Khandoba Festival 2026

Full Date

14 January 2026 11:00 AM – 20 January 2026 6:00 PM

Muhurat Timings in India

• Festival Commencement

  Beginning of the festival with the invocation of Lord Khandoba through prayers and rituals.

  14 January 2026 11:00 AM – 14 January 2026 12:00 PM

• Procession and Yatra

  Devotees partake in processions and perform pilgrimage to local Khandoba temples.

  15 January 2026 8:00 AM – 15 January 2026 6:00 PM

• Champa Shashti

  The six-day festival commemorating Lord Khandoba's victory over demons, involving special rituals and cultural events.

  20 January 2026 10:00 AM – 25 January 2026 8:00 PM

Introduction

The Khandoba Festival is a significant religious celebration in Maharashtra and Karnataka, dedicated to Lord Khandoba, a manifestation of Lord Shiva revered as the protector of farmers, warriors, and communities. The festivities include rituals, yatra (pilgrimage), and cultural events symbolizing the victory of good over evil.

Other Names

Khandoba Yatra, Champa Shashti

Pooja Vidhi

• Begin with holy water baths and cleansing rituals.
• Offer prayers with turmeric powder and flowers to Lord Khandoba.
• Light lamps using cow ghee to honor the deity.
• Recite mantras and perform aarti with incense and fragrance powders.
• Participate in communal singing and cultural performances celebrating Lord Khandoba.
• Conclude with offerings of prasad and distribution among devotees.

Rituals

• The festival begins with chanting and offerings at Khandoba temples, especially in Jejuri and other Maharashtra shrines.
• Devotees participate in yatra (pilgrimage) to Khandoba temples.
• Turmeric powder (Bhandara) is actively used in rituals symbolizing purity and blessings.
• Champa Shashti is observed over several days with prayers, holy baths, and cultural performances.
• Newlyweds visit the Khandoba temple to seek blessings for fertility and prosperity.
• The deity is venerated with water, bilva leaves, abir, and incense during the ceremonies.

Regional Highlights

• The festival is primarily celebrated in Maharashtra and parts of Karnataka.
• Jejuri is the most famous center for Khandoba worship and festivities.
• It is significant to farmers, warriors, and many rural communities.

History

Lord Khandoba is considered a warrior form of Lord Shiva who defeated the demons Malla and Mani, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The festival commemorates this victory and invokes his blessings for fertility, protection, and prosperity.

Additional Information

• Khandoba is also known as a fertility deity and guardian of communities.
• The festival strengthens community bonds through shared rituals and celebrations.
• Many newly married couples seek blessings for prosperity and offspring.