ANKUR TYAGI
In a significant change from tradition, this year’s Muhurat trading will not take place in the evening as it usually does. Instead, the one-hour session has been scheduled between 1:45 pm and 2:45 pm, the exchange said in its circular.
Muhurat Trading: What Investors Need to Know
Muhurat trading is considered highly auspicious and symbolic, marking the beginning of the Hindu New Year. Investors participate in this special session believing it brings prosperity and good fortune.
According to the NSE circular:
- A 15-minute pre-open session will be held from 1:30 pm to 1:45 pm.
- The regular Muhurat trading session will run from 1:45 pm to 2:45 pm.
Full Schedule of Diwali Muhurat Trading on NSE (October 21, 2025)
| Session | Start Time | End Time |
|---|---|---|
| Block Deal Session | 13:15 hrs | 13:30 hrs |
| Special Pre-open Session (for IPO & Relisted Securities) | 13:30 hrs | 14:15 hrs |
| Normal Market Open Time (for stocks in special pre-open session) | 14:30 hrs | 14:45 hrs |
| Call Auction Illiquid Session* | 13:50 hrs | 14:35 hrs |
| Normal Muhurat Trading | 13:45 hrs | 14:45 hrs |
| Closing Session | 14:55 hrs | 15:05 hrs |
| Trade Modification Cut-off Time | 13:45 hrs | 15:15 hrs |
*Applicable for illiquid securities
NSE clarified that all trades executed during the Muhurat session will result in settlement obligations, like any other trading day.
Why Muhurat Trading Matters
Traditionally, Diwali Muhurat trading is seen as a symbolic ritual by investors and traders, marking a fresh start to the financial year as per the Hindu calendar. It also reflects India’s cultural belief in starting new ventures on an auspicious day.
Over the years, Muhurat trading sessions have witnessed positive investor sentiment, with benchmark indices often ending in the green.
Abhishek Sinha
