Paush Purnima 2026
Paush Purnima · Paush Purnima · Vikram Samvat 2083
Significance
Sacred bath at Prayagraj; marks the start of Magh Mela.
Paush corresponds to the Sun's entry into Capricorn (Makar Sankranti) and the sacred Kumbh bathing period. Fasting on Paush Purnima is dedicated to Vishnu and is believed to wash away sins accumulated over the entire year.
The 29.5-day synodic cycle arises because the Moon must "catch up" with the Sun as Earth advances along its own orbit. On Purnima night, the Moon rises near sunset and sets near sunrise — it is visible above the horizon all night. The IST peak time listed is the astronomically exact moment of 180° solar-lunar elongation as measured from Earth's geometric centre.
How to Observe Paush Purnima
Begin the fast at sunset on the eve of Purnima and break it only after sighting the full moon. Traditional offerings include sesame (til), jaggery, and blankets donated to the poor. A pre-dawn bath in the Ganga, Godavari, or any sacred river is especially meritorious during Paush.