🌅 Chaitra Month Begins – 20 March 2026 (Friday)

In the Hindu lunar calendar followed in North India, Chaitra marks the first month of the year. The beginning of Chaitra Maas is considered highly auspicious and spiritually powerful. It symbolizes new beginnings, fresh resolutions, purification, and the start of a new spiritual cycle.

Chaitra Month is deeply associated with:

• Worship of Lord Vishnu (especially as Rama)
• Observance of fasting and charity
• Sacred festivals such as Chaitra Navratri, Gudi Padwa, and Ugadi

📖 Why is Chaitra Month Important?

According to ancient scriptures:

• Brahma began the creation of the universe in the month of Chaitra
• The Sun enters an auspicious phase symbolizing new energy
• The beginning of Chaitra brings spiritual, mental, and emotional renewal

For many regional calendars in North India, Chaitra Pratipada also marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year.

🛕 Spiritual Significance

Chaitra Month brings:

• Positive energy and new opportunities
• Increased auspiciousness for starting new endeavors
• Growth of purity and spiritual discipline
• A favorable phase for devotion and self-transformation

🌟 Key Observances in Chaitra Month

Some major festivals during this month include:

• Chaitra Navratri
• Gudi Padwa / Ugadi (New Year celebration in several regions)
• Ram Navami
• Yamuna Jayanti
• Papmochani Ekadashi

It is a month with numerous tithis dedicated to fasting, charity, and religious activities.

🕉️ Rituals on the First Day of Chaitra Month

1. Early Morning Bath

Devotees begin the month with a sacred bath and prayers.

2. Vishnu and Rama Worship

Offering:

• Flowers
• Rice
• Prasad
• Sweets
• Diya and incense

Chanting:

• Vishnu Sahasranama
• “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya”
• Rama Raksha Stotra

3. Start New Initiatives

The day is ideal for:

• House construction
• Business beginnings
• New projects
• Education and spiritual resolutions

4. Fasting and Charity

Charity given during this period is considered highly rewarding. Offerings may include:

• Food
• Clothing
• Water
• Grain
• Donation to the needy

5. Reading Scriptures

Many devotees read:

• Ramayana
• Bhagavad Gita
• Vishnu Purana
• Sundar Kand

🌈 Benefits of Chaitra Month

• Creates positive spiritual momentum
• Removes past obstacles and negative karmas
• Strengthens faith and devotion
• Improves mental balance and clarity
• Brings family harmony and prosperity
• Ideal for self-discipline and spiritual growth

❓ FAQ – Chaitra Month Begins

Q1. Why is Chaitra the first month of the Hindu year in North India?
Because the lunar calendar used in North India starts with Shukla Pratipada of Chaitra, marking the beginning of a new spiritual and cosmological cycle.

Q2. Which deity is worshipped during Chaitra Month?
Primarily Lord Vishnu and his Rama incarnation.

Q3. Is the beginning of Chaitra good for new ventures?
Yes, it is one of the best days in the year for starting auspicious work.

Q4. Is fasting mandatory on this day?
Not compulsory, but many devotees observe vrats to begin the month with purity and devotion.

Q5. Which major festival falls during this month?
The most important festival is Chaitra Navratri, culminating on Ram Navami.