August Purnima 2026 Date: There is some confusion regarding the date of Shravan Purnima in August 2026. This time, the Purnima *Tithi* (lunar day) begins on August 27 and concludes on the morning of August 28. Consequently, people are uncertain about the specific dates for the fast, moon worship, and rituals involving ritual bathing and charity. Let us find out exactly when Shravan Purnima will be observed and on which date the fast should be kept.

When does Purnima begin in August 2026?
According to *Drik Panchang*, the Purnima *Tithi* of the Shravan *Shukla Paksha* (waxing phase) will commence at approximately 9:08 AM on August 27, 2026. It will conclude at around 9:48 AM the following day, August 28. Minor variations of a few minutes in timing are possible across almanacs (*Panchangs*) of different cities. Based on *Udaya Tithi* (the lunar day prevailing at sunrise), Shravan Purnima will be observed on Friday, August 28, 2026. This also marks the conclusion of the month of Sawan.

On which day will the Purnima fast be observed?

The greatest confusion regarding the Purnima fast concerns its date. Religious traditions attach special significance to sighting the moon and offering *Arghya* (ritual water offering) to the moon at night during the Purnima fast. Since the Purnima *Tithi* prevails during the evening and night of August 27, the fast may be observed on this day according to several almanacs and traditions.

Correct date for ritual bathing and charity

On the other hand, since the Purnima *Tithi* continues until the morning of August 28, rituals such as bathing and charity will be performed after sunrise on that day. The dates for the fast and worship may vary according to local almanacs and regional customs. Therefore, if a specific almanac, family tradition, or a rule prescribed by a spiritual guide (*Guru*) is followed in your household, it is advisable to prioritize that practice.

Religious significance of Shravan Purnima

Shravan Purnima is considered the final full moon day of the month of Sawan. On this day, various religious festivals and traditions are observed across different parts of the country. It is primarily on this date that the festival of Raksha Bandhan is celebrated. In some regions of North and Central India, it is known as Kajari Purnima, while coastal areas observe the tradition of Narli or Nariyali Purnima. In South India, this day is also associated with Avani Avittam. Thus, Shravan Purnima is celebrated across the country with diverse customs and religious beliefs.

How to perform worship on Shravan Purnima?

One need not follow a complex ritual for worship on the day of Purnima. These religious acts can be performed according to one's devotion and capacity:

Take a bath in the morning and wear clean clothes.
Offer water or Gangajal (water from the Ganges) to Lord Shiva.
Offer *Belpatra* (wood apple leaves), white flowers, and fruits to the Shivling.
Remember and worship Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.
In the evening, upon sighting the moon, offer *Arghya* (water offering) to it.
Donate food, clothes, or any useful item to the needy according to your means.
Seek blessings from the elders in the house and spend time with the family.

What to donate on Shravan Purnima?

There is a tradition of donating rice, milk, white clothes, fruits, sweets, and food on the occasion of Shravan Purnima. However, the significance of donation is not limited merely to giving material objects. Feeding the needy according to one's capacity, providing fodder and water for animals, or assisting in the cleanliness of a religious site can also be excellent ways to serve.

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