March 2026 Festival Calendar: Important Religious Dates to Know

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With March just around the corner, it is not only about the change in weather but also about the wonderful spiritual events that bring people together and raise our spirits. Here is a list of the important spiritual events of March 2026 that are celebrated by people all over India with devotion and festivity:

March Spiritual Calendar 2026

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March 3-4 - Holi and Holika Dahan

The festival of colours comes early in March. Holika Dahan, marking the victory of good over evil, will be celebrated on the evening of March 3, and Holi (Dhulendi) on March 4.

March 5 - Shab-e-Barat (Islamic)

An important night in the Islamic calendar, Shab-e-Barat is celebrated with prayers, reflection, and remembrance of loved ones. It's a time many Muslims spend the night in worship and spiritual contemplation.

March 8 - Rang Panchami (Colour Celebration)

A few days after Holi, Rang Panchami is observed in various regions as an extension of the colour festivities - throwing coloured powders and water as a joyous ritual.

March 15 - Ekadashi and Meena Sankranti

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Devotees of Lord Vishnu observe Papamochani Ekadashi around this date, a day of fasting and spiritual merit - and Meena Sankranti, which marks a solar transition and is considered auspicious for prayers and charity.

March 19 - Gudi Padwa, Ugadi, and Chaitra Navratri Begins

This day is big on new beginnings:

• Gudi Padwa (Maharashtrian New Year)
• Ugadi (Telugu and Kannada New Year)
• Chaitra Navratri: the nine-day devotional period dedicated to Goddess Durga

All fall on 19 March, marking spiritual renewal and fresh starts.

Around 18-22 March- Eid al-Fitr

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The holy month of Ramadan (a period of fasting, prayer and reflection) continues into March. It is expected to conclude around March 18, with Eid al-Fitr, the joyous festival marking the end of Ramadan, falling around March 20-22, depending on moon sighting.

March 21 - Gauri Tritiya / Gangaur

Observed in many regions, Gauri Tritiya (also called Gangaur) sees women praying for marital harmony, prosperity and well-being.

March 26-27 - Rama Navami

One of the most popular festivals for many Hindus, Rama Navami is a celebration of the birth of Lord Rama through fasting, singing devotional songs, and reciting the Ramayana.

March 29 - Mahavir Jayanti

This day is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, a great religious leader in Jainism.

Many of these dates follow the lunar calendar, so regional calendars and temple schedules might show slight variations in observance times.

Bottomline

March is the kind of month where spirituality flows seamlessly into everyday life: colours, devotion, fasting, new beginnings, and community gatherings. Whether you plan to participate in a local event or simply soak in the meaning behind the rituals, this calendar gives you a compass to the soulful moments ahead.