Every year, as devotees seek to bring harmony, prosperity and protection into their homes, the worship of Dasha Mata (also called Dashama) stands as a deeply meaningful ritual especially among women in certain regions of India. This festival is devoted to the goddess who is believed to manage the ten “dasha” (directions, conditions) of life and safeguard the household from misfortune. In 2026, the observance holds special significance—as we mark the date, muhurat and spiritual import of this sacred event.
Date & Shubh Muhurat
According to panchāng sources:
- The 2026 vrat of Dasha Mata falls on Saturday, 4 April 2026 (Chaitra Maas, Krishna Paksha, Dashami Tithi).
- The auspicious puja muhurats are cited as:
- Morning window: from 6:29 AM onwards.
- Late morning to early afternoon: approximately 11:08 AM to 3:46 PM on 4 April.
- Since the exact local timing may differ depending on one’s city or region, it’s advisable to verify via the local panchāng.
Significance of Dasha Mata
Divine Protector of the Home
Dasha Mata is viewed as a protective mother‐goddess whose favour ensures that the “dasha” (condition or state) of one’s life and home remains well-disposed. The term “dasha” also alludes to the ten directions, the ten conditions or phases of life, which she governs. By worshipping her, devotees believe they mitigate negative influences and invite blessings of stability and prosperity.
Ritual for Stability & Well-being
In tradition, suhaagin (married) women especially perform this vrat and puja to seek the goddess’s protection over their husband’s welfare, family harmony, children’s growth and overall household fortune. The worship often involves tying a sacred thread (dora) around the neck or wrist, symbolic of the goddess’s continued protection.
Seasonal & Regional Context
While in some parts of Gujarat and western India the festival of Dasha Mata is observed during Shravan Maas (July–August) as Dashama Vrat, in other parts (notably North India) it is marked in Chaitra Maas on the Krishna Paksha Dashami tithi. This flexibility highlights the regional variations in Hindu observance while retaining the core meaning of the festival.
How to Observe on 4 April 2026
- Begin with a clean bath early in the day and wear simple, clean attire (often saffron or red tones are preferred).
- Choose a clean area or altar in the home; place an image or small murti of Dasha Mata and also include symbolic trees (such as the banyan, pipal or neem) if tradition demands.
- Offer suitable items: flowers, incense, kumkum/haldi, a lamp (diya), fruits/sweets and a pure thread (dora) which will be tied as part of the ritual.
- Perform the puja during one of the muhurats mentioned (morning or late morning/afternoon) on 4 April. Women may keep a fast or eat sattvic food depending on their custom.
- After the puja, tie the sacred thread and pray for family welfare, removal of obstacles, and improvement of one’s “dasha” (state). Charity or donation is also encouraged for added merit.
- It is also helpful to reflect inwardly on the meaning: that even when life’s circumstances shift, aligned devotion and righteous action can restore equilibrium.
Why This Festival Matters
In a world often dominated by external turbulence—financial stress, health challenges, shifting relationships—the festival of Dasha Mata offers a moment of internal and domestic renewal. It reminds us that the “state” of our life (our dasha) is influenced by our values, our commitments and our faith. By devoting sincere time to worship, reflection and resolution, we symbolically invite stability, grace and benevolence into our home and self.
For 2026, the clear date and muhurats provide an auspicious doorway to embrace this ritual with intention. Whether you are observing the vrat yourself or assisting in the household, participating in the puja can foster a sense of alignment, purpose and protection.
May the auspicious occasion of Dasha Mata in 2026 bring you and your family inner peace, favourable conditions and abundant blessings. Happy Dasha Mata Vrat! 🙏