Varsha Ritu, or the rainy season, is one of the six seasons described in the traditional Hindu calendar. In India, the season is closely associated with the southwest monsoon, cooler temperatures after the summer heat and the return of greenery across large parts of the country.

According to the Hindu calendar tradition, Shravana and Bhadrapada are associated with Varsha Ritu. In the Gregorian calendar, this period broadly corresponds to the monsoon months.

As per the supplied Panchang information for Ujjain, Varsha Ritu 2026 will begin on Thursday, August 13, 2026.

When Is Varsha Ritu 2026?

Varsha Ritu 2026 is listed for August 13, Thursday.

For Ujjain, the important timings provided for the date are:

• Date: August 13, 2026

• Day: Thursday

• Sunrise: 6:06 AM

• Sunset: 6:57 PM

The timings are location-specific and may differ in other parts of India.

What Is Varsha Ritu?

Varsha Ritu literally refers to the rainy season. It follows the hot summer period and is characterised by increased rainfall, cloudy weather and a rise in vegetation.

The arrival of the monsoon brings relief from intense summer temperatures in many regions. Rainfall also plays a crucial role in agriculture, replenishing water sources and supporting crops and vegetation.

In the traditional Indian seasonal cycle, Varsha Ritu is one of the six Ritus: Vasanta (spring), Grishma (summer), Varsha (monsoon), Sharad (autumn), Hemanta (pre-winter) and Shishira (winter).

Shravana and Bhadrapada

Varsha Ritu is traditionally associated with the Hindu months of Shravana and Bhadrapada.

These months are particularly important in the Hindu religious calendar, as several major festivals and observances take place during this period.

The monsoon landscape also gives the season its distinctive character, with rainfall transforming dry surroundings into greener landscapes.

Festivals During Varsha Ritu

Several major Hindu festivals are observed during the monsoon season.

Raksha Bandhan is celebrated on the full moon day of Shravana. The festival celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters, with sisters traditionally tying a Rakhi around their brothers' wrists and praying for their well-being.

Krishna Janmashtami is observed during the Krishna Paksha Ashtami of the Bhadrapada month. The festival commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna and is celebrated with prayers, devotional programmes and midnight observances in many parts of India.

Ganesh Chaturthi is observed on Shukla Paksha Chaturthi of Bhadrapada. The festival is particularly prominent in Maharashtra and several western and southern states, where public and household celebrations are held.

Onam, Kerala's major harvest festival, is also associated with this period. The celebrations commemorate the traditional story of King Mahabali and include religious ceremonies, cultural programmes and elaborate feasts.

Importance of the Monsoon

Varsha Ritu has significance beyond religious observances. India's agriculture remains closely dependent on the monsoon, making rainfall an important factor for farmers and the rural economy.

The seasonal rains replenish reservoirs, rivers and groundwater sources while supporting crops and natural vegetation.

The monsoon also influences temperatures and weather patterns across the country, although rainfall varies significantly between regions.

Varsha Ritu and Nature

The rainy season is traditionally viewed as a period when nature becomes vibrant again after the heat of summer.

Regular rainfall supports the growth of plants and trees and contributes to the characteristic green landscape associated with the season.

The period also coincides with a large number of religious observances, creating a close connection between India's seasonal cycle, agriculture, nature and cultural traditions.

Varsha Ritu 2026: Important Timings

Timings are provided for Ujjain, India, and may vary according to location.