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The sacred month of Adhikmas, also known as Purushottam Maas or Mal Maas, is drawing to a close. Observed once every few years in the Hindu calendar, this extra lunar month is considered highly auspicious for worship, charity and spiritual practices. In 2026, Adhikmas began on May 17 and will conclude on June 15.
According to Hindu tradition, Adhikmas is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Scriptures say that when no deity was willing to accept this additional month, Lord Vishnu embraced it and blessed it with special significance. As a result, devotees worship Vishnu and Lord Krishna during this period and believe that prayers, fasting and charitable acts performed in Adhikmas yield greater spiritual rewards than during ordinary months.
Why Is Donation
Important During Adhikmas?
Purushottam Maas is regarded as one of the most auspicious periods for daan (charity). Religious texts state that selfless donations made during this month please Lord Vishnu and help devotees earn spiritual merit.
Many traditions also associate the number 33 with Adhikmas, and donating 33 items or making offerings in multiples of 33 is considered especially auspicious. The emphasis, however, is not on the value of the donation but on giving with sincerity and without expecting anything in return.
Auspicious Items To Donate Before Adhikmas Ends
The Shukla Paksha (Waxing Moon Phase) of Jyeshtha Adhikmas has concluded, and the Krishna Paksha (waning phase) begins on June 1. The sacred month of Adhikmas will come to an end on June 15. According to traditional beliefs, the following items are considered particularly significant for donation during the Krishna Paksha of Purushottam Maas:
- Ghee-filled silver vessel
- Bronze or bell metal utensils
- Jaggery
- Raw chickpeas
- Red sandalwood
- Kewra incense sticks
- Conch shell
- Garuda bell
- Idol of Lord Vishnu or Lord Krishna
- Diamond or another valuable item, according to one’s means
These items are traditionally donated to priests, temples or those in need.
Benefits Of Donation In Adhikmas
Hindu traditions believe that charitable acts performed during Adhikmas help devotees cultivate generosity, humility and spiritual discipline. Many devotees believe that donations made during this sacred month can bring blessings related to prosperity, good health and overall well-being.
It is also considered an ideal time to engage in acts of service, help the underprivileged and support religious or community causes.
Other Spiritual Practices To Follow
Along with charitable acts, devotees dedicate the month to spiritual practices such as worshipping Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna, reading sacred scriptures, chanting mantras and offering prayers.
Many also observe fasting and practice self-discipline as a way to deepen their devotion. Another common tradition is offering food, clothing and other essentials to those in need. Together, these acts are believed to enhance the spiritual significance of Adhikmas and help devotees seek divine blessings.
