Chitra Pournami 2026: Date, Time, Significance And Rituals

Chitra Pournami 2026: The Chaitra Purnima, also known as Chitra Pournami, is a unique festival of the Tamil community observed either in April or May. The Chitra Pournami is observed as the birth anniversary of Lord Chitragupta, who maintains records of our good and bad actions. The devotees go to temples to pay their respects and pray for forgiveness of their sins on this day. Sincere devotion to Lord Chitragupta ensures mental peace and cleansing of one’s karma. This year, Chitra Pournami will be observed on 1st May 2026.

Below are all the important details regarding the date, time, significance and rituals of Chitra Pournami:

Chitra Pournami 2026: Date And Time

- Chitra Pournami 2026 Date: 1st May 2026, Friday

- Pournami Tithi Begins: 09:12 PM, 30th April 2026

- Pournami Tithi Ends: 10:52 PM, 1st May 2026

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As per the Hindu legends, Lord Chitragupta is the divine accountant of human deeds and the assistant of Lord Yama. (Image Source: Wikimedia Commons) 

Chitra Pournami 2026: Significance

As per the mythology of the story, Lord Chitragupta emerged from the reflection of Goddess Parvati and the divine cow Kamadhenu. On this lucky day, people indulge themselves in doing good and charitable activities that help offset the sins committed by them previously. The worshippers pray at the temple and undertake the act of circumambulation in revered mountains like the ones found in Tiruvannamalai. Taking a dip in the sea on the day of the full moon is deemed to be very lucky, as it cleanses the soul and one's karma, and instils discipline in one's life.

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Chitra Pournami 2026: Rituals

On Chitra Purnima, women wake up early to bathe and create beautiful Kolams (Rangolis) using rice flour outside their homes. The rangoli designs include images of the pen and book of Lord Chitragupta, which symbolise the cosmic account of our actions. Devotees worship Lord Chitragupta with deep reverence, seeking the alleviation of life's tribulations. It is believed that performing worship on this day resolves the Ketu Dosha in one's horoscope, bestowing both mental peace and the blessings of good karma.

(Disclaimer: This content includes advice providing generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified spiritual or astrological opinion. Always consult a specialist for more information before adopting any measures.)