Raksha Bandhan 2026 will be celebrated across India on Friday, August 28, marking the cherished bond of love, trust and protection between brothers and sisters. This year, devotees have an added reason for cheer as Bhadra will end before sunrise, allowing Rakhi rituals to be performed without the usual Bhadra restriction.
According to Panchang calculations for New Delhi, the Purnima Tithi begins at 9:08 AM on August 27 and ends at 9:48 AM on August 28. The recommended Raksha Bandhan thread ceremony period is 5:57 AM to 9:48 AM on August 28. Timings can vary slightly depending on location, so families following a local Panchang may want to check city-specific timings.
Bhadra Ends Before Raksha Bandhan Rituals
Bhadra is traditionally considered an inauspicious period for performing the Rakhi ceremony. In 2026, however, Bhadra ends before sunrise on August 28, meaning it will not interfere with the main morning Raksha Bandhan rituals.
While some traditions allow Rakhi celebrations at other times based on local customs, those wishing to strictly follow the Purnima Tithi and recommended muhurat can perform the ceremony during the morning period.
Partial Lunar Eclipse on Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan 2026 also coincides with a deep partial lunar eclipse on August 28. The partial phase is expected to occur roughly between 8:04 AM and 11:22 AM IST, with more than 90% of the Moon entering Earth’s umbral shadow at maximum eclipse.
However, the eclipse will not be visible from India, as the Moon will be below the horizon during the event. Therefore, according to widely followed traditional interpretations, Sutak Kaal will not apply in India, and the eclipse is not expected to restrict Raksha Bandhan rituals.
Families may nevertheless follow their own regional customs or guidance from their local priest or Panchang.
Raksha Bandhan remains one of India’s most cherished family festivals. Sisters traditionally apply tilak, perform aarti, tie Rakhi on their brothers’ wrists and offer sweets, while brothers give gifts and reaffirm their bond of care and protection.
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