Purnima or Full Moon is considered sacred in Hinduism. The Purnima that falls in the month of Ashwin holds special religious significance. Also known as
Sharad Purnima, it is traditionally observed by worshipping Lord Satyanarayan, Goddess Lakshmi and Chandra Dev, the Moon God. According to Drik Panchang, "It is believed that Sharad Purnima is the only day in the year when the moon comes out with all sixteen Kala(s). In Hinduism, each human quality is associated with certain Kala and it is believed that the combination of sixteen different Kala(s) creates a perfect human personality. It was Lord Krishna who was born with all sixteen Kala(s) and He was the complete incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Lord Rama was born with only twelve Kala(s)." On this day performing puja, observing a fast and performing rituals such as daan (charity) with devotion brings abundance. Another ritual that is performed on Purnima is that of snan (bath) in a sacred river. Read More: Should a Saree Pallu Touch the Ground? Tradition vs Spirituality Explained "In many regions Sharad Purnima is known as Kojagara Purnima when Kojagara Vrat is observed for the whole day. Kojagara Vrat is also known as Kaumudi Vrat," states Drik Panchang. In 2026, Ashwin Purnima falls across two calendar days, meaning that the fast and the rituals of snan and daan will be observed on separate days.
When Is Ashwin Purnima 2026?
According to the Vedic Hindu calendar, the Purnima Tithi, begins at 11:55 am on October 25, 2026, and ends at 9:41 am on October 26. Based on the Udaya Tithi, which refers to the lunar date prevailing at sunrise, Ashwin Purnima will be observed on Monday, October 26. However, since the Purnima Tithi will be in effect at moonrise, the fast will be observed on Sunday, October 25.Ashwin Purnima Vrat 2026 Date
- Sharada Purnima on Sunday, October 25, 2026
- Krishna Dashami Moonrise on Sharad Purnima Day - 17:22
- Purnima Tithi Begins - 11:55 on Oct 25, 2026
- Purnima Tithi Ends - 09:41 on Oct 26, 2026
Auspicious Timings For Bathing And Charity On Ashwin Purnima 2026
October 26 has been designated for ritual snan and daan on Ashwin Purnima. On this day, the Brahma Muhurta will last from 4:46 am to 5:38 am. The Amrit-Sarvottam Muhurta will follow from 6:29 am to 7:53 am, while the Shubh-Uttam Muhurta will be from 9:17 am to 10:41 am.Devotees can bathe, offer prayers and make charitable donations during these auspicious periods. According to religious beliefs, donating food grains, clothes and other useful items to those in need is considered meritorious.
Ashwin Purnima 2026 Puja Muhurat
On October 25, the day of the fast, the Amrit-Sarvottam Muhurta is said to last from 10:41 am to 12:05 pm. The Purnima Tithi begins at 11:55 am.In the evening, worshipping Goddess Lakshmi after sunset, which is at 5:42 pm, is considered auspicious. The Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga will begin at 7:22 pm on this day.
