📖 3 min read · 445 words
Avani Masam 2026 runs from August 18 to September 17, 2026.
Avani is the fifth month of the Tamil solar calendar (also called
Simha Masam), and it carries some of the year’s most important
observances — from Avani Avittam to Sri Krishna Jayanti.
Avani Masam 2026 Start and End Dates
- Avani Masam begins: Tuesday, August 18, 2026
- Avani Masam ends: Thursday, September 17, 2026
The Tamil months follow the solar calendar, so Avani begins when the Sun enters
Simha rasi (Leo) and lasts until it moves into the next sign.
This is why Avani almost always falls across mid-August to mid-September each
year.
Important Festivals in Avani Masam 2026
-
Avani Moolam — August 23, 2026: Celebrated as the star of
Lord Sundareswarar; observed with special significance in Madurai. -
Avani Avittam (Upakarma) — August 26, 2026: The day when
many Tamil Brahmins change their sacred thread (Yagnopaveetham) and perform
Upakarma. Yajur Vedis observe it on the Avittam (Shravana) nakshatram in
Avani. -
Sri Krishna Jayanti (Gokulashtami) — September 4, 2026: The
birth of Lord Krishna, celebrated with fasting, bhajans and kolams at homes
and temples.
Festival dates follow the Tamil panchangam and may vary slightly by region
and tradition. Please cross-check with your local temple or panchangam before
observing vratams.
What Makes Avani Masam Special?
Avani is the fifth month in the Tamil calendar, which begins
with Puthandu (Tamil New Year) in the month of Chithirai. In the solar reckoning
it is known as Simha Masam. A few things set Avani apart:
-
Avani Gnayiru: Sundays in Avani are considered auspicious,
and special prayers are offered to Surya (the Sun). -
Sacred-thread renewal: Avani Avittam (Upakarma) is one of
the most widely observed rituals of the month. -
Temple observances: Many temples conduct special poojas
through Avani, and it is a favoured month for devotional vratams.
Avani Masam and the Farming Season
Avani also marks the onset of the rains across parts of Tamil Nadu, making it an
important month for agriculture. Traditionally, farming families plan the start
of the new season’s work during Avani, tying the month closely to the rhythm of
the land.
Is Avani a Good Month for Weddings?
Many families consult the Avani panchangam to find
muhurtham (auspicious) dates for weddings and other functions.
Because auspicious timings depend on tithi, nakshatram and individual
horoscopes, it is best to confirm a specific muhurtham with a qualified purohit
or panchangam.
Avani Masam — Quick FAQ
Which Tamil month is Avani?
Avani is the fifth month of the Tamil solar calendar, corresponding to the Simha
(Leo) solar month, roughly mid-August to mid-September.
What are the Avani Masam 2026 dates?
Avani Masam 2026 runs from August 18 to September 17, 2026.
What is the most important festival in Avani?
Avani Avittam (Upakarma) and Sri Krishna Jayanti are among the most widely
observed events of the month.