In 2026 Diwali (Kartik Amavasya) falls on Sunday, 8 November, with Lakshmi Puja in New Delhi from 5:55 PM to 7:51 PM IST. In Gujarat and among many trading families, the Vikram Samvat new year — Samvat 2083 — begins the day after Diwali’s Amavasya, on Tuesday, 10 November 2026 (Bestu Varas). New account books (chopda) are worshipped on Diwali night or on the new-year morning.
2026 dates
| Event | Date (IST) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Diwali / Lakshmi Puja | Sunday, 8 November 2026 | New Delhi pradosh muhurat 5:55 PM – 7:51 PM (Vrishabha lagna) |
| Amavasya tithi | 11:28 AM, 8 Nov – 12:32 PM, 9 Nov | Kartik Amavasya |
| Gujarati new year (Bestu Varas), Vikram Samvat 2083 | Tuesday, 10 November 2026 | Kartik Shukla Pratipada at sunrise |
Full city-wise timings are on the Diwali 2026 page.
Two Vikram Samvat new years
North India begins the Vikram Samvat year in Chaitra (March–April), with the purnimanta month count. Gujarat and parts of western India begin it on Kartik Shukla Pratipada, the day after Diwali, with the amanta count. Both use the same era; the year number changes at different points.
How the Diwali muhurat is chosen
- Amavasya in pradosh: the puja must fall in Amavasya tithi during pradosh, the period after sunset.
- Fixed lagna: a fixed (sthir) ascendant — usually Vrishabha in the evening — is preferred so that Lakshmi “stays”.
- Choghadiya: traders also use a good choghadiya for Chopda Puja.
Chopda (account book) puja
- Clean the shop or desk; place the new account books, pen and inkpot on a red cloth.
- Write “Shubh” and “Labh” and draw a swastika on the first page.
- Worship Ganesha, then Lakshmi, then the books, with turmeric, kumkum and flowers.
- Make the first entry of the new year after the puja.
Check your own chart
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Frequently asked questions
When is Diwali 2026?
Sunday, 8 November 2026.
When does Vikram Samvat 2083 begin in Gujarat?
On Tuesday, 10 November 2026 (Bestu Varas).
What is the Lakshmi Puja muhurat on Diwali 2026?
5:55 PM to 7:51 PM IST in New Delhi, in Vrishabha lagna during pradosh.
Why are there two Vikram Samvat new years?
North India starts the year in Chaitra; Gujarat starts it the day after Diwali.
Part of our guide: Muhurat & Festivals →
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Book a Consultation · ₹5,100 WhatsApp Dr. SharmaThis article is offered as general guidance in the Vedic tradition. Astrology is a tool for reflection and is not a substitute for professional medical, legal or financial advice.
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