Budh Ashtami Vrat 2026: Budh Ashtami is one of the important Hindu fasting observances dedicated to Lord Budha (Mercury). The vrat is observed when Ashtami Tithi coincides with Wednesday (Budhwar). Devotees observe this sacred fast to seek prosperity, wisdom, good health and relief from the adverse effects of Budh Graha (Mercury). In many regions, devotees also worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati on this auspicious day.

Budh Ashtami Vrat 2026 Date

Budh Ashtami Vrat will be observed on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.

Budh Ashtami 2026 Timings (IST – Ujjain)

• Date: Wednesday, August 5, 2026

• Ashtami Tithi Begins: 8:42 PM, August 5

• Ashtami Tithi Ends: 6:53 PM, August 6

• Sunrise: 6:03 AM

• Sunset: 7:02 PM

Significance of Budh Ashtami

Budh Ashtami is considered highly auspicious for devotees seeking the blessings of Lord Budha, the planetary deity associated with intelligence, communication, education, business and analytical abilities.

According to Hindu religious beliefs, observing the Budh Ashtami Vrat with devotion helps remove sins, brings peace and prosperity, and reduces the negative effects of Budh Graha Dosha. The significance of this vrat is mentioned in the Brahmanda Purana, where it is believed that sincere worship on this day leads to spiritual purification and divine blessings.

In several traditions, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are also worshipped on Budh Ashtami for overall well-being and happiness.

Budh Ashtami Vrat Rituals

Devotees begin the day with an early morning bath and take a vow to observe the fast.

The traditional rituals include:

• Worship Lord Budha with prayers and offerings.

• Place a Kalash filled with water and a green coconut at the place of worship.

• Offer special Naivedya (food offering) to Lord Budha.

• Worship an idol or image of Lord Budha, often engraved on a gold or silver coin.

• Recite prayers and mantras dedicated to Lord Budha.

• Consume only the offered Prasad after completing the puja.

• In many places, devotees also offer prayers to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

According to traditional beliefs, the Budh Ashtami Vrat is observed eight consecutive times, and during the final observance, the gold or silver coin used in worship is donated to a Brahmin.

Benefits of Observing Budh Ashtami

Devotees believe that observing the Budh Ashtami fast with faith offers several spiritual benefits:

• Brings prosperity and happiness.

• Enhances wisdom, intelligence and communication skills.

• Helps reduce the adverse effects of Mercury (Budh Graha).

• Promotes success in education and business.

• Provides peace of mind and spiritual purification.

Budh Ashtami Vrat 2026: Important Timings

Disclaimer

The above dates and timings are based on IST for Ujjain. Puja timings may vary depending on your location and local Panchang.