Muhurat Trading 2026: Cultural Significance and Historical Returns

In 2026, Muhurat Trading will be held on Sunday, November 8, 2026, on the occasion of Diwali Laxmi Pujan. The continuous equity trading session will run from 2:20 PM to 3:30 PM IST, following a pre-open session from 2:05 PM to 2:20 PM. 

The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) initiated this tradition in 1957, with the National Stock Exchange joining in 1992. The session operates as a fully functional trading period despite its ceremonial nature and lower volumes. 

Muhurat Trading began with BSE in 1957 and NSE joined in 1992, establishing a decades-old tradition in Indian markets. The term “Muhurat” refers to an auspicious time determined by planetary alignments, believed to bring positive outcomes. 

This session is fully operational, with trades resulting in regular settlement obligations, but volumes are typically lower and participation is often dominated by retail investors. Equity, derivatives and other notified market segments remain open during the special window. 

Cultural significance 

Rooted in Hindu traditions, Muhurat Trading coincides with Lakshmi Puja, where families worship the goddess of wealth. Investors often place token trades or buy shares as offerings, symbolising gratitude and hopes for financial growth. 

The practice involves Chopda Pujan (worship of account books) and lighting lamps at brokerages, creating a festive market atmosphere. In 2026, Diwali falls on November 8, with Lakshmi Puja observed during the evening Pradosh Kaal; exact puja timings vary by city. 

This tradition reflects India’s evolving investment culture while maintaining its spiritual essence across generations. It also marks the beginning of Samvat, the traditional Hindu accounting year. 

2026 session schedule 

The November 8, 2026, session will be the first Muhurat Trading session after the introduction of the Closing Auction Session (CAS). 

Historical returns 

Session-day returns are typically modest, with most years showing small gains rather than spectacular movements. Over recent years, positive Muhurat Trading closes have been far more common than declines. 

The average gains have generally ranged between 0.4% and 0.5% for Nifty and Sensex during the one-hour session, although 2025 saw a much flatter outcome. Negative returns, when they occur, are usually minor and influenced by broader market conditions rather than the session itself. 

The 2025 Muhurat session, held on October 21, 2026, to mark Samvat 2082, closed with Nifty 50 up 0.10% at 25,868.60 and Sensex up 0.07% at 84,426.34. 

Read More: Texmaco Rail Share Price in Focus; Gets Additional ₹412 Crore Railway Wagon Order! 

Conclusion  

Muhurat Trading’s cultural significance lies in its role as a bridge between tradition and investment, fostering hope and community. Its history shows how the market really works: profits are common but never guaranteed, and the economy always affects the results.  

Investors are encouraged to view it as a symbolic entry point rather than a predictive tool for market performance. This perspective aligns with the ritualistic essence of the tradition, emphasising auspicious beginnings over financial certainty. 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.  

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.