February 2026 Tamil Calendar Panchangam

February 2026 Tamil Calendar & Panchangam for the USA: Your Definitive Guide

Navigating life in the USA while staying connected to your Tamil heritage can be a beautiful journey. For many, the Tamil Calendar and its daily Panchangam are not just about dates; they are a spiritual compass, a cultural anchor, and a guide for auspicious living. But how do you reconcile traditional timings with the realities of US time zones, work schedules, and modern life?

You’re not alone in seeking this connection. That’s why we’ve crafted this definitive guide for February 2026, specifically tailored for Tamilians in the United States. We’ll demystify the Panchangam, highlight key festivals, and provide actionable insights to help you seamlessly integrate these ancient traditions into your contemporary American life. No more scrambling for information – it’s all here, explained clearly and practically.

What is the Tamil Calendar and Panchangam, and Why Does it Matter in the USA?

At its heart, the Tamil Calendar is a solar calendar, rich with cultural and spiritual significance, especially in the pursuit of dharma, artha, kama, and moksha. For those living abroad, it’s a vital link to their roots, offering structure for religious observances and life events. The Panchangam, meaning ‘five limbs,’ is its daily astrological almanac, providing intricate details about the energies of each day.

Understanding the Tamil Calendar (Thai, Maasi, Panguni, etc.)

Unlike the Gregorian calendar, the Tamil calendar is based on the sun’s transit through the zodiac. It has 12 months, each beginning when the sun enters a specific rasi (zodiac sign). February 2026 largely falls within the Tamil months of Thai (தை மாதம்) and Maasi (மாசி மாதம்), which are significant periods for various spiritual practices and festivals.

Thai is often associated with new beginnings and blessings, particularly after the Pongal harvest festival. Maasi follows, carrying its own unique energies, suitable for certain types of pujas and observances. Understanding which Tamil month you’re in helps contextualize the festivals and daily energies.

Demystifying Panchangam: The Five Limbs of Auspicious Timing

The Panchangam is a daily breakdown of astrological factors that influence our lives. Here’s what each limb signifies and why it’s important:

• Tithi (திதி – Lunar Day): This is the lunar day, determined by the angle between the Sun and the Moon. There are 30 Tithis in a lunar month, divided into Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) and Krishna Paksha (waning moon). Each Tithi has specific energies, making certain days more auspicious or inauspicious for particular activities.
• Nakshatra (நட்சத்திரம் – Star): One of the most important elements, Nakshatras are the 27 constellations or lunar mansions through which the Moon travels. Each Nakshatra has distinct characteristics and influences, impacting personality, destiny, and the suitability of a day for specific actions.
• Yoga (யோகம் – Conjunction): Yoga is determined by the combined longitudes of the Sun and Moon. There are 27 Yogas, each with its own qualities, influencing the outcomes of endeavors initiated during its period.
• Karana (கரணம் – Half-Tithi): A Karana is half of a Tithi, with 11 different Karanas recurring throughout the lunar month. Each Karana carries specific energies, advising on the types of actions that will be fruitful or challenging.
• Varam (வாரம் – Week Day): This is simply the day of the week (Sunday, Monday, etc.), each ruled by a specific planet. Each day carries the general influence of its ruling planet, contributing to the overall energy of the day.

These five elements intertwine to provide a comprehensive daily forecast, guiding Tamilians in the USA on when to perform important rituals, start new ventures, or avoid certain activities to ensure harmony and success.

February 2026 Tamil Calendar at a Glance: Key Dates & Months

February 2026 begins in the Tamil month of Thai and transitions into Maasi. This period holds several significant observances. Let’s look at some key dates you’ll want to mark on your calendar:

Gregorian Date	Tamil Date (Month & Day)	Key Event/Significance
February 1, 2026 (Sunday)	Thai 18	Thai Poosam (Thaipusam) – A major festival dedicated to Lord Muruga. Also Pournami Upavasam.
February 2, 2026 (Monday)	Thai 19	Ishti
February 5, 2026 (Thursday)	Thai 22	Sankatahara Chaturthi – Observing fasts for Lord Ganesha to overcome obstacles.
February 13, 2026 (Friday)	Thai 30	Kumbha Sankranti (Sun enters Aquarius)
February 14, 2026 (Saturday)	Maasi 1	Pradosham – Auspicious time to worship Lord Shiva.
February 17, 2026 (Tuesday)	Maasi 4	Amavasya (New Moon) – Day for ancestral rites.
February 28, 2026 (Saturday)	Maasi 15	Pradosham – Another auspicious time for Shiva worship.

Festivals & Special Observances in February 2026 for Tamilians in the USA

February 2026, while a shorter month, is packed with opportunities for spiritual enrichment, especially for Tamilians in the diaspora. These festivals are not just dates; they are vibrant expressions of faith, community, and cultural identity.

Thai Poosam (Thaipusam): Spiritual Significance & USA Observance

The most prominent festival in February 2026 is Thai Poosam, falling on February 1st. This sacred day is dedicated to Lord Muruga (Kartikeya), the son of Lord Shiva. It commemorates the occasion when Goddess Parvati presented Lord Muruga with a ‘Vel’ (spear) to vanquish the demon Surapadman, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and the removal of ignorance.

Significance: Devotees observe fasts, carry ‘kavadis’ (ornate burdens), and pierce their bodies as acts of penance and devotion to seek blessings, fulfill vows, and cleanse sins. It’s a powerful day for spiritual purification and gratitude.

USA Observance: For Tamilians in the USA, Thai Poosam is a day for collective worship and personal devotion. Many temples across the country organize special pujas, abhishekams, and sometimes even smaller-scale kavadi processions. If you cannot visit a temple due to work or distance, observing a partial fast, performing a simple puja at home, chanting Muruga mantras, or listening to devotional songs can help you connect with the festival’s energy. Remember to check with your local Tamil temple for their specific schedule.

Other Important Dates: Pradosham, Sankatahara Chaturthi, Amavasya, Pournami

Beyond Thai Poosam, February offers several other significant days:

• Sankatahara Chaturthi (February 5th): This day is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. Observing a fast from sunrise to moonrise and performing Ganesha puja can help overcome challenges and bring success. It’s particularly potent for those seeking to clear impediments in their professional or personal lives.
• Pradosham (February 14th & 28th): Occurring twice a month, Pradosham is a highly auspicious two-and-a-half-hour period (1.5 hours before and 1 hour after sunset) dedicated to Lord Shiva. Worshipping Shiva and Parvati during Pradosham is believed to relieve sins and fulfill desires. Even if you can only manage a brief meditation or chanting during this window, its spiritual benefits are immense.
• Amavasya (February 17th – New Moon): This is the New Moon day, considered highly significant for performing ancestral rites (Tarpanam) to honor and seek blessings from departed family members. It’s a day for reflection, gratitude, and spiritual cleansing. Many perform simple offerings or prayers at home, while others may visit temples to offer special pujas for ancestors.
• Pournami (February 1st – Full Moon): The full moon day is considered powerful for meditation, prayers, and spiritual practices. For February 2026, Pournami coincides with Thai Poosam, amplifying its spiritual potency. It’s a day for positive energy, gratitude, and seeking divine blessings.

Daily February 2026 Tamil Panchangam: Navigating Auspicious & Inauspicious Timings in the USA

The daily Panchangam provides precise timings that can guide your actions, helping you align with cosmic energies. This is particularly valuable when planning your day in the USA, balancing traditional beliefs with modern demands.

Understanding Nalla Neram, Rahu Kalam, Yamagandam, and Kuligai

These terms denote specific time periods each day, some considered auspicious, others inauspicious. Knowing them helps you schedule important activities:

• Nalla Neram (நல்ல நேரம் – Auspicious Time): These are the ‘good times’ of the day, ideal for starting new ventures, signing important documents, performing pujas, or any activity where you seek favorable outcomes. There are typically two Nalla Neram slots daily.
• Rahu Kalam (ராகு காலம் – Inauspicious Time for Rahu): Governed by the shadow planet Rahu, this period is generally considered inauspicious for starting new endeavors, travel, or any important decision-making. Existing activities can continue, but avoid initiating anything new.
• Yamagandam (யமகண்டம் – Inauspicious Time for Yama): Ruled by Yama, the lord of death, this period is also considered inauspicious. Like Rahu Kalam, it’s best to avoid commencing significant activities.
• Kuligai (குளிகை – Auspicious for Repetition, Inauspicious for Negativity): This period is associated with repetition. While generally good for activities you wish to repeat (e.g., investing, learning), it’s considered inauspicious for activities you *don’t* want to repeat (e.g., funerals, medical procedures).

Crucial for USA Context: The timings for Rahu Kalam, Yamagandam, Kuligai, and Nalla Neram are based on local sunrise and sunset. This means they will vary significantly depending on your US time zone (EST, CST, MST, PST, etc.) and even within a single time zone due to seasonal changes in day length. The timings provided below are illustrative and based on a general estimation for the Eastern Standard Time (EST) zone. It is vital to use an accurate local sunrise/sunset calculator or a reliable Tamil Panchangam app that considers your specific US location for precise timings.

February 2026 Daily Panchangam Table (Illustrative for EST)

Here’s a detailed, day-by-day Panchangam for February 2026, with illustrative timings for EST. Remember to adjust for your local time zone and sunrise/sunset.

Date (Gregorian)	Tamil Day (Date/Month)	Tithi	Nakshatra	Rahu Kalam (approx. EST)	Yamagandam (approx. EST)	Kuligai (approx. EST)	Nalla Neram (approx. EST)	Key Event/Significance
Feb 1, 2026 (Sun)	Thai 18	Pournami	Poosam	4:30 PM – 6:00 PM	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	9:30 AM – 10:30 AM	Thai Poosam, Pournami Upavasam
Feb 2, 2026 (Mon)	Thai 19	Prathamai	Ayilyam	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM	9:00 AM – 10:00 AM	Ishti
Feb 3, 2026 (Tue)	Thai 20	Dwitiya	Makam	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM	10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Feb 4, 2026 (Wed)	Thai 21	Tritiya	Purva Phalguni	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM	6:00 AM – 7:00 AM
Feb 5, 2026 (Thu)	Thai 22	Chaturthi	Uttara Phalguni	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM	6:00 AM – 7:30 AM	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM	10:30 AM – 11:30 AM	Sankatahara Chaturthi
Feb 6, 2026 (Fri)	Thai 23	Panchami	Hastham	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM	9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Feb 7, 2026 (Sat)	Thai 24	Sashti	Chithirai	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM	6:00 AM – 7:30 AM	10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Feb 8, 2026 (Sun)	Thai 25	Saptami	Swathi	4:30 PM – 6:00 PM	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Feb 9, 2026 (Mon)	Thai 26	Ashtami	Vishakam	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM	9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Feb 10, 2026 (Tue)	Thai 27	Navami	Anusham	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM	10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Feb 11, 2026 (Wed)	Thai 28	Dasami	Kettai	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM	6:00 AM – 7:00 AM
Feb 12, 2026 (Thu)	Thai 29	Ekadashi	Moolam	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM	6:00 AM – 7:30 AM	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM	10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Feb 13, 2026 (Fri)	Thai 30	Dwadashi	Purvashada	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM	9:00 AM – 10:00 AM	Kumbha Sankranti
Feb 14, 2026 (Sat)	Maasi 1	Trayodashi	Uttarashada	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM	6:00 AM – 7:30 AM	10:30 AM – 11:30 AM	Pradosham
Feb 15, 2026 (Sun)	Maasi 2	Chaturdashi	Thiruvonam	4:30 PM – 6:00 PM	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Feb 16, 2026 (Mon)	Maasi 3	Amavasya	Avittam	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM	9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Feb 17, 2026 (Tue)	Maasi 4	Prathamai	Sathayam	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM	10:30 AM – 11:30 AM	Amavasya
Feb 18, 2026 (Wed)	Maasi 5	Dwitiya	Purattadhi	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM	6:00 AM – 7:00 AM
Feb 19, 2026 (Thu)	Maasi 6	Tritiya	Uthirattadhi	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM	6:00 AM – 7:30 AM	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM	10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Feb 20, 2026 (Fri)	Maasi 7	Chaturthi	Revathi	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM	9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Feb 21, 2026 (Sat)	Maasi 8	Panchami	Ashwini	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM	6:00 AM – 7:30 AM	10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Feb 22, 2026 (Sun)	Maasi 9	Sashti	Bharani	4:30 PM – 6:00 PM	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Feb 23, 2026 (Mon)	Maasi 10	Saptami	Krittika	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM	9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Feb 24, 2026 (Tue)	Maasi 11	Ashtami	Rohini	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM	10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Feb 25, 2026 (Wed)	Maasi 12	Navami	Mirugasirisham	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM	6:00 AM – 7:00 AM
Feb 26, 2026 (Thu)	Maasi 13	Dasami	Thiruvathirai	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM	6:00 AM – 7:30 AM	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM	10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Feb 27, 2026 (Fri)	Maasi 14	Ekadashi	Punarpusam	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM	9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Feb 28, 2026 (Sat)	Maasi 15	Dwadashi	Poosam	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM	6:00 AM – 7:30 AM	10:30 AM – 11:30 AM	Pradosham

Planning Your Month: Leveraging the February 2026 Tamil Calendar for Success in the USA

Integrating the Tamil calendar into your daily life in the US is about more than just knowing dates; it’s about making informed choices that align with your spiritual and cultural values. It empowers you to live intentionally, connecting your actions to auspicious timings and traditional wisdom.

Muhurtham for Key Events (Weddings, Grihapravesam, New Ventures)

For significant life events like weddings (திருமணம்), housewarming ceremonies (கிரஹப்பிரவேசம்), or launching a new business venture, choosing an auspicious Muhurtham (முஹூர்த்தம்) is paramount. A good Muhurtham ensures that the planetary positions are favorable, blessing the event with success and harmony.

While the daily Panchangam gives you an overview of auspicious times like Nalla Neram, major life events require a more detailed astrological consultation. An experienced Tamil astrologer can analyze your birth chart, the charts of those involved, and the specific nature of the event to pinpoint the most potent and harmonious timing. This is especially crucial in the USA, where you might need to coordinate across different time zones or adjust for local availability of priests and venues.

Daily Planning & Spiritual Practices

You don’t need to plan a grand event to benefit from the Panchangam. You can integrate its wisdom into your everyday routine:

• Start New Tasks: Aim to begin important tasks (e.g., submitting an application, making a presentation, starting a new project at work) during Nalla Neram to enhance their chances of success.
• Avoid Major Decisions: During Rahu Kalam or Yamagandam, defer major decisions or new commitments. Use these periods for routine tasks, review, or relaxation.
• Spiritual Practices: Observe Pradosham for Shiva worship, or dedicate time for meditation and prayers during Tithis like Pournami or Ekadashi. Even a few minutes of quiet contemplation can be deeply impactful.
• Family Bonding: Use festival days like Thai Poosam as opportunities to teach children about their heritage, share traditional foods, and engage in collective prayers, strengthening family bonds and cultural identity.

Remember, the goal isn’t rigid adherence but mindful living. Adapt these guidelines to fit your American lifestyle, finding a balance that feels authentic and enriching.

Connecting with Tamil Culture in the Diaspora

For Tamilians in the USA, the calendar is a powerful tool for cultural preservation. It’s a reminder of who you are and where you come from. Here’s how it helps:

• Community Engagement: The calendar marks major festivals that bring Tamil communities together. Participating in temple events, cultural programs, or community gatherings reinforces a sense of belonging and provides a platform to celebrate shared heritage.
• Passing on Traditions: By observing festivals and following the Panchangam, you are actively transmitting traditions to the next generation. It’s a practical way to keep the language, rituals, and stories alive for your children and grandchildren.
• Personal Identity: In a multicultural landscape, embracing your cultural calendar strengthens your personal identity. It’s a declaration of your roots and a source of unique wisdom that enhances your daily life.

Embrace the February 2026 Tamil Calendar and Panchangam as your personal guide. Whether you’re planning a significant event or simply seeking to live each day with greater awareness, this ancient wisdom offers profound value. It’s a bridge between worlds, helping you thrive in the USA while staying deeply connected to your rich Tamil heritage.

Use this guide, consult local resources, and let the rhythms of the Tamil calendar bring harmony and purpose to your February 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most significant Tamil festival in February 2026?

The most significant Tamil festival in February 2026 is Thai Poosam (Thaipusam), falling on Sunday, February 1st. It is a major day of devotion to Lord Muruga, involving fasts, prayers, and temple visits.

How do I find accurate Rahu Kalam and Nalla Neram for my specific location in the USA?

Rahu Kalam and Nalla Neram timings are based on local sunrise and sunset, which vary by US time zone and location. It’s crucial to use a reliable Tamil Panchangam app or website that allows you to input your exact US city or zip code for precise, localized timings. Our table provides illustrative timings for EST.

What are Tithi and Nakshatra, and why are they important in the Tamil Panchangam?

Tithi refers to the lunar day, determined by the angle between the Sun and Moon, influencing daily energies. Nakshatra refers to the 27 lunar constellations through which the Moon travels, impacting personality, destiny, and the suitability of a day for specific actions. Both are fundamental for determining auspiciousness and guiding daily life decisions.

Are there any Amavasya (New Moon) or Pournami (Full Moon) days in February 2026?

Yes, February 2026 includes a Pournami (Full Moon) day on February 1st, coinciding with Thai Poosam. The Amavasya (New Moon) falls on February 17th, which is significant for ancestral rites.

How can I incorporate the Tamil Calendar into my daily life in the USA without disrupting work or school?

Focus on mindful integration: use Nalla Neram for starting important tasks, defer major decisions during Rahu Kalam, and engage in brief prayers or meditations during Pradosham or other significant periods. For major festivals, plan temple visits during weekends or observe simplified home pujas and fasts that fit your schedule. Connecting with local Tamil community centers can also provide support and opportunities.

What is Sankatahara Chaturthi and when does it occur in February 2026?

Sankatahara Chaturthi is a day dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. Devotees observe fasts and perform pujas to seek blessings for overcoming challenges. In February 2026, Sankatahara Chaturthi falls on Thursday, February 5th.