As the delicate crescent moon paints the evening sky tonight, devotees across India will gather to witness the first lunar sighting after Amavasya. Chandra Darshan February 2026 falls on this Wednesday, marking a sacred occasion to seek the blessings of Chandra Dev—the Hindu deity of the Moon.
For those wondering about the precise moonrise time on 18 February 2026, celestial calculations place it at 7:24 AM, with the ideal evening viewing window occurring shortly after sunset. The Pratipada Tithi, governing this auspicious day, began at 5:31 PM yesterday and continues until 4:58 PM today .
Why Chandra Darshan Holds Deep Spiritual Significance
In Hindu mythology, Chandra Dev isn't merely a celestial body but a ruling force of the mind, emotions, and prosperity. As one of the Navagraha (nine planets), the Moon's influence on human life is considered profound .
"Moon is known to be a favourable planet associated with wisdom, purity and good intentions," explains Vedic teachings. "An individual with favourably placed Moon in his/her horoscope will live a more successful and prosperous life" .
The observance follows Amavasya (new moon)—a time symbolizing darkness and reset. Moon sighting today represents new beginnings, inviting growth and positive energy after the lunar reset .
Chandra Darshan February 2026: Essential Timings
For devotees planning to observe the rituals, here are the critical timings for today:
- Pratipada Tithi Start: 5:31 PM on February 17
- Pratipada Tithi End: 4:58 PM on February 18
- Sunrise: 7:01 AM
- Sunset: 6:20 PM
- Moonrise: 7:24 AM (morning)
- Moonset: 7:18 PM (evening)
- Ideal Sighting Window: 6:13 PM to 7:05 PM (post-sunset)
All timings in IST for Ujjain, India (reference location)
Rituals to Observe During Chandra Darshan
1. Fasting (Vrat)
Devotees traditionally observe a strict fast from sunrise until the moon is sighted in the evening. The fast is broken only after performing the rituals and sighting the crescent moon .
2. Evening Puja Vidhi
As the sun sets, purify yourself and wear white or cream-colored clothing—symbolizing the Moon's serene energy. The worship involves:
- Offering arghya (water mixed with milk, rice, and white flowers) to the Moon God
- Chanting the sacred mantra: "Om Som Somaya Namah"
- Offering white sweets or kheer as bhog
3. Charity (Daan)
Donating white items such as rice, sugar, clothes, or milk to Brahmins and the needy amplifies the day's positive vibrations and is considered highly meritorious .
The Blessings of Moon Sighting
Hindu scriptures emphasize that performing Chandra Darshan with devotion brings manifold benefits:
- Mental peace and emotional balance: The Moon governs the mind; sighting it calms negative thoughts
- Prosperity and good fortune: Chandra Dev bestows wealth and success upon sincere worshippers
- Health and well-being: The Moon's energy helps balance the body's three doshas (Pitta, Vata, Kapha)
- Marital harmony: Married women observe this fast for their husband's long life and a happy married life
A Cosmic Connection in Modern Times
While these rituals span millennia, their observance has adapted beautifully to contemporary life. Urban devotees now use digital panchangs and astronomy apps to pinpoint the exact moon sighting time, ensuring they don't miss the brief evening window when the crescent becomes visible on the western horizon .
In an era of constant notifications and digital overwhelm, Chandra Darshan offers something precious—a structured moment to pause, look up at the sky, and reconnect with cosmic rhythms that have guided humanity since time immemorial.
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Chandra Darshan Dates 2026
For those who wish to continue this sacred observance, here are the remaining Chandra Darshan dates for 2026 :
- March 20, 2026 (Friday)
- April 18, 2026 (Saturday)
- May 17, 2026 (Sunday)
- June 16, 2026 (Tuesday)
- July 15, 2026 (Wednesday)
- August 14, 2026 (Friday)
- September 13, 2026 (Sunday)
- October 12, 2026 (Monday)
- November 11, 2026 (Wednesday)
- December 10, 2026 (Thursday)
Final Thoughts
Whether you observe the full fast with elaborate rituals or simply take a mindful moment this evening to witness the newborn moon, Chandra Darshan February 2026 invites you to participate in a timeless tradition. As the crescent appears in the twilight sky, it carries with it centuries of devotion, hopes for prosperity, and the eternal promise of renewal.
Note: Celestial timings may vary slightly by location. Consult your local panchang for the most accurate timings in your city.
