In the Hindu spiritual calendar, the day of the full moon, known as Purnima, holds a place of supreme auspiciousness. Considered the most fortunate day dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it is a time for fasting, sincere prayer, and profound spiritual practices. Devotees across India honor Lord Vishnu in his form as Satyanarayan, performing the sacred Satyanarayan Puja to seek blessings and purification.
The Spiritual and Astrological Power of the Full Moon
Purnima is not just a date but a phenomenon charged with divine energy. The moonlight that bathes the Earth on this night is believed to be especially holy and divine. Engaging in spiritual practices under this radiant light is said to be a powerful remedy for modern afflictions like anxiety, depression, and mental tension. The act of fasting, or vrat, on this day amplifies these healing effects, aligning the individual's energy with the cosmic rhythm.
From an astrological perspective, the Moon governs the mind, emotions, feelings, and is linked to water and the motherly aspect. Individuals with a weak Moon placement in their birth chart—particularly in the sixth, eighth, or twelfth houses—or those whose Moon is influenced by malefic planets like Saturn, Rahu, or Ketu, are especially advised to offer prayers on Purnima. Performing a special pooja for the Moon and offering arghya (ritualistic offering of water) on this Purnima Tithi can help alleviate lunar-related sufferings and bring emotional balance.
Purnima Across India: Names and Traditions
While the essence of the observance remains the same, the nomenclature varies across the country. In North India, the day is universally referred to as Purnima. Conversely, in South India, the full moon day is popularly known as Pournami or Pournima. The fast observed on this day is correspondingly called Pournami Vratam. This beautiful diversity in names underscores the pan-Indian reverence for this celestial event.
Complete Purnima Calendar for 2026
Mark your calendars for these sacred days in the coming year. The tithi (lunar day) timings are crucial for observing rituals at the correct moment. Here is the detailed list of Purnima dates and timings for 2026:
Pausha Purnima: January 3, 2026. Purnima Tithi begins on January 2 at 06:53 PM and ends on January 3 at 03:32 PM.
Magha Purnima: February 1, 2026. Tithi begins on February 1 at 05:52 AM and ends on February 2 at 03:38 AM.
Phalgun Purnima: March 3, 2026. Tithi begins on March 2 at 05:55 PM and ends on March 3 at 05:07 PM.
Chaithra Purnima: April 1, 2026. Tithi begins on April 1 at 07:06 AM and ends on April 2 at 07:41 AM.
Vaishakha Purnima: May 1, 2026. Tithi begins on April 30 at 09:12 PM and ends on May 1 at 10:52 PM.
Jyeshtha Adhika Purnima: May 30, 2026. Tithi begins on May 30 at 11:57 AM and ends on May 31 at 02:14 PM.
Jyeshtha Purnima: June 29, 2026. Tithi begins on June 29 at 03:06 AM and ends on June 30 at 05:26 AM.
Ashadha Purnima: July 29, 2026. Tithi begins on July 28 at 06:18 PM and ends on July 29 at 08:05 PM.
Shravana Purnima: August 27, 2026. Tithi begins on August 27 at 09:08 AM and ends on August 28 at 09:48 AM.
Bhadrapada Purnima: September 26, 2026. Tithi begins on September 25 at 11:06 PM and ends on September 26 at 10:18 PM.
Ashwina Purnima: October 25, 2026. Tithi begins on October 25 at 11:55 AM and ends on October 26 at 09:41 AM.
Kartik Purnima: November 24, 2026. Tithi begins on November 23 at 11:42 PM and ends on November 24 at 08:23 PM.
Margashirsha Purnima: December 23, 2026. Tithi begins on December 23 at 10:47 AM and ends on December 24 at 06:57 AM.
Observing Purnima Vrat and performing the prescribed rituals on these specific days is a timeless tradition that connects devotees to divine grace, offering a path to mental peace, spiritual growth, and astrological harmony. Plan your spiritual journey for the year with this complete guide to the holiest full moon days.
