Following the Dhanteras celebrations on October 29th, India is gearing up for Diwali 2024. However, there has been some uncertainty regarding the exact date for Diwali celebrations, which is either expected on October 31st or 1st November, based on Hindu tithi (dates) and puja timings. According to Drik Panchang, Diwali – also known as the Festival of Lights – falls on October 31st. The Amavasya Tithi, associated with Lakshmi Puja, is set to begin on October 31st at 3:52 pm and end on November 1st at 6:16 pm. This year, the Lakshmi Puja Muhurat will take place between 5:36 pm and 6:16 pm on November 1st, leading many to mark this day for puja.

For the Indian stock markets, this divergence in dates has created some confusion around holiday schedules. According to the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) holiday calendars, the markets will remain open for trading on Thursday, 31st October. However, they will observe a holiday on Friday, November 1st, for Diwali 2024, in line with Drik Panchang’s puja schedule.