●     Purnima Tithi starts at 06:18 PM on July 28, 2026

●     Purnima Tithi ends at 08:05 PM on July 29, 2026

Ashadha Purnima Significance

Ashadha Purnima is one of the most sacred Purnimas in the Hindu calendar. It is dedicated to Bhagwan Vishnu and is also celebrated as Guru Purnima, a day to honour the “guru”, the one who removes darkness (ignorance) and shows us the path of truth, wisdom, and dharma.

This day is also known as Vyasa Purnima because it marks the birth anniversary of Maharishi Ved Vyasa. He compiled the four Vedas, composed the Mahabharata, and preserved many sacred scriptures for future generations.

What is the Story Behind Ashadha Purnima?

There are two main stories connected with Ashadha Purnima. The first comes from Sanatan Dharma and is linked to Maharishi Ved Vyasa. Before Maharishi Ved Vyasa, the knowledge of the Vedas was passed down only through oral tradition. To preserve this sacred wisdom and make it easier to understand, he divided the Vedas into four books: Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda. He also composed the Mahabharata, which includes the sacred teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, and wrote many Puranas. Because of his immense contribution to preserving the wisdom of Sanatan Dharma, Maharishi Ved Vyasa came to be known as the Adi Guru (the first great teacher), and in his honour, devotees celebrate Guru Purnima every year.

The second story comes from the Buddhist tradition. After attaining enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree, Bhagwan Buddha travelled to Sarnath to meet his first five disciples. On the full moon day of Ashadha, he delivered his first sermon and shared the Four Noble Truths: the Truth of Suffering (Dukkha), the Truth of the Cause of Suffering (Samudaya), the Truth of the End of Suffering (Nirodha), and the Truth of the Path to End Suffering (Magga) with them. For this reason, Buddhists also celebrate Guru Purnima with great devotion.

What Devotees Do on Ashadha Purnima?

On Ashadha Purnima, the day starts early. Devotees bathe and then begin the day by offering prayers to Bhagwan Vishnu and their guru. Many people also remember their parents, teachers, mentors, and elders who have guided them in life. Those who can manage it try to take a holy dip in the sacred Ganga or another holy river.

A lot of devotees keep the Purnima vrat on this day. They spend their time chanting Bhagwan Vishnu's name, reciting the Vishnu Sahasranama, and reading from the Shrimad Bhagavatam or the Bhagavad Gita. Some visit their guru in person for blessings, while those who can't simply pray from home instead. Offering Guru Dakshina, whatever one can manage, is also an important and common practice on this day.

Ashadha Purnima Puja Vidhi

●     Wake up early and take a bath

●     Put on clean clothes

●     Clean and set up the puja area

●     Place an idol or image of Bhagwan Vishnu

●     Light a ghee diya and some incense

●     Offer flowers, fruits, Tulsi leaves, Panchamrit, and sweets

●     Chant the Vishnu Sahasranama or simply repeat the name of Bhagwan Vishnu

●     Offer prayers to your Guru and seek their blessings

●     Read or listen to the Shrimad Bhagavatam

● Donate food, clothes, or other essentials as per your ability

When is Ashadha Purnima in 2026?

Why is Ashadha Purnima also known as Vyasa Purnima?

Can I observe Ashadha Purnima at home?

Is fasting necessary on Ashadha Purnima?

What should I donate on Ashadha Purnima?