- By Kashish Rai
- Sun, 01 Feb 2026 10:44 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Thaipusam 2026 or Thaipoosam is an important festival of the Hindu Tamil community, which is observed every year on the full moon day in the Tamil month of Thai. As per the Gregorian calendar, it falls in either January or February. The name Thaipusam is formed by two words: Thai, which is the name of the month, and Pusam, which is the name of a constellation. On this special day, the Pusam constellation is at its highest point in the sky. This festival is observed with utmost devotion and fervour by the Tamil Hindus. This year, Thaipusam will be observed on 1st February 2026.
Here are all the details about the date, timings of Poosam Nakshatram, and the rituals associated with this day:
Thaipusam 2026: Date And Poosam Nakshatram Timings
- Thaipusam 2026 Date: 1st February 2026, Sunday
- Poosam Nakshathram Begins: 01:34 AM, 1st February, 2026
- Poosam Nakshathram Ends: 11:58 PM, 1st February 2026
Thaipusam 2026: Significance
The Thaipusam festival is a celebration of the victory of Lord Murugan. It is also believed that Goddess Parvati giftedva powerful spear named Vel to Lord Murugan so that he could defeat the demon Surapadman. On this day, people worship Murugan, who is revered as the son of Lord Shiva to get his blessings and get rid of all the negativity in their lives. This festival is celebrated with great fervour not only in the southern states of India but also in Malaysia, Singapore, and Sri Lanka, which have a large number of Tamils.
ALSO READ: 10 Powerful Lord Murugan Mantras For Success And Prosperity
Devotees carry Kavadis to the temples on the sacred occasion of Thaipusam. (Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)
Thaipusam 2026: Rituals
Preparations for Thaipusam start 48 hours prior to the event. During this time, devotees observe a fast and offer prayers. The devotees who carry the Kavadi practice celibacy and have only one sattvic meal a day. To ensure that they practice discipline, they avoid worldly pleasures and wear orange or yellow-colored clothing.
On the day of the festival, the devotees shave their heads and move towards the temple. They carry milk pots or Kavadis. To display their immense devotion to Lord Murugan, the devotees insert sharp spears called vel into their tongues, cheeks, or bodies. This is a tough penance that helps them feel the power of Lord Murugan.
When they arrive at the temple, the devotees get down from their Kavadis and pour milk or honey on the idol of Murugan. After the needles and spears are extracted from their bodies, hot ash is applied to the wounds. It is said that the devotees do not feel any pain or bleeding during the process of removing needles due to the blessings of Lord Murugan. This festival serves as an occasion to thank the Lord and seek his blessings.
(Disclaimer: This content includes advice providing generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified spiritual or astrological opinion. Always consult a specialist for more information before adopting any measures.)