Adhik Maas 2026 is a very special occurrence in the Hindu Panchang or Calendar which is happening around approximately after 3 years in the holy Jyeshtha month. Adhik Maas 2026 is known by different names in different areas like Purushottam Maas or Malamas or Malay Maas. This month is observed every 32 months in order to balance the lunar and solar calendars. The whole month of Adhik Maas is about Puja, prayers, charity, fasting, daan and spiritual growth.
Adhik Maas 2026 Dates
| Adhik Maas 2026 Start Date | Sunday, May 17th 2026 |
| Adhik Maas 2026 End Date | Monday, June 15th, 2026 |
| Adhik Maas 2026 Duration | 30 Days |
Adhik Maaa is all about praying to Bhagwan Vishnu and observing various spiritual practices to seek blessings, prosperity and freedom from sins.
What is Adhik Maas?
The Hindu lunar calendar is based on the placement of Chandra or Moon and on the other hand solar calendar is governed by the placement of Sun or Surya. A lunar year is around 11 days shorter than a solar year. To balance this difference, an extra lunar month is added after every two years and eight months. This additional month is called Adhik Maas.
Unlike regular months associated with specific festivals and celebrations, Adhik Maas is considered a time for spiritual purification and devotion and not for celebration.
History of Adhik Maas
Initially this Adhik Maas had no revered deity and thus this time was not considered sacred and that is why it is called “Malamas.”
As per mythology, the extra month went to Bhagwan Vishnu in order to get relief from disrespect and humiliation. Vishnu Ji then blessed the month with His own name which is Purushottam Maas and since then it became one of the holiest periods.
Since then, Puja done during Adhik Maas is said to give multiplied spiritual benefits. Scriptures like the Padma Purana and Skanda Purana have also mentioned the significance of Vrat, Daan, Mantra Uchcharan and Vishnu Puja.
Spiritual Significance of Adhik Maas 2026
Adhik Maas is not the time for celebrating but the time for spiritual discipline and introspection. Many devotees read sacred texts like the Bhagavad Gita, Vishnu Sahasranama, Ramayana, and Bhagavata Purana during this month. Some major spiritual beliefs associated with Adhik Maas are:
- Cleansing of previous karmic sins
- Gaining spiritual discipline
- Vishnu Kripa
- Mental peace and purification
- Vrat, Daan and Shyan leads to clarity
- Introspection and unwavering faith
What To Do During Adhik Maas 2026
1. Vishnu Puja
Offer Tulsi leaves, yellow flowers, dhoop batti and bhog prasad to Bhagwan Vishnu every day. Chant “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” .
2. Vrat
Many devotees do Vrat or fast on Ekadashi, Purnima or throughout the month.
3. Daan
Donate food, clothes, grains, ghee, jaggery or money to the needy for great Punya.
4. Practice Self-Discipline
This month encourages simplicity, humility, truthfulness, patience and control over anger and negativity.
5. Read Holy Scriptures
Listening spiritual texts is considered extremely beneficial during Purushottam Maas 2026.
Dos and Don’ts During Adhik Maas 2026
Do’s:
- Wake up at Brahm Muhurat and take bath early.
- Visit Vishnu temples regularly
- Indulge in Daan and charity
- Chant Vishnu mantras daily
- Maintain purity of thoughts and actions
- Consume satvik food
- Spend more time in meditation and prayer
Don’ts :
Traditionally, several activities are avoided during Adhik Maas because the month is reserved for spirituality rather than material celebrations.
What Should Strictly Not Be Done
1. Avoid Weddings and Auspicious Ceremonies
Marriage ceremonies, Grih Pravesh, Mundan, engagements and major celebrations are generally postponed during Adhik Maas. Buying new property or new business during this time should be strictly avoided.
2. Do Not Consume Non-Vegetarian Food
Devotees avoid meat, alcohol, garlic, onion and tamasic foods during this sacred period.
3. Avoid Negative Behaviour
Lying, anger, gossip, greed and disrespect toward others are considered spiritually harmful during this month.
4. Do Not Waste Food or Money
Do not engage in unnecessary luxury and lead the simple life.
5. Avoid Hurting Animals or People
Do not hurt humans or animals emotionally, verbally or physically.
6. Avoid Addiction and Bad Habits
Smoking, drinking, gambling etc should be strictly avoided.
Conclusion
Adhik Maas 2026 is the time for faith, Daan, Dhyan, Mantra Jaap, introspection and indulging in spirituality. This is a time of spiritual reset. Whether through fasting, prayers, meditation, or helping others, even small acts of sincerity during Purushottam Maas are believed to bring immense spiritual rewards.