In the Vedic calendar, Adhik Maas (also known as Purushottam Maas or Mal Maas) holds a profound spiritual significance. It is an extra month that appears approximately every three years to align the lunar calendar with the solar cycle. This year, the arrival of this sacred month is set to bring a unique opportunity for devotees to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu.When is Adhik Maas 2026? Key Dates to RememberThe calculation of Adhik Maas depends on the transition of the Sun (Sankranti). When a lunar month passes without the Sun moving from one Zodiac sign to another, that month is declared as 'Adhik' or extra.Important Note: For 2026, the specific dates for Adhik Maas are determined by the Hindu Panchang. Devotees should prepare for a month-long period of austerity and prayer, as this is considered the most auspicious time for spiritual growth.Why is it called 'Purushottam Maas'?According to ancient scriptures, this month was initially called 'Mal Maas' (unclean month) because no auspicious ceremonies like weddings or housewarmings are performed during this time. Feeling dejected, the month prayed to Lord Vishnu.Moved by its devotion, Lord Vishnu assigned his own name, 'Purushottam', to this month. He declared that any religious act, charity, or penance performed during this period would yield manifold results compared to any other time of the year.What to Do During Adhik Maas: Insights from Bhavishya PuranThe Bhavishya Puran outlines specific guidelines on how to spend these 30 days to attain spiritual merit and peace:Deep Daan (Lamp Donation): Lighting a ghee lamp in front of Lord Vishnu or in a temple daily is said to remove darkness from one's life.Recitation of Holy Texts: Reading the Bhagavad Gita (especially the 15th chapter, Purushottam Yoga) and the Srimad Bhagavatam is highly recommended.Charity (Daan): Donating food, clothes, and bronze vessels filled with sweets (Malpua) to the needy is considered a path to salvation.Mantra Chanting: Chanting the mantra "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" helps in purifying the mind and soul.Strict Prohibitions: What to AvoidWhile it is a great time for worship, the Bhavishya Puran strictly forbids 'Kamya Karmas' (actions performed with worldly desires). This includes:Weddings and Engagements: New beginnings in relationships are avoided.Griha Pravesh: Entering a new house is prohibited.Mundan or Upanayan: Sacred thread ceremonies and hair-cutting rituals for children are put on hold.
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