang.
Why is Diwali celebrated on a new-moon night?+
It falls on Kartik Amavasya, the darkest night of the month, and the rows of lamps symbolise light and knowledge dispelling that darkness.
What does Diwali celebrate?+
Traditions include Rama's return to Ayodhya and the worship of Goddess Lakshmi for well-being and prosperity; it is broadly the festival of lights.
When is Lakshmi Puja performed?+
Lakshmi Puja is traditionally performed during the evening pradosh window on the Amavasya tithi, whose exact timing is given in the panchang.