Masi Magam 2026: Date, Magam Nakshathram Timings & Spiritual Significance
Masi Magam is an important Tamil Hindu festival celebrated when the Magam (Magha) Nakshathram coincides with the Tamil month of Masi (February–March). The day is considered highly sacred for taking holy dips and performing temple rituals.
In 2026, Masi Magam will be observed on:
- Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Magam Nakshathram Timings – 2026
- Magam Nakshathram Begins: 07:51 AM on March 2, 2026
- Magam Nakshathram Ends: 07:31 AM on March 3, 2026
Since the Magam Nakshathram prevails during sunrise on March 3, the festival will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
What is Masi Magam?
Masi Magam is primarily celebrated in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, with great devotion and grandeur. On this day:
- Idols from temples are taken in grand processions.
- Deities are brought to rivers, seas, or temple tanks.
- Devotees take holy dips believing it washes away sins.
The festival symbolizes purification, spiritual cleansing, and divine blessings.
Spiritual Significance of Magam Nakshathram
Magam Nakshathram is ruled by the Pitris (ancestors) and is associated with royal dignity and divine heritage. When this star aligns in the Tamil month of Masi, it creates a powerful spiritual combination.
Taking a holy dip during Masi Magam is believed to:
- Remove past karmic burdens
- Bring prosperity and good fortune
- Offer blessings of ancestors
- Grant spiritual upliftment
Major Places of Celebration
1. Kumbakonam
Kumbakonam is especially famous for its grand Masi Magam celebrations. The Mahamaham tank becomes the focal point of rituals and holy baths.
2. Chennai
Temples organize ceremonial processions and special pujas.
3. Rameswaram
Devotees take holy dips in the sea and offer prayers at Ramanathaswamy Temple.
Rituals Performed on Masi Magam
- Holy bath in rivers, sea, or temple tanks
- Special Abhishekam and Archana
- Ancestor prayers (Pitru Tarpanam)
- Charity and donation
- Temple processions with decorated idols
Devotees wake up early, take a purifying bath, wear traditional attire, and visit temples.
Mythological Belief
According to tradition, celestial beings descend to earth on this day to bless devotees. Bathing in sacred waters during Magam Nakshathram is believed to provide the same merit as bathing in holy rivers like Ganga.
Masi Magam 2026 Summary
| Event | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Magam Nakshathram Begins | March 2, 2026 | 07:51 AM |
| Magam Nakshathram Ends | March 3, 2026 | 07:31 AM |
| Masi Magam | March 3, 2026 | Tuesday |
Conclusion
Masi Magam 2026 will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 3, during the sacred Magam Nakshathram. It is a powerful day for spiritual purification, temple worship, and seeking ancestral blessings.
The festival beautifully blends devotion, tradition, and sacred rituals, making it one of the most important observances in Tamil Hindu culture.
