Adhik Maas 2026: The Extra Month of Purity and Devotion Begins The sacred month of Adhik Maas, also known as Purnuhotam Mas or Mal Mas, commenced on May 17, 2026, and will continue until June 15, 2026. This additional month in the Hindu calendar is designed to reconcile the difference between the solar year (365 days) and the lunar year (354 days), ensuring that festivals and rituals align with the correct seasonal cycles. According to Vedic astronomy, this month is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, and is considered highly auspicious for spiritual practices, penance, and charitable acts. During Adhik Maas, devotees are encouraged to focus on self-discipline, meditation, and devotion to the divine. The month is believed to amplify the spiritual benefits of rituals, prayers, and offerings, with the promise of immense merit for those who observe its guidelines. Key practices include reciting specific mantras, engaging in acts of charity, and studying sacred texts such as the Bhagavad Gita, Ramayana, or Bhagavata Purana. Rules and Guidelines for Adhik Maas The month is marked by a strict adherence to spiritual principles. Devotees are advised to avoid worldly distractions and prioritize inner purity. This includes abstaining from non-sattvic foods such as onions, garlic, and meat, while consuming simple, wholesome meals. Morning prayers, meditation, and bathing at Brahma Muhurta (the auspicious early morning hour) are emphasized to maintain mental and physical clarity. Special Mantras for Devotion The month is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and specific mantras are recommended for maximum spiritual benefit. The mantra "ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय" is considered the most powerful, invoking peace and liberation. Another significant mantra is "गोवर्धनधरं वन्दे गोपालं गोपीवल्लभम्.#lord_vishnu #ramayana #adhik_maas #padma_purana #bhagavad_gita
Four Ekadashis in Jyeshtha Maas 2026: Dates and Parana Timings of Apara, Padmini, Parama and Nirjala Ekadashi The Hindu month of Jyeshtha in 2026 will feature four significant Ekadashi festivals due to the occurrence of Adhik Maas, an extra lunar month. These sacred days, known as Apara, Padmini, Parama, and Nirjala Ekadashi, are considered highly auspicious for devotees observing fasts dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The unique alignment of celestial events has created a rare opportunity for spiritual practices, with each Ekadashi carrying distinct rituals and significance. Ekadashi, the 11th day of the lunar cycle, is traditionally observed twice monthly—once during the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) and once during the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight). Fasting on Ekadashi is believed to offer profound spiritual benefits, including peace, harmony, and prosperity, as emphasized by ISKCON Dwarka. The presence of Adhik Maas in 2026, which falls between 17 May and 15 June, has resulted in four Ekadashi vrats within the same month, a phenomenon that is both rare and spiritually significant. The Jyeshtha Maas in 2026 began on 2 May and will conclude on 29 June. During this period, Adhik Maas will overlap, creating the conditions for multiple Ekadashi observances. Each of the four Ekadashis has specific dates and parana timings, which mark the end of the fast. Devotees are advised to follow these timings carefully to ensure the completion of their rituals. Apara Ekadashi, observed during the Krishna Paksha of Jyeshtha Maas, will occur on 13 May. According to Drik Panchang, the Ekadashi tithi will span from 12 May at 2:52 pm to 13 May at 1:30 pm. The parana for this fast will take place on 14 May between 6:04 am and 8:41 am.#drik_panchang #iskcon_dwarka #iskcon_delhi #jyeshtha_maas #adhik_maas
