What Is Nautapa? Why India Braces For The Hottest 9 Days Of The Year Every Summer
Every year during peak summer, India experiences a phase that people commonly call “Nautapa.” The word comes from two Hindi words “Nau” meaning nine and “Tapa” meaning heat. Together Nautapa refers to nine extremely hot days of the year. According to traditional beliefs Nautapa begins when the Sun enters the Rohini Nakshatra. In 2026 Nautapa is expected to begin on May 25 and continue till June 2.
During this period the Sun’s rays fall more directly on the Earth, causing land surfaces to heat rapidly, creating uncomfortable heatwave conditions. Several states including Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Bihar often witness temperatures crossing 45°C during this phase. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), heatwaves are declared when temperatures rise significantly above normal for consecutive days. Experts also say climate change and increasing urbanisation are making summers feel more harsh every year with increased construction of buildings and cutting of trees, further adding to the problem.
Also Read: Delhi Under ‘Yellow’ Heatwave Alert: Yellow, Orange, Red - What Different Weather Warning Colours Mean?
Nautapa is not just about feeling sweaty or uncomfortable. Extreme heat can seriously affect health, daily life, and even the environment on a much bigger level.
Health Risks- Doctors warn that prolonged exposure to heat can lead to:
Children, elderly people, outdoor workers, and people with existing illnesses are considered most vulnerable to these.
Why Does Nautapa Feel So Intense?
During this period the Sun’s rays fall more directly on the Earth, causing land surfaces to heat rapidly, creating uncomfortable heatwave conditions. Several states including Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Bihar often witness temperatures crossing 45°C during this phase. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), heatwaves are declared when temperatures rise significantly above normal for consecutive days. Experts also say climate change and increasing urbanisation are making summers feel more harsh every year with increased construction of buildings and cutting of trees, further adding to the problem.
Also Read: Delhi Under ‘Yellow’ Heatwave Alert: Yellow, Orange, Red - What Different Weather Warning Colours Mean?
What Harm Can Nautapa Cause?
Nautapa is not just about feeling sweaty or uncomfortable. Extreme heat can seriously affect health, daily life, and even the environment on a much bigger level.
Health Risks- Doctors warn that prolonged exposure to heat can lead to:
- Dehydration
- Heat exhaustion
- Heatstroke
- Dizziness and fainting
- Low blood pressure
- Headaches and fatigue
Children, elderly people, outdoor workers, and people with existing illnesses are considered most vulnerable to these.
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