Chaturmas in 2026 will begin with Devashanai Ekadashi on July 25 and extend until November 20. During this period, which lasts 119 days, the preserver of the universe, Lord Vishnu, will be in a state of yoga-nidra in the Kshira Sagara. During this time, conducting any auspicious or ritualistic events, including marriages, is prohibited.
Despite the period of rest, fifteen significant religious festivals are planned for Chaturmas. The beginning of the period is marked by Devashanai Ekadashi, when Lord Vishnu enters yoga-nidra, and devotees perform worship while observing a fast.
Guru Purnima is celebrated on July 29, a festival dedicated to knowledge, tradition, and discipleship, where reverence is paid to teachers. The month of Shravana begins on July 30, considered the most sacred time for worshipping Lord Shiva, during which rituals such as sanctification of holy sites, Rudrabhishek, and Monday fasts are especially honored.
Raksha Bandhan takes place on August 28, a festival symbolizing unbreakable love and trust between brothers and sisters. Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated on September 4, the birthday of Lord Krishna, when followers observe a fast and conduct bhajans. Pitru Paksha begins on September 8, a sacred period dedicated to expressing respect and gratitude to ancestors, during which Tarpan, Sharaddha, and Pindadaan are performed to receive the blessings of the deceased.
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated on September 14, the festival marking the appearance of Lord Ganesha, when Ganpati is installed in homes and pavilions for prayers for wisdom and success. On the same day, Hartalika Teej is observed, an important fast for married and unmarried women, during which they worship Mother Parvati and Lord Shiva, praying for a happy marriage and well-being.
Sharadiya Navratri begins on October 11, a nine-day period of worship of the nine forms of Mother Durga, accompanied by fasting and the installation of a Kalasha, symbolizing the victory of positive energy over negativity. Vijayadashami or Dussehra is celebrated on October 20, the festival of the triumph of truth, commemorating the victory of Lord Shri Rama over Ravana, spreading the message of following virtue through the burning of evil.
October 25 falls on Sharad Purnima, considered the brightest full moon of the year, when Goddess Lakshmi and Chandra Dev are worshipped, and a sherbet is left under the moonlight. Karva Chauth is observed on October 29, the main fast for married women, who observe a waterless fast from sunrise until sighting the moon for the longevity and prosperity of their husband. Dhanteras is celebrated on November 6, the first major festival of Dipotsava, when Lord Dhanvantari, Mother Lakshmi, and Kubera are worshipped, and it is considered auspicious to acquire valuables.
The culmination of the season is November 8—Diwali, the greatest Indian festival of light, joy, and new beginnings, during which lamps are lit and Mother Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha are worshipped. The entire period concludes on November 20 with Devutni Ekadashi, when Lord Vishnu emerges from yoga-nidra, marking the beginning of all auspicious events, including weddings, and special worship of Vishnu and the Tulsi-Shaligram marriage is performed.
Starting July 27th, the planet of justice Saturn will begin to move backward (retrograde), and this period will last until December 11th. Saturn's retrograde motion can bring both positive and negative outcomes for various zodiac signs. Astrologers have advised some signs to exercise caution during this period.
For Aries, Saturn will be in the XII house, which may lead to increased unforeseen expenses and requires heightened caution in legal matters. However, there is a possibility of benefiting from foreign affairs. It is also recommended to avoid neglecting health. Auspicious color is burgundy, auspicious numbers are 1, 2, and 9. Recommended remedy: worshiping the god Shiva Shankara by repeating the mantras 'Om Namah Shivaya' and 'Om Som Somaya Namah.'
For Taurus, Saturn will be in the XI house. There are indications of receiving delayed funds and potential benefits from investments. Nevertheless, disagreements in views with brothers, sisters, or friends may arise. The financial situation is considered favorable. Auspicious color is sugar color, auspicious numbers are 2, 6, and 9. Advice: worshiping the god Shiva.
For Gemini, Saturn will be in the X house, which may increase work pressure in employment and business. One should refrain from hasty decisions about changing jobs. Maintaining harmony with senior managers will be beneficial. The results of efforts may not come immediately. Auspicious color is sky blue, auspicious numbers are 1, 2, 5, and 8. Recommended ritual: worshiping the god Shiva.
Cancer will face Saturn in the IX house, which may promote religious travel. Attention must be paid to the father's health. Students pursuing higher education may require more effort than expected. Auspicious color is pink, auspicious numbers are 1, 2, and 7. Advice: worshiping the god Shiva.
Leo will see Saturn in the VIII house. Special vigilance should be exercised during travels. It is important to beware of hidden enemies. During this period, it is better to refrain from large investments or taking financial risks. Auspicious color is dark pink, auspicious numbers are 1, 2, 4, and 7. Recommended ritual: worshiping the god Shiva.
For Virgo, Saturn will be in the VII house. Tension in interpersonal relationships may increase due to minor details. Business partners should conduct all transactions with complete transparency. Starting a new venture should be planned thoughtfully. Auspicious color is moonlight, auspicious numbers are 1, 2, 5, and 8. Advice: worshiping the god Shiva.
Libra will face Saturn in the VI house. Relief from old debts is possible. This period is favorable for working people. However, long-standing health problems should not be ignored. Auspicious color is quartz-like, auspicious numbers are 2, 6, and 7. Recommended ritual: worshiping the god Shiva.
For Scorpio, Saturn will be in the V house. Concerns about offspring may arise. Ups and downs may be observed in romantic relationships. Students may find it harder to concentrate on their studies. One should stay away from risky investments, such as the stock market and betting. Auspicious color is red, auspicious numbers are 1 and 9. Advice: worshiping the god Shiva.
Capricorns will see Saturn in the IV house. Family life may undergo changes. Special attention should be paid to the mother's health. Delays may occur in matters concerning land and transport. Your competence will be tested at work. Auspicious color is saffron, auspicious numbers are 1, 2, 3, and 9. Recommended ritual: worshiping the god Shiva.
For Capricorn, Saturn will be in the III house. Self-confidence and courage will increase. Short trips may prove profitable. Fluctuations are possible in relationships with siblings. There is a chance of concluding prolonged matters through one's own efforts. Auspicious color is dark blue, auspicious numbers are 2, 5, and 8. Advice: worshiping the god Shiva.
Aquarius will face Saturn in the II house. Difficulty in accumulating wealth may arise. Harsh remarks may lead to distance in relationships. Financial decisions should be made after careful consideration. Auspicious color is aqua blue, auspicious numbers are 2, 5, and 8. Recommended ritual: worshiping the god Shiva.
In Pisces, Saturn is in its own sign. For representatives of this sign, the second stage of Sade Sati continues. Mental tension and a state of confusion may occur. One should not rush into any major decisions. Regular yoga practices and a disciplined daily routine will be beneficial. Auspicious color is gold, auspicious numbers are 1, 2, and 3. Advice: worshiping the god Shiva.
