According to Hindu religious tradition, Bhishma Dwadashi is of supreme importance. It is the day in which Bhishma Pitamaha achieved Moksha. Hindu spiritual calendar points out that, this auspicious day falls on the twelfth day of the month of Magha (Shukla Paksha). In fact, it is believed that engaging in fasting and gifting charity on this day will bring wisdom and prosperity to children. Above all, it will also result in the destruction of the karmic weightage that may hold our children back. Such is the power of Bhishma Pitamaha’s divine grace. In this article, we will explore the important date, timings, spiritual significance and puja vidhi of Bhishma Dwadashi 2026.
Date and Timings of Bhishma Dwadashi 2026
This year, Bhishma Dwadashi will be observed on 29th January (Thursday).
The beginning of Dwadashi Tithi is at 01:55 PM (29th January 2026)
Dwadashi Tithi will conclude at 11:09 AM (30th January 2026)
Spiritual Significance of Bishma Dwadashi 2026
Govinda Dwadashi is another name of this divine time period. The belief is that Bhishma Pitamaha was granted the boon of choosing the day of his own death. While lying on the bed made up of arrows, his intellect was working as perfectly as the spark of a sun ray. Understanding the auspiciousness of the period of Uttarayana, Bhishma Pitamaha chose to leave his mortal body on this day. His Moksha happened precisely on the 12th day of the bright half of Magha lunar month.
Puja Vidhi for Bhishma Dwadashi 2026
Devotees can wake up during the Brahma Muhurta on this day. After taking a ritual bath, it is highly recommended that we wear clothes in white colour as this colour is deeply associated with sattvic state and inner peace.
Then, devotees can clean up the home mandir. After that, first thing in the morning, we must make a pledge that we will maintain the day’s vrat. This should be done in front of the idols of Bhagwan Vishnu and Bhishma Pitamaha. Puja should be conducted using leaves taken from Tulsi plant, flowers that are yellow in colour and fruits. Then, we have to chant Vishnu Sahasranama. Religious leaders say that reciting Vishnu Sahasranama on Bhishma Dwadashi will result in profound inner peace and blessings of the forefathers. This happens due to the fact that Vishnu Sahasranama was gifted to this world by Bhishma Pitamaha while he was lying in his death bed.
It is said that devotees should either consume fruits or a light meal. If you have a light meal, strictly avoid garlic and onion. As the sun goes down, we should light a diyas in front of Bhagwan Vishnu and Bhishma Pitamaha. We should also perform an Aarti. The fast can be concluded on the next day. Spiritually auspicious timing for the same is 7:10 AM to 9:20 AM. Engaging in charity is another important act that devotees should carry out in during the period.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What is the significance of Bhishma Ashtami?
Bhishma Ashtami honours Bhishma Pitamaha from the Mahabharata. It marks his death anniversary during the auspicious Uttarayan period.
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Which Ekadashi is most powerful?
Nirjala Ekadashi is widely considered as the most powerful and sacred of the 24 annual Ekadashis.
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What is the significance of Bhishma Panchak?
Bhishma Panchak refers to the final five days of the holy Hindu month of Kartik. It honours Bhishma Pitamaha who fasted while on his bed of arrows.
