Hindu Vrats & Fasts Calendar 2026
List of major recurring fasts, dates, and significance in Pune
Ekadashi Vrat
Ekadashi Vrat is a highly sacred fasting day dedicated to Lord Vishnu, observed on the eleventh lunar day (Tithi) of both the waxing (Shukla Paksha) and waning (Krishna Paksha) phases of the moon. According to Hindu scriptures, the energy deity "Ekadashi" emerged from the body of Lord Vishnu to defeat the demon Mura, who had conquered the heavens. Worshipping Lord Vishnu and observing a fast on this day is believed to cleanse the soul of past sins, purify the mind and body, and pave the path for spiritual liberation (Moksha). Beyond its religious significance, fasting on Ekadashi aligns with the lunar cycle, aiding in physical rejuvenation, improving focus, and building self-discipline.
Sankashti Chaturthi
Sankashti Chaturthi, also known as Sankatahara Chaturthi, is a holy day dedicated to Lord Ganesha, observed on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase) of every lunar month. "Sankashti" literally translates to "deliverance from difficulties or obstacles." Devotees observe this Vrat to seek the blessings of Ganesha, the Vighnaharta (remover of obstacles), to overcome hardships, bring prosperity, and gain wisdom and success in all endeavors. The legend describes how Lord Ganesha was designated as the chief of all obstacles by Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati on this day. A unique feature of this Vrat is moon worship; the fast is only complete after seeing the moon in the evening, performing a special Moon Puja, and offering Arghya, which is believed to bring profound peace and clear all mental blockages.
Purnima Vrat
Purnima Vrat is observed on the full moon day of every month. It is considered an exceptionally auspicious day in the Hindu calendar, dedicated to Lord Satyanarayan (a highly compassionate form of Lord Vishnu) and Chandra Deva (the Moon God). Worshipping and fasting on Purnima is believed to invite divine grace, domestic harmony, health, wealth, and spiritual growth into the household. According to scriptures, the full moon symbolizes completeness, clarity, and abundance, and the cosmic energy on this day is highly favorable for spiritual practices, meditation, and charity. Many devotees perform the Satyanarayan Puja on this day to seek protection from hardships, resolve financial crises, and express gratitude for their blessings.
Amavasya Vrat
Amavasya Vrat is observed on the new moon day, the night of complete darkness, which marks the end of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha). In Hindu tradition, Amavasya is a highly spiritual day dedicated to ancestor worship (Pitri Puja or Shradh). It is believed that on this day, the gates of the ancestral realm open, and performing rites like Tarpan (offering water and sesame seeds) and observing a fast pacifies the souls of departed ancestors, alleviates Pitru Dosha (ancestral curses), and brings peace, longevity, and prosperity to descendants. Amavasya is also a powerful day for worshipping Lord Shiva or Goddess Kali to dispel negative energies, ward off evil forces, and cleanse one's karmic debts through prayer and charitable deeds.
Pradosh Vrat
Pradosh Vrat, also known as Pradosham, is a sacred fast dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, observed twice a month on the thirteenth lunar day (Trayodashi Tithi) of both the Shukla and Krishna Paksha. "Pradosh" refers to the twilight period around sunset. According to Hindu mythology, on this day, Lord Shiva consumed the deadly Halahala poison generated during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) to save the universe. Overjoyed by the salvation, the gods gathered around Shiva as he danced on Mount Kailash in ecstasy during the twilight. Observing this fast is believed to liberate devotees from the fear of death, cure chronic ailments, clear debts, and wash away past sins. Worshipping Lord Shiva during the Pradosha Kaal (sunset period) is considered highly rewarding, as it is believed that Shiva is in his most benevolent state and grants all wishes of his devotees.
Masik Shivaratri
Masik Shivaratri is observed on the Chaturdashi Tithi (14th day) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase) of every lunar month. It is a monthly festival dedicated to the supreme deity Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, on the night of Shivaratri, Lord Shiva performed the celestial dance of creation, preservation, and destruction (Tandava), and it is also believed to be the night when Shiva manifested as the pillar of fire (Jyotirlinga) to resolve a dispute between Brahma and Vishnu. Observing a fast on Masik Shivaratri helps devotees control their desires, dissolve their ego, and overcome negative emotions like anger and jealousy. Worshipping Shiva during the midnight hours (Nishita Kaal) is believed to liberate devotees from earthly bondages, heal physical illnesses, and ensure spiritual enlightenment and ultimate union with the divine.
Masik Durgashtami
Masik Durgashtami is observed on the Ashtami Tithi (eighth day) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase) of every lunar month. This holy day is dedicated to Goddess Durga, the supreme feminine energy (Shakti) representing strength, protection, and victory. The Vrat commemorates Goddess Durga's triumph over the fierce demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the victory of righteousness over evil. Devotees observe this fast to seek physical strength, mental courage, divine protection from negative forces, and success in their endeavors. Worshipping the Goddess on this day helps remove obstacles from career and personal life, and brings joy and prosperity. In many traditions, this day is celebrated by worshipping young girls (Kanyas) as representations of the Goddess, seeking their blessings through offerings of food and gifts.