Overview

• The Amavasya tithi that determines the festival begins at 3:44 PM on October 20 and ends at 5:54 PM on October 21, according to published calculations.
• Auspicious windows on October 20 include Lakshmi Puja muhurat from 7:08 PM to 8:18 PM, Pradosh Kaal from 5:46 PM to 8:18 PM, and Vrishabha Kaal from 7:08 PM to 9:03 PM.
• The five-day schedule is listed as Dhanteras on October 18, Naraka Chaturdashi/Choti Diwali on October 19, Diwali/Lakshmi Puja on October 20, Govardhan Puja on October 21, and Bhai Dooj on October 22.
• Outlets note public uncertainty over October 20 versus 21, but panchang-based guidance aligns observance with the tithi’s presence before sunset on Monday.
• Reports highlight regional variations in emphasis and rituals across India and point to a growing preference for eco-friendly practices such as fewer firecrackers, clay diyas, and sustainable gifts.