January 2026 Calendar: Complete List Of Hindu Festivals, Vrats And Spiritual Events Every Devotee Should Know

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January is a month where we bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new. 2026 has just begun, but the calendar is already busy with full moons, fasts, and festivals that bring families together, mark seasonal changes, and create small rituals in everyday life. It's a time to notice these moments, take part in them if you can, or simply appreciate what these special events bring to our routines.

3 January - Paush Purnima

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The year's first full moon, Paush Purnima, falls on 3rd January. It's a day for spiritual focus, charity, and holy baths. Devotees often head to rivers or ghats for a cleansing ritual, while some start preparations for Magh Mela, which continues through January. Even if you're not attending a mela, Paush Purnima is a good day to take a moment to reflect, and do charitable activities.

6 January - Sankashti Chaturthi

This day is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Observing Sankashti Chaturthi involves fasting until moonrise and offering prayers to remove obstacles in life. It reminds us to slow down, focus on your goals, and clear the clutter both in mind and in routine.

10 January - Masik Shivaratri

The monthly Shivaratri is a night for pure devotion. Many stay awake through the night with prayers, chants, or meditation, connecting with the energy of Lord Shiva. It's a simple way to bring mindfulness into the middle of winter, a pause in the usual rush.

14 January - Makar Sankranti & Shattila Ekadashi

Makar Sankranti is celebrated across India as the sun moves into Capricorn. It's a day of harvest, kite flying, and connecting with family. In some traditions, it coincides with Shattila Ekadashi, a fasting day for Lord Vishnu where sesame seeds are offered for purification. Whether you fast, feast, or just enjoy the seasonal vibe, the day marks new beginnings and gratitude.

15-16 January - Pongal & Kanuma

In South India, Pongal continues for several days. Mattu Pongal or Kanuma celebrates cattle, acknowledging the animals that sustain livelihoods. It's a reminder of gratitude for simple, everyday contributions around us-food, animals, and community.

18 January - Mauni Amavasya

The new moon of Mauni Amavasya is a day for reflection, silence, and ancestral rituals. Many perform Pitru Tarpan or take a holy dip in rivers. Even if rituals aren't part of your practice, the day encourages slowing down, introspection, and honoring roots.

22-23 January - Ganesh Jayanti & Vasant Panchami

Ganesh Jayanti brings joy to devotees of Lord Ganesha with prayers for wisdom and success. Following closely, Vasant Panchami celebrates Goddess Saraswati, a day devoted to learning, arts, and new beginnings in education. Bright yellow, books, and simple home rituals make it easy to celebrate personally, even in small ways.

25-26 January - Ratha Saptami & Republic Day

Ratha Saptami is dedicated to the sun, representing energy and motivation. Many perform morning rituals or symbolic sun worship. Republic Day on 26th January adds a cultural layer, a day when devotion and civic pride meet. A reflective morning followed by celebrations feels like a balanced start to the year.

29-31 January - Jaya & Putrada Ekadashi

The month ends with Jaya Ekadashi and Putrada Ekadashi, both fasting days with spiritual focus. These days encourage discipline, reflection, and seeking blessings for family well-being. Even if fasting isn't part of your routine, acknowledging the intention behind these observances brings a sense of rhythm and purpose.

Photo Credit: Oneindia

January 2026 is packed with opportunities to connect-with faith, family, and self. From Paush Purnima to Putrada Ekadashi, each festival and vrat invites a pause, a moment of gratitude, and a touch of devotion in daily life. Whether through fasting, prayers, or simple reflection, these observances offer more than ritual, they help start the year grounded, mindful, and in tune with tradition.