Raksha Bandhan 2026: Key Dates and Auspicious Timing

As Raksha Bandhan approaches in 2026, many are curious about the correct date for the celebration. This year, the festival falls on August 28, coinciding with the final lunar eclipse. Confusion arises due to the overlap of *Shravan Purnima* across two days. This article clarifies the auspicious timing for tying the Rakhi and explains how the lunar eclipse will not affect the festivities. Learn about the rituals and timings to ensure a joyful celebration.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 19, 2026, 10:03 IST

Raksha Bandhan 2026 Date Clarification

Raksha Bandhan 2026 Date: Is Raksha Bandhan celebrated on August 27 or August 28 this year? This question arises due to the *Shravan Purnima* (full moon) date, which spans both days. Additionally, the last lunar eclipse of the year occurs on August 28, leading to some confusion about the correct date for the celebration. To clarify, one should refer to the *Panchang* (Hindu calendar) to ascertain the timing of *Shravan Purnima*, the lunar eclipse, and the auspicious moment (*Muhurat*) for tying the *Rakhi*.

Determining the Right Day for Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan: August 27 or 28?
To find out the duration of *Shravan Purnima*, we check the *Panchang*. The *Shravan Purnima* period starts at 9:08 AM on August 27 and concludes at 9:48 AM on August 28. Although *Shravan Purnima* spans both dates, scriptures state that Raksha Bandhan should be celebrated on the day that includes sunrise and during a *Muhurat* free from *Bhadra* (an inauspicious time).

According to the *Panchang*, *Bhadra* begins at the same time as *Shravan Purnima* on August 27 and ends at 9:32 PM. Initially, *Bhadra* is in *Patal Loka* (the netherworld) from 9:08 AM to 1:35 PM, then shifts to Earth from 1:35 PM to 9:32 PM. Therefore, celebrating Raksha Bandhan on August 27 is not advisable.

Based on *Udaya Tithi* (the lunar day at sunrise), *Shravan Purnima* is confirmed to fall on Friday, August 28. The festival, along with rituals like bathing, charity, and prayers, will be observed on this date. Now that the date is clear, let’s discuss the lunar eclipse.

Impact of the Lunar Eclipse on Raksha Bandhan

Will the lunar eclipse affect Raksha Bandhan?
The final lunar eclipse of the year coincides with Raksha Bandhan, but it will not affect the festival. Since this eclipse will not be visible in India, the *Sutak* period (a time considered inauspicious due to the eclipse) does not apply. With no *Sutak* period, there are no concerns regarding the celebration of Raksha Bandhan. The lunar eclipse will start at 6:55 AM and will conclude (reach *Moksha*) at 12:30 PM.

Auspicious Timing for Tying the Rakhi
On August 28, the auspicious time for tying the Rakhi will commence at sunrise. Since *Shravan Purnima* is valid throughout the day according to the Hindu calendar, you can celebrate Raksha Bandhan all day long on August 28 without any confusion. Just be mindful not to tie the Rakhi during *Rahu Kaal*, which falls between 10:46 AM and 12:22 PM on that day.

On Raksha Bandhan, the *Brahma Muhurat* is from 4:28 AM to 5:12 AM, while the *Abhijit Muhurat* lasts from 11:56 AM to 12:48 PM.

Conclusion

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