Raksha Bandhan 2026: Is Rakhi on August 27 or 28? Check Correct Date, Purnima Tithi and Shubh Muhurat

New Delhi: There is confusion among people about whether Raksha Bandhan 2026 will be celebrated on August 27 or August 28. According to the Panchang-based timings available for India, Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on Friday, August 28, 2026.

The confusion has arisen because Shravan Purnima Tithi begins on August 27 and continues into August 28. According to the cited Panchang timings, Purnima begins at 9:08 AM on August 27 and ends at 9:48 AM on August 28.

Why is Raksha Bandhan on August 28?

Raksha Bandhan is traditionally observed on Shravan Purnima. Since the Purnima tithi extends into the morning of August 28, and the relevant auspicious period falls on that day, the festival is being observed on Friday, August 28 in much of India.

Raksha Bandhan 2026: Important Timings
Raksha Bandhan: Friday, August 28, 2026
Shravan Purnima begins: August 27 at approximately 9:08 AM
Shravan Purnima ends: August 28 at approximately 9:48 AM
Rakhi tying muhurat: approximately 5:57 AM to 9:48 AM on August 28 for New Delhi, according to published Panchang calculations.

The exact muhurat can vary by location and Panchang tradition, so families following a particular regional Panchang should check the local timings.

What About Bhadra?

Another reason for the date-related confusion is Bhadra Kaal, during which Rakhi-tying is traditionally avoided. Published Panchang information indicates that Bhadra does not overlap the recommended Rakhi-tying period on the morning of August 28.

Raksha Bandhan 2026: What Should You Do?

On Raksha Bandhan, sisters traditionally tie a rakhi on their brothers' wrists and pray for their well-being. Brothers, in turn, traditionally offer gifts and reaffirm their bond of affection and protection.

For families following traditional rituals, August 28, 2026, is the key date to mark on the calendar.

Important Note

Panchang calculations can differ slightly by city, sunrise time and regional tradition. Therefore, people who strictly follow a particular family or regional Panchang should confirm the final muhurat locally.