February 2026 Tamil Calendar Pournami Date

February 2026 Tamil Calendar: Unveiling the Pournami (Full Moon) Date and Its Significance

Are you searching for the exact Pournami (Full Moon) date in February 2026 according to the Tamil Calendar? Whether you’re planning a spiritual observance, an auspicious event, or simply want to connect with your cultural roots, knowing these celestial timings is incredibly important. You’ve come to the right place. We’re cutting straight to the chase to give you the definitive details and the deeper meaning behind this significant lunar event.

Pournami, the full moon day, holds immense spiritual power and is a pivotal date in various Hindu traditions, including those followed by Tamils worldwide. February’s Pournami is particularly special, often coinciding with the auspicious Magha Pournami, a time dedicated to purification, charity, and spiritual enlightenment.

The Essential Detail: February 2026 Pournami Date

Let’s get straight to what you’re here for. The full moon in February 2026, known as Magha Pournami, falls on a key date with specific timings that matter for your observances.

The Direct Answer: Pournami in February 2026

The Pournami (Full Moon) in February 2026 is observed on:

Sunday, February 1, 2026

This date marks the peak of the lunar cycle, and its spiritual energy is considered most potent. For those following the Tamil calendar, this Pournami typically aligns with the Tamil month of Thai, or early Maasi, making it a sacred period for various rituals.

Key Timings: Pournami Tithi Details

Understanding the exact start and end times of the Pournami Tithi (lunar day) is crucial for precise observances. While the primary date is February 1st, the Purnima Tithi spans across two calendar days.

Here are the detailed timings for the February 2026 Pournami:

English Date	Day	Tamil Month	Tamil Tithi	Nakshatram	Pournami Tithi Begins (GMT)	Pournami Tithi Ends (GMT)
February 1, 2026	Sunday	Thai	Pournami (Magha Pournami)	Magha	Jan 31, 2026 at 9:25 PM	Feb 1, 2026 at 6:15 PM

Important Note for USA residents: These timings are in Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). You’ll need to convert these to your local time zone (e.g., subtract 5 hours for Eastern Time, 8 hours for Pacific Time). Always verify with a local Tamil almanac or temple for the most precise timings in your specific location.

Decoding Pournami: What is the Full Moon in Tamil Culture?

Beyond being a beautiful celestial event, Pournami holds profound religious and cultural significance in Tamil traditions. It’s not just a date on the calendar; it’s a day imbued with spiritual energy and opportunities for devotion.

The Cosmic Dance of the Moon

Pournami signifies the full illumination of the moon, symbolizing completeness, enlightenment, and divine feminine energy. In Hinduism, the moon (Chandra) is associated with the mind, emotions, and fertility. A full moon is believed to amplify these energies, making it an opportune time for spiritual practices, introspection, and seeking blessings.

Tamil Calendar’s Unique Perspective

While the concept of Pournami is universal in Hindu calendars, the Tamil calendar (Panchangam) integrates it with its unique month names (like Thai, Maasi) and Nakshatrams (birth stars). Each Pournami is often named after the prevailing Nakshatram or the Tamil month it falls in, giving it a specific identity and set of associated rituals. This adds a rich layer of cultural depth to the observance.

Magha Pournami: The February Full Moon’s Special Aura

The Pournami in February, as we noted, is commonly known as Magha Pournami (or Magha Purnima in other Hindu traditions). This particular full moon is highly revered. It’s believed that taking a holy dip in sacred rivers like the Ganga on this day can purify sins and lead to spiritual liberation. While not everyone can travel to India for this, the spirit of purification and devotion can be observed wherever you are.

Magha Pournami is a day for:

• Charity (Daan): Donating food, clothes, or money to the needy is highly meritorious.
• Tapas (Austerities): Observing fasts and engaging in spiritual disciplines.
• Snan (Bathing): A ritual bath, even at home, with the intention of purification.
• Homam and Pooja: Performing fire rituals and prayers to various deities.

Detailed Insights: February 2026 Pournami Timings and Auspicious Periods

Understanding not just the date, but also the specific auspicious and inauspicious periods throughout the day can significantly impact your planning and observances. Tamil astrology places great emphasis on these timings.

Auspicious & Inauspicious Timings for February 2026 Pournami

Here are some of the key timings for February 1, 2026. Remember, these are general guidelines and can vary slightly based on geographical location. Always adjust for your local time zone.

Timing Type	Period (approx. GMT)	Description
Rahu Kalam	04:21 PM – 05:35 PM	Considered inauspicious for starting new ventures, travel, or any important undertakings. It’s a time to be cautious.
Yamagandam	12:00 PM – 01:14 PM	Another inauspicious period, associated with danger, loss, or delay. Best to avoid initiating significant tasks during this window.
Gulikai	03:06 PM – 04:21 PM	While often used for repetitive actions (e.g., repaying debts, which ensures it happens again), it’s generally not ideal for starting new, positive endeavors that you don’t want to repeat in a negative cycle.
Good Times (Subha Horai)	Varies throughout the day	These are specific hourly windows ruled by beneficial planets. Consult a detailed local Panchangam for precise Subha Horai timings for your location, as they are dynamic.

The best approach is to schedule important rituals, prayers, and positive undertakings during the auspicious periods, avoiding Rahu Kalam, Yamagandam, and Gulikai if possible. The period around sunrise and the early evening after the moonrise are generally considered very potent for prayers on Pournami.

The Spiritual Tapestry: Observances and Significance of Pournami

Pournami is a day of deep spiritual connection. For many Tamils, it’s a time to pause, reflect, and engage in practices that foster inner peace and divine blessings.

Pournami Vratham (Fasting)

Observing a fast (Vratham) on Pournami is a common practice. Devotees may fast from sunrise to moonrise, consuming only water, milk, or fruits. The fast is typically broken after sighting the full moon and offering prayers. The benefits of Pournami Vratham are believed to include:

• Purification of body and mind: A detoxifying practice that clears negative energies.
• Gaining spiritual merit: Accumulating blessings for oneself and one’s family.
• Fulfillment of desires: Prayers offered with sincerity on this day are believed to be answered.
• Health benefits: Many believe fasting aids physical well-being.

Offerings and Prayers

Temples are often bustling on Pournami. If you’re observing at home, here are some common offerings and prayers:

• Vilakku Pooja (Lamp Lighting): Lighting oil lamps, especially during dusk, is a central ritual, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness.
• Flowers and Incense: Offering fresh flowers, especially white ones, and lighting incense sticks.
• Naivedyam (Food Offerings): Preparing simple, sattvic (pure) food items like Pongal, payasam, or fruits, and offering them to the deities before consumption.
• Chanting Mantras: Reciting mantras dedicated to the moon god (Chandra), Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, or your chosen deity. The Gayatri Mantra or Om Namah Shivaya are powerful chants.

Connecting to Deities

While Pournami is generally significant for all deities, certain ones are particularly honored:

• Goddess Parvati/Amman: As the embodiment of divine feminine energy, Pournami is an excellent time to worship various forms of Amman, seeking blessings for prosperity, harmony, and protection.
• Lord Shiva: Many devotees observe Pournami Vratham in honor of Lord Shiva, particularly the Mondays that fall on a Pournami.
• Lord Vishnu: Worshipping Lord Vishnu and his consorts, especially during Vaishakha Pournami, is also common.
• Lord Murugan: Pournami is also a significant day for devotees of Lord Murugan, with special poojas performed in his temples.

The Power of Meditation

The full moon’s amplified energy makes it an ideal time for meditation. Many spiritual traditions believe that meditating during Pournami enhances focus, intuition, and spiritual awareness. Find a quiet space, light a lamp, and spend time in silent contemplation or guided meditation to harness this powerful cosmic influence.

Beyond February: A Look at Pournami Dates for 2026

Understanding the full calendar year of Pournami dates can help you plan your spiritual observances and cultural events well in advance. Here’s a comprehensive list of all Pournami dates for 2026, including their corresponding Tamil months and common significance:

Month	English Date	Day	Tamil Month (Approx.)	Key Significance / Common Name
January	3	Saturday	Margazhi / Thai	Paush Purnima
February	1	Sunday	Thai / Maasi	Magha Pournami
March	3	Tuesday	Maasi / Panguni	Phalguna Purnima (Holi)
April	2	Thursday	Panguni / Chithirai	Chaitra Purnima (Hanuman Jayanti)
May	2	Saturday	Chithirai / Vaikasi	Vaishakha Purnima (Buddha Purnima)
May	31	Sunday	Vaikasi / Aani	Jyeshtha Purnima
June	30	Tuesday	Aani / Aadi	Ashadha Purnima (Guru Purnima)
July	29	Wednesday	Aadi / Avani	Shravana Purnima (Raksha Bandhan)
August	28	Friday	Avani / Purattasi	Bhadrapada Purnima
September	27	Sunday	Purattasi / Aippasi	Ashwin Purnima (Sharad Purnima)
October	26	Monday	Aippasi / Karthigai	Kartik Purnima (Guru Nanak Jayanti)
November	25	Wednesday	Karthigai / Margazhi	Margashirsha Purnima
December	25	Friday	Margazhi	Paush Purnima

Use this table as a quick reference for future planning. Please note that the exact start/end times for the Tithi will vary each month and require consulting a detailed Panchangam.

Navigating the Tamil Calendar: Your Guide from the USA

For the Tamil diaspora in the USA, keeping track of these dates can sometimes be a challenge due to time zones and the availability of local resources. But it’s entirely manageable!

Time Zone Adjustments

This is arguably the most crucial step. As mentioned, most panchangam data is given in Indian Standard Time (IST) or Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). You must convert these timings to your specific US time zone (e.g., EST, CST, MST, PST). A simple online time zone converter can be your best friend. For example, if Pournami Tithi ends at 6:15 PM GMT on February 1st, and you are on the East Coast (EST, GMT-5), that would be 1:15 PM EST on February 1st.

Resources for the Tamil Community

Even thousands of miles away from Tamil Nadu, you can maintain your cultural and spiritual practices. Here’s how:

• Local Tamil Temples: Many cities across the USA have vibrant Tamil Hindu temples. They often publish their own calendars, conduct special Pournami poojas, and can provide guidance on local timings and observances.
• Online Panchangam Websites/Apps: Several reputable websites and mobile applications (like Drikpanchang, AstroVed, or specific Tamil calendar apps) allow you to input your location and get precise timings.
• Community Groups: Join local Tamil associations or cultural groups. They often organize collective observances and can be a great source of support and information.
• Printed Tamil Calendars: Many Indian grocery stores or spiritual shops in the USA carry printed Tamil calendars, which often highlight key dates like Pournami.

Connecting with these resources can help you stay aligned with the Tamil calendar, ensuring you don’t miss out on important spiritual opportunities like the February 2026 Pournami.

Conclusion: Embracing the Radiance of Pournami

The February 2026 Pournami, falling on Sunday, February 1st, is more than just a date; it’s an invitation to deepen your spiritual journey. As Magha Pournami, it carries an intensified significance for purification, charity, and devotion. By understanding its precise timings, cultural context, and recommended observances, you can fully embrace the potent energy of the full moon.

Whether you choose to fast, offer prayers, meditate, or simply spend time in reflection, Pournami offers a powerful opportunity to connect with the divine. Mark your calendars, prepare your hearts, and let the radiant light of the full moon illuminate your path in February 2026 and throughout the year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pournami in the Tamil Calendar?

Pournami refers to the full moon day in the Tamil calendar (Panchangam). It is a highly significant lunar phase considered auspicious for spiritual practices, fasting (Vratham), prayers, and charity in Hindu traditions. Each Pournami is often associated with the prevailing Tamil month or Nakshatram (star) and specific deities.

When is the Pournami date in February 2026?

The Pournami (Full Moon) date in February 2026 is Sunday, February 1, 2026. This particular full moon is widely known as Magha Pournami, carrying special significance for purification and spiritual merit.

What is Magha Pournami and why is it important?

Magha Pournami is the full moon that occurs during the Hindu month of Magha, corresponding to the Tamil month of Thai or early Maasi. It is considered an extremely sacred day for performing spiritual austerities, taking holy dips in sacred rivers (symbolically or literally), offering prayers, and engaging in acts of charity. It’s believed to bring immense blessings and purify sins.

Are there specific timings to observe for Pournami in February 2026?

Yes, for February 1, 2026, the Pournami Tithi begins on January 31, 2026, at 9:25 PM GMT and ends on February 1, 2026, at 6:15 PM GMT. There are also specific auspicious and inauspicious periods like Rahu Kalam, Yamagandam, and Gulikai that devotees may choose to observe. Always convert these GMT timings to your local time zone.

What rituals or observances are common on Pournami?

Common observances on Pournami include observing a fast (Pournami Vratham) from sunrise to moonrise, offering prayers and performing Poojas at home or temples, lighting lamps (Vilakku Pooja), chanting mantras, and performing acts of charity. It’s a day for spiritual introspection and connecting with divine energies.

How do I adjust Pournami timings for my location in the USA?

You must convert the provided GMT timings to your specific US time zone. For example, if you are in Eastern Standard Time (EST, which is GMT-5), you would subtract 5 hours from the GMT time. Many online time zone converters and dedicated Hindu/Tamil calendar apps can help you get precise local timings by entering your specific city or zip code.