About Bhishma Dwadashi
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According to the Hindu Panchang, the Dwadashi Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the Magha month is celebrated as Bhishma Dwadashi. This Dwadashi is also known by other names such as Amalaki Dwadashi, Santana Dwadashi and Varaha Dwadashi. A person who devoutly observes the Magha Shukla Dwadashi fast becomes a leader among people in this world, attains all forms of wealth and prosperity and ultimately achieves oneness with Lord Vishnu at the end of life. The Nirnaya Sindhu states "Magha Shukla Dwadashi is known as Bhishma Dwadashi. The Hemadri text also cites a verse from the Padma Purana describing Dwadashi as highly auspicious and capable of removing all sins. One should observe this fast on Purva Viddha Dwadashi." Both the Padma Purana and the Matsya Purana mention a fast known as Bhima Dwadashi Vrat. The observance of this fast begins on Magha Shukla Dashami and continues for three days. The Bhima Dwadashi Vrat is also referred to as Kalyanini Vrat. While the Padma Purana does not specifically state whether it belongs to the Shukla or Krishna Paksha, the Matsya Purana clearly identifies Magha Shukla Dwadashi as the day of Bhima Dwadashi.
Deities & divine forms
However, both the Narada Purana and Bhavishya Purana prescribe that on Magha Shukla Dwadashi, one should worship Lord Madhava. Madhava is one of the many sacred names of Lord Vishnu. Hence, this Dwadashi is also known as Madhava Dwadashi. According to the Narada Purana, on this day one should observe a fast and perform Abhisheka of Lord Madhava with one seer of milk. Thereafter, offer eight oblations of Ghee into the sacred fire while reciting the Namaste Madhavaya। (नमस्ते माधवाय।) Mantra. Then, with focused devotion, worship Lord Madhava three times with sandal paste, flowers and Akshata, and keep vigil throughout the night, remaining absorbed in His worship. In the morning, after completing daily rituals, one should perform worship of Lord Madhava again. To attain freedom from sins, offer one seer of Til, along with garments and Dakshina to a Brahmin while reciting the following Mantra
How to celebrate Bhishma Dwadashi 2026
According to the Narada Purana, on this day one should observe a fast and perform Abhisheka of Lord Madhava with one seer of milk. Thereafter, offer eight oblations of Ghee into the sacred fire while reciting the Namaste Madhavaya। (नमस्ते माधवाय।) Mantra. Then, with focused devotion, worship Lord Madhava three times with sandal paste, flowers and Akshata, and keep vigil throughout the night, remaining absorbed in His worship. In the morning, after completing daily rituals, one should perform worship of Lord Madhava again. To attain freedom from sins, offer one seer of Til, along with garments and Dakshina to a Brahmin while reciting the following Mantra माधवः सर्वभूतात्मा सर्वकर्मफलप्रदः। तिलदानेन महता सर्वान् कामान् प्रयच्छतु॥Madhavah Sarvabhutatma Sarvakarmaphalapradah। Tiladanena Mahata Sarvan Kaman Prayachchhatu॥ Meaning "O Lord Madhava, the Soul of all beings and the Bestower of the fruits of all actions! May You, being pleased by this great offering of sesame seeds, fulfill all my desires." After offering sesame seeds and charity to the Brahmin with devotion, meditate upon Lord Madhava and serve food to Brahmins as per capacity. According to Narada Purana, Sage Sanaka states, "A person who performs this fast with devotion and offers sesame seeds in charity according to the prescribed method attains the complete merit equivalent to performing one 100 Vajapeya Yajnas."
Bhishma Dwadashi 2026 — FAQs
Bhishma Dwadashi and for Diu, Daman and Diu, India is observed on 2026-01-29.
According to the Hindu Panchang, the Dwadashi Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the Magha month is celebrated as Bhishma Dwadashi. This Dwadashi is also known by other names such as Amalaki Dwadashi, Santana Dwadashi and Varaha Dwadashi. A person who devoutly observes the Magha Shukla Dwadashi fast becomes a leader among people in this world, attains all forms of wealth and prosperity and ultimately achieves oneness with Lord Vishnu at the end of life.
