nima Tithi Begins = 02.14 AM on6th Jan/2031
Purnima Tithi Ends = 04.37+ on7th/Jan/2023
Paush Purnima
Paush
Purnima is a significant day in Hindu calendar. It marks the beginning
of one month long austerity period which is observed during Magha month.
In lunar calendar followed in North India Magha month starts from the
next day of Paush Purnima.
During Magha Mahina people take early
morning bath in the Ganga or in the Yamuna throughout the month. The
tough winter season in North makes austerity period more difficult. The
daily bathing starts from Paush Purnima and ends on Magha Purnima. It is
believed that all charity work done during this time are fructified
easily. Hence people offer charity to needy according to their capacity.
The
holy dip at Dashashwamedh Ghat at Varanasi and Triveni Sangam at Prayag
is considered highly auspicious and important on Paush Purnima day. It
is believed that the holy dip on the auspicious day of Paush Purnima
liberates the soul from the continuous cycle of the birth and the death.
Shakambari
Jayanti is also observed during Paush Purnima. The followers of ISKCON
and Vaishnava Sampradaya start Pushyabhishek Yatra on this day.
Tribes living in rural parts of Chhattisgarh celebrate Charta festival (छेरता पर्व) on Paush Purnima day.
Samba Dashami is a unique ritual observed in the Paush month in Orissa
as per traditional Oriya calendar. Samba Dashami 2023 date is january 1st Sunday. On the day mothers observe special puja and rituals dedicated to
Lord Surya for the good health and long life of their children. The
story of Samba Dasami is associated with Samba, the son of Lord Krishna Legend
has it that Samba was once afflicted with leprosy and he was cured
after praying to Lord Surya. Samba performed penance for 12 years before
he was cured.
Samba Dasami is observed on the 10th day during the Shukla Paksha or waxing phase of moon in Paush month (December – January).
Special dishes are prepared on the day. The dishes are first offered to Lord Surya and is later shared the children.
On
this day, female folks of the family wake up early in the morning
before sun rise. After bathing, they prepare variety of food items like,
Khichdi, Oriya Puli, Ghadghadia Tarkari (a curry item) and offer them
to Sun God during sun rise.
One of the specific characters of
this ritual is variety of individual food item is offered to Sun God in
the name of each member of the family. After that female folks of the
families go on preparing variety of Pitha (Cake) like – Manda Pitha,
Kakara Pitha, Arisha Pitha, Biri Laddoo and other items like Makar
Chaula, Chhena Guda, Dhanu Muaan; sweet dishes like Khiri, Rasagola,
Jhilli, Chhenagaja, Sweet Curd etc. all over the day.
In the noon
time, a bowl of turmeric water with a beetle in it is taken to ‘Chaunra
Mula’ (a small temple like structure with a Tulsi plant overhead). All
the cooked foods are served in plates. Then female heads of the family
see the face of Sun God through the bowl of turmeric water and offer all
the cuisine to the God.
They read the legend of Samba Dasami
Brata Katha and pray for the well-being of the whole family members. In
the late night or evening, another puja is observed as a part of Samba
Dashami ritual. This is known as ‘Mahakala Puja’. Special Budha Chakuli
is offered to Yama.
Dhanu Sankranti Maha Punya Kala - 04:09 PMto 05:27 PM
Duration - 01 Hour 17 Mins
Dhanu Sankranti Moment - 04:09 PM
Dhanu
Sankranti or Dhanu Sankraman is an auspicious day as per Hindu
mythology and occurs when the Sun enters the Sagittarius sun sign or the
dhanu rashi. It is of special importance in the state of Orissa where
this day is celebrated with great joy. The start of Dhanur Mas is
observed with special puja offered to Lord Jagannath. Dhanur Mas is said
to start on makar Sankranti. This day is also celebrated by worshipping
the Sun God.
During the entire festival that commences from 16th
of December for nearly 15 days, the Bargarh town becomes Mathura, the
Jura River becomes Yamuna, and Ambapalli is depicted as Gokul. All
adults and children together celebrate and many plays and musical
performances take place. The entire stretch of nearly 5 kilometers
become like a theatre where large number of people get involved and
enact various episodes of Lord Krishna’s life.
Rituals of the Day
On
this day, Lord Jagannath is worshipped in many parts of India,
especially in Orissa. Devotees start the festival of Dhanu Yatra from
sixth day of Pousha month in Shukla Paksha and continue it until Purnima
of the Pousha month. Special prasad is prepared on this day, which
includes sweetened rice flakes in conical shape to offer the God during
the puja ceremony. The “Bow Ceremony” is depicted in a street play
and held as mentioned in the Bhagwad Purana. Devotees from near and far
come to watch this and pray to God. This day is considered auspicious to offer donation (daanya punnya) and perform ancestral pujas. Apart from daan activities one should involve himself in sankraman japa, holy water bath and pitru tarpan. The
Sun God is offered water and flowers early in the morning just after
the sunrise to receive blessings. Devotees especially, women, fast on
this day for happiness and fortune in their life.
Margashirsha month is full of devotion and dedication. Margashirsha
Purnima is celebrated on 8th december 2022,thursday. Devotees can be seen
involved in Bhajans, Kirtans etc. throughout this month. There are
rallies of these devotees which can be seen early morning during this
month. There is a great importance of Lord Krishna in this month. The
Lord himself says that he is the Margashirsha month out of all the
months. In Satyug, Devas considered the first day of Margashirsha month
to be the beginning of the year. During this month, baths should be
taken in rivers and Tulsi and roots of Tulsi plant should be used. Namo
Narayanaya mantra or Gayatri mantra should be recited while taking a
bath.
Margashirsha Month
Margashirsha month is related to
Lord Krishna. It is believed that this month is related to Margashira
Nakshatra. Margashira Nakshatra is one of the 27 Nakshatras and this
month’s Purnima comprises of this Nakshatra. This month is known as
Margashira month because of the same reason.
This month is also known as Magsar, Agahan and Agrahayan. Donations, baths etc are of great importance during this month.
Lord
Krishna told the importance of this month to Gopis and said that taking
a bath in the Yamuna river during this month gets a person closer to
him. Hence, taking baths in a river is considered extremely sacred
during this month.
Significance of Margashirsha Purnima
Taking
baths in river Ganga is considered sacred during this month just like
other months including Kartik, Magh, Vaishakh etc. Margashirsha Purnima
is considered very important. Lord Satyanarayana should be worshipped on
the day of Margashirsha Purnima as it relieves of all problems and
sins.
Donations and charities are considered to relieve a person
of all his sins if he does so on the day of ‘Udyatithi’ Purnima. It is
believed that doing these things on this day gives 32 time better
results than usual. Hence, Margashirsha Purnima is also known as Battisi
Purnima.
Dattatreya Jayanti
Margashirsha Purnima is also
celebrated as Dattatreya Jayanti. It is believed that Lord Dattatreya
was born on this day. According to religious texts, Lord Dattatreya is
known as an incarnation of all Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh.
Dattatreya is believed to possess qualities of both the Lord and the
Master and hence is also known as Gurudevadatta.
According to
beliefs, Dattatreya was born on the day of Purnima in Margashirsha month
during Pradosh Kal. According to Shrimad Bhagvatgita, Dattatreya
acquired knowledge from 24 masters. Datta community originated because
of him. Many different templs devoted to him can be seen in southern
India. Worshipping Lord Dattatreya on the Purnima of Margashirsha month
relieves a person from all problems and sins.
Dattatreya Jayanti 8thdecember ,thursday
Lord Dattatreya
Dattatreya Jayanti is a Hindu festival celebrated to commemorate the
birthday of Lord Dattatreya who was a popular sage. This festival occurs
in December or January during Margasheersha month on the full moon day.
Dattatreya is regarded as the avatar of Lord Vishnu, Shiva and Brahma.
On this day, in human form the trinity God appeared on earth to guide
humanness. On Margasheersha purnima day, people worship and carry out
procession.
दिगंबरा दिगंबरा
श्रीपादवल्लभ दिगंबरा
दत्तगुरूंचे नाम स्मरा हो
दत्तगुरूंचे भजन करा
हे नामामृत भवभयहारक
अघसंहारक त्रिभुवनतारक
आत्मसुखाचा मोक्ष लुटाया
अमोल ठेवा हाति धरा
दत्तचरण माहेर सुखाचे
दत्तभजन भोजन मोक्षाचे
कवच लाभता दत्तकृपेचे
कळिकाळाचे भय न जरा
हा उत्पत्ति-स्थिति-लयकर्ता
योगज्ञान-उद्गाता, त्राता
दत्तचरित मधु गाता गाता
भवसागर हा पार करा
==
Dattatreya Jayanthi
By
Sri Swami Sivananda
Om Namo Bhagavate Dattatreyaya
DATTATREYA Jayanthi falls during December-January on the full moon day
of the month of Margaseersha. His story is told as follows.
Anusuya is quoted as the model of chastity. She was the wife of Atri
Maharishi, a great sage and one of the seven foremost seers and sages.
She was well established in the Pativrata Dharma, the main elements of
which are devotion to husband and regard of him as God Himself. She did
severe austerities for a very long time in order to beget sons equal to
Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, the Hindu Trinity.
Once, Saraswathi,
Lakshmi and Parvati requested their husbands (the Trimurtis) to test the
Pativrata Dharma of Anusuya, by asking her to give them alms with an
unclothed body.
Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva came to know of the
austerity and desire of Anusuya. So, they agreed to their wives’
request, as they knew that by agreeing to it, they would also be
fulfilling Anusuya’s wish. They put on the garb of Sannyasins and
appeared before Anusuya, asking her to give them alms as specified by
their wives. Anusuya was in a great dilemma. She could not say “No” to
the Sannyasins. And she had to maintain her Pativrata Dharma also, which
she would be violating if she appeared naked before men other than her
own husband. She meditated on the form of her husband, took refuge at
his feet and sprinkled over the three Sannyasins a few drops of water
used for washing the feet of her husband. Immediately the Trimurtis were
transformed into three babies on account of the glory of her chastity.
At the same time, there was accumulation of milk in her breast. She
thought that these children were her own and fed them with the milk, in a
nude state and cradled them. She was eagerly expecting the arrival of
her husband who had gone to have a bath.
As soon as Atri Rishi
returned home, Anusuya related all that had happened during his absence,
placed the three children at his feet and worshipped him. But, Atri
knew all this already through his divine vision. He embraced all the
three children. They became one child, with two feet, one trunk, three
heads and six hands. Atri Rishi blessed his wife and informed her that
the Trimurtis themselves had assumed the forms of the three children to
gratify her wish.
In the meantime, Narada went to Saraswathi,
Lakshmi and Parvati and informed them that their husbands had been
turned into children through the power of the Pativrata Dharma of
Anusuya and that they would not return unless they asked for their
husbands as alms from Rishi Atri. Thus Saraswathi, Lakshmi and Parvati
assumed the form of ordinary women, appeared before Atri and asked for
their own husbands as alms. Atri duly honoured the three ladies and,
with folded palms, prayed to them that his wish and the wish of Anusuya
should be fulfilled.
Then, the Trimurtis appeared in their true
form before Atri and said, “This child will be a great sage according to
your word and will be equal to us, according to the wish of Anusuya.
The child will bear the name of Dattatreya.” Saying this they
disappeared.
The child Dattatreya soon attained manhood. As he
had the rays of the Trimurtis and as he was a great man of the highest
wisdom, all the Rishis and ascetics worshipped him. He was gentle,
peaceful and amiable. He was an Avadhuta—an ascetic who always remains
naked. He preached the Truth of Vedanta. Dattatreya taught his Avadhuta
Gita to Lord Subramanya. This is a wonderful book which contains the
truths and secrets of Vedanta and the experiences of Self-realisation.
Once, while he was roaming happily in a forest, he met King Yadu, who,
on seeing Dattatreya so happy, asked him the secret of his happiness and
the name of his Guru.
Dattatreya said, “The Self alone is my
Guru. Yet, I have learnt wisdom from twenty-four other individuals and
objects. So they, too, are also my Gurus.”
Dattatreya then mentioned the names of his twenty-four Gurus and spoke of the wisdom that he had learnt from each as follows:
“The names of my twenty-four Gurus are earth, water, fire, sky, moon,
sun, pigeon, python, ocean, moth, honey-gatherers (black bee), bees,
elephant, deer, fish, the dancing-girl Pingala, raven, child, maiden,
serpent, arrow-maker, spider and beetle.
1. I learnt patience and doing good to others from the earth.
2. From water, I learnt the quality of purity.
3. I learnt from air to be without attachment though I move with many people in this world.
4. From fire I learnt to glow with the splendour of Self-knowledge and austerity.
5. I learnt from the sky that the Self is all-pervading and yet it has no contact with any object.
6. I learnt from the moon that the Self is always perfect and
changeless and it is only the limiting adjuncts that cast shadows over
it.
7. Just as a sun reflected in various pots of water appears
as so many different reflections, so also Brahman appears different
because of the bodies caused by the reflection through the mind. This is
the lesson I have learnt from the sun.
8. I once saw a pair of
pigeons with their young birds. A fowler spread a net and caught the
young birds. The mother pigeon was very much attached to her children.
She fell into the net and was caught. From this I have learnt that
attachment is the root cause of earthly bondage.
9. The python
does not move about for its food. It remains contented with whatever it
gets, lying in one place. From this I learnt to be unmindful of food and
to be contented with whatever I get to eat.
10. Just as the
ocean remains unmoved, even though hundreds of rivers flow into it, so
also the wise man should remain unmoved among all the various sorts of
temptations, difficulties and troubles.
11. To control the sense of sight and to fix the mind on the Self, is the lesson I learnt from the moth.
12. I take a little food from one house and a little from another house
and thus appease my hunger. I am not a burden on the householder. This I
learnt from the black bee which gathers honey from various flowers.
13. Bees collect honey with great trouble, but a hunter comes along and
takes the honey away easily. From this I learnt that it is useless to
hoard things.
14. The male elephant, blinded by lust, falls into a
pit covered with grass, even at the sight of a female elephant.
Therefore, one should destroy lust.
15. The deer is enticed and trapped by the hunter through its love of music. Therefore, one should never listen to lewd songs.
16. Just as a fish that is covetous of food falls an easy victim to the
bait, so also the man who is greedy for food loses his independence and
easily gets ruined.
17. There was a dancing girl named Pingala.
Being tired of looking for customers, one night she became hopeless. She
had to be contented with what traffic she had that day and retired to a
sound sleep. I learnt from this fallen woman the lesson that the
abandonment of hope leads to contentment.
18. A raven picked up a
piece of flesh. It was pursued and beaten by other birds. It dropped
the piece of flesh and attained peace and rest. From this I learnt that a
man in the world undergoes all sorts of troubles and miseries when he
runs after sensual pleasures and that he becomes as happy as the bird
when he abandons them.
19. The child who sucks milk is free from
all cares, worries and anxieties, and is always cheerful. I learnt the
virtue of cheerfulness from the child.
20. The maiden was husking
paddy. Her bangles made much noise and there were visitors from her
husband’s house. To silence the bangles, she removed them, one by one.
Even when there were just two, they produced some noise. When she had
only one, it did not make any noise, and she was happy. I learnt from
the maiden that living among many would create discord, disturbance,
dispute and quarrel. Even among two there might be unnecessary words or
strife. The ascetic or the Sannyasin should remain alone in solitude.
21. A serpent does not build its own hole. It dwells in the holes dug
out by others. Even so, an ascetic should not build a home for himself.
He should live in a temple or a cave built by others.
22. I learnt from the arrow-maker the quality of intense concentration of mind.
23. The spider pours out of its mouth long threads and weaves them into
cobwebs. Then it gets itself entangled in the net of its own making.
Even so, man makes a net of his own ideas and gets entangled in it. The
wise man should, therefore, abandon all worldly thoughts and think of
Brahman only.
24. The beetle catches hold of a worm, puts it in
its nest and gives it a sting. The poor worm, always fearing the return
of the beetle and sting, and thinking constantly of the beetle, becomes a
beetle itself. I learnt from the beetle and the worm to turn myself
into the Self by contemplating constantly on It; thus I gave up all
attachment to the body and attained liberation.”
The king was
highly impressed by listening to these enlightening words of Lord
Dattatreya. He abandoned the world and practised constant meditation on
the Self.
Dattatreya was absolutely free from intolerance or
prejudice of any kind. He learnt wisdom from whatever source it came.
All seekers after wisdom should follow the example of Dattatreya.
On Dattatreya Jayanthi, get up at Brahmamuhurta and meditate. Fast and
pray throughout the day. Do not mix with anybody. Live in total
seclusion. Forget the body. Identify yourself with the blissful Self.
Study Dattatreya’s glorious works, namely, the Avadhuta Gita and the
Jivanmukta Gita. Worship Lord Dattatreya’s (or, your own Guru’s) form.
Take wholesome resolves that you will follow the great teachings of Lord
Dattatreya. You will realise the Self very soon.
May you all
enjoy the choicest blessings of Lord Dattatreya, and may you all attain
the highest goal, Self-realisation in this very birth!
Margashirsha Purnima Pooja
Fasting
and worshipping on Margashirsha Purnima fulfills all wishes and a
person is relieved of all problems. Lord Vishnu Narayana is worshipped
on Margashirsha Purnima. A person should take a bath, wear white
clothes, should fast and should recite Om Namo Narayana mantra. A small
Yagya should be performed while sitting in a square. Prasad should be
consumed and distributed among everyone. Lord Vishnu Narayana should be
worshipped and food arrangements should be made for Brahmanas. Donations
should also be made.
Moon should also be worshipped on
Margashirsha Purnima. This is because its is believed that Moon was
covered with Amrit on this day. Colthes should be distributed among the
females of the family including sisters, mother, daughters etc.
Margashirsha
Month is the ninth month in a traditional Hindi calendar followed in
North India.. Mokshada Ekadasi, Dattatreya Jayanti and Gita Jayanthi are
observed in this month. This calendar is followed mainly in Uttar
Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan,
Haryana, Bihar,Odisha and Chhattisgarh and other North Indian states. A month
in these regions is calculated from the day after Purnima or full moon
to the next Purnima. https://youtu.be/0d_ABdyEQxQ
Gita Jayanti day symbolizes the birth of Srimad Bhagavad-Gita, the sacred text of the Hindus.
Gita
Jayanti is celebrated worldwide by all devotees of Lord Krishna
(followers of Sanatana Dharma), who revere Bhagavad Gita as their Divine
Mother because she teaches (in a non-sectarian and scientific manner)
how to re-establish our lost relationship with God Almighty (The
Supreme).
It is generally observed by en-masse recitation of all
700 verses of the Gita chanted throughout the day. Devotees also fast on
this day since it is an Ekadashi day (Ekadasi is the eleventh day of
the waxing moon and waning moon) – it occurs twice every lunar month and
is observed by fasting from grains and lentils (peas, beans, dhals) by
those who seek to progress spiritually. Bhajans and Poojas are held on
this day. In places where this festival is celebrated grandly, stage
play and Gita chanting competitions are held for kids to show their
talents as a way to encourage their interest in reading Gita. Yogis,
Sanyasins and learned scholar gives talks and held forums of this holy
scripture. Leaflets, pamphlets and books containing the essence of Gita
are distributed to the public. It is especially auspicious to distribute
free copies of the Gita on this holy day. (See mokshda ekadashi.)vishnu stotra/puja 218) http://sekhar789.blogspot.in/2016/12/mokshda-ekadashivishnu-stotrapuja218. html
Gita Meditations https://youtu.be/uUE8vXvn9-s
LIVE FROM GEETA JAYANTI MAHOTSAV: DRAUPDI NRITYA BY HEMA MALINI.
Panchami Tithi Begins = 02.22 on 18th dec 2020
Panchami Tithi Ends = 14:14 on 19/Dec/2020
Vivah
Panchami is a popular Hindu festival that commemorates the weddings of
Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. It is celebrated on the ‘Panchami’ (5th day)
of the Shukla Paksha (the waxing phase of moon) during the month of
‘Margashirsha’ in the Hindu calendar.
In the Hindu religion, this
day is considered to be very auspicious as it marks the ceremonial
marriage anniversary of Rama and Sita. Just like any Hindu wedding, the
celebrations and festivals begin several days in advance
The
celebrations of Vivah Panchami are very notable in Lord Rama temples in
different parts of India, particularly in Mithilanchal region and some
parts of North India. The day also holds immense significance at
Janakpur, in Nepal as it was believed that the ceremony was held here
itself. Thousands of pilgrims from Indian and other parts of the world
come to witness this grand celebration.
Celebrations of Vivah Panchami:
The
day of Vivah Panchami is celebrated with great fervour in Ayodhya, the
birth place of Shri Ram. On this auspicious day all the temples are
brightly lit with lamps. The celebrations involve the enactment of this
divine wedding ceremony. During the day a grand procession leaves from
one temple to another and ends with the magnificent wedding ceremony in
the evening. The idols of Lord Rama and Goddess Sati are magnificently
adorned with clothes and jewelry to make them look like bridegroom and
bride respectively. The entire event is popularly known as ‘Ram Vivah
Utsav’. All through the day devotional songs in praise of Lord Rama are
sung by devotees. Besides the festivities at the temples, several stage
shows and cultural programmes are also organized on this occasion.
Ramleela, a stage performance that depicts the life of Lord Rama and
Devi Sita is also observed in many regions. People from different parts
of the country come here to participate in the celebrations.
At
Janakpur particularly the celebrations are observed with great fanfare.
Special rituals and pujas are held across temples including the renowned
‘Dashrath’, ‘Ram’ and ‘Janki’ temples. Here the celebrations continue
for a period of 7 days and devotees observe all the rituals with immense
zeal and dedication. Thousands of devotees visit these temples to seek
the divine blessings for leading a happy family life. As a part of the
rituals, devotees on the day of Vivah Panchami take a holy bath in
renowned lakes of Mithilanchal like ‘Dhanushsagar’, ‘Gangasagar’ and
‘Argaza Pond’.
Vivah Panchami’ is marked as the auspicious day to
celebrate the union of two bodies into one soul for the seven life
cycles one goes through before he/she attains salvation. Every couple
which wants happiness in their life perform ‘pooja’ on this day.
What mantras are to be chanted during the wedding rituals?
The
mantra to be chanted in order to seek Lord Ram’s blessings is: “Om
Dasrathaye Vidmahi, Sita Valabhai Dhimahi,
Tanno Rama Prachodyat”.
Goddess Sita’s mantra is, “Om Janak Nandinaye Vidmahi, Bhoomi Jaye
Dhimahi, Tanno Sita Prachodyat”. One should chant these mantras in order
to please the deities.
Vivah Panchami: विवाह पंचमी, श्रीराम जानकी विवाह तिथि और विधि
विवाह
पंचमी पर भगवान राम और सीता का विवाह हुआ था। विवाह केवल स्त्री और पुरुष
के गृहस्थ जीवन में प्रवेश का ही प्रसंग नहीं है बल्कि यह जीवन को
संपूर्णता देने का अवसर है। श्रीराम के विवाह के जरिए हम विवाह की महत्ता
और उसके गहन अर्थों से रूबरू हो सकते हैं।
भारत में कई स्थानों पर
विवाह पंचमी को बड़ी धूमधाम से मनाया जाता है। मार्गशीर्ष (अगहन) मास की
शुक्ल पक्ष की पंचमी को भगवान श्रीराम तथा जनकपुत्री जानकी (सीता) का विवाह
हुआ था।
तभी से पंचमी को 'विवाह पंचमी पर्व' के रूप में मनाया जाता
है। पौराणिक धार्मिक ग्रंथों के अनुसार इस तिथि को भगवान राम ने जनक
नंदिनी सीता से विवाह किया था। तुलसीदासजी कहते हैं कि 'श्रीराम ने विवाह
द्वारा मन के तीनों विकारों काम, क्रोध और लोभ से उत्पन्न समस्याओं का
समाधान प्रस्तुत किया गया है।'
श्री रामकिंकर जी महाराज ने राम
विवाह की बड़ी ही सुंदर व्याख्या करते हुए लिखा है, 'संसार के विवाह और
श्रीराम के मंगलमय विवाह में अंतर क्या है? यह जो भगवद्-रस है, वह व्यक्ति
को बाहर से भीतर की ओर ले जाता है। और बाहर से भीतर जाना जीवन में परम
आवश्यक है।
व्यवहार में भी आप देखते हैं, अनुभव करते हैं कि जब
तीव्र गर्मी पड़ने लगे, धूप हो तो आप क्या करते हैं? बाहर से भीतर चले जाते
हैं। वर्षा में भी आप बाहर से भीतर चले जाते हैं, अर्थात बाहर चाहे वर्षा
या धूप हो, घर में तो आप सुरक्षित हैं।
इसी प्रकार जीवन में भी कभी
वासना के बादल बरसने लगते हैं, क्रोध की धूप व्यक्ति को संतप्त करने लगती
है, मनोनुकूल घटनाएं नहीं घटती हैं, ऐसे समय में अगर हम अंतर्जगत में, भाव
राज्य में प्रविष्ठ हो सकें तो एक दिव्य शीतलता, प्रेम और आनंद की अनुभूति
होगी।
भगवान श्री सीताराम के विवाह को हम अन्तर्हृदय में देखें,
ध्यान करें, लीला में स्वयं सम्मिलित हों, इस विवाह का उद्देश्य है।' इस
तरह से देखा जाए तो श्रीराम विवाह के गंभीर अर्थ की तरफ हमारा ध्यान
आकर्षित करते हैं। वे हमें जीवन के इस महत्वपूर्ण प्रसंग के वास्तविक अर्थ
से रूबरू करवाते हैं।
Vrischika
Sankranti. Festivals. Vrischika Sankranti is also called as 'Vruschika
Sankramanam is a sacred day that marks the movement of Sun from the Tula
Rashi to the Vruschika Rashi. In the Gregorian calendar this transition
corresponds to the movement of Sun from the Libra Zodiac Sign to the
Scorpio Zodiac Sign.
The day of Vrischika Sankranti is dedicated
to worshipping Sun God. Hindu devotees pray to Surya Bhagwan to seek His
divine blessings. The day of Vrischika Sankranti is also propitious for
Sankraman Snan, Vishnu Puja and Daan. The ritual of ‘daan’ during this
day should be performed during the specific timing to gain maximum
benefits. On the occasion of Vrischika Sankranti ‘Shradh’ and ‘Pitru
Tarpan’ are important rituals of the day.
On Vrischika Sankranti,
sixteen ghatis (with 1 day = 60 Ghatis) prior to Sankranti moment marks
the beginning of the auspicious time. The best time to perform Punya or
Daan activities should be performed between the start of the auspicious
time to the actual Sankranti moment. It is believed that donating a cow
to a Brahmin Vrischika Sankranti will bring immense virtues to the
observer. Reading of Hindu religious scriptures and books like ‘Vishnu
Sahasranama’ and ‘Aditya Hrudayam’ is believed to be very favourable.
Devotees also chant or recite stotras or Vedic mantras in praise of Sun
God.
Kala Bhairava Jayanti 2019- November 19th Tuesday. Kala Bhairav
Ashtami is also known as Bhairav Ashtami, Bhairava Jayanti and
Kala-Bhairava Ashtami. It falls on the eighth lunar day of the Krishna
Paksha (dark fortnight) in the Hindu month of Kartik. It is a holy day
commemorating the birthday of Lord Bhairava, the fierce manifestation of
Shiva. According to a legend the Trimurti i.e. Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu
and Lord Mahesh were discussing as to who was superior of them all. In
the heated debate, Shiva felt offended by the remarks made by Brahma and
commanded Bhairava to sever one of Brahma’s five heads. Bhairava obeyed
Shiva's orders .Thus Brahma became four headed. Bhairava's sin of
Brahmhatya was expiated when he reached the holy city of Varanasi after
wandering throughout the world. There are many temples in Varanasi
dedicated to Lord Bhairava.
By worshiping Lord Shiva in the form
of Kala Bhairava one can get rid of all the misfortune. The devotee
enjoys all round success and is exempted from his sins. Lord Bhairava,
Shiva and his consort Parvati are worshiped with flowers, fruits and
sweets. Dogs (vehicle of Lord Bhairava) are also fed milk and food. Dead
ancestors are remembered and offered oblations on this day.
The
Shaivites take ritual bath in the morning and perform Puja. Devotees
fast throughout the day and perform Jagaran at night. Kaalbhairav Katha
is recited by the devotees. They also perform Bhairva Aarti at midnight
along with traditional musical instruments. A huge function is organized
at Bhairav Prasad Temple in Vaishno Devi every year. In Varanasi lots
of cultural programs and prayers are observed.
It should be noted
that Kalashtami fasting might be observed on Saptami Tithi. According
to religious text Vratraj Kalashtami fasting should be observed on the
day when Ashtami Tithi prevails during night. Accordingly DrikPanchang
makes sure that Ashtami should prevail at least for one Ghati after
Pradosh while selecting fasting day for Kalashtami. Otherwise Kalashtami
fasting day is moved to previous day when Ashtami Tithi is more likely
to prevail during night.
Manabasa Gurubar is a great festival for all Oriyas. It
is
the worship of Goddess
Lakshmi
in the month of
Margasira.All thursdays are considered
as her days.when she come out to bless her devotees.
She
ended discrimination by encourging even untouchables to do rituals and
worship.In an ancient scripture LAKSHMI PURAN it is beautifully
described.
Manabasa Gurubar Lakshmi vrata is observed during gurubar or Thursdays in the month of Margasira.
Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped on Thursdays during Margashirsh Month
(November – December) in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and
Maharashtra. This puja is performed to get Sukh, Shanti and Aishwarya –
comfort, peace and prosperity.
Margasira month, also called as Margashirsha maas, is considered as
the favorite month for Lord Vishnu and in Odisha it is an auspicious
month to worship Lord Jagannath and his consort, Goddess Lakshmi.Lakshmi is worshipped with shodashopachar puja (16 steps of puja) and
offered special naivedyam. On Margasira gurubar day, women clean their
houses and keep them neat. They wake up early in the morning and perform
ritual bath and start Lakshmi Puja. The procedure of Margashira
Guruvara puja is same as Diwali Lakshmi Puja and Kojagari Lakshmi Puja.
Mahalakshmi puja is observed in the evening on the day. Devotees read the Mahalakshmi Vrat Katha and Mahalakshmi Mahatmya.
Sri Mahalakshmi Aarti and Mahalakshmi Naman Ashtak are chanted on the day.
Vidhi (Procedure) for Manabasa Gurubar Puja
Wash the floor and decorate it with jhoti painting of rice paste. On a
low table (khatuli), spread some newly harvested paddy grains of white
colour. Fill a mana (a measuring pot made of cane) with such grains and
place it on the low table. Wash three betel nuts in turmeric water and
place them on the mana. Decorate the place with vegetables, flowers and
coloured cloth. Then invoke Mahalakshmi with lamp and incense and offer
three offerings of meals in puja.”
Namaste sarva devanam baradasi haripriye
ya gati stvam prasannanam saame bhuyatvadacharnat.
Pranama:
Vishwa roopasya bharyasi padme padmalaye shubhe
Sadhhartah paahimam devi Mahalakshmi namostute
Vandeham dhanadatri Mahalakshmim devi namonamami.
The third guruvar is considered as most auspicious.May sri mahalakshmi;s blessings be upon you.(. dec this year)
MANABASA GURUBAR
1st-10th.nov
2nd-17th nov
3rd-24th nov
Prathamastami is a rite is held in Odisha, India,
for the life and prosperity of the eldest child who is offered a
lighted lamp ovation by the senior female relatives followed by
elaborate rituals during which the Mantras are recited. The celebration falls on the dark half eighth day - Ashtami - of the month of Margashirsha according to the Purnimanta calendar followed in North India, occurring after the eight day of Kartik Purnima. The ritual involves Aarathi of the eldest child by mother and relatives in which the maternal uncle sends the items necessary for the ritual, and Ganesha, Shashti devi and the family deity are worshipped. The main delicacy of the day is Enduri Pitha. In
front of him/her an earthen pot full of water (Purna Kumbha) is placed
on handfuls of paddy. Above it a branch of mango leaves and a coconut is
placed. Then, the mother or any other elderly lady wishes him /her
long-life and good health by praying Sathi Debi, the Goddess who
protects children from all kinds of evils.
Rituals of Prathamastami
Before the first-borns get honoured, the mother and all other elderly
women of the family offer all the prepared cuisine (Pitha and Khiri) to
Sathi Devi first. Then they light the lamp (Arati with Dwipa) before the
Goddess. Followed by this the first-borns get honoured.
This day is also known as Saubhagini Ashtami, Kaal Bhairav Ashtami and Paap-nashini Ashatami.
In the temple of Lingaraja at Bhubaneswar , the festival is observed with great devotion. On this day the representative deity of
Lingaraja is taken out in a palanquin to a tank called "Papanasini", which is situated just behind the temple.
1. The Full Moon Purnima day of the Shukla paksha (waxing moon) of the Kartik month is considered very auspicious.
2. It marks the end of Kartik month and start of Margshirsha.
3. It also ends the Sharad Ritu and marks the start of Hemant Ritu. As per Ayurveda pitta gets aggravated in shard and Kapha in Hemant Ritu.
4. With it also starts the winter.
5. It is also called Diwali of the Gods and Tripuri Purnima. The day marks the victory of Lord Shiva over the demons Tripuri. Tripuri Purnima is one of the most propitious days for worshipping of Shiva, next only to the Maha Shivaratri.
6. Kartik bath at Ganga is considered one of the mashes sans (holy
baths) of the year. It gives the required vitamin D. As it marks the
start of winter it is also the last day to take Ganga Snana.
7. With it also starts the marriage season. Maximum marriages take place on this day.
8. The whole month of ‘Kartika’ is considered sacred among
all the twelve months of the year with a festival almost every third
day. The last five days are considered more sacred (Panchaka) and ends with Kartika Poornima. The five days are devoted to worship of Tulsi, Awala, Shiva and sun bath.
9. Jains celebrate the Purnima as Deva Diwali with the worship of Lord Mahavira.
10. Lord Vishnu is worshipped on this day for his birth of Matsya (fish) avatar.
11. It’s also the birthday of Vrinda, the epitome of the Tulsi plant and of lord Kartikeya, who is the chief of all gods and is the last day to perform the ‘Tulsi Vivah.
12. Karthik Poornima is also dedicated to the dead ancestors.
13. The Kartik Purnima festival also coincides with Guru Nanak’s Birthday. 14.The kartik purnima is also Mahavir jayanti =
Kartik is the eighth lunar
month in Hindu calendar. The full moon day during the month of Kartik is
known as Kartik Purnima. Depending on people and the region, the full
moon day in Hindu calendar is also referred as Poornima, Poonam,
Pournami and Pournimasi. In Vaishnava tradition Kartik month is known as
Damodara month. Damodara is one of the names of Lord Krishna.
In
Hindu calendar, Kartik is the holiest month among all lunar months.
Many people take pledge to take holy dip before sunrise in Ganges and
other holy rivers every day during the month of Kartik. The ritual of
holy dip during Kartik month begins on the day of Sharad Purnima and ends on Kartik Purnima.
Kartik
Purnima is also very significant as many rituals and festivals
culminate on the day of Kartik Purnima. The festivities of Kartika
Purnima begin on the day of Prabodhini Ekadashi.
Ekadashi is the eleventh day and Purnima is the fifteenth day of
Kartika month during Shukla Paksha. Hence Kartik Purnima festivities
last for five days.
Tulasi-Vivah Utsav which begins on the day of Prabodhini Ekadashi culminates on the day of Kartik Purnima. As per religious books, Tulasi Vivah
can be performed on any suitable day between Ekadashi to Purnima in the
month of Kartik. However, many people choose the day of Kartik Purnima
to perform marriage rituals of Goddess Tulasi and Lord Shaligram, an iconic representation of Lord Vishnu.
Bhishma Panchaka
fasting which begins on Ekadashi day ends on the day of Kartik Purnima.
In Vaishnava tradition, the utmost importance is given to Bhishma
Panchaka fasting during the last five days of Kartik month. The five
days fasting is known as Bhishma Panchaka as well as Vishnu Panchaka.
Vaikuntha Chaturdashi
fasting and Puja is performed on Chaturdashi Tithi i.e. one day before
Kartik Purnima. It is believed that Lord Vishnu worshipped Lord Shiva on
the day of Kartik Chaturdashi during Shukla Paksha and offered Him one
thousand lotus flowers. Many Shiva temples organize special Puja during
which Lord Vishnu is worshipped along with Lord Shiva. On the day of
Vaikuntha Chaturdashi, a holy dip in Ganges before Sunrise at
Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi is considered very significant among
devotees of Lord Shiva.
Dev Diwali which is also known as Diwali of Gods is celebrated on the day of Kartik Purnima. It is believed that Lord Shiva killed demon Tripurasura on the day of Kartik Purnima. Hence Kartik Purnima is also known as Tripuri Purnima and Tripurari Purnima.
As per legends of Tripuri Purnima, Tripurasura defeated Gods and
started ruling their kingdom. When Tripurasura was killed, Gods were
overjoyed and celebrated the day of Kartik Purnima as the day of
illuminations. Hence thousands of earthen lamps are lit at all temples
as well as at the bank of river Ganga on the day of Kartik Purnima.
Kartik Purnima 2022 Date And Timing
Kartik Poornima falls on the 8th of November, 2022, tuesday.
According to Dhrik Panchangam, the full moon will enter at 4:15 PM on the 7th of November and end at 4:31 PM on the 8th of November.
https://youtu.be/2mKknP2-3s0
KARTIK PURNIMA IN ODISHA
"Time For The Festivity
The whole month of 'Kartika' is considered to be the most sacred among
all the twelve months "of the year. During this month all the pious
Hindus refrain from eating fish, meat or egg. All of them
take pre-dawn bath and visit temples as a matter of routine. The last
five days are considered more sacred, in which there is wide
participation. Taken together the days are called 'Panchaka', the last
day being the "Kartika Purnima". Every day they take food only once in
the afternoon which is known as 'Habisha'.
A Five-Day Celebration
For
all the five days the women after purificatory bath in the early
morning draw beautiful flower-designs around the 'chaura' (a small
temple like structure with a 'Tulsi' plant overhead) with col-
our
powders produced indigenously. Fasting for the day is commonly
observed. Most of the Shiva temples get crowded with devotees offering
prayers to Lord Shiva who is said to have killed the demon 'Tripurasura'
on this day. Group singing of 'kirtans' and loud beating of 'Mrudanga' and cymbals continue for the whole day. Boita Bandana - An Ancient Festival
Another festival that takes place in the morning
is significant to the ancient history of Orissa. This reminds the
maritime glory of the State. In olden days the 'Sadhabas' (Sea traders) used to sail off to distant islands like Java, Sumatra, Borneo, Ceylon etc. for their trade
by huge boats ('Boita'). The women of the community were giving them a
hearty send off on this day. The days are now gone, but the memory is
still alive. Now, people float tiny boats made out of cork and coloured paper or bark of the banyan tree while reminiscing the past glory. This is called "Boita Bandana".
The next
fortnight of the month is spent propitiating the dead ancestors. In
every evening, a covered but perforated earthen pot carrying an earthen
lamp inside is hoisted to a pole to help guide the ancestral spirits to
descend on their respective villages and homes. The members of a family
light a bunch of jute-stalks with the invocation "Oh! The ancestors come
in the darkness and go in the light." This is called "Badabadua Paka". Bali Yatra
In
the city of Cuttack and some other places huge images of "Kartikeswar"
are built and worshipped. At night they are taken out in procession and
are immersed in the river Mahanadi, near a Shiva temple. Exactly at this
place a big fair known as "Bali Yatra" is held for about three-four
days. The name of the festival has two significances. Some are of opinion that on this day
the Sadhabas were sailing off to Bali and therefore, the name. Some
others believe that 'Sri Chaitanya' the great Vaishnavite saint of
Bengal on his way to Puri landed on this day at Cuttack after crossing the sand-bed (Sand is 'Bali') of the river Mahanadi.
Thousands
of People congregate at the fairground where innumerable varieties of
goods are bought and sold. People also enjoy boating with friends and
family in the moonlit night."
कार्तिक पूर्णिमा: इस पूजा से मिलेगा सुख, समृद्धि, सौभाग्य का वर
https://youtu.be/3KyMJxTOc0w
कार्तिक
पूर्णिमा का अपने आप में बहुत खास महत्व है, इस दिन को ब्रह्मा, विष्णु,
शिव, अंगिरा �"र आदित्य जैसे देवता�"ं का दिन माना गया है
संसार की रचना के समय से ही कार्तिक पूर्णिमा के दिन का अपने आप में बहुत खास महत्व है। हिंदू धर्म में इस तिथि को पवित्र मानने के पीछे एक कारण यह भी है कि इस दिन को ब्रह्मा, विष्णु, शिव, अंगिरा और आदित्य जैसे देवताओं का दिन माना गया है। पुराणों और शास्त्रों की कथा के अनुसार कार्तिक पूर्णिमा के दिन ही भगवान शिव
ने त्रिपुरासुर नामक महाबलशाली राक्षस का संहार किया था इसी कारण इसका
महत्व केवल वैष्णव भक्तों के लिए ही नहीं बल्कि शिव भक्तों के लिए भी है।
इस
दिन श्रीसत्यनारायण की कथा सुनने का प्रचलन है और शाम के समय मंदिरों,
चौराहों के साथ-साथ पीपल के वृक्ष, तुलसी के पौधे पर भी खास तौर पर दीपक
जलाए जाते हैं। इस दिन गंगा को भी दान अर्पण किया जाता है। पुराणों में
उल्लेख है कि कार्तिक पूर्णिमा को धर्म, अर्थ, काम और मोक्ष जैसे चारों
पुरुषार्थों को देने वाला दिन माना गया है और स्वयं विष्णु ने ब्रह्मा को,
ब्रह्मा ने नारद को और नारद ने महाराज पृथु को कार्तिक मास के दिन सर्वगुण
सम्पन्न महात्म्य के रूप में बताया है। क्या करते हैं कार्तिक पूर्णिमा के दिन
ऐसा
माना जाता है कि कार्तिक पूर्णिमा के दिन से शुरू करके प्रत्येक पूर्णिमा
को व्रत और जागरण करने से सभी मनोकामनाएं सिद्ध होती हैं। इस दिन भक्त
स्नान, दान, हवन, यज्ञ और उपासना करते हैं ताकि उन्हें मन चाहे फल की
प्राप्ति हो। इस दिन गंगास्नान और शाम के समय दीपदान करना भी बहुत शुभ माना
गया है। कार्तिक पूर्णिमा के दिन भारी तादाद में गंगा जैसी पवित्र नदियों
में स्नान करना शुभ माना जाता है। शास्त्रों में कहा गया है कि भरणी
नक्षत्र में गंगा स्नान व पूजन करने से सभी तरह के ऐश्वर्य और सुख-सुविधाओं
की प्राप्ति होती है।
कार्तिक पूर्णिमा का महत्व
साल
में करीब 12 अमावस्या पड़ती हैं लेकिन साल की सबसे काली और लंबी अमावस्या
की रात कार्तिक मास की अमावस्या यानी दीपावली के दिन मनाई जाती है और इसके
15 दिन बाद कार्तिक मास की पूर्णिमा पड़ती है जो संसार में फैले अंधेरे का
सर्वनाश करती है। लोगों में ऐसी आस्था है कि इस दिन ईश्वर की आराधना करने
से मनुष्य के अंदर छिपी सभी तामसिक प्रवृत्तियों का नाश होता है और इनकी
समाप्ति के साथ ही मनुष्य देव स्वरूप प्राप्त कर सकता है। कार्तिक में पूरे
माह ब्रह्म मुहूर्त में नदी, तालाब, कुण्ड, नहर में स्त्रान कर नियमपूर्वक
भगवान की पूजा की जाती है। कलियुग में कार्तिक मास व्रत को मोक्ष का द्वार
बताया गया है। गंगा स्नान का महत्व
शास्त्रों
में कार्तिक पूर्णिमा के दिन गंगा स्नान का बड़ा महत्व बताया गया है। ऐसा
श्रद्धापूर्वक माना जाता है कि कार्तिक पूर्णिमा के दिन गंगा स्नान करने से
पूरे साल गंगा मईया आप पर प्रसन्न रहती है। इस दिन न केवल गंगा बल्कि अन्य
पवित्र नदियों के साथ-साथ तीर्थों में भी स्नान करने की प्रथा है यमुना,
गोदावरी, नर्मदा, गंडक, कुरुक्षेत्र, अयोध्या, काशी में भी स्नान करने से
विशेष पुण्य की प्राप्ति होती है।
ऐसे करें पूजन
इस
दिन सुबह स्नान करने के बाद पूरा दिन निराहार अर्थात बिना भोजन के रहा
जाता है और भगवान विष्णु की आराधना करते हुए पूरे दिन भगवान का भजन करते
हैं । इस दिन मंदिरों को विशेष रूप से सजाया जाता है। कार्तिक पूर्णिमा का
व्रत करने वाले भक्त ब्राह्मण को भोजन भी कराते हैं, जिससे विशेष पुण्य की
प्राप्ति होती है। ब्राह्मण को भोजन से पूर्व हवन भी कराया जाता है।
Chaturdashi Tithi Begins - 04:28 PMon Nov 06, 2022
Chaturdashi Tithi Ends - 04:15 PMon Nov 07, 2022
28th
WSनिवार
Lord Vishnu offering 1000 lotuses to Lord Shiva
Devotees
perform puja and keep full day fast on Chaturdashi Tithi day. Vaikuntha
Chaturdashi is observed one day before Kartik Purnima.
According to Hindu belief, Lord Vishnu worshipped Lord Shiva on the
day of Kartik Chaturdashi during Shukla Paksha. Lord Vishnu offered Lord
Shiva one thousand lotus flowers.
On Vaikuntha Chaturdashi day, a holy dip in Ganges during bramha
muhurat (before Sunrise) at Manikarnika Ghat (Varanasi) is considered
highly auspicious.
On the Kartik Shukla Paksha Chaturdashi Tithi, Lord Vishnu as well as
Lord Shiva are worshipped together and that too on the same day. It is
very rare that Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu are worshipped together on the
same day.
This folklore in Maharashtra state in India is a practice that was set by Shivaji, the founder of the Maratha Empire and his mother Jijabai. After Shivaji was crowned, the capital was built at Raigarh,
which also had a large lotus tank called Kushavarta. The lotus flowers
in the tank bloomed during the month of Kartik in a splendour of white,
blue and red colours. When Jijabai and Shivaji saw the blooms, and
Jijabai commented to Shivaji that Vaikuntha Chaturdashi was in the
offing. Shivaji recalled the Vishnu and Shiva legend. Like Vishnu,
Jijabai also wished to offer a thousand white lotus flowers to Shiva at
his Jagadeeshwara temple.
She was very particular that the flowers should be unblemished white
lotus flowers, fresh and unplucked by any other person (as by such an
act its divine quality would be lost). As the aged Jijabai would be able
to pick the flowers by herself, Shivaji was unable to find a way to
fulfil her wish and convened his court to discuss the problem. In the
court, Vikram Dalvi - the young a personal body guard of Shivaji had a
solution. Then Dalvi offered to undertake this task and assured Jijabhai
and Shivaji that he would pick the lotuses without touching them.
Shivaji told him that if he failed he would be subject to severe
punishment. On Vaikuntha Chaturdashi, Dalvi went to the tank, early in
the morning, offered his obeisance to Shivaji and Jijabai, when other
courtiers and citizens had gathered to watch the event. Then he lay down
flat on the ground in front of the tank and shot arrows one after the
other in quick succession to cut the lotus stems. Then he got into the
tank in a boat and used a pair of tongs to pick the flowers without
touching them, as promised. Shivaji and Jijabai were pleased with the
ingenious and incomparable performance of the archery skill of Dalvi,
and as a gesture of appreciation presented him with a gold and emerald
necklace, in the presence of the assembled crowd
Devotees of Vishnu offer the god a thousand lotuses while reciting the Vishnu sahasranama, the thousand names of Vishnu. The Vishnupada Temple,
which is believed to have footprints of Vishnu, celebrates its main
temple festival in this period. The festival is also celebrated as kartik snan (bathing in a river or stream during the kaartik maas) by Vishnu devotees.In Rishikesh, this day is observed as Deep Daan Mahotsav
to mark the occasion of Vishnu waking up, out of his deep sleep. As a
mark of environmental awareness, the deeps or lamps are made of flour
(which would disintegrate in water) instead of burnt earthen lamps. The
lighted lamps are floated in the holy Ganges River in the evening. This is accompanied by several cultural festivities.
On this occasion, Vishnu is given a special place of honour in the sanctum of Kashi Vishwanath temple, a prominent Shiva temple in Varanasi.
The temple is described as Vaikuntha on this day. Both the deities are
ritually worshipped as though they are worshipping each other. Vishnu
offers tulsi (holy basil) leaves (traditionally used in Vishnu worship) to Shiva, and Shiva in turn offers Bael leaves (traditionally offered to Shiva) to Vishnu, which is taboo otherwise, to each other. Devotees start the pujas after taking baths, fasting for the whole day, and offering akshat ( turmeric mixed rice), sandalwood (Chandan) paste, sacred water of the Ganges, flowers, incense and camphor to both the deities. Then they offer lighted deeps (earthen lamps) and batti (cotton wick) as a special offering for the day.
In Varanasi, women, particularly old women, outnumber others in
offering prayers on this occasion. Over the years, the number of
devotees participating in this festival has increased. It is also said
that old Brahmin ladies who are specialized in making cotton wicks offer
125,000 battis to the two gods on this occasion.
At the Grishneshwar
temple of Shiva, Vishnu is offered Bael leaves and Shiva is offered
Tulsi leaves. It is considered to portray the union of Vishnu and Shiva. In the Tilbhandeshvar temple in Nashik, the 2 feet (0.61 m) linga - aniconic form of Shiva - is dressed up in finery and a silver mask, as Ardhanarishvara,
the half-male, half-female form of Shiva. Thousands of people worship
the Tilbhandeshvar and Shiva Kampaleshvar temples in Nashik. The
festival is one of the three important festivals of these temples.
Another observance is by celebrating avail bhojan (means a dinner) taken under the Phyllanthus emblica tree (Indian gooseberry).
It is also prominently celebrated in Vishnu temples like SriRanga
(Tamil Nadu), Tirupati Srinivasa temple (Andra Pradesh), Udupi Sri
Krishna Mutt (Karnataka) and many more. It is a custom to light lamps in
a cut summer squash, after removing its core, thus fashioning a lamp
(others use earthen lamps) and using 360 wicks, that some make by
themselves specially for this occasion. These wicks are customarily as
long as the pod of a cereal (moong dal)
