Shravan Shukla Chaturthi Marks Auspicious Sunday for Devotees
Ganesha worship and practical endeavours recommended as Hasta Nakshatra brings skill and effort to the forefront.

The Hindu Panchang for 16 August 2026 marks Shukla Paksha Chaturthi Tithi in the month of Shravan, with Hasta Nakshatra dominating the day's celestial energy. Sunday, ruled by the Sun, brings a favourable alignment for worship, business and practical activities.

Tithi and Nakshatra Details
Today's Tithi is Chaturthi in Shukla Paksha, considered the favourite Tithi of Lord Ganesha. Worshipping Ganpati Bappa on this day is believed to remove all obstacles and fulfil cherished wishes. The Nakshatra is Hasta, ruled by Savitar, representing skill and effort. All handcraft and practical activities are expected to succeed under this influence.

Planetary Positions
According to sidereal calculations, the Sun is positioned in Cancer at 29 degrees, while the Moon resides in Virgo at 11.4 degrees. Mars occupies Aries at 26.7 degrees, Mercury is in Gemini at 0.4 degrees, and Jupiter remains in Cancer at 8.1 degrees. Venus is placed in Sagittarius at 16.1 degrees, Saturn in Pisces at 20.8 degrees, Rahu in Aquarius and Ketu in Leo.

Auspicious Timings
Sunrise occurs at 6:03 AM and sunset at 6:59 PM across most parts of India. The Hora timings vary by city, with the Sun Hora considered ideal for political, government and court-related matters, while Venus Hora favours love, marriage and entertainment activities.

Rahu Kaal and Inauspicious Periods
Devotees are advised to avoid starting new ventures during Rahu Kaal and Bhadra (Vishti Karana), which is considered inauspicious for new work, travel and marriage. The Yoga for today is Sadhya, which is considered favourable.

Recommended Activities
Today is excellent for business, crafts, farming and education. Offering durva grass and modaks to Lord Ganesha, along with reciting the Ganesh Chalisa, is highly recommended. Devotees should avoid viewing the moon and speaking lies.

Astrological Significance
The conjunction of Mercury and Jupiter, which occurred on 15 August, continues to influence communication and expansion. Mercury's entry into Ashlesha Nakshatra brings focus to sensitive conversations involving money, trust and family history.