Adhik Maas, also known as Purushottam Maas or Mal Maas, is an intercalary month in the Hindu lunar calendar that appears approximately every 2.5 to 3 years to align lunar and solar cycles. This “extra” month holds profound spiritual significance, transforming from an once-rejected period into one of the most auspicious times for devotion.
The Legend of Purushottam Maas
According to legends from the Padma Purana and Vaishnava traditions, the extra month initially had no presiding deity. While the other twelve months were assigned to various gods, Adhik Maas felt neglected and was derisively called Mal Maas (impure or waste month). People avoided auspicious activities like marriages or new ventures during this time.
Grieving, the personified month approached Lord Vishnuin Vaikuntha, seeking refuge. Moved by compassion, Lord Vishnu declared, You shall now bear My own name — Purushottam Maas. He blessed it with extraordinary potency: any puja, japa, daan (charity), or vrat performed during this month yields multiplied merits — often said to be a thousand times greater than in other months. Lord Vishnu himself became its presiding deity, making it ideal for Vishnu/Krishna bhakti.
What to Do in Adhik Maas (Purushottam Maas)
- Worship Lord Vishnu/Purushottam: Chant Vishnu Sahasranama, Hare Krishna Mahamantra, or read Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam daily.
- Practice Charity (Daan)- Donate food, clothes, lamps, or money to the needy. Acts of giving return manifold blessing Observe Fasts and Austerity: Keep Ekadashi vrat or simple sattvic meals. Wake early during Brahma Muhurta for meditation and prayer.
- Engage in Japa, Tapa, and Seva: Reduce material distractions, perform naam japa, visit temples, and practice kindness and self-discipline.
What Not To Do
Avoid major auspicious ceremonies such as marriages, griha pravesh (housewarming), or starting new ventures, as the month favors spiritual introspection over worldly beginnings. Steer clear of tamsic foods (onion, garlic, non-veg), alcohol, arguments, gossip, and excessive entertainment. Focus on purity of mind and action.
Adhik Maas reminds us that even what seems extra or neglected can become supremely blessed through surrender. By embracing devotion, charity, and simplicity this month, devotees cleanse karma and invite boundless spiritual growth.
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