November 2026 will bring a series of religious festivals and important commemorative occasions across Punjab, from the traditional Diwali celebrations to Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Parkash Purab. The month will also see the state remember revolutionary freedom fighter Kartar Singh Sarabha, making November significant for both religious observances and Punjab's historical heritage.
With several festivals falling close together, residents can plan religious observances, family gatherings and shopping in advance. Two dates of particular importance are November 16, marking Kartar Singh Sarabha's martyrdom day, and November 24, when Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Parkash Purab will be observed.
Ahoi Ashtami marks the beginning of November's festivities
Ahoi Ashtami will be observed on Sunday, November 1, 2026. The festival is traditionally associated with mothers praying for the well-being and long life of their children. Women observing the fast follow customary rituals and offer prayers in the evening.
Dhanteras to bring festive shopping activity
Dhanteras will fall on Friday, November 6. The day is traditionally considered auspicious for purchasing gold, silver, utensils and household goods. Markets across Punjab are expected to see festive preparations as shoppers look for gifts, decorations and traditional items.
Diwali and Lakshmi Puja on November 8
Diwali, also known as the festival of lights, will be celebrated on Sunday, November 8, 2026. The occasion is marked by lighting diyas, decorating homes, exchanging gifts and offering prayers to Goddess Lakshmi.
Govardhan Puja follows Diwali
Govardhan Puja will be observed on Monday, November 9. The festival commemorates the association of Lord Krishna with Govardhan Hill and is celebrated through prayers, offerings and traditional food preparations.
Bhai Dooj celebrates the bond between siblings
Bhai Dooj will be observed around November 10–11, depending on regional traditions and the timing of the Dwitiya tithi. The festival celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters through customary rituals, gifts and family gatherings.
November 16: Remembering revolutionary Kartar Singh Sarabha
November 16 is an important date in Punjab's historical calendar, marking the martyrdom day of Kartar Singh Sarabha, a young revolutionary associated with the Ghadar movement.
Sarabha remains an enduring symbol of courage and sacrifice in Punjab. His contribution to India's freedom struggle continues to inspire generations, particularly young people, and the day offers an opportunity to remember the revolutionaries who challenged British colonial rule.
November 24: Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Parkash Purab
November 24, 2026, will mark Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Parkash Purab, one of the most significant religious occasions for Sikhs in Punjab and around the world.
The day commemorates the birth of the founder of Sikhism and celebrates his teachings of equality, compassion, honest living and service to humanity. Gurdwaras traditionally organise prayers, kirtan and langar, while devotees participate in religious gatherings and community service.
The occasion holds special importance across Punjab, where preparations bring communities together in remembrance of Guru Nanak Dev Ji's message of universal brotherhood.
November 2026: Important dates at a glance
November 1, Sunday: Ahoi Ashtami
November 6, Friday: Dhanteras
November 8, Sunday: Diwali / Lakshmi Puja
November 9, Monday: Govardhan Puja
November 10–11, Tuesday–Wednesday: Bhai Dooj, depending on regional observance
November 16, Monday: Kartar Singh Sarabha's martyrdom day
November 24, Tuesday: Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Parkash Purab
A month of festivals, faith and remembrance
November brings together family traditions, religious celebrations and historical remembrance in Punjab. While the Diwali festivities create a period of shopping and family gatherings, November 16 and November 24 stand out as important dates for remembering the state's revolutionary legacy and celebrating Sikh heritage.
Residents should check the official Punjab government holiday notification and local religious calendars for confirmation of public holidays and festival timings before making plans.
