india employmentnews

At what time will the market open on Diwali, and can one invest in an SIP on that day?

 | 
xxx

Diwali 2026: Indian stock markets closed this week with a spectacular surge. On Friday, the Sensex climbed 1,718.01 points to close at 81,028.02, while the Nifty rose 493.75 points to end at 25,030.35. This rally ahead of Diwali has sparked great enthusiasm among investors, who are now hopeful that this momentum might continue during the 'Muhurat Trading' session on Diwali. But what are the timings for Muhurat Trading, and can you execute an SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) during this session? Let’s find the answers to these questions.

At what time will the market open on Diwali?
This year, the festival of Diwali falls on November 8th. Since this date coincides with a Sunday—a day when Indian stock markets are typically closed—the market will remain open for a few hours specifically for the occasion of Diwali. During this time, 'Muhurat Trading' will take place on both the NSE and BSE exchanges.

On Diwali, 'Muhurat Trading' will commence at 2:05 PM and conclude at 3:30 PM. In addition to the live trading session, there will also be a 'block deal' session between 1:50 PM and 2:05 PM.

The pre-open order entry session will begin at 2:05 PM and end at 2:10 PM. During this pre-market phase, participants can place, modify, or cancel both limit and market orders.

Following this, there will be a pre-open session (for order matching and trade confirmation) from 2:15 PM to 2:17 PM, succeeded by a pre-open buffer period from 2:17 PM to 2:20 PM. Regular trading will then take place from 2:20 PM to 3:30 PM. 

What time will Muhurat Trading take place on the MCX?
Trading in the commodity derivatives segment will begin at 2:20 PM and conclude at 3:30 PM. On Sunday, November 8, a special session will commence at 2:05 PM and end at 2:19 PM. The Diwali Muhurat Trading session on the MCX will be held between 2:20 PM and 3:30 PM.

Can you initiate an SIP during Muhurat Trading?
If you wish to invest in mutual funds on the day of Diwali, you may certainly do so. However, simply initiating an investment does not mean it is immediately processed; you must place an order. Many trading platforms offer the option to start an SIP or purchase fund units on Diwali—meaning you can submit an order. However, the investment will only be processed once your funds reach the mutual fund house. Whether you make a lump-sum investment or an SIP payment, the Net Asset Value (NAV) will be allotted based on the business day on which your payment is received by the mutual fund house.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Dainik Jagran. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.