Krishna Janmashtami: September 4
The month kicks off with the celebration of Lord Krishna's birth, one of the most beloved deities in the Hindu pantheon. Janmashtami will be celebrated on Friday, September 4, 2026. The festival marks Krishna's birth in Mathura at midnight. Devotees often
observe a fast until this auspicious hour, breaking it only after performing puja and offering prayers. Temples are decorated, and homes come alive with the sounds of bhajans and kirtans. A key tradition is the preparation of elaborate food offerings, especially milk-based sweets, which are said to be Krishna's favourite. In many parts of the country, the day after Janmashtami is celebrated with Dahi Handi, a community sport that reenacts Krishna's childhood antics of stealing butter. While the main festival is on September 4, the celebrations, especially the midnight puja, often extend into the early hours of September 5.
Ganesh Chaturthi: September 14
Arguably one of the most vibrant festivals of the year, Ganesh Chaturthi celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. In 2026, the festival begins on Monday, September 14. The day marks the start of a ten-day celebration, especially in Maharashtra, where it is observed with unparalleled grandeur. Families and communities install beautifully crafted idols of Ganesha in their homes and in large public pandals. Daily prayers, aartis, and offerings of modak (a sweet dumpling) are central to the worship. The festival is a time of great social and cultural activity, bringing communities together. The celebrations culminate on Anant Chaturdashi, which falls on September 25, 2026, when the idols are carried in grand processions to be immersed in the sea or other water bodies, symbolising Ganesha's return to his celestial abode.
Vishwakarma Puja: September 17
Observed on Thursday, September 17, 2026, this day is dedicated to Lord Vishwakarma, the divine architect and craftsman of the gods. The festival holds special significance for artisans, engineers, mechanics, and factory workers. On this day, tools, machinery, and all instruments of one's trade are worshipped. Workplaces and factories are cleaned, and special pujas are conducted to seek the blessings of Lord Vishwakarma for skill, creativity, and prosperity. It is a day to honour the tools that provide a livelihood and to pray for safety and success in the year ahead. Many businesses and industrial houses remain closed as workers celebrate and worship their equipment.
Pitru Paksha: September 26 - October 10
Following the period of vibrant festivals, September closes with the beginning of a more solemn and reflective observance. Pitru Paksha, a 16-day period dedicated to honouring one's ancestors, begins on Saturday, September 26, 2026. This period, which extends into October, is considered a crucial time for Hindus to pay homage to their forefathers through rituals known as Shraddha and Tarpan. It is believed that performing these rites helps the souls of ancestors find peace and provides blessings to the living family members. During this fortnight, many people abstain from auspicious activities such as weddings, purchasing new property, or starting new ventures. The period culminates on Sarva Pitru Amavasya, the new moon day, which in 2026 falls on October 10.
