Publish Date: Sun, 17 May 2026 (15:59 IST)
Updated Date: Sun, 17 May 2026 (18:10 IST)
In the Hindu calendar, Adhik Maas—also known as Purushottam Maas—is an extra lunar month that occurs roughly every two to three years. In 2026, this auspicious period runs from May 17 to June 15. Spiritually significant, this month helps balance the difference between the lunar and solar calendars. Contrary to common misconceptions, Adhik Maas is not inauspicious; it is considered highly sacred and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. According to scriptures, it is called Purushottam Maas because Lord Vishnu himself bestowed his name upon it.
Significance of Adhik Maas
Adhik Maas is not merely an additional month but a powerful opportunity for spiritual growth and self-purification. Devotional activities such as chanting, meditation, charity, and scriptural study yield manifold benefits during this time. It is an ideal period to detach from material pursuits and focus on inner transformation.
What to Do During Adhik Maas
To make the most of this holy month, certain practices are recommended:
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Wake up during Brahma Muhurta and take a purifying bath
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Worship Tulsi and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu
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Consume satvik food, avoiding onion and garlic
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Visit a Vishnu temple or perform daily aarti at home
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Engage regularly in charity and good deeds
These simple disciplines can bring positive changes in life.
5 Powerful Vishnu Mantras for Purushottam Maas
Chanting mantras holds special importance during this month. Reciting these with a Tulsi mala at least 108 times daily is believed to invite divine blessings:
1. Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
A powerful mantra that brings peace, prosperity, and spiritual liberation.
2. Govardhan Dharam Vande Gopalam Gopivallabham
This mantra invokes the blessings of both Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna.
3. Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare | Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama Hare Hare ||
Helps relieve stress, anxiety, and negativity.
4. Om Namo Narayanaya
A simple yet potent chant that brings harmony and stability in family life.
5. Om Vishnave Namah
Believed to remove obstacles and provide divine protection.
Importance of Scriptures and Satvik Living
Reading sacred texts like the Bhagavad Gita, Ramayana, Shrimad Bhagavata Purana, or Vishnu Sahasranama during this period is highly beneficial. Living a disciplined and pure (satvik) lifestyle throughout the month can lead to deep inner transformation.
What Not to Do During Adhik Maas
Certain activities are traditionally avoided during this period:
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Weddings, housewarming ceremonies, and sacred rituals like mundan or janeu
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Starting new businesses or construction projects
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Making major purchases such as property, vehicles, or expensive jewellery
These restrictions are meant to encourage focus on devotion and spiritual practices.
Mythological Significance
According to the Padma Purana, this extra month was once considered impure and was called Mal Maas as it had no presiding deity. Distressed, it sought refuge in Lord Vishnu, who compassionately granted it his name—Purushottam—and declared that those who worship during this month would receive special blessings. Since then, it has been regarded as one of the most sacred periods.
Benefits of Following These Practices
Observing the rituals and disciplines of Purushottam Maas is believed to:
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Increase spiritual merit (punya)
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Remove obstacles from life
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Improve health and mental peace
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Bring relief from financial and family problems
Those who follow these practices with devotion are said to receive the special grace of Lord Vishnu.
Adhik Maas 2026 should not be seen as a month of delay, but as a divine opportunity for devotion, discipline, and charity. Beginning May 17, embrace this sacred time to fill your life with positivity and spiritual energy.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is based on beliefs and information only. Always consult a concerned expert.