Lenasia South Fasting and holy days
Fasting and holy days
Fasting days in Lenasia South
Hindu, Gujarati, Tamil, Muslim and Christian fasting days and holy days for the year ahead, in South African dates.
Choose your faith
Dates can differ. Muslim dates depend on the moon being sighted. Hindu and Tamil dates follow the local calendar, and temples sometimes set their own day. Please confirm with your masjid, temple or church.
Next 30 days
Nothing in the next 30 days for this faith.
November 2026
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HinduHoly day
Narak Chaturdashi / Kali Chaudas (Choti Diwali, Roop Chaudas)
Sat 7 Nov 2026
Day before Diwali: early bath and lamps for Narak Chaturdashi; many Gujarati families pray to Hanuman and Kali at night (Kali Chaudas).
Source: sahms.org.za, dipika.co.za, drikpanchang.com
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HinduHoly day
Diwali / Lakshmi Puja (Deepavali, Chopda Puja, Sharda Puja)
Sun 8 Nov 2026
Festival of lights: homes lit with lamps, Lakshmi puja in the evening; Gujarati families and businesses also do Chopda (account book) puja.
ISKCON temples mark Dipavali on Mon 9 Nov.
Source: sahms.org.za, dipika.co.za, drikpanchang.com
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HinduHoly day
Govardhan Puja / Annakut (Bali Pratipada)
Mon 9 Nov 2026
Annakut: temples and homes offer a 'mountain' of vegetarian dishes to Krishna, remembering how he lifted Govardhan hill.
ISKCON and Vaishnava temples keep Govardhan Puja on Tue 10 Nov.
Source: sahms.org.za, dipika.co.za, drikpanchang.com
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HinduHoly day
Bhai Dooj (Bhai Beej, Bhaiya Dooj, Bhau Beej)
Tue 10 Nov 2026
Sisters pray for their brothers' long life, apply a tilak and share a meal; brothers give gifts.
Source: dipika.co.za, drikpanchang.com, hindutone.com
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GujaratiHoly day
Gujarati New Year (Bestu Varas)Also called Bestu Varsh, Nutan Varsh, Saal Mubarak
Tue 10 Nov 2026
Gujarati New Year: many visit the temple early, greet family and friends with 'Saal Mubarak' and start new account books.
Source: sahms.org.za, dipika.co.za, drikpanchang.com
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TamilFast and holy day
Kanda Shasti (Skanda Sashti, Kandasashti, Soorasamharam (last day))
Tue 10 Nov to Sun 15 Nov 2026 (6 days)
Six-day fast for Lord Murugan after Deepavali; many fast or eat simply, and temples re-enact Soorasamharam on the sixth day.
Source: sahms.org.za, drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com
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GujaratiHoly day
Labh Pancham (Labh Panchami, Saubhagya Panchami, Gyan Panchami)
Sat 14 Nov 2026
Many Gujarati businesses reopen after the Diwali break with a puja for prosperity; also kept as Saubhagya/Gyan Panchami.
Source: drikpanchang.com, minimela.org, hindutone.com
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ChristianFast
Nativity Fast (Orthodox, new calendar)Also called Christmas Fast, St Philip's Fast, Winter Lent
Sun 15 Nov to Thu 24 Dec 2026 (40 days)
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Johannesburg and Pretoria and other Orthodox churches on the Revised Julian (new) calendar
Forty-day fast before Christmas: people avoid meat, dairy and eggs; which days allow fish, wine or oil follows the parish calendar.
Source: oca.org, standrewsgreekorthodoxcathedral.co.uk, en.wikipedia.org
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TamilSeason
Karthigai month begins (Karthigai 1, Ayyappa mala / Mandala vratham start)
Tue 17 Nov to Tue 15 Dec 2026 (29 days)
Tamil month of lamps begins; many Ayyappa devotees wear the mala and start a 41-day vegetarian vow on Karthigai 1.
Most calendars start Karthigai on Tue 17 Nov; the Johannesburg calendar gives Mon 16 Nov. Please confirm with your temple or guru swamy.
Source: hindutone.com, drikpanchang.com, panchangbodh.com
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HinduFast
Devutthana (Prabodhini) EkadashiAlso called Dev Uthani Ekadashi, Prabodhini Ekadashi, Kartik Shukla Ekadashi
Fri 20 Nov 2026
Ekadashi fast marking Vishnu's awakening and the end of Chaturmas; many fast, and the wedding season traditionally reopens.
ISKCON and Vaishnava families fast on Sat 21 Nov.
Source: sahms.org.za, dipika.co.za, drikpanchang.com
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HinduHoly day
Tulsi Vivah (Tulasi Vivah)
Sat 21 Nov 2026
Ceremonial wedding of the tulsi plant to Vishnu (as Shaligram or Krishna); many homes decorate the tulsi and do puja.
Some Vaishnava families and ISKCON keep it on Tue 24 Nov.
Source: sahms.org.za, dipika.co.za, drikpanchang.com
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TamilHoly day
Karthigai Deepam (Kaarthigai Deepam, Karthika Deepam)
Mon 23 Nov 2026
Festival of lamps on the Karthigai star; families light rows of clay lamps at home and at temples in the evening.
The SA Hindu Maha Sabha calendar says Mon 23 Nov; other calendars say Tue 24 Nov. Please confirm with your temple.
Source: sahms.org.za, drikpanchang.com, hindutone.com
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MuslimFast
White days (Jumada al-Akhirah 1448)
Mon 23 Nov to Wed 25 Nov 2026 (3 days)
Many fast the 13th, 14th and 15th of the Islamic month, the days of the full moon.
Expected date. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: sunnah.com, jamiat.org.za
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HinduFast and holy day
Kartik Purnima (Kartika Purnima, Kartika Pournami)
Tue 24 Nov 2026
Full moon closing the holy month of Kartik: many fast or hold a Satyanarayan katha, bathe early and light lamps.
Dev Diwali lamps: Mon 23 Nov by the Johannesburg calendar; some calendars say Tue 24 Nov.
Source: sahms.org.za, dipika.co.za, drikpanchang.com
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ChristianFast
Nativity Fast (Orthodox, old calendar)Also called Christmas Fast, St Philip's Fast
Sat 28 Nov 2026 to Wed 6 Jan 2027 (40 days)
Orthodox churches on the Julian (old) calendar, e.g. Russian Orthodox parishes such as St Sergius Cathedral, Johannesburg
Forty-day fast before old-calendar Christmas (7 January): people avoid meat, dairy and eggs; daily food rules follow the parish calendar.
Source: en.wikipedia.org, spzh.eu, exarchate-africa.ru
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ChristianSeason
Advent (Advent Sunday, First Sunday of Advent)
Sun 29 Nov to Thu 24 Dec 2026 (26 days)
Catholic, Anglican and many other Western churches
Four Sundays of preparation for Christmas; churches light Advent wreath candles. It is not a set fast day for these churches.
Source: falsebaydiocese.org.za, usccb.org, catholicchurchtimes.com
December 2026
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HinduFast
Utpanna Ekadashi
Fri 4 Dec 2026
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
Source: sahms.org.za, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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MuslimIslamic month
Rajab 1448
Fri 11 Dec 2026 to Sat 9 Jan 2027 (30 days)
One of the four sacred months; some increase voluntary fasting and good deeds, and look ahead to Ramadan.
Expected date. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: jamiat.org.za, moonsighting.com, api.aladhan.com
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HinduFast and holy day
Mokshada Ekadashi and Gita Jayanti (Vaikuntha Ekadashi)
Sun 20 Dec 2026
Ekadashi fast and Gita Jayanti, the day the Bhagavad Gita was spoken; many read or recite the Gita.
Source: sahms.org.za, drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com
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MuslimFast
White days (Rajab 1448)
Wed 23 Dec to Fri 25 Dec 2026 (3 days)
Many fast the 13th, 14th and 15th of the Islamic month, the days of the full moon.
Expected date. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: sunnah.com, jamiat.org.za
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ChristianHoly day
Christmas Day (Nativity of the Lord)
Fri 25 Dec 2026
Catholic, Anglican, Methodist, Pentecostal and most churches in South Africa; also the Greek Orthodox (new calendar)
Celebration of the birth of Jesus with church services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day; a public holiday in South Africa.
Source: gov.za, usccb.org, adct.org.za
January 2027
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HinduFast
Saphala Ekadashi
Sun 3 Jan 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
Source: drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info, hindutone.com
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ChristianHoly day
Christmas (old-calendar Orthodox)Also called Nativity of Christ (Julian calendar)
Thu 7 Jan 2027
Orthodox churches on the Julian (old) calendar, e.g. Russian Orthodox parishes
Old-calendar Orthodox Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus, ending the Nativity Fast that began on 28 November.
Source: en.wikipedia.org, spzh.eu, cie.org.za
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MuslimIslamic month
Sha'ban 1448 (Sha'baan, Shabaan)
Sun 10 Jan to Mon 8 Feb 2027 (30 days)
The month before Ramadan; many fast often in Sha'ban, as the Prophet ﷺ did, to prepare for Ramadan.
Expected date. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: jamiat.org.za, moonsighting.com, api.aladhan.com
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TamilHoly day
Thai Pongal (Thai 1)
Fri 15 Jan 2027
Tamil harvest thanksgiving on Thai 1; families boil new rice with milk and jaggery until it overflows and offer it to the Sun.
Most calendars say Fri 15 Jan; the Johannesburg calendar gives Thu 14 Jan. Please confirm with your temple.
Source: drikpanchang.com, officeholidays.com, drikpanchang.com
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HinduFast
Pausha Putrada Ekadashi
Mon 18 Jan 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
ISKCON and Vaishnava families fast on Tue 19 Jan.
Source: drikpanchang.com, hindutone.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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TamilFast and holy day
Thai Poosam (Thaipusam, Thai Poosam Kavady)
Fri 22 Jan 2027
Murugan festival on the Poosam star in Thai; after days of fasting and prayer, devotees carry kavadi and milk pots at temples.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, officeholidays.com
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MuslimFast
White days (Sha'ban 1448)
Fri 22 Jan to Sun 24 Jan 2027 (3 days)
Many fast the 13th, 14th and 15th of the Islamic month, the days of the full moon.
Expected date. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: sunnah.com, jamiat.org.za
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MuslimFast
15 Sha'ban (Laylatul Bara'ah)Also called Shab-e-Baraat, Nisf Sha'ban, Nisfu Sha'baan
Sat 23 Jan to Sun 24 Jan 2027
Some spend the night of the 15th in extra worship and some fast the next day; scholars differ on both.
Expected date. The night is the evening of Sat 23 Jan; those who fast, fast on Sun 24 Jan. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: jamiat.org.za, jamiat.org.za, moonsighting.com
February 2027
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HinduFast
Shattila Ekadashi (Sat-tila Ekadashi)
Tue 2 Feb 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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MuslimFast
Ramadan 1448 (Ramzaan, Ramadaan, Ramazan)
Tue 9 Feb to Tue 9 Mar 2027 (29 days)
The month of fasting: no food or drink from dawn to sunset, with extra night prayers (taraweeh) and charity.
Expected date. South Africa is expected to start fasting on Tue 9 Feb, with the first taraweeh on the evening of Mon 8 Feb. Some calendars say Mon 8 Feb. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: jamiat.org.za, jamiat.org.za, moonsighting.com
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ChristianFast
Ash Wednesday
Wed 10 Feb 2027
Catholic and Anglican churches (fast day); many Methodist and other churches hold Ash Wednesday services
First day of Lent: ashes on the forehead at church. Catholics fast (one full meal) and eat no meat; Anglicans keep a fast day.
Source: falsebaydiocese.org.za, usccb.org, adct.org.za
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ChristianFasting season
Lent (Lenten season)
Wed 10 Feb to Sat 27 Mar 2027 (46 days)
Catholic, Anglican, Methodist and many other Western churches
Forty days of prayer, fasting and giving before Easter; many people give something up. Sundays are not counted as fast days.
Source: falsebaydiocese.org.za, usccb.org, adct.org.za
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HinduFast
Jaya Ekadashi (Bhaimi Ekadashi)
Wed 17 Feb 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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MuslimFast
Laylatul Qadr (odd nights of the last ten)Also called Lailatul Qadr, Night of Power, Night of Decree
Sun 28 Feb to Mon 8 Mar 2027
Muslims seek the Night of Power on the odd nights of Ramadan's last ten, with extra prayer, Qur'an and dua.
Odd nights, from the evening: Sun 28 Feb, Tue 2 Mar, Thu 4 Mar, Sat 6 Mar (27th night) and Mon 8 Mar, if Ramadan starts Tue 9 Feb. If it starts Mon 8 Feb, each night is one evening earlier.
Source: jamiat.org.za, sunnah.com
March 2027
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HinduFast
Vijaya Ekadashi
Wed 3 Mar 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
ISKCON and Vaishnava families fast on Thu 4 Mar.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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HinduFast and holy day
Maha Shivaratri (Mahashivratri)
Sat 6 Mar 2027
Great night of Shiva: many fast during the day, offer water, milk and bel leaves to the Shiva lingam, and keep an all-night vigil.
Source: drikpanchang.com, hindutone.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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MuslimHoly day
Eid ul-Fitr 1448 (Eid al-Fitr, Eidul Fitr, Labarang)
Wed 10 Mar 2027
Festival ending Ramadan: Eid prayer in the morning, family visits and charity (Sadaqatul Fitr) beforehand. Fasting is not allowed today.
Expected date. It could be Thu 11 Mar if the moon is not seen. Confirm with your masjid.
Source: jamiat.org.za, jamiat.org.za, moonsighting.com
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MuslimFast
Six fasts of Shawwal (Shawwal fasts, Sitta Shawwal)
Thu 11 Mar to Thu 8 Apr 2027 (29 days)
Many fast any six days of Shawwal after Eid, together or spread out; with Ramadan it carries the reward of a year.
Expected date. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: jamiat.org.za, moonsighting.com, sunnah.com
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ChristianFast
Great Lent and Holy Week (Orthodox)Also called Clean Monday, Kathara Deftera, Great Fast
Mon 15 Mar to Sat 1 May 2027 (48 days)
All Orthodox churches - Greek, Russian and others (same dates on new and old calendars)
Main Orthodox fast before Easter, starting on Clean Monday: people avoid meat, dairy and eggs, and often fish, wine and oil.
Source: acrod.org, acrod.org, officeholidays.com
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HinduFast
Amalaki Ekadashi
Thu 18 Mar 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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HinduHoly day
Holika Dahan and Holi (Rangwali Holi, Dhulandi)
Sun 21 Mar to Mon 22 Mar 2027 (2 days)
Holika Dahan bonfire and prayers on the full-moon evening; next day families and friends celebrate with colours (Rangwali Holi).
Source: drikpanchang.com, minimela.org
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ChristianSeason
Holy Week (Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Holy Thursday)
Sun 21 Mar to Sat 27 Mar 2027 (7 days)
Catholic, Anglican, Methodist and most Western churches
Last week before Easter: Palm Sunday 21 March, Holy (Maundy) Thursday 25 March, Good Friday 26 March, Holy Saturday 27 March.
Source: usccb.org, gov.za, whenisdate.com
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TamilHoly day
Panguni Uthiram
Mon 22 Mar 2027
Uthiram star in Panguni, kept as the day of divine weddings; Murugan and Shiva temples hold wedding ceremonies and processions.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, hindu-blog.com
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MuslimFast
White days (Shawwal 1448)
Mon 22 Mar to Wed 24 Mar 2027 (3 days)
Many fast the 13th, 14th and 15th of the Islamic month, the days of the full moon.
Expected date. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: sunnah.com, jamiat.org.za
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ChristianFast
Good Friday
Fri 26 Mar 2027
Catholic and Anglican churches (fast day); kept by nearly all churches
Remembers the crucifixion of Jesus with church services. Catholics fast and eat no meat; Anglicans keep a fast day. Public holiday.
Source: gov.za, usccb.org, adct.org.za
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ChristianHoly day
Easter Sunday (Resurrection Sunday)
Sun 28 Mar 2027
Catholic, Anglican, Methodist, Pentecostal and most churches in South Africa (Western date)
Main Christian feast, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus; Lent's fasting ends. Family Day public holiday follows on Monday 29 March.
Source: falsebaydiocese.org.za, usccb.org, gov.za
April 2027
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HinduFast
Papamochani Ekadashi
Fri 2 Apr 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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HinduFast and holy day
Chaitra Navratri (Vasant Navratri, Hindi New Year, Nutan Varsh)
Wed 7 Apr to Thu 15 Apr 2027 (9 days)
Nine days of worship of Durga: many fast or eat one simple meal a day; the Hindi (Chaitra) new year begins on day one.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, minimela.org
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HinduFast and holy day
Ram Navami (Sri Ram Naumee, Rama Navami)
Wed 14 Apr 2027
Birth of Lord Rama, celebrated at midday: many fast, read the Ramayana and sing bhajans at temples and homes.
Johannesburg calendars say Wed 14 Apr; Indian calendars say Thu 15 Apr. Please confirm with your temple.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, minimela.org
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TamilHoly day
Puthandu (Tamil New Year)Also called Chithirai 1, Varusha Pirappu, Puthaandu
Wed 14 Apr 2027
Tamil New Year on Chithirai 1; families visit the temple, prepare a special meal and greet elders for blessings.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, officeholidays.com
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HinduFast
Kamada Ekadashi
Fri 16 Apr 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
This date is from one Johannesburg calendar. ISKCON and Vaishnava families fast on Sat 17 Apr. Please confirm with your temple.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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HinduFast and holy day
Hanuman Jayanti (Hanuman Janmotsav, Chaitra Purnima)
Tue 20 Apr 2027
Birth of Hanuman on the Chaitra full moon: many fast, recite the Hanuman Chalisa and visit Hanuman temples.
Source: drikpanchang.com, minimela.org
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TamilFast and holy day
Chitra Pournami / Chitra Paruvam Kavady (Chithirai Kavadi)
Tue 20 Apr 2027
Full moon of Chithirai; in South Africa the Chitra Paruvam Kavady day, when devotees who have fasted carry kavadi at temples.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, bhaktibharat.com
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MuslimFast
White days (Dhul Qa'dah 1448)
Wed 21 Apr to Fri 23 Apr 2027 (3 days)
Many fast the 13th, 14th and 15th of the Islamic month, the days of the full moon.
Expected date. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: sunnah.com, jamiat.org.za
May 2027
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HinduFast
Varuthini Ekadashi
Sun 2 May 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
Source: drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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ChristianHoly day
Orthodox Easter (Pascha)Also called Greek Easter
Sun 2 May 2027
All Orthodox churches - Greek, Russian and others
Greatest Orthodox feast, the resurrection of Jesus, usually with a midnight service; it ends the Great Lent fast.
Source: acrod.org, acrod.org, officeholidays.com
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ChristianHoly day
Ascension Day (Ascension of the Lord)
Thu 6 May 2027
Anglican and other churches on Thursday 6 May; the Catholic Church in South Africa keeps it on Sunday 9 May
Holy day marking Jesus' ascension, 40 days after Easter. A feast, not a fast; not a public holiday in South Africa.
Source: falsebaydiocese.org.za, usccb.org, cie.org.za
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MuslimFast
First nine days of Dhul Hijjah (Ten days of Dhul Hijjah, Zul Hijjah)
Sat 8 May to Sun 16 May 2027 (9 days)
The most blessed days of the year: many fast some or all of the first nine days and increase dhikr and good deeds.
Expected date. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: jamiat.org.za, moonsighting.com, moonsighting.org.uk
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HinduFast
Mohini Ekadashi
Sun 16 May 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
Source: drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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MuslimFast
Day of Arafah (Yawm Arafah, Day of Arafat, 9 Dhul Hijjah)
Sun 16 May 2027
Pilgrims stand at Arafah; Muslims not on Hajj are encouraged to fast this day for forgiveness of sins.
Expected date. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: jamiat.org.za, moonsighting.org.uk, api.aladhan.com
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ChristianHoly day
Pentecost (Whitsunday)
Sun 16 May 2027
Catholic, Anglican, Methodist, Pentecostal and most Western churches
Feast of the Holy Spirit, 50 days after Easter, closing the Easter season. A feast, not a fast.
Source: falsebaydiocese.org.za, usccb.org
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MuslimHoly day
Eid ul-Adha 1448 (Eid al-Adha, Bakri Eid, Eidul Adha)
Mon 17 May 2027
Festival of sacrifice: Eid prayer, then qurbani (animal sacrifice) shared with family and the poor. Fasting is not allowed today.
Expected date. It could be Tue 18 May if the moon is not seen. Confirm with your masjid.
Source: jamiat.org.za, jamiat.org.za, moonsighting.com
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MuslimNo fasting
Days of Tashreeq (11-13 Dhul Hijjah)Also called Ayyam at-Tashreeq
Tue 18 May to Thu 20 May 2027 (3 days)
Days of eating, drinking and remembering Allah after Eid ul-Adha; takbeer after prayers continues. Fasting is not allowed.
Expected date. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: jamiat.org.za, moonsighting.com, sunnah.com
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TamilHoly day
Vaikasi Visakam (Vaigasi Visakam)
Thu 20 May 2027
Birth star of Lord Murugan (Visakam in Vaikasi); devotees pray at Murugan temples and some fast for the day.
Calendars say Thu 20 May. South African temples have kept it on a different day before. Please confirm with your temple.
Source: drikpanchang.com, hindu-blog.com, sahms.org.za
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HinduFast
Apara Ekadashi (Achala Ekadashi)
Mon 31 May 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
ISKCON and Vaishnava families fast on Tue 1 Jun.
Source: drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info, minimela.org
June 2027
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MuslimIslamic month
Islamic New Year 1449 (Muharram)Also called Hijri New Year, 1 Muharram, Al-Muharram
Mon 7 Jun to Mon 5 Jul 2027 (29 days)
The Islamic year 1449 begins; Muharram is a sacred month, and many increase voluntary fasting in it.
Expected date from one South African calendar only. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: jamiat.org.za, jamiat.org.za, api.aladhan.com
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HinduFast
Nirjala Ekadashi (Pandava Nirjala Ekadashi, Bhimseni Ekadashi)
Mon 14 Jun 2027
The strictest Ekadashi: many keep a fast without food or water until the next sunrise; others keep a lighter fast.
Source: drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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MuslimFast
Ashura (10 Muharram 1449)Also called Aashuraa
Wed 16 Jun 2027
A sunnah fast for forgiveness of the past year; many fast the 9th and 10th, or the 10th and 11th.
Expected date from one South African calendar only. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: jamiat.org.za, jamiat.org.za, api.aladhan.com
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MuslimFast
White days (Muharram 1449)
Sat 19 Jun to Mon 21 Jun 2027 (3 days)
Many fast the 13th, 14th and 15th of the Islamic month, the days of the full moon.
Expected date from one South African calendar only. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: sunnah.com, jamiat.org.za
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ChristianFast
Apostles' Fast (Orthodox, new calendar)Also called Fast of Saints Peter and Paul
Mon 28 Jun 2027
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Johannesburg and Pretoria and other Orthodox churches on the Revised Julian (new) calendar
Fast before the feast of Saints Peter and Paul on 29 June; in 2027 it lasts only one day for new-calendar churches.
Source: acrod.org, truecalendar.com, standrewsgreekorthodoxcathedral.co.uk
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ChristianFast
Apostles' Fast (Orthodox, old calendar)Also called Fast of Saints Peter and Paul, Petrov Post
Mon 28 Jun to Sun 11 Jul 2027 (14 days)
Orthodox churches on the Julian (old) calendar, e.g. Russian Orthodox parishes
Fast before the feast of Saints Peter and Paul, which falls on 12 July on the old calendar; 14 days in 2027.
Source: acrod.org, truecalendar.com
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HinduFast
Yogini Ekadashi
Wed 30 Jun 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
Source: drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
July 2027
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HinduFast
Devshayani Ekadashi (Ashadhi Ekadashi, Padma Ekadashi)
Wed 14 Jul 2027
Ekadashi fast at the start of Chaturmas, Vishnu's four-month rest; many fast on fruit or avoid grains and beans.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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GujaratiFast
Gauri Vrat (Alunu / Molakat)Also called Moraktu
Wed 14 Jul to Sun 18 Jul 2027 (5 days)
Young girls keep a five-day fast, often without salt (alunu), and worship Goddess Gauri (Parvati) with sprouted wheat (javara).
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, minimela.org
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GujaratiFast
Jaya Parvati Vrat (Jayaparvati Vrat)
Fri 16 Jul to Wed 21 Jul 2027 (6 days)
Girls and young women keep a five-day fast without salt for Goddess Parvati; many end it with an all-night jagran.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, minimela.org
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TamilSeason
Aadi month (Aadi masam, Amman prayers / porridge prayers season)
Sat 17 Jul to Mon 16 Aug 2027 (31 days)
Tamil month dedicated to the Mother Goddess; temples hold Amman (Mariamman) prayers with porridge offerings, in South Africa often on Sundays.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, panchangbodh.com
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HinduHoly day
Guru Purnima (Vyasa Purnima, Ashadha Purnima)
Sun 18 Jul 2027
Day to honour one's guru and teachers (Vyasa Purnima); many visit the temple or their guru, and some fast.
Source: drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info, minimela.org
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MuslimFast
White days (Safar 1449)
Sun 18 Jul to Tue 20 Jul 2027 (3 days)
Many fast the 13th, 14th and 15th of the Islamic month, the days of the full moon.
Expected date from one South African calendar only. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: sunnah.com, jamiat.org.za
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HinduSeason
Shravan month (North Indian / Hindi calendar)Also called Sawan, Shravan Somvar, Sawan Somwar
Mon 19 Jul to Tue 17 Aug 2027 (30 days)
Holy month of Shiva: many fast on Mondays (Shravan Somvar) and offer water or milk to the Shiva lingam.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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TamilFast
Aadi Fridays (Aadi Velli)
Fri 23 Jul to Fri 13 Aug 2027
The four Fridays of Aadi; many devotees fast or keep vegetarian and pray to the Goddess at home or at Amman temples.
On Fri 23 Jul, Fri 30 Jul, Fri 6 Aug, Fri 13 Aug
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, panchangbodh.com
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HinduFast
Kamika Ekadashi
Thu 29 Jul 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
August 2027
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ChristianFast
Dormition Fast (Orthodox, new calendar)Also called Fast of the Theotokos, August Fast
Sun 1 Aug to Sat 14 Aug 2027 (14 days)
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Johannesburg and Pretoria and other Orthodox churches on the Revised Julian (new) calendar
Two-week fast before the feast of the Dormition of Mary on 15 August; fish is allowed only on the Transfiguration, 6 August.
Source: oca.org, standrewsgreekorthodoxcathedral.co.uk, orthochristian.com
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GujaratiSeason
Shravan month (Gujarati calendar)Also called Shravan Somvar
Tue 3 Aug to Tue 31 Aug 2027 (29 days)
Holy month of Shiva in the Gujarati calendar: many fast on Mondays, offer water to Shiva, and keep Shravan festivals.
Source: drikpanchang.com, minimela.org
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TamilHoly day
Aadi Perukku (Aadi 18, Pathinettam Perukku)
Tue 3 Aug 2027
Aadi 18, a thanksgiving to water and rivers; families offer prayers, and some married women renew the sacred thread of their thali.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, bhaktibharat.com
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HinduFast
Shravana Putrada Ekadashi (Pavitra Ekadashi, Pavitropana Ekadashi)
Thu 12 Aug 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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ChristianFast
Dormition Fast (Orthodox, old calendar)Also called Fast of the Theotokos, Uspensky Post
Sat 14 Aug to Fri 27 Aug 2027 (14 days)
Orthodox churches on the Julian (old) calendar, e.g. Russian Orthodox parishes
Two-week fast before the old-calendar feast of the Dormition of Mary on 28 August; fish allowed only on the Transfiguration, 19 August.
Source: orthochristian.com, stgeorgeparish.org.au
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MuslimFast
White days (Rabi al-Awwal 1449)
Mon 16 Aug to Wed 18 Aug 2027 (3 days)
Many fast the 13th, 14th and 15th of the Islamic month, the days of the full moon.
Expected date from one South African calendar only. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: sunnah.com, jamiat.org.za
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HinduFast and holy day
Krishna Janmashtami (Krishna Ashtami, Gokulashtami)
Wed 25 Aug 2027
Birth of Krishna: many fast until midnight, sing bhajans and celebrate his birth at midnight; Dahi Handi or Nandotsav follows.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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HinduFast
Aja Ekadashi (Annada Ekadashi)
Fri 27 Aug 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
This date is from one Johannesburg calendar. ISKCON and Vaishnava families fast on Sat 28 Aug. Please confirm with your temple.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
September 2027
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HinduHoly day
Ganesh Chaturthi (Vinayaka Chaturthi)
Fri 3 Sep 2027
Birthday of Ganesha: clay murtis are installed and worshipped at homes and temples, often immersed after one to ten days.
Johannesburg calendars say Fri 3 Sep; Indian calendars say Sat 4 Sep. Please confirm with your temple.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, minimela.org
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HinduFast
Parsva Ekadashi (Parivartini Ekadashi, Padma Ekadashi)
Sat 11 Sep 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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MuslimFast
White days (Rabi al-Akhir 1449)
Tue 14 Sep to Thu 16 Sep 2027 (3 days)
Many fast the 13th, 14th and 15th of the Islamic month, the days of the full moon.
Expected date. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: sunnah.com, jamiat.org.za
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TamilSeason
Purattasi month (Purattasi fast, Purattasi masam)
Fri 17 Sep to Sun 17 Oct 2027 (31 days)
Tamil month sacred to Lord Venkateswara; many keep a vegetarian diet all month and avoid alcohol, with special prayers on Saturdays.
By the calendars Purattasi starts Fri 17 Sep; South African bodies have started it a day later (Sat 18 Sep) before. Please confirm with your temple.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, panchangbodh.com
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TamilFast
Purattasi Saturdays (Purattasi Sani, Purattasi Sanikizhamai)
Sat 18 Sep to Sat 16 Oct 2027
The five Saturdays of Purattasi, treated as holy days; many fast and pray to Lord Venkateswara at home and in temples.
On Sat 18 Sep, Sat 25 Sep, Sat 2 Oct, Sat 9 Oct, Sat 16 Oct
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, panchangbodh.com
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HinduFast
Indira Ekadashi
Sun 26 Sep 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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HinduFast and holy day
Sharad (Ashvin) NavratriAlso called Navaratri, Durga Puja
Thu 30 Sep to Fri 8 Oct 2027 (9 days)
Nine nights of worship of Durga: many fast or eat one meal a day; Gujarati families gather for garba and dandiya.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com
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TamilFast and holy day
Navarathri (Navaratri, Golu / Kolu)
Thu 30 Sep to Fri 8 Oct 2027 (9 days)
Nine nights of prayer to the Goddess; some Tamil families set up a Golu doll display, and many fast or eat vegetarian.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, templesinindiainfo.com
October 2027
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TamilHoly day
Saraswathi Pooja / Ayudha Pooja (Saraswati Puja, Ayutha Poojai)
Fri 8 Oct 2027
Navarathri's ninth day; books, music instruments and tools are placed before Goddess Saraswathi and blessed, and work rests.
The Johannesburg calendar says Fri 8 Oct; Tamil Nadu keeps it on Sat 9 Oct. Please confirm with your temple.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, officeholidays.com
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HinduHoly day
Vijayadashami (Dussehra)Also called Dasara, Vijay Dashmi
Sat 9 Oct 2027
Victory of good over evil (Rama over Ravana, Durga over Mahishasura); ends Navratri, and many start new learning or ventures.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, minimela.org
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TamilHoly day
Vijayadasami (Vijaya Dashami, Vidyarambham)
Sat 9 Oct 2027
Tenth day after Navarathri, celebrating the victory of good; a favoured day for children to begin learning or music.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, officeholidays.com
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HinduFast
Papankusha Ekadashi (Pasankusa Ekadashi)
Mon 11 Oct 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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MuslimFast
White days (Jumada al-Ula 1449)
Thu 14 Oct to Sat 16 Oct 2027 (3 days)
Many fast the 13th, 14th and 15th of the Islamic month, the days of the full moon.
Expected date from one South African calendar only. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: sunnah.com, jamiat.org.za
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HinduFast
Karva Chauth (Karwa Chauth)
Mon 18 Oct 2027
Some married women, mainly from North Indian (Punjabi or Hindi) families, fast from before dawn until moonrise for their husbands' wellbeing.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, minimela.org
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HinduFast
Rama Ekadashi
Mon 25 Oct 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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HinduHoly day
Dhanteras (Dhan Trayodashi, Dhantrayodashi, Yama Deepam)
Wed 27 Oct 2027
First day of Diwali: many buy gold, silver or new utensils, honour Dhanvantari and light a lamp for Yama in the evening.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com
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GujaratiHoly day
Kali Chaudas (Hanuman Puja)
Wed 27 Oct 2027
Gujarati Kali Chaudas: night prayers to Hanuman and Mahakali for protection from harm; many families light lamps.
Only one source found. Please confirm with your temple, masjid or church.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, minimela.org
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HinduHoly day
Diwali / Lakshmi Puja (Deepavali, Chopda Puja, Sharda Puja)
Thu 28 Oct 2027
Festival of lights: homes lit with lamps, Lakshmi puja in the evening; Gujarati families and businesses also do Chopda (account book) puja.
Johannesburg calendars say Thu 28 Oct; India and ISKCON say Fri 29 Oct. The SA Hindu Maha Sabha 2027 calendar is not out yet. Please confirm with your temple.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com
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HinduHoly day
Bhai Dooj (Bhai Beej, Bhaiya Dooj, Bhau Beej)
Sat 30 Oct 2027
Sisters pray for their brothers' long life, apply a tilak and share a meal; brothers give gifts.
Johannesburg calendars say Sat 30 Oct; India says Sun 31 Oct. Please confirm with your temple.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com
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HinduHoly day
Govardhan Puja / Annakut (Bali Pratipada)
Sat 30 Oct 2027
Annakut: temples and homes offer a 'mountain' of vegetarian dishes to Krishna, remembering how he lifted Govardhan hill.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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GujaratiHoly day
Gujarati New Year (Bestu Varas)Also called Bestu Varsh, Nutan Varsh, Saal Mubarak
Sat 30 Oct 2027
Gujarati New Year: many visit the temple early, greet family and friends with 'Saal Mubarak' and start new account books.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, minimela.org
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TamilFast and holy day
Kanda Shasti (Skanda Sashti, Kandasashti, Soorasamharam (last day))
Sat 30 Oct to Wed 3 Nov 2027 (5 days)
Six-day fast for Lord Murugan after Deepavali; many fast or eat simply, and temples re-enact Soorasamharam on the last day.
Soorasamharam is Wed 3 Nov by the Johannesburg calendar and Thu 4 Nov by Indian calendars. Please confirm with your temple.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com
November 2027
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GujaratiHoly day
Labh Pancham (Labh Panchami, Saubhagya Panchami, Gyan Panchami)
Wed 3 Nov 2027
Many Gujarati businesses reopen after the Diwali break with a puja for prosperity; also kept as Saubhagya/Gyan Panchami.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, minimela.org
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HinduFast
Devutthana (Prabodhini) EkadashiAlso called Dev Uthani Ekadashi, Prabodhini Ekadashi
Wed 10 Nov 2027
Ekadashi fast marking Vishnu's awakening and the end of Chaturmas; many fast, and the wedding season traditionally reopens.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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HinduHoly day
Tulsi Vivah (Tulasi Vivah)
Thu 11 Nov 2027
Ceremonial wedding of the tulsi plant to Vishnu (as Shaligram or Krishna); many homes decorate the tulsi and do puja.
Only one source found. Please confirm with your temple, masjid or church.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, minimela.org
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MuslimFast
White days (Jumada al-Akhirah 1449)
Fri 12 Nov to Sun 14 Nov 2027 (3 days)
Many fast the 13th, 14th and 15th of the Islamic month, the days of the full moon.
Expected date. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: sunnah.com, jamiat.org.za
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HinduFast and holy day
Dev Diwali and Kartik Purnima (Dev Deepawali, Kartika Purnima)
Sat 13 Nov to Sun 14 Nov 2027 (2 days)
Full moon closing the holy month of Kartik: lamps are lit on Dev Diwali evening; many fast or hold a Satyanarayan katha.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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ChristianFast
Nativity Fast (Orthodox, new calendar)Also called Christmas Fast, St Philip's Fast, Winter Lent
Mon 15 Nov to Fri 24 Dec 2027 (40 days)
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Johannesburg and Pretoria and other Orthodox churches on the Revised Julian (new) calendar
Forty-day fast before Christmas: people avoid meat, dairy and eggs; which days allow fish, wine or oil follows the parish calendar.
Source: oca.org, standrewsgreekorthodoxcathedral.co.uk, en.wikipedia.org
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HinduFast
Utpanna Ekadashi
Wed 24 Nov 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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ChristianSeason
Advent (Advent Sunday, First Sunday of Advent)
Sun 28 Nov to Fri 24 Dec 2027 (27 days)
Catholic, Anglican and many other Western churches
Four Sundays of preparation for Christmas; churches light Advent wreath candles. It is not a set fast day for these churches.
Source: falsebaydiocese.org.za, usccb.org
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ChristianFast
Nativity Fast (Orthodox, old calendar)Also called Christmas Fast, St Philip's Fast
Sun 28 Nov 2027 to Thu 6 Jan 2028 (40 days)
Orthodox churches on the Julian (old) calendar, e.g. Russian Orthodox parishes
Forty-day fast before old-calendar Christmas (7 January): people avoid meat, dairy and eggs; daily food rules follow the parish calendar.
Source: en.wikipedia.org, spzh.eu
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MuslimIslamic month
Rajab 1449
Tue 30 Nov to Wed 29 Dec 2027 (30 days)
One of the four sacred months; some increase voluntary fasting and good deeds, and look ahead to Ramadan.
Expected date from one South African calendar only. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: jamiat.org.za, api.aladhan.com
December 2027
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HinduFast and holy day
Mokshada Ekadashi and Gita Jayanti
Thu 9 Dec 2027
Ekadashi fast and Gita Jayanti, the day the Bhagavad Gita was spoken; many read or recite the Gita.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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TamilHoly day
Karthigai Deepam (Kaarthigai Deepam, Karthika Deepam)
Sat 11 Dec 2027
Festival of lamps on the Karthigai star; families light rows of clay lamps at home and at temples in the evening.
Only one source found. Please confirm with your temple, masjid or church.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com
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MuslimFast
White days (Rajab 1449)
Sun 12 Dec to Tue 14 Dec 2027 (3 days)
Many fast the 13th, 14th and 15th of the Islamic month, the days of the full moon.
Expected date from one South African calendar only. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: sunnah.com, jamiat.org.za
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HinduFast
Saphala Ekadashi
Thu 23 Dec 2027
Ekadashi fast: many avoid grains and beans or eat only fruit and milk; some fast without water. The fast is broken next morning.
Source: drikpanchang.com, drikpanchang.com, vaisnavacalendar.info
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ChristianHoly day
Christmas Day (Nativity of the Lord)
Sat 25 Dec 2027
Catholic, Anglican, Methodist, Pentecostal and most churches in South Africa; also the Greek Orthodox (new calendar)
Celebration of the birth of Jesus with church services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day; a public holiday in South Africa.
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MuslimIslamic month
Sha'ban 1449 (Sha'baan, Shabaan)
Thu 30 Dec 2027
The month before Ramadan; many fast often in Sha'ban, as the Prophet ﷺ did, to prepare for Ramadan.
Expected date from one South African calendar only. It depends on the moon being sighted: confirm with your masjid.
Source: jamiat.org.za, jamiat.org.za, api.aladhan.com
Every week and every month
Hindu
- Ekadashi. The 11th lunar day of each half-month, about twice a month. Many Hindus fast: some avoid grains and beans, some eat only fruit and milk, a few fast without water. The fast is broken the next morning (parana) on Dvadashi. When calendars split, Smarta households usually keep the first date and Vaishnava traditions such as ISKCON the second; families follow their own temple or sampradaya.
- South African dates can differ from India. Hindu days follow the tithi (lunar day) in force at local sunrise, with special rules for some festivals (midday for Ram Navami and Ganesh Chaturthi, midnight for Janmashtami and Shivaratri, evening for Diwali). Because SA is 3.5 hours behind India, a festival can fall a day earlier here than on Indian calendars.
- Shravan Mondays. Many devotees of Shiva fast on the Mondays of the month of Shravan. North Indian (purnimanta) and Gujarati (amanta) calendars start Shravan about two weeks apart, so the list of Mondays differs.
- Navratri fasting. During both Navratris (Chaitra in March/April and Sharad in September/October) many fast for nine days, eating fruit, milk or one simple meal a day; practices differ widely between families.
- 2027 dates. The SA Hindu Maha Sabha calendar for 2027 was not out yet on 7 November 2026, so the 2027 dates here come from calendars worked out for Johannesburg. They will be checked again when it comes out.
Tamil
- Kavadi (Thai Poosam and Chitra Paruvam). South Africa has two main Kavadi seasons: Thai Poosam (Jan/Feb) and Chitra Paruvam (Chitra Pournami, Apr/May). Each temple sets its own programme: it hoists the rooster flag about 9-10 days before the main day, devotees fast and attend daily prayers, then carry kavadi or milk pots on the main day. The SA bodies' main day matched Thai Poosam day in 2025 and 2026 and Chitra Pournami in 2026, but some temples end a day or two later (e.g. one South Coast temple ran 23 Jan - 3 Feb 2026). For 2027 give the expected main days (22 Jan, 20 Apr) and say 'check your temple for flag hoisting and kavadi times'.
- Aadi Amman (Mariamman) prayers. During Aadi (mid-July to mid-August) SA temples hold Amman prayers with fermented mielie-meal porridge offered to Goddess Mariamman, especially on Sundays. Each temple sets its own dates, usually a flag hoisting and about ten days of prayers ending on a Sunday (e.g. Lenasia South's Arulmigu Sri Amirtha Kadeswarar Kovil). Do not give a single date.
- Pradosham. Twice a month, on the 13th lunar day (Trayodashi) at dusk, devotees pray to Lord Shiva and many fast until the evening prayer. The day depends on location; use the Johannesburg list rather than Indian dates (Dipika also publishes some SA Pradosham dates, e.g. Shani Pradosham 27 Jun 2026, which matches the Drik Johannesburg list).
- Monthly Sashti fast. Each month on the sixth lunar day after the new moon (Shukla Sashti) many Murugan devotees fast; the biggest is Kanda Shasti after Deepavali. Dates depend on location; use the Johannesburg list.
- Why SA dates can differ from India. Hindu days are fixed by local sunrise, sunset and star or moon positions, and SA is 3.5 hours behind India, so an SA date can be a day earlier or later than India. The SAHMS calendar (agreed with the SA Gurumar Sangam, Dipika and other SA bodies) is the local reference; its 2027 edition was not published by 7 Nov 2026, so every 2027 date here should be rechecked when it appears.
- 2027 dates. The SA Hindu Maha Sabha calendar for 2027 was not out yet on 7 November 2026, so the 2027 Tamil dates here come from worked-out calendars. They will be checked again when it comes out.
Muslim
- Mondays and Thursdays. Many fast on Mondays and Thursdays as a voluntary sunnah; the Prophet ﷺ said deeds are presented to Allah on these days.
- The white days (13, 14, 15 of every Islamic month). Many fast the 13th, 14th and 15th of each Islamic month, the bright nights of the full moon.
- Days when fasting is not allowed. No fasting on Eid ul-Fitr, Eid ul-Adha, or the three Days of Tashreeq (11-13 Dhul Hijjah) after Eid ul-Adha.
- Islamic days begin at sunset. Each Islamic date begins at sunset the evening before; a fast runs from dawn (suhoor ends) to sunset (iftaar) on the date shown.
Christian
- Catholic Friday penance (Southern Africa). Every Friday of the year, unless a solemnity, is a penitential day: Catholics aged 14 and over abstain from meat. Except on Good Friday, the Southern African bishops allow a substitute - giving up alcohol, tobacco or a luxury food, or an act of charity or prayer.
- Fridays of Lent (Catholic). All Fridays of Lent are penitential days. Church law asks abstinence from meat (age 14+); the Southern African text allows a substitute on any Friday except Good Friday. Ask the parish.
- Catholic fast and abstinence: Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. From the 18th to the 59th birthday Catholics eat one full meal plus a little food at two other mealtimes; everyone aged 14+ eats no meat. The sick and their carers are excused.
- Eucharistic fast (Catholic). No food or drink for at least one hour before receiving Holy Communion; water and medicine are allowed. The elderly, the sick and their carers are excused.
- Anglican Church of Southern Africa: fast days and days of abstinence. Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are Fast Days; the weekdays of Lent are Days of Abstinence.
- Orthodox weekly fast. Orthodox Christians fast on most Wednesdays and Fridays of the year, except in fast-free weeks; a strict fast day means no meat, dairy, eggs, fish, wine or oil.
- Two Orthodox calendars in Johannesburg. The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese (Patriarchate of Alexandria) uses the new calendar: Christmas 25 December. Russian Orthodox parishes use the old calendar: fixed feasts 13 days later. Easter is the same for both.
- Catholic feasts moved to Sunday in South Africa. In South Africa the Catholic Church keeps the Ascension, Epiphany and Assumption on the nearest following Sunday; besides Sundays, Christmas Day is the only holy day of obligation.
- Fasts set by each church (e.g. 21-day January fast). Many South African Pentecostal and charismatic churches start the year with a 21-day prayer and fast; each church sets its own dates and type of fast. Ask the church.