Raksha Bandhan 2026 Date and Time: Every year, the festival of Raksha Bandhan is celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country on the full moon day (Purnima) of the month of Sawan. This year, there is some confusion regarding the exact date of Raksha Bandhan; many people are unsure whether it should be celebrated on August 27 or August 28. On this occasion, sisters tie a protective thread (Raksha-Sutra) around their brothers’ wrists, praying for their happiness, health, and prosperity. Auspicious celestial alignments (Yogas) are forming during the festival this year.

According to the Hindu calendar, the influence of Bhadra is often observed on the full moon day of Sawan. This time, a lunar eclipse is also occurring. You might be wondering whether *Bhadra* will be present during Raksha Bandhan. Scriptures consider the *Bhadra* period inauspicious, and tying the *Rakhi* during this time is prohibited.

When is Raksha Bandhan?

Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated throughout the day on August 28. There will be no shadow of Bhadra on the day of *Rakhi* this year. The *Bhadra* period begins at 09:09 AM on August 27 and concludes at 09:25 PM that same night; consequently, there will be no Bhadra-related obstruction on Raksha Bandhan day, August 28.

When is the Bhadra period?
According to the Hindu calendar, the *Bhadra* period will last from 09:08 AM to 09:32 PM on August 27. Since Raksha Bandhan falls on August 28, the festival will remain free from the influence of *Bhadra* this year.

Upcoming Lunar Eclipse
The lunar eclipse of 2026 is considered quite significant. In fact, the year’s second and final lunar eclipse is set to occur on this day. It will be a partial lunar eclipse, beginning at 8:04 AM and ending at 11:22 AM (Indian Standard Time). However, since this lunar eclipse will not be visible in India, the *Sutak* period (inauspicious period) and associated rituals will not apply.

Auspicious time for tying Rakhi?

The auspicious time for tying Rakhi is from 5:57 AM to 9:48 AM. Rakhi can also be tied during the Abhijit Muhurat; on August 28, the Abhijit Muhurat falls between 12:14 PM and 1:05 PM. While tying the Rakhi, the brother should face east or north-east.

Amrit Choghadiya: 06:08 AM to 10:53 AM
Abhijit Muhurat: 12:04 PM to 12:53 PM
Shubh Choghadiya: 12:28 PM to 02:03 PM
Aparahna Kaal Muhurat: 01:44 PM to 04:16 PM