Significant Spiritual Events in March 2026: Fasts and Festivals
Spiritual Significance of March in Hinduism
March holds immense spiritual importance in Hinduism. As the month of Phalgun concludes, a unique atmosphere of devotion and respect fills the air. Homes resonate with prayers, fasting, chanting, and various religious ceremonies. This transitional period also serves as a chance for mental and spiritual cleansing. It is believed that the rewards of austerity, charity, and spiritual endeavors during this time are greatly amplified, making it an ideal moment for devotees to gather special merits.
Welcoming Chaitra: A Month of New Beginnings
Chaitra, marking the first month of the Hindu calendar, represents fresh starts and positive vibes. This month is celebrated with the vibrant festival of Holi and the sacred Chaitra Navratri, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga. Additionally, fasting occasions like Papamochani Ekadashi and Pradosh Vrat enhance spiritual practices. Overall, this month is a cherished time for devotees to engage in devotion, seeking joy, tranquility, and prosperity.
Key Fasts and Festivals in March 2026
Fasts and Festivals in March 2026
March 1, 2026, Sunday - Pradosh Vrat
March 2, 2026, Monday - Phalguna Chaumasi Chaudas
March 3, 2026, Tuesday - Holika Dahan (Chhota Holi), Vasant Purnima Vrat, Lunar Eclipse, Phalguna Purnima
March 4, 2026, Wednesday - Holi, beginning of the month of Chaitra, the beginning of the Hindu New Year
March 5, 2026, Thursday - Bhai Dooj
March 6, 2026, Friday - Bhalachandra Sankashti Chaturthi
March 8, 2026, Sunday - Rang Panchami
March 10, 2026, Tuesday - Sheetala Saptami
March 11, 2026, Wednesday - Sheetala Ashtami, Basoda, Kalashtami, and Krishna Janmashtami (monthly)
March 15, 2026, Sunday - Krishna Narasimha Dwadashi, Papamochani Ekadashi, Pisces Sankranti
March 16, 2026, Monday - Pradosh Vrat
March 17, 2026, Tuesday - Monthly Shivaratri
March 18, 2026, Wednesday - Darsha Amavasya
March 19, 2026, Thursday - Yugadi, Gudi Padwa, and the beginning of Chaitra Navratri
March 20, 2026, Friday - Jhulelal Jayanti, Chandra Darshan
March 21, 2026, Saturday - Matsya Jayanti, Gauri Puja, Gangaur
March 22, 2026, Sunday - Vasudeva Chaturthi
March 23, 2026, Monday - Lakshmi Panchami, Monthly Karthigai
March 24, 2026, Tuesday - Sankanda Shashthi, Rohini Vrat, Yamuna Chhath
March 26, 2026, Thursday - Ram Navami, Mahatara Jayanti, Ashok Ashtami Vrat, Monthly Durgashtami
March 27, 2026, Friday - Ram Navami (ISKCON), Swaminarayan Jayanti
March 29, 2026, Sunday - Kamada Ekadashi, Vaman Dwadashi
March 30, 2026, Monday - Pradosh Vrat (Shukla)
March 31, 2026, Tuesday - Mahavir Jayanti
Planetary Movements in March
Planetary Transits for March
March 2, 2026, Venus Transits into Pisces
March 11, 2026, Jupiter Direct in Gemini
March 13, 2026, Mercury Rise in Aquarius
March 14, 2026, Sun Transits into Pisces
March 21, 2026, Mercury Direct in Aquarius
March 26, 2026, Mars Rise in Aquarius
Celebrating Holika Dahan
Holika Dahan
The auspicious festival of Holika Dahan is set for March 3, coinciding with the year's first lunar eclipse. The ideal time for this ritual, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, will be from 6:48 PM to 8:50 PM. Devotees will engage in prayers, aarti, and rituals before the fire. The following day, March 4, will see the joyous celebration of Holi.
Chaitra Navratri and Ram Navami
Chaitra Navratri
According to the Vedic calendar, the Pratipada Tithi of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) of the Chaitra month begins at 6:52 AM on March 19th and concludes at 4:52 AM on March 20th. This marks the auspicious start of Chaitra Navratri, during which devotees will worship the nine forms of Goddess Durga, experiencing renewed spiritual energy.
Ram Navami, celebrated on March 26th, marks the final day of Chaitra Navratri. It is believed that on this day, Lord Rama was born, making it a significant occasion for devotees.