Diwali is not a single day but a radiant five-day festival, each day with its own meaning and rituals. This HinduTone guide explains the 5 days of Diwali 2026 — from Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj (6–10 November).

The five days: Dhanteras (6 Nov), Naraka Chaturdasi (7 Nov), Diwali/Lakshmi Puja (8 Nov), Govardhan Puja (9 Nov) and Bhai Dooj (10 Nov).

Day 1 — Dhanteras (6 November)

The festival opens with the worship of Dhanvantari (the god of Ayurveda) and Lakshmi. It is considered auspicious to buy gold, silver and utensils, symbolising incoming prosperity.

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Day 2 — Naraka Chaturdasi / Choti Diwali (7 November)

Marks Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura. Many take the ritual abhyanga snan (oil bath) before dawn and light a few lamps in anticipation of Diwali.

Day 3 — Diwali / Lakshmi Puja (8 November)

The main day — homes are lit with rows of diyas, rangoli adorns the entrance, and the Lakshmi-Ganesh Puja is performed in the evening Pradosh Kaal to welcome wealth and wisdom.

Day 4 — Govardhan Puja / Annakut (9 November)

Commemorates Krishna lifting Mount Govardhan; an "annakut" (mountain of food) is offered to the deity. In Gujarat, this is also the new year (Bestu Varas).

Day 5 — Bhai Dooj (10 November)

Celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters; sisters apply a tilak and pray for their brothers’ wellbeing, and gifts are exchanged.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the 5 days of Diwali 2026?

Dhanteras (6 Nov), Naraka Chaturdasi (7 Nov), Diwali/Lakshmi Puja (8 Nov), Govardhan Puja (9 Nov) and Bhai Dooj (10 Nov).

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Which is the main day?

Diwali / Lakshmi Puja on Sunday, 8 November 2026.

What is Dhanteras for?

Worship of Dhanvantari and Lakshmi, and the auspicious buying of gold, silver and utensils.

Explore More on HinduTone

  • Diwali / Deepavali 2026 — Complete 5-Day Guide
  • Dhanteras 2026 — Date, Buying Muhurat & Significance
  • Govardhan Puja & Annakut 2026 — Date, Vidhi & Story
  • Bhai Dooj 2026 — Date, Tilak Muhurat & Significance