Chandra Darshan 2026: Auspicious Moon Sighting Observed Today

Chandra Darshan, one of the important observances in the Hindu calendar, is being celebrated today, Wednesday, July 15, 2026. The festival marks the first sighting of the Moon after Amavasya (New Moon) and is considered highly auspicious for seeking prosperity, peace, and good fortune.

Devotees across India observe a fast, worship Chandra Dev (Moon God), and offer prayers after sighting the Moon. According to Hindu beliefs, worshipping the Moon on this day helps remove negativity, improves mental peace, and attracts prosperity.

Chandra Darshan 2026: Date and Tithi

• Festival: Chandra Darshan

• Date: Wednesday, July 15, 2026

• Pratipada Tithi Begins: July 14, 2026 – 3:13 PM (IST)

• Pratipada Tithi Ends: July 15, 2026 – 11:51 AM (IST)

Chandra Darshan 2026 Timings (Ujjain, IST)

• Sunrise: 5:54 AM

• Sunset: 7:11 PM

• Moonrise: 6:32 AM

• Moonset: 8:19 PM

Although the Moon rises in the morning according to astronomical calculations, devotees traditionally perform Chandra Darshan after sunset, when the first visible crescent Moon appears in the western sky, subject to local weather conditions.

Religious Significance

In Hindu tradition, Chandra Dev is regarded as one of the Navagrahas (nine celestial influences) and symbolizes peace, purity, wisdom, emotions, and prosperity. A strong Moon in one's horoscope is believed to bring mental stability, happiness, and success.

According to mythology, Chandra Dev is married to the 27 Nakshatras, the daughters of Prajapati Daksha, and is also considered the father of Budha (Mercury). As the Hindu calendar follows lunar cycles, the Moon holds immense religious and cultural importance.

Observing Chandra Darshan is believed to invite divine blessings, remove obstacles, and improve overall well-being.

Chandra Darshan Rituals

Devotees observe several traditional rituals on this day:

• Observe a day-long fast dedicated to Chandra Dev.

• Worship the Moon after sunset by offering water (Arghya), flowers, and prayers.

• Chant Moon-related mantras seeking peace and prosperity.

• Break the fast only after the Moon is sighted.

• Donate rice, sugar, white clothes, or other essentials to Brahmins and the needy.

These rituals are believed to bring wealth, harmony, and positive energy into one's life.

Spiritual Importance

The first sighting of the Moon after Amavasya symbolizes new beginnings, hope, renewal, and positive transformation. Many devotees consider the day ideal for starting new ventures, offering prayers for family well-being, and seeking blessings for financial and emotional stability.

As devotees celebrate Chandra Darshan today, temples and homes across the country are witnessing special prayers dedicated to the Moon God, reflecting the festival's enduring place in Hindu tradition.