Shakambhari Purnima 2026. Date, Significance, Rituals, and What Devotees Should Do Today

Shakambhari Purnima 2026 is being observed today, January 3, 2026, and holds deep spiritual importance for devotees across India. The day marks the divine incarnation of Goddess Shakambhari and also signifies the conclusion of the nine-day Shakambhari Navratri, a unique Navratri dedicated to nourishment, vegetation, and compassion.

This observance is especially significant in South India, particularly in Karnataka, parts of Maharashtra, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, where Goddess Shakambhari is worshipped with devotion through temple rituals, offerings of vegetables, and Annadaan.

Shakambari Purnima 2026 Date and Tithi Details

• Shakambhari Purnima Date: Saturday, January 3, 2026

• Purnima Tithi Begins: 06:53 PM on January 2, 2026

• Purnima Tithi Ends: 03:32 PM on January 3, 2026

• Purnima Vrat (Fasting): January 2, 2026

• Shakambhari Purnima Observance: January 3, 2026

Devotees traditionally observe the vrat on Purnima tithi and perform the main worship on the day of Shakambhari Purnima.

Why Shakambhari Purnima 2026 Is Important

Shakambhari Purnima is observed as Shakambhari Jayanti, the day Goddess Shakambhari is believed to have manifested to restore life during a prolonged drought. According to tradition, she nourished the world with vegetables, fruits, herbs, and rainfall, reaffirming the sacred belief that food itself is divine.

The festival also marks the completion of Shakambhari Navratri, which began on Sunday, December 28, 2025, and concludes today.

Shakambhari Navratri 2025-26 Timeline

• Shakambhari Navratri Begins: Sunday, December 28, 2025

• Shakambhari Navratri Ends: Saturday, January 3, 2026

Unlike most Navratris that start on Shukla Pratipada, Shakambhari Navratri begins on Paush Shukla Ashtami, which is locally known as Banada Ashtami or Banadashtami, and ends on Paush Purnima.

This unique structure symbolises a spiritual journey from scarcity to abundance.

How Shakambhari Purnima Is Observed Today

On Shakambhari Purnima, devotees typically observe the day with simplicity and gratitude.

Common observances include:

• Taking an early morning bath as a mark of purification

• Visiting temples dedicated to Goddess Shakambhari or Devi temples

• Performing home puja with offerings of seasonal vegetables, fruits, and green leaves

• Listening to or reading Shakambhari Katha

• Performing aarti and prayers for nourishment, health, and well-being

In many regions, Annadaan is organised, reinforcing the belief that feeding others on this day is equivalent to worshipping the Goddess herself.

Regional Observance in 2026

In Karnataka, Goddess Shakambari is worshipped prominently as Banashankari, with special pujas conducted in temples and homes.

In parts of Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, Shakambari Jayanti is observed with devotional rituals and community worship.

Across regions, the core spirit of the day remains the same. Gratitude for food, respect for nature, and compassion through service.

What Devotees Can Still Do on Shakambhari Purnima 2026

Even today, devotees can observe the essence of Shakambari Purnima by:

• Offering vegetables or fruits in home worship

• Feeding people, animals, or birds

• Donating food or supporting Annadaan initiatives

• Practising mindful gratitude for nourishment

Elaborate rituals are not mandatory. Intention and service are central to this observance.

Worshiping Maa Shakambhari under the full moon aligns devotees with lunar forces that support emotional balance, inner peace and fertility of land, life and relationships. During Shakambhari Purnima, the Moon’s influence is especially strong, encouraging compassion, spiritual clarity and gratitude for nature’s bounty.

Learn More About Shakambhari Purnima

For a detailed understanding of the meaning, legend, spiritual significance, rituals, temples, and ecological wisdom associated with this festival, devotees can refer to our complete Shakambari Purnima information, which serves as an evergreen guide for this sacred observance.