Diwali 2026
Wednesday, 21 October 2026 · By Rohiit Gupta, Chief Vedic Architect, Trikaal Vaani · Swiss Ephemeris · Lahiri Ayanamsha
Planetary Ruler: Venus
Diwali 2026 is observed on Wednesday, 21 October 2026, on Kartik Amavasya. On this night Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped for wealth and Lord Ganesha for new beginnings, with homes lit by rows of diyas. Diwali marks Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya and the victory of light over darkness.
Significance
Diwali, the festival of lights, celebrates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile and his victory over Ravana — the triumph of dharma over adharma, light over darkness. It falls on Kartik Amavasya, the darkest night of the lunar month, which is exactly why lamps are lit: to invite light and prosperity into the void. This new-moon night is the chief occasion for Lakshmi puja, the darkness symbolising the space that wealth and auspiciousness come to fill. Families clean and decorate their homes so Goddess Lakshmi may enter, worship her alongside Ganesha, and keep a diya burning through the night. The puja is traditionally performed after sunset during Pradosh Kaal, ideally in a fixed (sthir) lagna.
Panchang on Diwali 2026
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Why is Diwali celebrated?
Diwali celebrates Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after fourteen years and his victory over Ravana — the triumph of light over darkness. It is also the chief occasion for worshipping Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity.
On which tithi does Diwali fall?
Diwali falls on Kartik Amavasya, the new-moon night of the Kartik month. The main Lakshmi puja is performed after sunset during Pradosh Kaal.
What should be done on Diwali night?
Clean and light the home, worship Lakshmi and Ganesha after sunset, offer sweets and lotus, perform aarti, and keep a diya burning through the night.