Guru Purnima, one of the most revered festivals in the Hindu calendar, will be observed on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, across India. The festival is dedicated to expressing gratitude and respect to spiritual gurus, teachers and mentors who guide individuals on the path of knowledge and wisdom.

According to the Hindu Panchang, the Purnima Tithi will begin at 6:18 PM on July 28 and conclude on July 29 (timing as per the Hindu calendar). Since Hindu festivals are generally observed based on the Udaya Tithi (the tithi prevailing at sunrise), most Guru Purnima rituals, Guru Puja and religious ceremonies will be performed on July 29, 2026.

Importance of Guru Purnima

Guru Purnima is celebrated to honour the eternal bond between a guru and disciple. The day is associated with Maharishi Ved Vyasa, the revered sage credited with compiling the Vedas, authoring the Mahabharata and composing several ancient scriptures. For this reason, the occasion is also known as Vyasa Purnima.

The festival holds significance not only in Hinduism but also in Buddhism and Jainism. In Buddhism, it marks the day when Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath after attaining enlightenment.

Auspicious Timings

As per the Hindu calendar:

• Purnima Tithi Begins: 6:18 PM on July 28, 2026

• Festival Date (Udaya Tithi): July 29, 2026

Devotees are advised to perform Guru Puja, Satyanarayan Katha, charity and other religious rituals during the auspicious hours on July 29.

Guru Purnima Puja Vidhi

On the occasion of Guru Purnima, devotees traditionally begin the day with a holy bath and wear clean or traditional attire. The place of worship is cleaned and decorated before offering prayers to Lord Vishnu, Maharishi Ved Vyasa and one's spiritual guru.

Flowers, fruits, sweets, incense, lamps and sacred offerings are presented during the puja. Many devotees also seek blessings from their teachers and elders, offer gifts or donations, and recite religious texts or bhajans. Acts of charity, food donation and service are considered especially auspicious on this day.

A Festival of Gratitude

Beyond religious observance, Guru Purnima is a celebration of knowledge, discipline and lifelong learning. Educational institutions, spiritual organisations and ashrams across the country organise special programmes, discourses and felicitation ceremonies to honour teachers and spiritual guides.

The festival serves as a reminder of the invaluable role that gurus and mentors play in shaping character, imparting wisdom and inspiring future generations.

Today's Panchang brings a day of transformation, confidence, and fresh opportunities. Here are all the important details you need to know for July 26, 2026.

Date and Day Details

Sunday, July 26, 2026, arrives with the bright energy of Shukla Paksha Dwadashi (the 12th day of the bright fortnight). This tithi continues until 1:58 PM, after which the day moves into Shukla Paksha Trayodashi. The day falls in the month of Ashadha.

Nakshatra Details

The morning begins under Jyeshtha Nakshatra, which continues until 7:34 AM. Jyeshtha carries the energy of seniority and guardianship, making it suitable for responsibilities that need a firm hand. It is linked with Indra as the presiding deity — a force of leadership, authority, and victory gained through alertness.

After 7:34 AM, the nakshatra shifts to Mula. Mula is an intense, truth-seeking root-star that doesn't like superficial fixes. Once Mula takes over, you may feel like pulling problems out by the roots.

Moon Transit

The Moon sits in Scorpio at the start of the day and shifts into Sagittarius at 7:34 AM. This marks an important emotional turning point. Early hours can feel intense and private, then the mind becomes more straightforward and solution-oriented. If you have a sensitive conversation planned, keep it for after the shift.

Yoga and Karan

The Yoga for the day is Indra, lasting till 10:05 PM, after which Vaidhriti begins. Indra Yoga supports achievement and confident moves, especially when you act with ethics and clarity. The Karan begins with Balava till 1:58 PM and then Kaulava runs till 3:07 AM. Balava helps steady effort and practical progress, while Kaulava is more social and adaptable.

Auspicious Timings (Shubh Muhurat)

Experts recommend doing serious work before lunch and keeping people-facing tasks for the later hours. The early morning hours are particularly suitable for responsibilities that require authority and careful judgment. Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga is also forming today, considered highly auspicious for religious and beneficial works.

Rahu Kaal

Those planning important activities should avoid Rahu Kaal timings. Check local Panchang for precise Rahu Kaal hours in your city. The day also marks the beginning of Chaturmas, with the Devshayani Ekadashi fast being broken today.

What to Do Today

Astrologers suggest offering water to the rising Sun and chanting the Gayatri mantra. Donating yellow fruits, gram dal, and religious books is considered auspicious. Visit a temple, offer water to trees and animals, and feed cows with roti and jaggery. The combination of Moon and Jupiter in guru-related signs increases the importance of charity and good deeds.

According to the Vedic calendar, Wednesday, July 22, 2026, falls on Ashadha Shukla Navami. The day is marked by the auspicious influence of Swati Nakshatra and Sadhya Yoga, making it favorable for spiritual practices, planning, and selected auspicious activities. The Moon transits through Libra, the sign ruled by Venus, bringing balance, diplomacy, and harmony to the day's energy.

Below is the complete Panchang for the day, including sunrise, sunset, auspicious timings, Rahu Kaal, Choghadiya, and other important astrological details.

Tithi, Nakshatra & Yoga

• Vikram Samvat: 2083 (Paravar)
• Shaka Samvat: 1948
• Ayana: Uttarayana
• Season (Ritu): Varsha (Monsoon)
• Lunar Month: Ashadha (Shukla Paksha)
• Tithi: Ashadha Shukla Navami (valid until 7:04 AM on July 23, 2026)
• Nakshatra: Swati (until 11:04 PM), followed by Vishakha
• Yoga: Sadhya Yoga (until 6:42 PM), followed by Shubha Yoga
• Karana: Balava (until 6:09 PM), followed by Kaulava
• Weekday: Wednesday

Sun & Moon Timings

• Sunrise: Between 5:36 AM and 6:12 AM (varies by location)
• Sunset: Between 7:13 PM and 7:18 PM
• Moonrise: 1:23 PM
• Moonset: 12:30 AM (early hours of July 23)
• Sun Sign: Cancer (Pushya Nakshatra)
• Moon Sign: Libra

Auspicious Timings (Shubh Muhurat)

The following periods are considered favorable for religious ceremonies, business activities, investments, and beginning new ventures:

• Brahma Muhurat: 4:45 AM – 5:28 AM
• Vijaya Muhurat: 2:56 PM – 3:48 PM
• Godhuli Muhurat: 7:18 PM – 7:39 PM
• Amrit Kaal: 1:26 PM – 3:11 PM
• Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga: Favorable for spiritual practices until the end of Swati Nakshatra.

Note: Abhijit Muhurat is generally not considered on Wednesdays.

Inauspicious Timings

According to Vedic astrology, avoid beginning important work, financial transactions, or long journeys during these periods:

• Rahu Kaal: 12:27 PM – 2:10 PM
  (Approximately 12:45 PM – 2:23 PM in Delhi and Mumbai, depending on location.)
• Yamaganda: 7:50 AM – 9:28 AM
• Gulika Kaal: 11:07 AM – 12:45 PM
• Dur Muhurat: 12:19 PM – 1:11 PM

Day Choghadiya

Disha Shool & Travel Remedy

Disha Shool (Inauspicious Direction): North (and East, according to some traditions).

If travel toward the north is unavoidable, offer prayers to Lord Ganesha before leaving home. Eating a small quantity of jaggery, fennel seeds, coriander seeds, or a sweet is believed to reduce obstacles and ensure a safe journey.

Religious Significance of Ashadha Gupt Navami

Ashadha Shukla Navami is observed during Gupt Navratri, a sacred period dedicated to the worship of the Divine Mother through spiritual practices and meditation. Since the day also falls on a Wednesday, it is considered especially auspicious for worshipping Lord Ganesha and Mercury (Budh), the deity associated with wisdom, intellect, and communication.

Devotees believe that offering 21 blades of Durva grass to Lord Ganesha and feeding green fodder to a cow on this day helps remove obstacles, attracts prosperity, and enhances intelligence and success.

If you're planning to start a new business, purchase a vehicle, perform a housewarming ceremony, or undertake any important activity today, consulting the daily Panchang is highly recommended. According to Vedic astrology, choosing the right Muhurat can enhance success, while avoiding periods like Rahu Kaal helps minimize obstacles.

Here's the complete Panchang for Tuesday, July 21, 2026.

Five Elements of Today's Panchang

Tithi (Lunar Day)

• Ashadha Shukla Ashtami
• The Ashtami Tithi remains in effect until 5:16 AM on July 22, after which Navami Tithi begins.

Nakshatra

• Chitra Nakshatra until 8:49 PM
• Followed by Swati Nakshatra

Day (Vara)

• Tuesday (Mangalwar)
• Dedicated to Lord Hanuman and Planet Mars (Mangal), making it an ideal day for prayers seeking courage, strength, and protection.

Yoga

• Siddha Yoga until 6:25 PM
• Considered highly auspicious for beginning important tasks, spiritual practices, and religious ceremonies.
• Sadhya Yoga begins afterward.

Karana

• Vishti (Bhadra) Karana initially
• Followed by Bava and Balava Karana

Sun and Moon Timings

• Sunrise: 5:36 AM
• Sunset: 7:19 PM
• Sun Sign: Cancer (Karka)
• Moon Sign: Virgo (Kanya)

Auspicious Muhurat Today

Abhijit Muhurat

11:58 AM – 12:52 PM

One of the most favorable periods of the day for starting new ventures, signing agreements, or making important decisions.

Amrit Kaal

5:10 PM – 6:46 PM

An excellent time for religious rituals, meditation, and spiritual activities.

Brahma Muhurta

4:02 AM – 4:49 AM

Ideal for meditation, yoga, prayers, and scriptural study.

Inauspicious Timings

Rahu Kaal

3:53 PM – 5:36 PM

Avoid starting new projects, financial investments, travel, or auspicious ceremonies during this period.

Yamaganda

9:02 AM – 10:45 AM

Not considered favorable for beginning important work.

Gulika Kaal

12:26 PM – 2:09 PM

Traditionally avoided for major auspicious activities.

Varjyam

6:30 PM – 8:06 PM

Certain important undertakings are generally postponed during this period.

Religious Significance

Ashadha Shukla Ashtami falling on a Tuesday holds special spiritual importance. Worshipping Lord Hanuman along with Goddess Mahagauri is believed to remove obstacles, protect against negativity, and bring courage, prosperity, and good health.

Astrological Remedy for Today

Visit a Hanuman temple in the evening and light a jasmine oil lamp. Reciting the Hanuman Chalisa or Bajrang Baan is believed to reduce the adverse effects of Mars (Mangal) in the horoscope. Offering red flowers or red sandalwood may also bring success in matters related to property, land, and personal growth.

Major Planetary Events Today

Saturday, July 18, 2026, marks a significant day in Vedic astrology as the Moon moves into the sign of Virgo at 11:58 PM IST. In this position, it will be in direct opposition to Saturn. This transit can increase the mind's sensitivity to small details, practicality, and alertness. Astrologers are advising caution as this Saturn-Moon clash may affect emotional balance, work, organisation, health, and routine.

Understanding the Saturn-Moon Opposition

The Moon rules feelings, disposition, and mental health. When the Moon transits Virgo, you might suddenly notice messy or unfinished business in your life. Your to-do list can feel overwhelming. Your brain may keep looking for small mistakes. However, Virgo energy doesn't like confusion; it wants a simple plan, defined procedure, and practical action. If you have been negligent with your schedule, this transit can make you anxious.

Today's Panchang Details

According to the Vedic Panchang for July 18, 2026, the day falls on Saturday (Shanivar). The Tithi is Shukla Paksha Panchami, remaining until 3:43 AM on July 19. The Nakshatra is Purva Phalguni until 6:00 PM, after which Uttara Phalguni begins. The Yoga is Varian until 8:46 PM, followed by Parigha Yoga. The Moon remains in Leo until 11:59 PM, then moves to Virgo.

Shubh Muhurat (Auspicious Timings)

• Abhijit Muhurat (Most Auspicious): 12:00 PM to 12:55 PM

• Brahma Muhurat (For Prayer): 4:12 AM to 4:53 AM

• Amrit Kaal: 6:52 PM to 12:28 PM

• Ravi Yoga: 6:00 PM to 5:35 AM, July 19

Ashubh Muhurat (Inauspicious Timings)

• Rahu Kaal: 9:01 AM to 10:44 AM

• Yamaganda: 2:10 PM to 3:54 PM

• Gulik Kaal: 5:35 AM to 7:18 AM

Sun and Moon Timings

• Sunrise: 5:34 AM

• Sunset: 7:20 PM

• Moonrise: 9:40 AM

• Moonset: 10:04 PM

What to Avoid Today

Astrologers suggest avoiding perfectionism, self-criticism, excessive checking, and trying to regulate all aspects of your life. Don't let a little thing turn into a complete mental meltdown. The day supports patient effort, thoughtful communication, and polishing work already in progress. Rather than taking big risks, focus on steady improvements. Purva Phalguni Nakshatra brings cheerful, creative, and harmonious energy supporting personal growth and relationships. It is an auspicious day for building relationships, creative ventures, and advancing plans.

Kumar Sashti 2026 will be observed on Sunday, July 19, 2026. The festival is dedicated to Lord Kartikeya (Skanda, Murugan, Subramanya or Kumar), the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, who is revered as the commander of the celestial army and the destroyer of evil.

Devotees observe a fast, perform special prayers and seek Lord Kartikeya's blessings for courage, protection, good health and the removal of obstacles.

Kumar Sashti 2026 Date and Timings

Timings are for Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh (IST).

Significance of Kumar Sashti

According to Hindu tradition and the Skanda Purana, Kumar Sashti commemorates the appearance of Lord Kartikeya on Earth to destroy evil and restore righteousness. The festival is also known as Kumar Jayanti in several traditions.

Lord Kartikeya is worshipped under different names across India:

• Murugan (Tamil Nadu)

• Subramanya

• Skanda

• Kumar

Devotees believe that observing the Kumar Sashti Vrat helps:

• Remove negative influences from life

• Overcome obstacles and fears

• Gain strength, wisdom and courage

• Attain physical and spiritual well-being

• Fulfil sincere wishes through devotion

Kumar Sashti Puja Rituals

On this auspicious day, devotees:

• Wake up early and take a holy bath.

• Worship Lord Kartikeya with sandalwood paste, kumkum, flowers, incense and fruits.

• Offer prayers and perform aarti.

• Chant Skanda Shashti Kavacham, Subramanya Bhujangam or read the Subrahmanya Purana.

• Visit Lord Kartikeya or Murugan temples in the evening.

• Pray for protection from evil and blessings for prosperity and good health.

In some regions, devotees also decorate the entrance of their homes with traditional designs using cow dung and red clay.

Kumar Sashti Vrat Rules

Many devotees observe a strict fast throughout the day.

Common fasting practices include:

• Complete fast until evening temple darshan.

• One meal during the afternoon (followed by local tradition).

• One meal after evening prayers.

The fast is generally broken only after offering prayers to Lord Kartikeya.

Celebrations Across India

Kumar Sashti is celebrated with special devotion in:

• Tamil Nadu

• Karnataka

• Kerala

• Andhra Pradesh

• Telangana

• Maharashtra

• Nepal

In South India, Lord Murugan temples witness elaborate pujas, bhajans and large gatherings of devotees.

Shasti (Shashthi) in July 2026 will be observed on Sunday, July 19. The day is dedicated to Lord Murugan (Kartikeya, Skanda, Subramanya) and is considered highly auspicious, especially among devotees in South India. Observing the Shasti Vrat is believed to bring courage, prosperity, good health and protection from negative influences.

Shasti 2026 Date and Timings

Timings are for Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh (IST).

What is Shasti?

Shasti, also known as Shashthi, falls on the sixth lunar day (Tithi) of both the waxing (Shukla Paksha) and waning (Krishna Paksha) phases of every Hindu lunar month. The Krishna Paksha Shasti is particularly associated with the worship of Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

Lord Murugan is also worshipped as:

• Kartikeya

• Skanda

• Subramanya

• Kumara Swami

• Kumaran

Significance of Shasti

According to Hindu tradition, Lord Murugan is the commander of the celestial army and the destroyer of evil. It is believed that on Shasti, Lord Murugan defeated the demon Soorapadman, symbolizing the victory of righteousness over evil.

Devotees observe the Shasti fast to seek:

• Good health and prosperity

• Success in life

• Courage and wisdom

• Protection from obstacles and negative influences

• Spiritual growth and inner peace

The festival holds special significance in Tamil Nadu, where several ancient temples dedicated to Lord Murugan witness special prayers and large gatherings.

Shasti Vrat Rules

Fasting is the most important ritual of Shasti. Devotees may observe the vrat in different ways:

• Complete fast: No food for 24 hours, ending after prayers the next day.

• Partial fast: Fruits and milk may be consumed.

• One-meal fast: Some devotees eat only one simple vegetarian meal due to health or personal reasons.

During the vrat:

• Non-vegetarian food is strictly avoided.

• Alcohol and intoxicants are prohibited.

• Many devotees avoid strong spices and consume only sattvic food.

Puja Rituals

On Shasti, devotees:

• Wake up before sunrise and take a holy bath.

• Offer flowers, fruits, sandalwood paste, kumkum and incense to Lord Murugan.

• Chant Skanda Shasti Kavacham and read the Skanda Purana.

• Visit a Murugan or Kartikeya temple in the evening.

• Perform aarti and seek blessings for happiness, prosperity and protection.

All Shasti Dates in 2026

Today, Friday, July 17, 2026, devotees across India are observing Vinayaka Chaturthi, a sacred Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the deity of wisdom, prosperity and new beginnings.

Vinayaka Chaturthi is observed every month on the Shukla Paksha Chaturthi (fourth day of the waxing moon). Devotees observe a fast and offer prayers to seek Lord Ganesha's blessings for success, happiness and the removal of obstacles from their lives.

Vinayaka Chaturthi 2026: Tithi and Timings

• Chaturthi Tithi Begins: 6:28 AM, July 17, 2026

• Chaturthi Tithi Ends: 4:43 AM, July 18, 2026

• Sunrise: 5:55 AM

• Sunset: 7:11 PM

• Moonrise: 8:44 AM

• Moonset: 9:39 PM

The above timings are for Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh (IST). Timings may vary slightly by location.

Significance of Vinayaka Chaturthi

According to Hindu tradition, every lunar month has two Chaturthi observances:

• Vinayaka Chaturthi – observed during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon).

• Sankashti Chaturthi – observed during the Krishna Paksha (waning phase).

Vinayaka Chaturthi is considered highly auspicious for worshipping Lord Ganesha. It is believed that offering prayers on this day removes obstacles, brings prosperity, enhances wisdom and fulfills sincere wishes.

How to Perform Vinayaka Chaturthi Puja

Devotees generally follow these rituals:

• Take a holy bath early in the morning and wear clean clothes.

• Install an idol or image of Lord Ganesha at the place of worship.

• Offer durva grass, red flowers, vermilion (sindoor), modaks and laddoos.

• Chant "Om Gam Ganapataye Namah", recite the Ganesh Atharvashirsha or Ganesh Chalisa.

• Perform the aarti and pray for peace, prosperity and success.

Ganesh Chaturthi 2026

The grand annual festival celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha, Ganesh Chaturthi, will be observed on Monday, September 14, 2026.

Upcoming Vinayaka Chaturthi Dates in 2026

• July 17

• August 16

• September 14 (Ganesh Chaturthi)

• October 14

• November 13

• December 13

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.

Bhaumvati Amavasya is being observed across India today, Tuesday, July 14, 2026. Considered one of the most spiritually significant Amavasyas in the Hindu calendar, the occasion falls when Amavasya (New Moon) coincides with Tuesday (Mangalwar). The day is regarded as highly auspicious for performing Pitru Tarpan, Shraddha, charity, and remedies related to Mars (Mangal Graha).

Devotees across the country are visiting temples, taking holy baths, offering prayers to their ancestors and observing fasts to seek peace, prosperity and relief from ancestral and planetary afflictions.

Bhaumvati Amavasya 2026: Date and Timings

According to the Hindu Panchang:

• Bhaumvati Amavasya: Tuesday, July 14, 2026

• Amavasya Tithi Begins: 6:50 PM on July 13

• Amavasya Tithi Ends: 3:13 PM on July 14

Other Important Timings (IST – Ujjain):

• Sunrise: 5:53 AM

• Sunset: 7:11 PM

• Moonrise: 5:22 AM

• Moonset: 7:29 PM

Religious Significance

Bhaumvati Amavasya is dedicated to Lord Mars (Mangal Graha) and is considered especially beneficial for devotees seeking relief from Mangal Dosh, financial difficulties and debts. In Hindu belief, Mars is also known as Rin Harta, the remover of debts.

The day also holds immense importance for ancestor worship (Pitru Karma). Performing rituals such as Pitru Tarpan, Shraddha, feeding Brahmins and offering charity is believed to bring peace to departed souls and blessings for the family.

Rituals Performed on Bhaumvati Amavasya

Devotees traditionally begin the day with a holy bath, preferably in a sacred river, before offering prayers.

Key rituals include:

• Performing Pitru Tarpan and Shraddha

• Worshipping Lord Mangal (Mars)

• Reciting the Mangal Rin Harta Stotra

• Performing Navgraha Shanti Havan

• Donating food, clothes and other essentials to the needy

• Feeding Brahmins in memory of ancestors

• Observing a fast for spiritual merit and relief from Pitru Dosh

• Worshipping Lord Vishnu and the Peepal tree in several regions

Why the Day is Considered Special

Religious texts state that any charitable act performed on Bhaumvati Amavasya yields manifold spiritual benefits. It is also regarded as an ideal occasion for those who could not perform rituals for their ancestors during other prescribed periods.

Astrologers believe worship and donations on this day help reduce the negative effects of Mangal Dosh, improve financial stability and bring peace and prosperity into one's life.

Bhaumvati Amavasya Dates in 2026

Bhaumvati Amavasya occurs three times this year:

• February 17, 2026

• July 14, 2026

• December 8, 2026

With devotees observing prayers, charity and ancestral rituals throughout the day, Bhaumvati Amavasya continues to remain one of the most revered occasions in the Hindu religious calendar.

Today's Panchang at a Glance

According to the Vedic Panchang for July 9, 2026, the day falls in the month of Ashadha, Krishna Paksha. The Vikram Samvat year is 2083 Siddharthi, and the Shaka Samvat is 1948 Parabhav. The Navami tithi remains until 10:37 AM, after which Dashami tithi begins. Sun rises at 5:30 AM and sets at 7:22 PM. Moonrise occurs at 1:06 AM on July 10, with moonset at 2:01 PM.

Nakshatra and Yoga

The Ashwini Nakshatra prevails until 2:56 PM, after which Bharani Nakshatra takes over. Ashwini, ruled by Ketu and associated with the Ashwini Kumar twins (the physicians of the gods), is connected to movement, new beginnings, and healing. The Sukarma Yoga continues until 10:12 AM, followed by Dhriti Yoga.

Auspicious and Inauspicious Timings

The Abhijit Muhurat, considered highly auspicious for new beginnings, falls between 11:59 AM and 12:54 PM. The Brahma Muhurat, ideal for meditation and spiritual practices, occurs from 4:09 AM to 4:50 AM. Rahu Kaal, an inauspicious period for new ventures, is from 2:10 PM to 3:54 PM. Yamaganda Kaal runs from 5:30 AM to 7:14 AM, and Gulika Kaal from 8:58 AM to 10:42 AM.

Planetary Positions

Saturn remains in Pisces, Rahu in Aquarius, Mars in Taurus, Jupiter and Mercury in Gemini, Sun in Gemini, Ketu in Leo, and Venus in Leo. The Moon transits in Aries today. Mercury remains retrograde in Gemini until July 24, prompting astrologers to advise against major contracts, new agreements, or heavy purchases.

What This Means for You

The crossing of Gandanta (a sensitive transition point between water and fire signs) means Thursday brings freshness to every zodiac sign. However, with Mercury retrograde, every decision should be made carefully, especially regarding money and paperwork.

Devotees of Lord Vishnu across India will observe Yogini Ekadashi on Friday, July 10, 2026. Falling during the Krishna Paksha of the Ashadha month, the sacred Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vamana, the fifth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The day holds special significance for devotees seeking good health, spiritual purification and freedom from past sins.

According to the Hindu Panchang, Yogini Ekadashi is considered one of the most auspicious Ekadashi observances of the year. Scriptures state that observing the fast with devotion is believed to bring prosperity, remove obstacles and bestow divine blessings.

Yogini Ekadashi 2026: Date and Timings

For Ujjain (IST), the important timings are:

• Yogini Ekadashi: Friday, July 10, 2026

• Ekadashi Tithi Begins: 8:16 AM on July 10

• Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 5:23 AM on July 11

• Sunrise: 5:52 AM

• Sunset: 7:12 PM

• Hari Vasara Ends: 10:33 AM on July 11

• Parana (Fast Breaking) Time: 1:52 PM to 4:32 PM on July 11

• Dwadashi Ends: 2:04 AM on July 12

Significance of Yogini Ekadashi

Yogini Ekadashi is regarded as a powerful vrat dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Religious texts mention that observing this fast with sincerity is believed to cleanse accumulated sins, promote physical well-being and lead devotees toward spiritual upliftment.

The observance is especially associated with prayers for relief from illnesses and a healthy life. Hindu scriptures compare the spiritual merit earned through this vrat with the merit of performing numerous charitable acts.

Yogini Ekadashi Vrat Katha

The Yogini Ekadashi Vrat Katha is narrated in the Padma Purana. According to the legend, Hemmali, a servant of Kubera, neglected his duty of bringing flowers for Lord Shiva's worship because he remained with his wife. Angered by the negligence, Kubera cursed him with leprosy and separation from his family.

After years of suffering, Hemmali met Markandeya Rishi, who advised him to observe the Yogini Ekadashi fast. By faithfully performing the vrat, Hemmali was relieved of the curse, regained his health and reunited with his wife. The story highlights the importance of devotion, discipline and sincere repentance.

Rituals to Observe

Devotees generally begin preparations from Dashami by following a satvik diet and avoiding tamasic food.

On Ekadashi, devotees:

• Wake up before sunrise and take a holy bath.

• Worship Lord Vishnu with flowers, incense, lamp and Tulsi leaves.

• Chant Vishnu mantras and recite the Vishnu Sahasranama or Bhagavad Gita.

• Observe a fast, either complete or by consuming fruits and vrat-approved foods.

• Spend the day in prayer, bhajans and spiritual activities.

• Break the fast during the prescribed Parana Muhurat on Dwadashi.

Many devotees also worship the Peepal tree and donate food, clothes or other essentials to the needy.

Foods Allowed During the Fast

Those unable to observe a complete fast may consume vrat-approved foods such as fruits, milk, dry fruits, water, makhana, sabudana and vrat flour preparations. Grains, rice, wheat, pulses and regular salt are generally avoided.

Importance for Devotees

Yogini Ekadashi is believed to remove negative karma, promote good health and bring peace and prosperity. Devotees consider the observance particularly beneficial for attaining spiritual progress while seeking Lord Vishnu's blessings for themselves and their families.

The fast concludes on July 11 during the prescribed Parana time between 1:52 PM and 4:32 PM, after offering prayers and prasad to Lord Vishnu.