Indian equity markets ushered in the new Hindu accounting year Samvat 2081 on a positive note during the special one-hour Muhurat trading session on Sunday. The traditional Diwali ceremony saw both benchmark indices closing with modest gains, continuing the auspicious tradition of token trading on Lakshmi Puja.
Festive Cheer Drives Market Sentiment
The Bombay Stock Exchange's Sensex gained 195.45 points, settling at 65,259.45, while the Nifty 50 climbed 52.20 points to close at 19,525.55. The session, held between 6:15 pm and 7:15 pm, witnessed robust participation from investors looking to begin the new financial year on a prosperous note.
Sectoral Performance Highlights
Several key sectors demonstrated strength during the abbreviated trading window:
- Auto stocks revved up with notable buying interest
- Real estate sector continued its recent upward trajectory
- Banking stocks showed steady performance amid festive liquidity
- Mid-cap and small-cap segments witnessed healthy activity
Historical Context and Market Tradition
Muhurat trading represents one of the oldest traditions in Indian capital markets, dating back decades. The special session allows investors to make token investments during an auspicious time, symbolizing the invitation to Goddess Lakshmi for wealth and prosperity in the coming year.
This year's session carried additional significance as markets sought to maintain the momentum from Samvat 2080, which had delivered impressive returns to investors despite global headwinds and economic uncertainties.
Broader Market Indicators
The positive sentiment extended beyond frontline indices with the BSE Midcap and Smallcap indices also closing in positive territory. Market breadth remained favorable, indicating broad-based participation across market capitalizations.
"The Muhurat trading session traditionally sets the tone for the new Samvat year," noted a market analyst. "The positive closure reflects investor optimism about economic growth and corporate earnings in the coming year."
Looking Ahead: Samvat 2081 Prospects
As markets resume regular trading on Monday, investors will focus on global cues, domestic economic data, and corporate earnings. The Diwali gains provide a psychological boost, though sustained momentum will depend on fundamental factors including inflation trends, interest rate environment, and geopolitical developments.
The auspicious beginning has raised hopes that Samvat 2081 could continue the wealth creation journey for Indian investors, building on the strong foundations laid in previous years.
