As India lights up for Diwali, the country’s stock markets are ready for one of their most symbolic annual rituals — Diwali Muhurat Trading. This special one-hour trading session, scheduled for Tuesday, October 21, 2025, marks the ceremonial beginning of the new Hindu financial year, Samvat 2082.
The Timings and Schedule
Both the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE) will conduct the Muhurat Trading session from 1:45 PM to 2:45 PM, a notable shift from the traditional evening slot. The session will be preceded by a pre-open window from 1:30 PM to 1:45 PM, followed by a closing session between 2:55 PM and 3:05 PM. Trade modifications will be permitted up to 3:15 PM .
The markets will remain closed for regular trading on Diwali day and reopen for full trading on Wednesday, October 22, following the Balipratipada holiday.
The Essence and Significance
The word “Muhurat” translates to “auspicious hour,” and the tradition of Muhurat Trading — begun by the Bombay Stock Exchange in 1957 — blends spirituality with market participation. The session is rooted in the belief that initiating financial activities during this time brings prosperity for the year ahead.
Traders perform Chopda Pujan—a ritual of opening new account books—invoking the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. Many market participants make small, symbolic transactions to mark the beginning of the new Samvat, viewing the act as spiritual rather than profit-driven.
Market Trends and Sentiments
Muhurat Trading often witnesses lighter volumes but higher volatility, with the indices historically closing on a positive note. Over the past 18 years, the Sensex has ended higher on 14 Muhurat sessions, including a remarkable 5.86% rise in 2008 amid global turmoil.
In 2024, the tradition continued with the benchmark indices closing in green — the Sensex gained 335 points (0.42%), reflecting continued investor optimism [3]. Analysts this year expect similar sentiment to carry forward, with the Nifty50 eyeing the 25,900 zone, supported by strong momentum indicators.
What to Expect in 2025 Muhurat Trading
Ahead of the session, Indian equities have shown a promising uptrend: the Sensex gained 411 points to end at 84,363.37, while the Nifty50 added 133 points, closing at 25,843 on Monday. Market experts predict that sectors like renewable energy, banking, infrastructure, and consumer goods could lead the rally during Samvat 2082.
Top recommendations for symbolic long-term buys include Adani Green Energy, Paytm, Ambuja Cement, HDFC Bank, and Infosys, reflecting India’s growth and green transition agenda .
Faith Meets Finance
Diwali Muhurat Trading is a vivid reflection of India’s cultural fabric — where faith, finance, and festive optimism converge. While the one-hour session may seem fleeting, it carries deep emotional significance, signaling hope, confidence, and prosperity for the year ahead on Dalal Street [1][3].
This Diwali, as diyas illuminate homes, the glow of positive sentiment will once again light up the trading floors — welcoming Samvat 2082 with renewed optimism, auspicious beginnings, and collective blessings for wealth and success.