In Hinduism, Adhik Maas (extra lunar month) is considered extremely sacred and spiritually rewarding. It is a rare opportunity for self-purification, devotion, charity, and receiving the special blessings of Lord Vishnu. In the year 2026, a special occurrence of Jyeshtha Adhik Maas is being formed, which is considered highly auspicious from a religious perspective.
Throughout this month, activities like worship, chanting, penance, fasting, and charity hold great importance. It is believed that worshipping Lord Vishnu during this period helps eliminate the sins of many lifetimes and brings prosperity and happiness into life.
The Hindu calendar is based on the movement of the moon, whereas the Gregorian calendar follows the movement of the sun. A lunar year is approximately 354โ355 days, while a solar year is 365 days. This creates a difference of about 10โ11 days every year.
When this difference accumulates to about one month, an additional month is added every third year, which is known as Adhik Maas. This extra month helps maintain the balance of the calendar. Religiously, this period is considered the best time for devotion, spiritual practices, and charity.
According to the Drik Panchang, in 2026, Adhik Maas will coincide with the month of Jyeshtha.
This entire period is considered highly auspicious for the worship of Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna. Activities like chanting, fasting, charity, and religious practices are especially significant during this time.
According to mythological beliefs, this extra month was initially called โMal Maasโ and was not considered suitable for auspicious activities. No deity agreed to be its presiding lord.
Eventually, this month sought refuge with Lord Vishnu. Showing compassion, Lord Vishnu accepted it and gave it his own nameโPurushottam Maas. He granted a boon that any devotee who worships him with devotion during this month will receive multiplied spiritual benefits, even greater than regular yearly worship.
That is why this month is dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu.
Worshipping Lord Vishnu during Jyeshtha Adhik Maas helps remove lifeโs difficulties and brings peace and harmony to the home.
It is believed that prayers offered during this month directly reach Lord Vishnu and bring special blessings.
Donation in Adhik Maas holds immense importance. The results of good deeds, worship, and penance performed during this period are multiplied many times.
One should donate the following items to the needy and underprivileged:
Such acts bring prosperity, positivity, and spiritual merit while eliminating sins.
One should adopt a pure and disciplined lifestyle during this month. The following practices are considered highly beneficial:
This month promotes spiritual growth and mental peace.
According to religious beliefs, certain activities are avoided during this period:
Jyeshtha Adhik Maas 2026 is a sacred opportunity to receive the blessings of Lord Vishnu. This period is meant for spiritual practices, charity, and selfless service rather than material pursuits. By worshipping with devotion and sincerity, one can attain peace, prosperity, and spiritual upliftment.
Q: When is Jyeshtha Adhik Maas 2026?
A: It will be observed from 17 May to 15 June 2026. This period is considered highly auspicious for worship and charity.
Q: Why is Adhik Maas called Purushottam Maas?
A: Lord Vishnu gave this month his name and blessed it, making it highly sacred. Worship during this time gives multiplied spiritual benefits.
Q: How often does Adhik Maas occur?
A: It occurs approximately every three years to balance the lunar and solar calendars.
Q: Which deity should be worshipped during Adhik Maas?
A: Lord Vishnu is primarily worshipped during this month.
Q: What is the most auspicious donation during Adhik Maas?
A: Food donation, water donation, clothing donation, cow service, and helping the needy are considered highly auspicious.