Raksha Bandhan 2026 | रक्षाबंधन / नारळी पौर्णिमा
Looking for calendar views and tithis?
Read more about the exact tithi timings and planetary alignments in our comprehensive August 2026 Calendar.
About Raksha Bandhan(उत्सव माहिती)
Raksha Bandhan 2026 falls on Friday, August 28, coinciding with the Shravan Purnima. It is a traditional festival celebrating the sacred bond of love and protection between brothers and sisters. In coastal Maharashtra, this day is also celebrated as Narali Purnima, where the Koli fishing community offers coconuts to the sea god to seek safe sailing and a bountiful catch.
History: In Hindu tradition, Raksha Bandhan has ancient mythological roots, including Draupadi tying a strip of her saree on Krishna's finger, and Goddess Lakshmi tying a thread on King Mahabali. Historically, the festival has symbolized solidarity and mutual protection.
Significance: Sisters tie a protective thread (Rakhi) on their brothers' right wrists, praying for their long life and prosperity. In return, brothers offer gifts and pledge to protect their sisters. In Maharashtra, the overlapping celebration of Narali Purnima brings communities to the beaches for festive dancing, singing, and offering gold-painted coconuts to the ocean.
Rituals & How to Celebrate
Tying the Rakhi: Sisters perform aarti, apply tilak, tie the Rakhi, and feed sweets to their brothers.
Offering Gifts: Brothers present gifts or cash as a token of affection.
Narali Purnima Offerings: Tying Rakhis to boats and offering coconuts to the sea god.
Koli Dance: Traditional folk dances performed by the coastal fishing communities.
Traditional Foods & Bhog
Narali Bhaat (sweet coconut rice flavored with cardamom, cloves, and saffron)
Karanji or Modak (coconut-filled sweet dumplings)
Traditional Maharashtrian sweets like Pedha and Barfi
Festival Calendar
Aug28
Raksha Bandhan
१६ श्रावण • रक्षाबंधन / नारळी पौर्णिमा
Fri
Related Festivals
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Info
FestivalRaksha Bandhan
Date28 August 2026
DayFriday
Tithiद्वादशी
Marathi Date१६ श्रावण १९४८
Pakshaशुक्ल पक्ष
Panchang Details
Sunrise5:25 AM
Sunset6:05 PM
Nakshatraउत्तरा फाल्गुनी
Yogaब्रह्म
Karanaतैतिल