Purushottam Maas Adhik Maas

Adhik Maas, also known as Purushottam Maas or Mal Maas, is an additional month that occurs in the Hindu calendar. It is a concept in Hindu astrology and not a part of the Gregorian calendar, which is commonly used worldwide.

In the Hindu lunar calendar, a year consists of 12 lunar months, with each month corresponding to one complete cycle of the moon. However, since the lunar month is slightly shorter than a solar month, there is a difference of approximately 10-11 days between the lunar and solar calendars.

To reconcile this difference, Adhik Maas is inserted approximately every three years or so to bring the lunar calendar back in alignment with the solar calendar. This is the reason Hindu calendar is lunisolar calendar. The specific timing of Adhik Maas may vary, as it is determined by the Hindu Panchang or religious almanac, which takes into account various astrological factors.

Purushottam Maas, also known as Adhik Maas or Mal Maas, is an additional month that occurs in the Hindu lunar calendar. It is considered highly auspicious and holds special significance in Hindu traditions, particularly in Vaishnavism (the worship of Lord Vishnu). Purushottam Maas is considered an opportunity for spiritual growth, devotion, and performing religious rituals. Pusushottam is one of the names of Lord Vishnu.

Calendar Alignment

The month of Purushottam Maas is in fact an added month in Hindu lunisolar calendar ‘Panchanga’. The intercalary month adjustment is done approximately every 32.5 months to bring the lunar calendar back in alignment with the solar calendar.

It is believed that during this month, the influence of Lord Vishnu is heightened, and devotees can earn greater spiritual merit through acts of devotion, charity, fasting, and other religious practices.

The specific timing of Purushottam Maas can vary, as it is determined by the Hindu Panchang or religious almanac, which takes into account various astrological factors. The dates of Purushottam Maas can differ from region to region and may also vary depending on different calendar systems followed within Hinduism.

Purushottam Maas is a separate concept within the Vaishnava tradition of Hinduism. It is considered an extra month that occurs within the lunar calendar, specifically within the Vaishnava lunar calendar. This additional month is believed to be a rare occurrence and holds great religious significance for devotees of Lord Vishnu.

Significance

During Purushottam Maas, devotees engage in increased acts of devotion, such as fasting, performing religious rituals, studying scriptures, and practicing meditation. It is believed that observing religious practices during this month brings special blessings and spiritual advancement.

The exact timing and duration of Purushottam Maas may vary from year to year and depend on the lunar calendar followed within the Hindu tradition. It is recommended to refer to the Vaishnava Panchang or consult a Astrologer Prama Chopra or spiritual authority for the specific dates and observances associated with Purushottam Maas in a particular year. To find the exact dates of Purushottam Maas in a particular year, it is recommended to refer to the Hindu Panchang or consult a Hindu calendar for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

List of Purushottam Mas Adhik Maas

The list is as per North Indian Purnimant Vikram calendar System. In South India Amavasyant system is also followed so the date and names of the months may vary.

Adhik Maas in 2001: Ashwin Adhik Maas (September 18 – October 16, 2001)
Adhik Maas in 2004: Shravan Adhik Maas (July 18 – August 16, 2004)
Adhiik Maas in 2007: Jyeshtha Adhik Maas (May 17 – June 15, 2007)
Adhik Maas in 2010: Vaishakh Adhik Maas (April 15 – May 14, 2010)
Adhik Maas in 2012: Bhadrapada Adhik Maas (August 18 – September 16, 2012)
Adhik Maas in 2015: Ashadha Adhik Maas (June 17 – July 16, 2015)
Adhik Maas in 2018: Jyeshtha Adhik Maas (May 16 – June 13, 2018)
Adhik Maas in 2020: Ashadha Adhik Maas (18th September 2020 – 16th October 2020)
Adhik Maas in 2023: Shravan Adhik Maas (July 18 – August 16 2023)
Adhik Maas in 2026: Jyeshtha Adhik Maas (May 17 – June 15, 2026)