when diwali in 2026

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14-03-2025

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Diwali, the vibrant and joyous Festival of Lights, is a significant celebration for Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists worldwide. Celebrated annually, the exact date shifts based on the Hindu lunar calendar. So, when is Diwali in 2026?

Diwali 2026: Dates and Significance

Diwali isn't a single-day event; it's a five-day festival with each day holding its own special meaning and traditions. While the main celebrations typically fall within a few days, the precise dates vary slightly each year.

For 2026, Diwali will likely fall in November. The specific dates will depend on the lunar cycle and official announcements from religious authorities. Keep an eye out for official announcements closer to the date from your local Hindu community or religious leaders. We will update this section as soon as the official dates are confirmed.

Why the date changes: Diwali is celebrated on the new moon night of the month of Kartik in the Hindu lunisolar calendar. This calendar aligns with the cycles of the moon and sun, leading to a slight shift in the Gregorian calendar date each year.

Understanding the Five Days of Diwali

While the main Diwali celebration is often focused on the darkest night (usually the third day), the entire five-day festival is significant:

• Day 1 (Dhanteras): Celebrated as the beginning of the festival, Dhanteras is associated with prosperity and wealth. It's a popular time to buy new things, especially metals like gold and silver.

• Day 2 (Naraka Chaturdasi): This day signifies the victory of good over evil. Many people take ritual baths and perform special prayers.

• Day 3 (Lakshmi Puja/Diwali): This is the main day of Diwali. Homes are decorated with diyas (oil lamps), rangolis (colorful floor designs), and candles. Prayers are offered to the goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Fireworks are often part of the celebrations.

• Day 4 (Govardhan Puja): This day celebrates Lord Krishna's lifting of Mount Govardhan to protect the villagers from Indra's wrath. It emphasizes the importance of nature and community.

• Day 5 (Bhai Dooj): The festival concludes with Bhai Dooj, a celebration of the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for their brothers' well-being, and brothers give gifts in return.

Preparing for Diwali 2026

No matter the exact date, preparations for Diwali usually begin weeks in advance. Families clean and decorate their homes, purchase new clothes, and prepare delicious sweets and savory dishes.

Here are some things you can start planning now for Diwali 2026:

• Check the Calendar: Once the exact dates are announced, mark them on your calendar.
• Plan Your Celebrations: Decide how you'll celebrate with family and friends.
• Shop for Decorations: Begin sourcing diyas, candles, rangolis, and other decorations.
• Plan Your Menu: Diwali is known for its delicious food, so start planning your meals.

FAQs about Diwali 2026

Q: Is Diwali always celebrated on the same date?

A: No, the date of Diwali changes each year according to the Hindu lunar calendar.

Q: What is the significance of Diwali?

A: Diwali is a festival that symbolizes the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance.

Q: What are some common Diwali traditions?

A: Common traditions include lighting diyas and candles, offering prayers to Lakshmi, sharing sweets and meals with family and friends, and setting off fireworks (where permitted).

We hope this guide helps you prepare for Diwali 2026. Remember to check back closer to November for the confirmed dates and stay tuned for more detailed information as we approach the festival! Happy Diwali!