Why is the “Blue Moon” of May 31, 2026, so special? Learn the exact timing of today’s full moon and the importance of charity Today, after 8 years, the rare coincidence of Jyeshtha Adhik Purnima has come, ‘Blue Moon’ and ‘Micromoon’ will be visible in the sky; Know the auspicious time and things to donate

Today i.e. 31st May 2026 is very unique and important from both the point of view of astronomy and religious faith. Today is Jyeshtha Adhik Purnima, which has come after a long wait of 8 years. Although Adhikamas (Purushottam month) comes every 3 years, but this special coincidence of Adhikamas in the month of Jyeshtha is a rare phenomenon, which was seen earlier in the year 2018.

On this very special day, two amazing astronomical events are going to happen simultaneously in the sky, which has attracted the attention of scientists and common people around the world. Let us understand in very simple words why today’s moon is different and what is the complete mathematics of this day.

What is ‘Blue Moon’ and ‘Micromoon’?

• Blue Moon: This does not mean that today you will see the moon blue. Actually, according to the rules of astronomy, when full moon occurs twice in the same English calendar month (this time the month of May), then the moon of the second full moon of the month is called ‘Blue Moon’. There was a full moon in the beginning of the month of May and today is also a full moon on the last day of the month.

• Micromoon: Today’s Moon will appear slightly smaller than its normal size and slightly fainter. The reason for this is that today the Moon is located at the maximum distance from the Earth while rotating in its orbit. This situation is called ‘Apogee’ in science.

Date and Time of Jyeshtha Adhik Purnima (Purnima Tithi Timings)

According to the calendar and time calculations, the cycle of Purnima Tithi is going to be as follows:

According to the scriptures, due to Udayatithi being on 31st May, the full moon day of Snan-Daan is being celebrated today itself. The time before the end of the tithi in the afternoon is considered best for worship and charity.

Religious significance of today and what to do?

Purnima Tithi is considered very sacred in Hindu religion. On this day, there is a tradition of taking bath in a holy river (like Ganga, Yamuna) and doing special worship of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. It is believed that on this auspicious day, donating to the poor and needy people as per one’s faith and capacity, brings happiness and prosperity in the house, removes financial constraints and the person gets Akshaya Punya Phal (fruit that never gets destroyed).

Donating these things on full moon day is considered best.

In the month of Jyeshtha, the Sun God is at his peak and there is intense heat all around. Therefore, in view of this season, there is mention of donation of some special things in the scriptures:

• Donation of mango and juicy fruits: In this scorching heat, it is very auspicious to donate seasonal fruits like ripe sweet mango, melon and watermelon. There is a religious belief that this completely removes the defects of Sun and Mars present in the horoscope.

• Donation of water (Mahadan): Giving water in the month of Jyeshtha is considered the greatest act of virtue. Today, arranging water for passers-by, donating new earthen pots, serving cold and sweet sherbet or arranging water and food for helpless animals and birds brings good fortune in your life.

• Shoes, slippers and umbrella: In view of this intensity of summer and the upcoming monsoon (rainy season), donate shoes, slippers and umbrella to any poor or helpless person. This small contribution of yours can save a needy person from the scorching sun.

• Food, clothes and dakshina: On this day, feed food to worthy Brahmins or the poor with respect. Give them grains (wheat, rice), new cotton clothes and some money as Dakshina as per your capacity. By doing this, Goddess Lakshmi is pleased and the food store of the house is always full.