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2026-07-26 02:49 UTC → 2026-07-27 01:15 UTC ·
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The In late July 2026 two Hindu fasting calendar fasts received detailed coverage in India featured two observances. and Nepal. On 26 July, July devotees marked observed the final Pradosh Vrat—referred to in some reports Vrat of the Ashadha month, also described as Ravi Pradosh Vrat—dedicated to Lord Shiva. Vrat. Astrological calculations indicated noted the rare concurrence overlap of Indra Yoga (lasting until (ending about 10:05 p.m.) 22:05 IST) and Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga (active from early morning on 26 July to early morning on 27 July), enhancing as well as the ritual’s perceived potency. Ashadha Shukla Trayodashi period beginning at 13:57 IST on the 26th and ending at 16:14 IST on the 27th. The prescribed puja worship window was the Pradosh Kaal after sunset, specifically from 7:16 p.m. 19:16 to 9:21 p.m., 21:21, with the most auspicious interval between 7:16 p.m. 19:16 and 8:34 p.m. 20:34 and an additional Amrit Muhurat extending to 9:52 p.m. Daytime worship was discouraged. Suggested rites included ablution, wearing 21:52. Ritual guidance emphasized post‑sunset puja, bathing, clean clothes, attire, offering water, cow’s milk, ghee, water, honey, bell‑leaf, and bell‑leaf to the Shiva lingam, chanting “Om Namah Shivaya,” and concluding with aarti. The observance was reported across India Shivaya.” Practitioners were advised to avoid tamasic foods (garlic, onion, meat, alcohol), refrain from wearing black, and Nepal. not apply tulsi leaves, sindoor or turmeric on the Shiva lingam; a silver square piece could be kept in the pocket for concentration. A day later, on 28 July, married women observed Kokila Vrat, began a month‑long fast honoring Kokila Vrat in honor of Shiva and Mother Sati. Rituals involved Observances included early‑morning river baths, offering water to the sun, worship of Shiva and Parvati, and crafting a clay cuckoo idol. Participants may observe total abstinence fast completely or restrict intake to a single‑fruit meal. single fruit. Both fasts were confirmed reported by Indian news outlets, which detailed provided dates, timings, and prescribed rites.