Sharad Purnima 2026: Date, India Timings and Moonrise Schedule
Sharad Purnima, also called Kojagari Purnima, will be observed on Sunday, 25 October 2026. It falls on the full-moon night of Ashwin and is associated with traditions such as Lakshmi worship, staying awake through the night and placing kheer in the moonlight. Customs and puja timings vary by region and family tradition.
Important dates and timings
| Date | What to know | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday, 25 October | Sharad Purnima observance; Purnima tithi begins | 11:57 a.m. |
| Sunday, 25 October | Moonrise at the Rashtriya Panchang’s adopted central station | 4:40 p.m. |
| Monday, 26 October | Purnima tithi ends | 9:42 a.m. |
The tithi spans two civil dates, but the festival is observed on the night of 25 October. The India Meteorological Department’s Rashtriya Panchang lists Sharad Purnima-related observances on that date. The tithi end time is not the same as the moonrise time.
Approximate moonrise by city
| City | Moonrise on 25 October (IST) |
|---|---|
| Kolkata | 4:21 p.m. |
| New Delhi | About 5:00 p.m. |
| Chennai | About 5:04 p.m. |
| Mumbai | About 5:28 p.m. |
These are planning estimates; moonrise varies with location and local horizon conditions. Check the IMD calendar or a local observatory’s data for your exact city before planning a moonrise puja or outdoor viewing. The Rashtriya Panchang’s 4:40 p.m. entry is for its adopted central station, so it should not be treated as the moonrise time for every Indian city.
Traditional observances and useful tips
Many households worship Goddess Lakshmi and keep vigil, reflecting the name Kojagari, commonly understood as “Who is awake?” Some families prepare kheer and place it outside or near a window under the moonlight before sharing it as prasad. This is a cultural and devotional custom; practices differ across regions.
- Use local time (IST) when checking puja and moonrise schedules.
- Confirm your family’s or temple’s observance, especially if it follows a regional panchang.
- If leaving food outdoors, cover it and keep it away from insects and animals.
- For outdoor gatherings, check the local weather forecast and choose a safe, accessible viewing spot.
