Fasting in Adhik Mahina – Hindu Extra Month Vrat, Pujas and Rituals in Adhika Masa

Adhik Maas is known as Purushottama Masa is western parts on India and is considered highly auspicious for performing vrat, pujas, fasts and rituals dedicated to Bhagvan Vishnu. The recitation of Srimad Bhagavad Purana and of the Bhagavad Gita during this month produces highly meritorious results. Some people undertake fasting during the month dedicated to Lord Vishnu. In 2023, Adhika Mahina is from July 17 to August 16 and is the Adhik Shravan Mahina.

In Bhavishyottara Purana, Sri Krishna talks about the Adhik Maas Vrat. He says that by carrying out the Vrat with the dedication to Vishnu through fasting, cleanliness, charity, puja etc. merits are acquired which produce unfailing results and all sorts of problems and tragedies are overcome. Fasting in one Adhik Maas is equal to performing 1000 Kartik Maas Vrat.

Adhik Maas Vrat begins on the first day and ends on the last day of Adhik Masa.

During the month it is good to wake up during the hours of Brahma Muhurta (between 4 am and 6 am). 

After bath and ablutions, place a murti or idol or painting of Radha and Krishna or Lakshmi-Narayana and perform Sodashopachara puja (puja in 16 steps) or the usual simple puja and prayers.

It is auspicious to visit Vishnu temple or a temple of any of his incarnations during the month.

The food that is eaten during the month is Sattvic food like vegetarian meal, milk, fruits, nuts, grains, vegetables etc.

Related

The Story of Adhik Maas or Purushottama Masa associated with Hindu God Vishnu