Paush Purnima Vrat 2026
Poornima or Full Moon in Shukla Paksh within Paush month is known as Paush Purnima. Paush is the 10th month in the Hindu calendar. The day of Paush Purnima is also the beginning of 1-month-long austerity period for the Magha month.
Observing this fast purifies the heart and soul, and bestows happiness and liberation from sins. Taking a holy bath in the sacred rivers Ganga and Yamuna on this day brings auspicious merits equivalent to thousands of Ashwamedha Yajnas.
In Hindu belief, Paush Purnima holds significant spiritual value. Devotees take early morning holy bath in holy rivers like Ganga and Yamuna, perform Surya Arghya, and observe fast to seek liberation from all past sins and attain spiritual growth. On this day, Lord Vishnu and the Moon God (Chandra Dev) are worshiped with deep reverence.
It marks the commencement of the sacred Kalpavas during Magh Mela at Triveni Sangam, Prayagraj, where seekers spend a month practicing strict discipline, satsang, and meditation.
Legend and Katha of Paush Purnima:
According to Hindu scriptures, observing Paush Purnima fast relieves the devotee from the cycle of rebirth and blesses with moksha. There once lived a devoted Brahmin in the kingdom of Kataka named Dhaneshwar. With unwavering piety, he and his wife worshipped Lord Shiva and observed the Paush Purnima fast.
Through the divine blessings of Lord Vishnu and Mother Lakshmi, their misfortunes dissolved, and they were granted prosperity, peace, and noble progeny. The divine story inspires millions of seekers across generations to observe fasting with pure mind, selfless devotion, and charitable deeds.