The tenth day after Navratri also signifies the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura.

On this day, we celebrate the victory of magnanimity over pettiness, of the big mind over the small mind.

On Vijayadasami, people make an auspicious beginning of art and learning. Children who are to start their education are admitted in a school on Vijayadasami. People who also want to pursue the learning of any art and craft forms commence their studies on Vijayadasami. Vijayadasami forms an auspicious day to start any process of learning as it is dedicated Goddess Saraswati, the source of all knowledge. People place their books and tools before the picture of the Goddess for worship.

It is proven over years and years that any new venture started on this day is bound to be successful. Hence in most parts of India Vijayadashami is selected for starting a new businesses, construction activities (house, building, hospital), taking possession of new house, buying new vehicle, buying gold, booking the first order for the business etc…

Vijayadashami is One of the 3 ½ Muhurtas for Auspicious Beginnings.

1st Muhurta is Gudhi Padva (Chaitra shukla pratipada),

2nd Muhurta is Akshaya Tritiya (Vaishakh shukla trutiya)

3rd Muhurta is Vijaya Dashami (Ashwin shukla dashami)

4th Muhurta is Diwali (Kartik shukla pratipada) is considered as half Muhurta.

Chennai, India – 20th Oct, 2026

Dashami Tithi begins at 12:50 PM on Oct 20, 2026 and ends at 02:11 PM on Oct 21, 2026

For local timings check the align27 app.

Vijaya Dashami Rituals

The Sun’s Debility in Libra

When the Sun is in Libra, it finds itself in a position where its natural qualities of strength, vitality, and assertiveness are somewhat compromised. In Astrological terms this is known as “Debilitation”.

In Libra, a sign known for its emphasis on balance, harmony, and partnership, the Sun’s fiery and individualistic nature can feel somewhat subdued. We may struggle to assert our own identity and desires in relationships or may be overly focused on maintaining harmony at the expense of our own needs. This is why the Sun is debilitated in the sign of Libra.

A debilitated Sun in Libra doesn’t imply doom and gloom. It simply highlights a tendency to navigate themes of self-expression and individuality with a greater emphasis on diplomacy, cooperation, and maintaining equilibrium.

Sun in Libra – Rituals and Remedies

Discover more about this ritual and explore four additional powerful rituals.

To learn more about your Atma Karaka, check the Cosmic Insights App.

The nine planets, known as Navagrahas, are believed to be deeply interconnected with the various incarnations of Lord Vishnu, each representing a unique cosmic energy. They impart profound lessons that are integral to understanding life and spirituality.

Here’s a deeper look into the lessons taught by each avatar and how they resonate with their corresponding planets as Atma Karaka

This is a particularly important day to offer prayers for all your ancestors, including those whose names or dates of passing are unknown, and those for whom you could not perform ancestral rituals earlier.

On this sacred occasion, we are performing a special Pitru Homa at the Kalabhairav Temple in Kashi, Varanasi, with prayers for ancestral peace, Pitru Dosha Shanti and blessings for your entire family lineage.

Rituals to Perform on Mahalaya Amavasya

1. Begin Your Day by Offering Arghya to the Sun

Begin your morning with an offering of water to the Sun, known as Surya Arghya.

On Mahalaya Amavasya, you can make this offering with gratitude for the life you have received and the generations who made it possible. You can listen to the Aditya Hrudayam while doing it.

2. Perform Shraddha and Tarpanam

Shraddha and Tarpanam are traditional ancestral rites offered with faith, remembrance and gratitude.

Mahalaya Amavasya is especially significant when an ancestor’s death tithi is unknown or when you were unable to perform the appropriate ancestral observance earlier.

Follow your family tradition and your priest’s guidance for these rituals. Shraddha and Tarpanam should be arranged according to the appropriate daytime ritual timings; our special Pitru Homa begins at 8 PM IST.

For those wishing to make an ancestral offering in Kashi, you can choose Special Pinda Daan and Tarpanam on the banks of the Ganga, offered separately from the Homa.

3. Donate Food and Offer Seva in Your Ancestors’ Names

Let your gratitude become an act of kindness.

Feeding people and supporting those in need are meaningful ways to honor your ancestors during Pitru Paksha.

On Mahalaya Amavasya, dedicate your donation to the memory of your departed loved ones, with prayers for their peace and well-being.

4. Meditate, Chant and Remember Your Ancestors

Set aside some quiet time on Mahalaya Amavasya.

Meditate, remember your departed loved ones and offer gratitude for what you have received through them. You do not need to know every ancestor’s name to remember your lineage with love.

After meditation, offer a heartfelt prayer:

Om Matrubhyo Namaha

Om Pitrubhyo Namaha

5. Participate in the Special Pitru Homa at Kalabhairav Temple, Kashi

This Homa is an opportunity to offer prayers for peace across your maternal and paternal lineages and relieve ancestral karma.

These prayers will be offered at the Kalabhairav Temple in Kashi.

Lord Kalabhairav is revered as the guardian of Kashi. In the Kalabhairava Ashtakam, he is praised as “Karma Pasha Mochakam” – the one who releases us from the bonds of karma.

Each day is also dedicated to honoring a different incarnation of Goddess Durga and her nine Avatars – known as the Navadurga

By wearing something of the color of the day you can honor and deepen your connection to that form of Goddess.

To learn more about Navratri 2026, read our latest blog post – Your Navratri 2026 Spiritual & Cosmic Guide

These nine nights are dedicated to deepening our inner journey, detoxifying the mind, body, and spirit, and awakening the inherent divine feminine energy within us.

Navratri serves as a reminder of the power of the divine within and encourages us to transcend materialistic desires and purify our consciousness.

It also officially marks the beginning of winter, determined according to the lunar calendar.

“Navratri is a journey from the outer world of names and forms to the subtle world of energies; to the innermost core of our being – the Self.” ~ Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

New Delhi, India – Starts Sunday 11th October until Tuesday 19th October

New York, USA – Starts Sunday 11th October until Tuesday 19th October

London, UK – Starts Sunday 11th October until Tuesday 19th October

For local timings check the align27 app

Here’s what you can do during this time:

COMBAT RAHU OBSTACLES

Navratri, the sacred nine nights dedicated to Goddess Durga, holds special significance for those experiencing challenging Rahu periods or having difficult Rahu placements in their birth chart. As Durga is the deity associated with Rahu, Navratri offers a powerful opportunity to transform the energy of Rahu into something positive. By performing Navratri rituals, you can invoke both spiritual and material blessings, helping to shift Rahu’s influence in your life for the better. If you can’t perform all the rituals you can honor all nine forms of devi on each of the days by chanting their associated mantras 108 times.

CHANT MANTRAS TO TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE

The nine days of Navratri are solely dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine Avatars – the Navadurga – each day a different incarnation is honored:

Shailaputri (day 1), Brahmacharini (day 2), Chandraghanta (day 3), Kushmanda (day 4), Skandamata (day 5), Katyayani (day 6), Kaalratri (day 7), Mahagaur (day 8), and Siddhidhatri (day 9).

Tap the deity’s name for more information about each form and what she represents as well as her associated mantra that you can chant 108 times.

You can also join the ‘9 Days of Navratri‘ mantra chanting challenge on the Japa 108 app which gives all 9 forms of Durga mantras to chant consecutively during this period, to fully absorb and experience the scintillating energy of the divine Mother.

Day 1 – Sunday 11th October

Goddess Shailaputri, represents Mother Nature and means “Daughter of the Mountains.” As the presiding devi of the Muladhara (root) chakra, she holds special significance for yogis. On the first day of Navratri, it’s essential for devotees to focus their attention on the Muladhara chakra. This lays the foundation for the sublime ascent of energy, leading to profound spiritual experiences as Navratri unfolds.

Day 2 – Monday 12th October

Goddess Brahmacharini exemplifies mastering one’s senses, urging us to immerse in the vastness rather than getting lost in the trivial. This mastery is important for attaining both bliss and moksha (ultimate liberation). “Brahmacharini” translates to one who practices devout celibacy and moves in the infinite expanse of consciousness.

For those with a weak Mars, Mars as their Atma Karaka, or those experiencing Mangal Dosha or Mars Dasha/Antardasha in their horoscope, honoring Goddess Brahmacharini can kindle the virtues of sacrifice, devotion, and self-restraint. This self-restraint is what we call the “Yamas” or the Code of Conduct, as outlined by Sage Patanjali in his Yoga Sutras.

Day 3 – Tuesday 13th October

Goddess Chandraghanta, with her ever-open third eye, symbolizes unwavering vigilance against malevolence. “Chandra” reflects the diverse nuances of emotions and thoughts, similar to the changing phases of the moon, while “Ghanta” signifies a bell that emits a singular, resonant sound. She embodies valor and courage, guiding us to confront and conquer our inner adversaries, leading us closer to divine consciousness. Those struggling with anxiety and fear often find solace in paying homage to Chandraghanta.

Day 4 – Wednesday 14th October

Goddess Kushmanda embodies warmth and empowerment, revered as the cosmic mother who created the universe. Residing at the heart of the Sun (Surya), she guides its celestial actions and infuses it with energy and radiance, illuminating the cosmos. In Vedic astrology, the 4th house symbolizes warmth, happiness, and the mother (creator). Goddess Kushmanda deeply influences this house, representing happiness, the nurturing warmth of a mother, and the profound bond of a mother carrying her child in the womb.

Day 5 – Thursday 15th October

Goddess Skandamata embodies fearlessness and strength and represents the origin of Jnana (knowledge) and Kriya (the principle of action or activity). She cradles Lord Skanda, or Kartikeya, the divine warrior deity associated with Mars, in her arms. By sincerely and purely honoring him, one can counteract the adverse effects of Mars, drawing upon his gifts of courage and fortitude.

Day 6 – Friday 16th October

Goddess Kātyāyanī governs the subtle, unseen, ethereal realm. By honoring her, she grants us liberation from past-life transgressions. Focusing on the Ajna Chakra (center of the forehead) during meditation whilst thinking of her, invites her blessings of deep insight, joy, and abundance. In this manifestation, she embodies the mysteries of the divine that elude human understanding.

Day 7 – Saturday 17th October

Goddess Kālarātri, despite her fear-invoking appearance, she is a powerful protector who actually banishes fear and bestows strength. This fierce form of Goddess Durga embodies courage, empowering us to confront and conquer our inner demons. Her energy and workings have a deep resonance with Lord Shani (Saturn).

Day 8 – Sunday 18th October

Goddess Mahagauri embodies pure beauty and serenity, serving as a beacon of tranquility and grace. She blesses one with the resources for materialistic achievements, ensuring inner contentment and guiding one’s path forward.

Aligned with Rahu, the planet of desires, Mahagauri illuminates the duality of ambition. While Rahu drives our aspirations, it often leaves a void of fulfillment. In the same way, Goddess Mahagauri bestows materialistic successes, allowing one to recognize the fleeting nature of desires and urging the soul to seek genuine peace and purpose from within.

Day 9 – Monday 19th October

Goddess Siddhidhatri bestows upon you Siddhis, or exceptional abilities, ensuring excellence in all you undertake. “Siddhi” translates to a supernatural prowess or deep meditative insight, while “Dhatri” signifies a giver or granter. It is said that half of Lord Shiva’s form is that of Goddess Siddhidhatri, and it was through her grace that he acquired his remarkable Siddhis. Embracing Siddhi leads to a life of completeness and holistic success in all realms.

MEDITATE

Why Meditate During Navratri?

Try the ‘Navratri – Nine Divine Nights‘ Collection on the bliss by Gurudev app which includes a chant you can meditate to for each of the 9 days of Navratri.

“The word ‘Ratri’ means deep rest or relief from three ‘tapas’, three types of fire or botherations- the physical, the subtle, and the conscious. A deep rest can relieve you from all these three botherations.

It’s a time of prayer and rejuvenation. A child is born in nine months. These nine days are like coming out of a mother’s womb once again. Having a new birth.” – Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

OTHER KEY IMPORTANT DATES & RITUALS ASSOCIATED WITH NAVRATRI SEASON

MAHA DURGA ASHTAMI – 18th/19th October

Maha (great) Durga Ashtami is one of the most important days to honor Goddess Durga, the power behind the creation, preservation and destruction of the universe and, when called upon, can give these aspects to us.

This includes her ability to alleviate problems related to the influences of the shadowy north node of the moon, Rahu, who can lead us astray in the material world. Align with her all-encompassing energy by writing her mantra, “Aum Dum Durgaye Namaha,” 108 times.

Many who do this practice notice feelings of great peace or ecstasy, as the act of writing this sacred language has powerful energetic effects.

VIJAYADASHAMI / DUSSEHRA – 20th October

Vijayadashmi, also known as Dussehra, is a major Indian festival celebrated on the tenth day of Ashvin month according to the Hindu calendar and culminates the 9 day period of Navratri.

The day is celebrated to commemorate the killing of Ravana by Lord Rama and the killing of demon Mahishasur by Goddess Durga. Largely, the day is celebrated to commemorate the prevalence of good over evil.

A day for “victory of faith over doubt, compassion over anger, magnanimity over pettiness and contentment over anxiety”, as shared by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

Vijayadashami is an incredibly auspicious day for new beginnings. It is considered an excellent day to start learning something new; new projects, new skills, new launches, new anything.

SHARAD PURNIMA – 25th October

Sharad Purnima is one of the most important days for strengthening the Moon which is the most important planet in your birth chart.

It is a day dedicated to Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi descends on earth on this day searching for people who are awake to bless them, so people often stay awake and fast to seek her blessings. On this day the Moon shines with all the 16 Kalas (phases) and its rays have healing qualities.

“Sharad Purnima is considered to be the best, the biggest and clearest Full Moon of the whole year. It is said that the face of Mother Divine (Devi) is like the moon of Sharad Purnima. Meditation on Full Moon is umpteen times more effective than meditation on other days.”
~ Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

FASTING WITH YOGA

During Navratri, seasonal shifts can make our bodies more vulnerable to imbalances. Fasting during this period aids our inner journey to bliss, reducing mental restlessness and promoting meditation.

Many opt for a single daily meal or eliminate high-energy foods. It’s recommended to avoid meat, grains, alcohol, onions, garlic, and processed foods. Focus on gluten-free grains, fresh fruits, and easily digestible foods like yogurt. This dietary approach supports our digestive system by emphasizing light, nourishing choices.

When ending your fast in the evening, opt for a light meal. Heavy meals can hinder digestion and negate the benefits of your fast.

Incorporating gentle yoga poses, stretches, and twists enhances the fasting benefits. These practices boost detoxification and leave you feeling rejuvenated.

“We fast not to please the divine, but to cleanse our body.” Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

JOIN PUJAS / HOMAS ONLINE IN YOUR HOME

Navratri pujas and homas provide the ideal setting to transform your desires into purposeful intentions. These rituals bring about a sense of calm and alertness to the mind. From such tranquility, potent intentions emerge. The ancient practice of ‘sankalpa’ or ‘intention’, harnesses the abundant energy generated during these ceremonies, amplifying the strength of our resolutions.

“There are three levels of existence – the outer world, the subtle world of different energies and Divinity or God. All the yagnas being performed aim to achieve, both, spiritual and material benefits. When you go deep inside yourself, from where everything has come from, you experience the supreme peace. Only when you are in deep meditation, these mantras have an effect. These are very powerful and beautiful and enrich the subtle creation. We are so fortunate to be able to be a part of this.” ~ Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

Experience the depth of Navratri with Art of Living celebrations and take Sankalpa online at: https://www.artofliving.org/navratri

Learn more about the Navratri and the science behind the pujas and rituals: https://www.artofliving.org/navratri/science-behind-navratri

“The word ‘Ratri’ means deep rest or relief from three ‘tapas’, three types of fire or botherations- the physical, the subtle, and the conscious. A deep rest can relieve you from all these three botherations.

It’s a time of prayer and rejuvenation. A child is born in nine months. These nine days are like coming out of a mother’s womb once again. Having a new birth.”
Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

Saturn: The Karmic Planet

Saturn symbolizes discipline, responsibility, structure, and time. It brings the necessary challenges and restrictions that lead to growth and maturity. Its lessons may be harsh, but they are essential for spiritual evolution. Understanding the house in which Saturn resides in your chart can provide insights into the karmic challenges you are meant to face.

Check the align27 app to discover Saturn’s house placement in your birth chart.

Saturn in Each House

Saturn in the 1st House: Self-Discovery

A placement here emphasizes lessons in self-restraint, patience, and personal responsibility. Individuals may face challenges in self-identity and must learn to balance their personal needs with responsibilities.

Saturn in the 2nd House: Value and Security

Saturn in the 2nd house may highlight issues related to financial security and self-worth. The karmic lesson here involves learning to find true value in oneself and possessions, emphasizing quality over quantity.

Saturn in the 3rd House: Communication and Learning

Here, Saturn teaches the importance of clear and honest communication. Individuals may face obstacles in expressing themselves and must learn the value of listening and structured thinking.

Saturn in the 4th House: Family and Roots

Saturn in this house may indicate karmic debts related to family or home life. The lessons include understanding family dynamics, nurturing relationships, and building a stable foundation.

Saturn in the 5th House: Creativity and Romance

This placement focuses on lessons in love, creativity, and self-expression. Saturn may restrict or delay romantic relationships, teaching patience and maturity in love.

Saturn in the 6th House: Work and Health

Saturn here emphasizes diligence, hard work, and routine. It may bring challenges in work or health to teach the importance of balance and self-care.

Saturn in the 7th House: Partnerships and Marriage

Individuals with Saturn in the 7th house may face delays or challenges in partnerships. The karmic lessons involve learning to build strong, equitable relationships based on trust and respect.

Saturn in the 8th House: Transformation and Rebirth

This placement leads to deep transformation through trials. The lessons involve facing fears, loss, and understanding the cycle of life and death.

Saturn in the 9th House: Wisdom and Philosophy

Saturn here teaches the importance of spiritual wisdom, ethics, and higher learning. Challenges may arise in faith and belief systems, guiding one toward inner truth.

Saturn in the 10th House: Career and Ambition

Saturn’s influence on the 10th house emphasizes responsibility in career and public life. Karmic lessons revolve around ambition, integrity, and leadership.

Saturn in the 11th House: Friendships and Goals

Here, Saturn focuses on social responsibility and long-term goals. It teaches the value of true friendship and the importance of community.

Saturn in the 12th House: Spirituality and Solitude

This placement emphasizes spiritual growth, self-reflection, and the connection to the divine. Saturn here teaches the value of solitude and introspection.

Embrace Saturn’s Wisdom

Saturn’s placement in your birth chart is a unique guide to the karmic lessons you are destined to learn. Its influence, though often challenging, is meant to guide you towards personal growth, maturity, and a deeper understanding of life’s complexities.

Get our Karmic Lessons report for a personalized analysis of Saturn’s influence in your chart. Embrace Saturn’s wisdom, and you may find that its lessons lead to a richer, more fulfilling life.

The D30 or Trimsamsa is primarily used to analyze the struggles, challenges and weaknesses that we may have to encounter in different aspects of our lives.

Based on the Ascendant sign and the ruling planet or the planet placed in the Ascendant of the D30 chart, specific remedies are suggested to overcome struggles and obstacles.

For individuals with an Ascendant sign of Aries or Scorpio, lighting a lamp daily is recommended as a powerful remedy. Those with a Taurus or Libra Ascendant are advised to offer food to their favorite deity. Gemini or Virgo Ascendants can benefit from offering chandan (sandalwood paste) or scented oil/perfume to the deity. Offering flowers to the divine is highly potent for those with a Sagittarius or Pisces Ascendant. For individuals with a Capricorn or Aquarius Ascendant, offering incense or dhoop is a recommended remedy.

Personalized Remedy based on your D30 Chart

The Trimsamsha Remedies feature on the Cosmic Insights app provides you with personalized remedies for every planet in your chart based on your D30 chart.

Panchopachar Puja – The Daily Offering of Devotion and Gratitude

The term “Panchopachar” translates to “Five Offerings” in Sanskrit, signifying the essential components of this worship practice.

The five primary offerings in Panchopachar Puja are:

This simple yet profound ritual holds immense power and serves as a magical remedy for all the Trimsamsas in the D30 chart. It has the potential to help us overcome challenges and struggles we may encounter on our life path.

For more such remedies get our e-book – Vedic Rituals and Remedies

Dates

In 2026, Pitru Paksha begins on September 25/26 and ends on October 9/10, depending on your location. Check the align27 app for your local timings.

Benefits of Honoring our Ancestors during Pitru Paksha

1. Performing rituals during Pitru Paksha helps in resolving past-life karmas and ancestral debts, which can remove obstacles and negative influences that may be affecting your life, leading to smoother progress.

2. Honoring your ancestors invites their blessings, which can bring abundance, success, and protection. Their support can help open doors to new opportunities and overall growth.

3. One powerful way to heal the karmic energy of Ketu in your birth chart is by honoring your ancestors during Pitru Paksha. Ketu is deeply connected to past life karma and ancestral lineage.

The Essence of Pitru Paksha

Shraddha is a Sanskrit term that encapsulates acts performed with deep sincerity and faith. During Pitru Paksha, individuals pay homage to their ancestors, believed to reside in Pitru-Loka, a realm situated between heaven and earth, encompassing the souls of three preceding generations. It is a time to foster a deeper connection with one’s roots, seeking blessings that manifest in the form of health, wealth, knowledge, and longevity, potentially leading to moksha (liberation) or salvation.

This period serves as a reminder of the debts we owe to our ancestors, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and honoring their presence and influence in our lives. It is believed that during these 16 days, our ancestors descend to earth to shower their blessings upon us.

Rituals for Each Day of Pitru Paksha

Every lunar day is associated with a form of Lord Ganesha. So, honoring the form of Lord Ganesha based on the lunar day, on every day during Pitru Paksha is one of the powerful remedies that can be done. Lord Ganesha is connected to our Pitrus or ancestors. HE is the deity of the planet Ketu which represents our past lives and ancestral lineage. Magha nakshatra ruled by Ketu and whose presiding deity is the Pitrus, or ancestors, strengthens this deep connection between Lord Ganesha and our ancestors.

The rituals section of the align27 app will guide you on which form of Ganesha to honor each day during Pitru Paksha, along with the specific mantra to invoke his blessings.

Do’s & Don’ts to Observe During Pitru Paksha

Here are some do’s and don’ts to consider:

1. Reflect and reminisce about your ancestors, express gratitude, and seek their guidance to navigate life’s challenges.

2. Maintain peace and respect, avoiding conflicts and anger, as you honor your ancestors.

3. Participate in charitable acts to aid the less fortunate, honoring your ancestors through these gestures.

4. Meditate to achieve peace and provide comfort to yourself and your ancestors.

5. Choose a light, sattvic vegetarian diet, avoiding non-vegetarian foods to preserve purity during this period.

6. Prioritize spiritual practices and ancestral worship over starting new projects.

7. Conduct tarpan for your ancestors on the tithi corresponding to their death anniversary or on Mahalaya Amavasya (the culmination of Pitru Paksha) if the exact date is unknown.

The Legend Behind Pitru Paksha

The origins of Pitru Paksha are rooted in the epic tale of Mahabharata, revolving around the legendary figure, Karna. Upon his death, Karna’s soul ascended to heaven, only to be offered gold and jewels as sustenance. Seeking real nourishment, Karna questioned Indra, the lord of heaven, about this peculiar offering. Indra revealed that while Karna had been generous with gold donations throughout his life, he had neglected to offer food to his ancestors during Shraddha. Realizing his oversight, Karna was granted permission to return to earth for a 15-day period to perform Shraddha, offering food and water in memory of his ancestors. This period came to be known as Pitru Paksha. In some variations of the legend, the deity Yama replaces Indra.

The Philosophy Behind Ancestral Worship

Read about the profound and beautiful explanation of ancestral worship by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. Read here →

Date and Timings

Chennai, India – 26th Sep, 2026

Purnima Tithi begins at 11:06 PM on Sep 25, 2026 and ends at 10:18 PM on Sep 26, 2026

For local timings check the align27 app.

The Spiritual Significance of Bhadrapada Purnima

The full moon, or Purnima, has always held a special place, symbolizing the pinnacle of brightness and enlightenment in the lunar cycle. Bhadrapada Purnima, in particular, is a day dedicated to Lord Vishnu, revered as Lord Satyanarayana, a deity synonymous with truth and righteousness.

This day serves as a precursor to Pitru Paksha, a fortnight dedicated to paying homage to our ancestors, marking a period of reflection and gratitude.

Bhadrapada Purnima Rituals

Saturn governs the Purnima tithi, making Bhadrapada Purnima a powerful day to strengthen Saturn’s influence.

1. Satya Narayan Puja: You can participate in this puja, either by performing it yourself or by listening to or reciting the Satya Narayan Katha, a narrative that elucidates the virtues of Lord Satyanarayana.

2. Mrtunjaya Homa: For those facing hardships in life, this day presents an opportune time to perform the Mrtunjaya Homa. This ritual, invoking the blessings of Lord Shiva, is known to remove obstacles and usher in health and prosperity. It serves as a beacon of hope, offering solace and strength in trying times.

Vamana Jayanti Timings

Chennai, India – 23, Sep 2026

Dwadashi Tithi Begins at 09:44 PM on Sep 22, 2026 and ends at 10:52 PM on Sep 23, 2026

For local timings check the align27 app.

Vamana Homa – Exalted Jupiter Remedy

Join the Sri Vamana Homa on Vamana Jayanti, September 23, 2026. Offer your Sankalpa and invoke the blessings of Lord Vamana to strengthen Jupiter, remove obstacles and open the doors to wisdom, abundance and divine grace.

Lord Vamana and the Jupiter Connection

Each avatar of Lord Vishnu is connected to a planet. Lord Vamana is revered as the fifth avatar of Lord Vishnu, born to the sage Kashyap and Goddess Aditi. This divine incarnation is intrinsically connected to the planet Jupiter, associated with wisdom and prosperity. Aditi is the goddess who rules Punarvasu Nakshatra and Jupiter is the planet lording Punarvasu.

In this avatar, Lord Vishnu undertook the monumental task of aiding the devas, who had been deprived of their kingdom by the demon king Mahabali, a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu himself. Despite Mahabali’s devotion, his reign was characterized by an imbalance of power and cosmic order, necessitating divine intervention to restore harmony and justice.

Lord Vamana and Abhijit Muhurta

Lord Vamana was born when the moon transited through Shravana Nakshatra, during the auspicious time of Abhijit Muhurta. This Nakshatra is governed by Lord Vishnu himself, creating a divine synchronicity. This is one of the reasons why Abhijit Muhurta is so powerful. It is said that whenever you have to pick a good Muhurta and you do not have much time, you can do it during Abhijit Muhurta.

One of the symbols of the Shravana Nakshatra is the “3 foot steps”, a motif that is central to the narrative of Lord Vamana. In the story, Vamana, in his dwarf form, requests three paces of land from King Mahabali and then expands to cover Earth, Heaven, and the Netherworld in three steps, symbolizing the cosmic dimensions of his divine being.

Vamana Jayanti Rituals

1. During the Abhijit Muhurta, you can chant the mantra “Aum Namo Bhagavate Trivikramaya” 11, 27, 54 or 108 times, invoking the blessings and protection of Lord Vamana. You can touch the part of your finger where Jupiter is placed in your birth chart while you chant this mantra to strengthen your Jupiter. More details are available on rituals section of the align27 app.

2. Offer flowers to honor Lord Vamana. Yellow colored flowers are very auspicious.

Vamana Homa – Exalted Jupiter Remedy

Join the Sri Vamana Homa on Vamana Jayanti, September 23, 2026. Offer your Sankalpa and invoke the blessings of Lord Vamana to strengthen Jupiter, remove obstacles and open the doors to wisdom, abundance and divine grace.

The align27 app gives you a special ritual to follow each day of the 16-day Mahalakshmi Vrat, so you know exactly what to do every single day.

Significance of Mahalakshmi Vratam

Goddess Lakshmi is revered as the embodiment of wealth, abundance, and prosperity. Mahalakshmi Vrat is performed to invoke her blessings, ensuring prosperity in both personal and professional aspects of life. The vrat is particularly auspicious for those facing financial hardships or seeking success in their endeavors. It is also seen as a way to ensure the health and happiness of the family, as Goddess Lakshmi is also associated with overall well-being and harmony.

In the Bhavishya Purana, one of the 18 major ancient Hindu scriptures, a legend highlights the significance of Mahalakshmi Vrata. Yudhishtira, the eldest of the Pandava brothers, seeks guidance from Lord Krishna on a ritual that could help him recover the wealth and prosperity lost during his gambling with the Kauravas. In response, Lord Krishna recommends the Mahalakshmi Vrata, a sacred fast and ritual dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi. This powerful ritual restores health, wealth, prosperity, familial harmony, and even a kingdom, through the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.

The align27 app gives you a special ritual to follow each day of the 16-day Mahalakshmi Vrat, so you know exactly what to do every single day.

Timings of Maha Lakshmi Vrat in 2026

Mahalakshmi Vrat typically begins on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon phase) in the month of Bhadrapada (August-September), according to the Hindu lunar calendar. This ritual is observed for 16 consecutive days and culminates which ends on Krishna Ashtami during Ashwin month (as per Purnimanta calendar followed in North India).

New York – September 18 to October 2

Chennai, India – September 19 to October 3

The align27 app gives you a special ritual to follow each day of the 16-day Mahalakshmi Vrat, so you know exactly what to do every single day.

Begin the 16-day Mahalakshmi Vrat with a powerful Mahalakshmi Homa.

Start this sacred 16-day journey by invoking the blessings of Goddess Mahalakshmi through the Sri Mahalakshmi Homa. Offer your Sankalpa at the beginning of the Vrat and seek Her grace for prosperity, abundance, harmony, well-being, and the removal of obstacles to financial growth.

Maha Lakshmi Vrat Guidelines

1.  Clean Your Home and Office Daily

Goddess Lakshmi’s ultimate purpose is to be with Lord Vishnu (her consort), who symbolizes purity and cleanliness. She resides only in places where her consort is honored. Since Vishnu represents purity, it is essential to maintain cleanliness in your surroundings. Make it a daily practice to clean your home and workspace, especially during this 16-day period, to invite the goddess’s grace.

2.  Chant Mantras to Honor Goddess Lakshmi

The align27 app provides 16 powerful mantras, one for each day of this sacred period, to help you connect with and honor Goddess Lakshmi. You can find these mantras in the Rituals section of the app.

3.  Light a Lamp Daily in the Southeast

Light a lamp every day facing the southeast direction, which represents Agni (the fire element) and the planet Venus, both connected to Goddess Lakshmi. This will bring prosperity and abundance and attract the goddess’s presence into your life.

4.  Wash Your Feet Before Sleep

Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the ocean, which corresponds to the 12th house in Vedic astrology. The planet Venus, closely associated with Lakshmi, becomes exalted (happiest and strongest) in Pisces, the natural 12th house of the zodiac. The 12th house governs feet and sleep, while Venus represents the water element (Jala Tattva) and purity. By washing your feet before bed, you invoke the exaltation of Venus, which brings abundance, comfort, creativity, and wealth.

5.  Offer Cardamom to Goddess Lakshmi During Pisces Ascendant

Each day, when the sign of Pisces is ascending in the sky, offer a few cardamom pods to Goddess Lakshmi. This approximately two-hour period, when Pisces is rising, is available on the align27 app, providing a precise time to perform this offering.

Begin the 16-day Mahalakshmi Vrat with a powerful Mahalakshmi Homa.

Start this sacred 16-day journey by invoking the blessings of Goddess Mahalakshmi through the Sri Mahalakshmi Homa. Offer your Sankalpa at the beginning of the Vrat and seek Her grace for prosperity, abundance, harmony, well-being, and the removal of obstacles to financial growth.