New Delhi: The Hindu lunar calendar this year, has an extra month – which literally translates to ‘adhik maas’. This month appears roughly once every 32.5 months, typically coinciding with the month of Jyeshtha. It’s purpose is to essentially bring the lunar and solar years back into sync. In 2026, we are right in the middle of the adhik maas which commenced on May 17.
It is set to conclude on June 15 and is marked by a thorough pause on all ‘shubh karya’ spanning weddings to auspicious beginnings of any kind, be it personal or professional. Over time, for this very reason of avoidance, the adhik maas has developed quite a sour reputation – that of being ‘inauspicious’. But in reality, it is potentially one of the most potent months to get your spirituality on track.
The Story Behind Adhik Maas
For all practical purposes, the adhik maas in the Hindu lunar calendar was the ‘orphaned’ month. This is because each of the 12 months were right from the beginning, assigned presiding deities across the 12 distinct manifestations of the Sun god, Surya – called ‘Dvadash Adityas’ as well as specific forms of Lord Vishnu – called ‘Masa Niyamakas’. With no guardian to preside over it, the adhik maas was considered a ‘mal maas’ deeming it ‘wasted’ in a way.
However, Lord Vishnu, is believed to have taken pity and adopted the adhik maas as His own, even giving it His name. This is why this month is also referred to as ‘Purushottam Maas’. With his adoption, the adhik maas actually became the holiest period in the entire calendar.
Another coinciding story explaining the origins of the adhik maas is the tale of the demon king, Hiranyakashipu. As per a boon he had attained from Lord Brahma, he could not be killed by any man, animal, God or demon, neither on earth nor in the sky and with no weapon. Most importantly, he could not be killed during any of the 12 months of the year, essentially making him immortal. Many believe this is what prompted the birth of Lord Vishnu’s half-man half-lion avatar of Narasimha, who then slayed Hiranyakashipu on this 13th extra month.
How is the Adhik Maas ‘holy’?
As per tradition, steering weddings and other auspicious beginnings away from the adhik maas, naturally has the uninformed believe in the narrative of the times during this stretch being inauspicious. However, the real intention behind not indulging in any ‘shubh karya’ during this time, is the fact that it is simply not the time for any worldly accumulations. Any and all joy and peace during this month, must necessarily stem from spiritual meditation, reflection and practices.
What is the Correct Way to Observe Adhik Maas?
As a rule of thumb, any worldly rooted milestone you attach a sense of new beginning to, must be avoided. This spans engagements, weddings, hefty purchases such as property or vehicles, inaugurations, starting a new business and so on. Instead, outside of your daily responsibilities, focus on spending your time simply. Fasting, reciting religious texts, indulging in penance and acts of charity come highly recommended. Think of the adhik maas as more of a soft pause to bring yourself back on track, spiritually.
