Phalguna Purnima 2026: Date, Significance, Rituals
Phalguna Purnima is the final full moon of the Hindu lunar year, celebrated with immense devotion across India. Falling in the auspicious month of Phalguna (February–March), this day marks the arrival of spring and coincides with the vibrant festival of Holi and Lakshmi Jayanti.
Spiritually, Phalguna Purnima is a powerful time to release past negativity (symbolized by Holika Dahan) and embrace new beginnings. Devotees observe strict fasting, perform the Satyanarayan Puja, and worship Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi to invite prosperity and peace.
📌 Phalguna Purnima 2026 at a Glance
- Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2026
- Key Rituals: Satyanarayan Puja, Holika Dahan, Holy Bath.
- Festivals: Holi, Lakshmi Jayanti.
- Gods Worshipped: Lord Vishnu, Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Chandra (Moon).
📅 Phalguna Purnima 2026 Date & Tithi Timings
In 2026, Phalguna Purnima will be observed on Tuesday, March 3. However, the rituals of Holika Dahan are often performed on the evening prior, depending on the Tithi.
| Event | Date & Time (IST) |
|---|---|
| Phalguna Purnima Date | March 3, 2026 (Tuesday) |
| Purnima Tithi Begins | 05:58 PM on March 2, 2026 |
| Purnima Tithi Ends | 05:10 PM on March 3, 2026 |
| Holika Dahan Muhurat | Evening of March 2, 2026 (During Pradosh Kaal) |
Note: Tithi timings may vary slightly based on your location. For precise local timings, please consult a Vedic Panchang.
🌞 Significance of Phalguna Purnima
Phalguna Purnima holds a dual significance: it is a day of spiritual cleansing and social celebration.
- Birth of Goddess Lakshmi: It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi emerged during the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan) on this day. Hence, it is celebrated as Lakshmi Jayanti.
- Holika Dahan (Victory of Good over Evil): This full moon night marks the burning of the demoness Holika and the protection of the devotee Prahlad by Lord Vishnu (Narasimha Avatar).
- Arrival of Spring: It signals the end of winter and the start of Vasant Ritu, celebrated with the colors of Holi.
🪔 Important Rituals & Puja Vidhi
To gain the maximum spiritual benefit, devotees follow specific Vedic rituals on this day.
1. Holy Bath (Snan) & Surya Arghya
Wake up during Brahma Muhurat (before sunrise) and take a bath in a holy river (Ganga, Yamuna) or mix a few drops of Gangajal in your bathing water at home. Offer water (Arghya) to the rising Sun while chanting “Om Suryaya Namaha”.
2. Satyanarayan Puja
Since this day is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, performing the Satyanarayan Puja at home is considered highly auspicious. It brings peace, family harmony, and removes obstacles.
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3. Holika Dahan (Fire Ritual)
In the evening, a bonfire is lit to symbolize the burning of ego, negativity, and evil forces. Devotees circumambulate (Parikrama) the fire, offering grains, coconuts, and chickpeas, praying for the well-being of their families.
4. Fasting (Vrat)
Devotees observe a fast from sunrise to moonrise. The fast is broken after offering Arghya to the full moon (Chandra Deva) and consuming simple sattvic food (fruits, milk, kheer).
🕉️ Powerful Mantras for Phalguna Purnima
Chant these mantras 108 times using a Tulsi mala to attract positive energy:
For Lord Vishnu:
“Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya”
For Goddess Lakshmi (Wealth):
“Om Shreem Hreem Shreem Kamale Kamalalaye Praseed Praseed”
For Moon (Mental Peace):
“Om Som Somaya Namaha”
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is Phalguna Purnima 2026?
Phalguna Purnima 2026 is on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. The Purnima Tithi begins on the evening of March 2nd.
2. Is Holi celebrated on Phalguna Purnima?
Yes and No. Holika Dahan (the burning ritual) happens on the night of Phalguna Purnima. The festival of colors (Dhulandi or Rangwali Holi) is typically celebrated the next morning, on the first day of the Chaitra month.
3. Can we do Griha Pravesh on Phalguna Purnima?
Phalguna Purnima is generally auspicious for Satyanarayan Puja and spiritual activities. However, for Griha Pravesh, it is best to consult a Pandit as Holashtak (8 days before Holi) is considered inauspicious for new beginnings in some traditions. You can consult with SmartPuja Team for a Muhurat check.
4. What should we donate on this day?
Donating clothes, food (especially sweets or jaggery), and books to the needy is considered highly meritorious (Punya) on this day.
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Whether you need a Pandit for Holika Dahan puja, Satyanarayan Vrat, or a Havan at your home, SmartPuja offers hassle-free religious services in Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, and other major cities.
