India’s major stock exchanges, the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE), are conducting their annual Muhurat Trading session on Sunday, 8 November 2026, marking the arrival of Diwali Lakshmi Pujan and ushering in the new Samvat year.
Unlike regular trading days that operate from 9:15 AM to 3:30 PM, Muhurat Trading takes place during a designated one-hour evening window. Derived from the Hindi word for “auspicious”, Muhurat reflects the belief that transactions initiated during this period bring financial prosperity and good fortune throughout the upcoming year.
Historical Origins & Evolution on Dalal Street
The custom of combining festive rituals with commercial accounting predates electronic stock exchanges:
- Pre-1957 Origins: Marwari and Gujarati business communities traditionally celebrated Chopda Pujan on Diwali, worshipping new ledger books alongside Goddess Lakshmi.
- 1957 Formalisation: The Bombay Stock Exchange formally institutionalised Muhurat Trading as an organised Diwali stock market session.
- 1992 Extension: The National Stock Exchange adopted the practice, making the session a nationwide financial tradition.
- Modern Electronic Trading: From early gatherings under banyan trees in the 1850s to physical trading floors and today’s mobile applications, the tradition has seamlessly transitioned into modern digital markets.
Key Significance & Market Risks
Investors frequently buy token quantities of shares during the session to seek blessings for family wealth and long-term financial stability.
- Symbolic Investments: Orders placed during the session symbolise new beginnings, with many buying long-term stock holdings in the names of their children.
- Real Settlement Obligations: Despite the festive atmosphere, these trades are binding financial transactions subject to regular market risks, price volatility, and standard settlement rules.
