Every month in the Hindu calendar concludes with the full moon day, and Sawan Maha holds special significance in this regard. It is on this day that the Raksha Bandhan festival is celebrated. On Sawan Purnima, sisters tie a protective knot on their brother's wrist for his well-being and prosperity. There is also a tradition of fasting and worship on this day. According to beliefs, observing the fast and performing rituals on this day helps maintain prosperity in the home.
This year, a lunar eclipse is expected during Sawan Purnima, causing confusion among people regarding the exact date. Some point to August 27th, while others point to August 28th. The exact date of the full moon is provided below.
According to the Hindu Panchang, in 2026, the Sawan Purnima date will begin on August 27th at 9:08 AM. The full moon will conclude on August 28th at 9:48 AM. When the full moon spans two days, the day when the full moon rises is considered significant for the fast. Thus, the Sawan Purnima fast will be observed on August 27th, but its conclusion (Paran) is recommended on August 28th. Furthermore, the Raksha Bandhan festival will be celebrated specifically on August 28th.
On the day of the Sawan Purnima fast, the Moonrise is scheduled for 6:34 PM. It should be noted that this time may vary slightly in different cities. On this day, the Moon appears in its full form. Special importance is given to worshipping the Moon deity and offering Arghya to it at this time. Pilgrims observing the fast can worship the Moon and offer Arghya after its rise.
The tradition of fasting during Purnima includes worshipping Lord Vishnu along with the Moon deity. It is believed that observing the Purnima fast and performing rituals earns merit for a person. There is also a belief in liberation from sins committed intentionally or accidentally. Mention of the Purnima fast is found in religious texts such as Skanda Purana, Padma Purana, Narada Purana, Bhavishya Purana, and Mahabharata. Pilgrims observing the Sawan Purnima fast can break their fast by offering Arghya to the Moon after its rise. That is, after worshipping and offering Arghya at 6:34 PM on August 27th, the fast can be concluded.