Aippasi Annabhishekam 2026: Date, Significance, Shiva Temples & Rituals

Aippasi Annabhishekam 2026 is an important Shiva worship observance associated with Aippasi Pournami. In 2026, Aippasi Pournami falls on Sunday, October 25. The Pournami tithi begins at about 11:56 AM on October 25 and ends at about 9:41 AM on October 26 in the cited Indian panchang calculation. Exact timings can vary by location. citeturn0search0turn0search7

Aippasi Annabhishekam 2026 Date

What is Aippasi Annabhishekam?

Annabhishekam is a traditional Shiva worship ritual in which cooked rice is offered over or used to adorn the Shiva Lingam. It is particularly associated with Aippasi Pournami and is observed in many Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu and other parts of South India. Rice is traditionally regarded as a symbol of nourishment and abundance. citeturn0search0turn0search6

Why is Annabhishekam performed on Aippasi Pournami?

Aippasi Pournami is considered an important full-moon day for Shiva worship. During Annabhishekam, cooked rice is used as the principal offering, with devotees expressing gratitude for food and seeking blessings for wellbeing and prosperity. Practices and explanations vary among temples and traditions. citeturn0search0turn0search1

Tamil Nadu Shiva Temple Observance

Annabhishekam is conducted at many Shiva temples. Sources specifically note the large-scale observance associated with the Brihadisvara tradition at Gangaikondacholapuram. Local temple schedules should be checked directly before travelling because darshan and pooja timings can vary. citeturn0search0

Aippasi Annabhishekam Rituals

• Preparation of cooked rice for the offering.
• Decoration or covering of the Shiva Lingam with the rice offering.
• Offering of flowers and other traditional pooja materials according to temple practice.
• Special prayers and Maha Naivedyam.
• Distribution of prasadam where arranged by the temple.

The exact sequence differs between temples, so devotees should follow the instructions of the temple authorities.

Aippasi Annabhishekam 2026 FAQs

When is Aippasi Annabhishekam 2026?

The main observance is associated with Aippasi Pournami on Sunday, October 25, 2026. citeturn0search0

What is offered during Annabhishekam?

Cooked rice is the principal offering used in the ritual. citeturn0search0turn0search6

Is Annabhishekam performed in all Shiva temples?

It is observed in many Shiva temples, particularly in Tamil Nadu, but arrangements and timings differ from temple to temple.

What time is Aippasi Pournami in 2026?

The cited panchang gives the Pournami tithi from approximately 11:56 AM on October 25 to 9:41 AM on October 26. Local panchang calculations may differ. citeturn0search0

Note: Festival dates, tithi timings and temple programmes can vary by location and local tradition. Check the concerned temple’s official announcement before making travel plans.