Purnima, also called Poornima or Pournami, is the full moon day in the Hindu lunar calendar. It marks the completion of the lunar cycle and symbolises fullness, balance, and spiritual clarity. In Indian mythology, this day holds exceptional religious and cosmic importance.
Meaning of Purnima in Hindu Belief
Purnima falls on the fifteenth day of Shukla Paksha. On this day, the Moon shines in its complete form. Hindu philosophy links the Moon with the human mind. Therefore, a full Moon represents emotional stability, mental purity, and heightened awareness.
Why Purnima Is Considered Spiritually Powerful
According to ancient beliefs, divine energies peak on Purnima. As a result, prayers, meditation, charity, and fasting give stronger results. Sages chose full moon nights for penance because the mind stays calm and focused.
Purnima and Lord Vishnu Worship
Many Purnima days are dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Devotees perform Satyanarayana Puja to seek truth, prosperity, and harmony. This ritual reflects faith in dharma and righteous living. Hence, Purnima becomes a day of devotion and gratitude.
Purnima Vrat plays a key role in spiritual discipline. Devotees observe fasting to cleanse the body and control desires. This practice strengthens willpower and devotion. In North India it is known as Purnima Vrat, while in South India, it is called Pournami Vratam.
Connection With Ancestors
Certain Purnima days focus on ancestral worship. People perform Shraddha and Tarpan to honour departed souls. Mythology suggests that ancestors remain closer to Earth on full moon days. Therefore, offerings made on Purnima hold deeper meaning.
Month-wise Purnima (Poornima / Pournami) Dates in 2026
Below is the complete list of Purnima dates in the year 2026 as per the Hindu lunar calendar.
| Months in the Gregorian Calender | Gregorian Calender Hindu lunar calendar | Date/ Day |
| January | Pausha Purnima | January 3, Saturday |
| February | Magha Purnima | February1, Sunday |
| March | Phalguna Purnima | March 3, Tuesday |
| April | Chaitra Purnima | April 1, Wednesday |
| May | Vaishakha Purnima | May 1, Friday |
| June | Jyeshtha Purnima | June 29, Monday |
| July | Ashadha Purnima | July 29, Wednesday |
| August | Shravana Purnima | August 27, Thursday |
| September | Bhadrapada Purnima | September 26, Saturday |
| October | Ashwina Purnima | October 25, Sunday |
| November | Kartika Purnima | November 24, Tuesday |
| December | Margashirsha Purnima | December 23, Wednesday |
Note: Adhika Purnima is on May 30, Saturday
Across India, Purnima takes different cultural forms. In Bengal, devotees observe Kojagari Lakshmi Puja. In Maharashtra, spiritual gatherings are common. Meanwhile, South India follows strict Pournami fasting till moonrise. Despite regional variations, the spiritual essence remains the same.
Why Purnima Still Matters Today
Purnima connects human life with cosmic rhythm. It teaches balance, gratitude, and reflection. Even today, millions observe this day to realign their mind and soul with nature.
Conclusion
Purnima is not just a lunar phase. It is a sacred spiritual milestone in Indian mythology. Each full moon in 2026 offers an opportunity to practice devotion, self-discipline, and charity. Through Purnima, Indian tradition continues to honour the timeless bond between the cosmos, faith, and human consciousness.
