Essential Guide to Diwali 2026: Timing and Rituals for Lakshmi Puja

Significance of Diwali and Lakshmi Puja

The festival of Diwali is incomplete without the worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha. This year, Diwali will be celebrated on November 8.

As Diwali approaches, homes become vibrant with preparations. Families engage in cleaning, creating rangoli, and setting up lamps. On this day, every household aims to perform the puja of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha with great devotion. According to Hindu beliefs, conducting Lakshmi Puja on the night of Diwali brings prosperity, peace, and happiness to the home. This is why people pay special attention to the auspicious timing for the rituals.

Key Timings for Lakshmi Puja

According to the Panchang in New Delhi, the primary auspicious time for Lakshmi Puja on Diwali is from 5:54 PM to 7:50 PM, known as the Vrishabh Kaal. The Pradosh Kaal will occur from 5:31 PM to 8:09 PM, while the Nishita Kaal is from 11:49 PM to 12:41 AM, which is considered particularly favorable for religious ceremonies.

Gather Essential Items Before Puja

Before starting the Lakshmi Puja, ensure that all necessary items are collected in one place. This includes idols or images of Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Kuber, along with a kalash, Ganga water, coconut, betel nut, coins, and five leaves of mango or Ashoka. Additionally, prepare roli, sandalwood, rice, sacred thread, red or yellow cloth, flowers, incense sticks, ghee lamps, fruits, and sweets.

Establish Ganesha and Kalash First

Begin the puja by cleaning the worship area. Sprinkle Ganga water there and hold water, flowers, and rice in your hands while making a resolution for the puja. Place a red or yellow cloth on a platform and set up the kalash. Fill the kalash with water, betel nut, coins, and rice, then place mango leaves and a coconut on top. After this, position the idols of Lord Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Kuber.

Performing Lakshmi Puja with Ease

Start by offering roli, rice, grass, and flowers to Lord Ganesha, along with a sweet offering like laddus or modaks. Next, proceed to worship Goddess Lakshmi by presenting her with flowers, sandalwood, kumkum, vermilion, and sweets. If you are a business owner, you may also include your account books, laptop, or other essential work items in the puja. Finally, light a ghee lamp in front of Goddess Lakshmi.

Note

Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on religious beliefs and the Panchang. The timings for puja may vary in different locations.