Purnima, or the full moon day, holds immense religious significance in Hinduism. It is a day dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu. Devotees observe a fast from sunrise to sunset, perform the Satyanarayan puja, and also worship the Moon God. This month, Vaishakha Purnima vrat is being observed on May 1, 2026.
Vaishakha Purnima 2026: Date and Time
The Purnima tithi begins on April 30, 2026, at 09:12 PM and ends on May 1, 2026, at 10:52 PM. The moonrise on Purnima day is at 06:52 PM on May 1, 2026.
Significance of Vaishakha Purnima
Vaishakha Purnima is one of the most significant days in Hinduism. It is believed that Lord Buddha was born on this day, making it particularly important for both Hindus and Buddhists. Devotees take a holy dip in the Ganga, visit temples of Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna, and offer prayers. The moon's sacred rays are believed to bestow blessings on Earth, and worshipping Chandra Dev (Moon God) is considered highly auspicious.
Puja Rituals for Vaishakha Purnima
- Take a holy dip in the Ganga River after rising early in the morning.
- Take an idol of Lord Krishna, Lord Vishnu, or Laddoo Gopal Ji.
- Use Gangajal, Panchamrit, and regular water to give them a holy bath.
- Place them on a wooden plank and offer Tulsi leaves. Note: Do not pluck Tulsi leaves on Purnima tithi; pluck them a day before.
- Prepare Panchamrit and offer it as Bhog Prasad.
- Observe a fast from sunrise to sunset.
- Perform puja in the evening, recite the Satyanarayan vrat katha, and perform aarti.
- Prepare Sattvik Bhog, offer it to Lord Satyanarayan, and then break your fast.
- Offer water or Arghya to the Moon God and wish for your well-being before breaking the fast.
- Break your fast after distributing Bhog Prasad among family members.
Mantras to Chant
- Om Chandraye Namah
- Om Namo Bhagavate Vaasudevaye
- Achyutam Keshvam Krishna Damodaram Ram Narayanam Janaki Vallabham
- Hare Ram Hare Ram Ram Ram Hare Hare Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
