Akshaya Navami, popularly known as Amla Navami, is an important Hindu festival celebrated during the Shukla Paksha of the Kartik month. The occasion is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and devotees worship the amla (Indian gooseberry) tree as part of the traditional rituals.
People observe this day by offering prayers, performing religious ceremonies and donating food and other essentials. According to Hindu beliefs, good deeds performed on Akshaya Navami bring lasting blessings and prosperity.
In 2026, the Navami tithi falls across November 18 and 19. However, devotees may observe the festival on November 18 based on the Udaya Tithi tradition. Here are the date, puja timings and religious importance of Akshaya Navami.
Akshaya Navami 2026: Date and Tithi Timings
Akshaya Navami is celebrated on the ninth day (Navami) of the Shukla Paksha, or the waxing phase of the Moon, during Kartik month.
According to the Hindu calendar, the Navami tithi will begin at 6:04 AM on November 18, 2026, and conclude at 7:05 AM on November 19.
The festival is generally observed according to the Udaya Tithi, which means the lunar date present at sunrise. Following this tradition, Akshaya Navami will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 18, 2026.
Akshaya Navami 2026 Puja Muhurat
The morning period, particularly Purvahna, is considered suitable for performing Akshaya Navami rituals.
On November 18, the auspicious puja window is scheduled from 6:46 AM to 12:06 PM. During this period, devotees can worship Lord Vishnu, offer prayers to the amla tree and perform traditional religious activities.
Donating food, helping people in need and carrying out charitable activities are also considered auspicious on this occasion.
It is important to note that the exact puja timings may differ slightly between cities because of variations in local sunrise timings.
Why Do Devotees Worship the Amla Tree?
The amla tree has a special religious connection with Lord Vishnu in Hindu traditions. For this reason, worshipping the tree is considered an important part of Akshaya Navami celebrations.
On this day, devotees visit amla trees and perform rituals such as offering water, lighting lamps and completing parikrama, which involves walking around the tree as a mark of devotion. Amla fruits are also used in religious offerings.
The tradition reflects the importance of the amla tree in Hindu religious practices and its association with worship and devotion.
Akshaya Navami Religious Significance and Traditions
The word ‘Akshaya’ means something that never diminishes or comes to an end. According to religious beliefs, prayers, charity, donations and other good deeds performed on this day bring blessings that remain everlasting.
One of the well-known customs associated with Akshaya Navami is preparing food beneath an amla tree. Families gather around the tree, cook meals and share the food with relatives and loved ones as prasad.
The festival also highlights the importance of respecting nature, supporting others and maintaining a sense of community. Devotees are encouraged to donate food and assist people in need as part of the celebrations.
Through these traditions, Akshaya Navami brings together religious devotion, charity and respect for nature.
Disclaimer: This article is based on traditional Hindu beliefs and the festival timings provided for 2026. Puja muhurat may vary depending on the location and local Panchang calculations. Devotees should consult their regional Panchang or a knowledgeable priest for location-specific timings.