Patna: Wedding celebrations across India will begin from February 2026, as favourable planetary positions open the door for marriage ceremonies. According to the Hindu Panchang, there are 59 auspicious wedding dates available between February 5 and December 12 this year. Astrologers say that Jupiter and Venus, which are considered important planets for marriage, will be in supportive positions from February onwards, making it a suitable time for weddings and other important family rituals.
Although Makar Sankranti falls on January 15, weddings will not take place immediately after it in 2026. This is because Venus will remain in a retrograde position during this period. When Jupiter or Venus is retrograde, it is believed to create obstacles in marriage-related matters. As a result, families will have to wait until February, when the planetary movement becomes favourable and the wedding season officially begins.
A major break in the wedding calendar will occur due to Malmas, also known as Purushottam Maas, which will be observed from May 17 to June 15. During this period, all auspicious ceremonies such as weddings, housewarming functions, naming ceremonies and tonsuring rituals are traditionally prohibited. However, Malmas is considered very important from a religious point of view. Worship, chanting, charity, penance, service to cows and the donation of holy books like the Ramayana and the Gita are believed to give greater spiritual benefits during this time.
After Malmas ends, wedding ceremonies will resume again from June 21 and continue till December. February will have the highest number of auspicious dates, followed by March, April, May and June. There will also be limited wedding dates in July, November and December. Religious experts advise families to carefully check the calendar and consult elders or astrologers before finalising dates. Overall, 2026 offers many opportunities for weddings, as long as couples plan their ceremonies according to the traditional calendar.
