Magha Purnima 2026: Date, Rituals & Significance of Sacred Full Moon
Magha Purnima 2026: Date, Rituals & Significance

Magha Purnima 2026: A Sacred Day of Devotion and Spiritual Renewal

Purnima, or the full moon day, stands as one of the most powerful and sacred occasions in Hindu tradition, dedicated to offering prayers to Lord Vishnu and the deity Chandrama (Moon God). This day holds immense religious and spiritual significance among Hindus, serving as a time for purification and divine connection.

Magha Purnima 2026: Date and Timings

According to the Hindu panchang, the Purnima tithi occurring in the month of January-February is celebrated as Magha Purnima. In 2026, this auspicious day will be observed on February 1, 2026. Here are the precise timings for the rituals:

  • Purnima Tithi Begins - February 1, 2026 - 05:52 AM
  • Purnima Tithi Ends - February 2, 2026 - 03:38 AM
  • Shukla Purnima Moonrise on Purnima Upavasa Day - February 1, 2026 - 05:26 PM

These timings are crucial for devotees to plan their fasting and worship activities accurately.

Significance of Magha Purnima

Purnima is revered as one of the holiest days in Hinduism, with Magha Purnima holding special importance. It is one of the 12 Purnima observances throughout the year, each falling monthly. This day is dedicated to honoring Lord Vishnu, with devotees also offering prayers to Chandra, the Moon God, to seek blessings for peace and prosperity.

Puja Rituals and Observances

On Magha Purnima, devotees engage in various spiritual practices to purify their body, mind, and soul. The day typically begins with waking up early and taking a holy bath. Many visit Ganga ghats for a sacred dip in the river, believed to wash away sins.

Fasting, known as Satyanarayan vrat, is observed from dawn to dusk, with the fast broken only after evening worship. Depending on individual capacity, some consume only fruits, while others may have one meal. The fast is thought to bring spiritual clarity and divine favor.

Key rituals include:

  1. Performing Satyanarayan puja and katha, which can be done in the afternoon or evening.
  2. Setting up a wooden plank with idols of Lord Satyanarayan, Lord Ganesha, and Shree Yantra.
  3. Lighting a diya with desi ghee and offering prayers first to Lord Ganesha, then invoking Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi with specific mantras.
  4. Offering flowers and bhog prasad such as panjeeri and panchamrit.
  5. Reciting Vishnu Sahasranama and the Satyanarayan vrat katha to attract divine blessings.
  6. Offering arghya to the Moon God and seeking its blessings.

After completing all rituals, devotees break their fast, avoiding onion, garlic, and meat. The day is also ideal for meditation and manifestation practices.

Powerful Mantras for Magha Purnima

Chanting mantras enhances the spiritual experience on this sacred day. Some recommended mantras include:

  • Om Namo Narayanaye..!!
  • Om Namo Bhagvate Vasudevaye..!!
  • Achyutam Keshvam Krishna Damodaram Ram Nrayanam Janaki Vallabham..!!
  • Hare Ram Hare Ram Ram Ram Hare Hare Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare..!!

By observing Magha Purnima with devotion, Hindus believe they can attain spiritual growth, peace, and the blessings of the divine.