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Bhogi 2025 Date: Know Sankranti Time, Rituals and Significance To Celebrate the First Day of Pongal Festival
Bhogi Pandigai is the first day of the four-day Pongal festival that is celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm in South India. In Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Tamil Nadu, Sankranti is celebrated for four days and Bhogi Pongal marks the start of the festival. Bhogi Pongal falls on last day of Agrahayaṇa or Margasirṣa month of Hindu Solar Calendar, which is January 13 as per the Gregorian calendar. It is the day before Makar Sankranti, celebrated widely in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra. Bhogi Pandigai 2025 falls on Monday, January 13. The Bhogi Sankranti Moment is at 09:03 AM on January 14. Pongal 2025 Dates: Why Is Pongal Celebrated? Bhogi Pongal, Mattu Pongal and Other Traditions, Rituals, Delicious Recipes and More To Know.

On this occasion, people clean their homes, remove clutter, and discard unwanted items in a symbolic act of renewal. In this article, let’s know more about Bhogi 2025 date, rituals, celebrations and the significance of the auspicious occasion.

Bhogi 2025 Date and Sankranti Timing
- Bhogi Pandigai 2025 falls on Monday, January 13, 2025.
- The Bhogi Sankranti Moment is at 09:03 AM on January 14.
Bhogi Celebrations and Rituals
- On the day of Bhogi Pandigai, people discard old and derelict things and concentrate on new things causing change or transformation.
- People wake up before dawn and light bonfire, popularly known as Bhogi Mantalu, with wood and other solid fuels. This fire signifies the end of negativity and old things and starting the New Year afresh.
- Derelict wooden items at home are offered to the fire as a Bhogi ritual.
- On this day, homes are cleaned, and entrances are adorned with fresh mango leaves, turmeric plants, and colourful rangoli designs.
- Devotees prepare special dishes using newly harvested crops, such as rice and sugarcane, and offer them to deities.
Bhogi Pandigai Significance

Bhogi Pandigai is a day dedicated to discarding the old and welcoming the new. The day of Bhogi Pongal marks the end of the year’s accounts and the beginning of new accounts on the first day of the harvest on the following day. Lord Indra is worshipped during the Pongal festival for good rains and a bountiful harvest. Kaappu Kattu, a tradition of tying leaves of Azadirachta indica, Senna auriculata, Aerva lanata in the roofs of houses and residential areas is practiced in Kongu Nadu.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 13, 2025 06:50 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
January 13, 2025
Maghi 2025 Date and Historical Significance of Chali Mukte: Traditions and Celebrations of the Special Festival That Coincides With Lohri

Maghi is a significant festival celebrated on the day following the Hindu festival of Makar Sankranti and coincides with the widely observed festival of Lohri. Predominantly celebrated in Punjab, Maghi holds great cultural importance for the Sikh community. This day is not just about festivities but also serves as a solemn occasion to honour the heroic sacrifices made by Sikh warriors. Maghi 2025 date falls on January 13, coinciding with Lohri celebrations. Let us look more into the historical significance of Maghi that keeps the legacy of Chali Mukte alive to date. We will understand the traditions and celebrations associated with the Maghi festival. Lohri 2025 Date and Dulla Bhatti Lohri Story in Punjabi Video: From First Lohri Celebrations to Significance, Everything You Need To Know About the Harvest Festival.

Maghi 2025 Date

Maghi in 2025 will be celebrated on January 13. It is always observed on the day following Makar Sankranti and is tied to the harvest season. Maghi’s timing aligns with the cold winter months, bringing with it a sense of renewal and hope as the season shifts towards spring.

Maghi Historical Significance

Maghi commemorates the bravery of the Chali Mukte (Forty Liberated Ones), a group of Sikh soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Mughal Empire’s attack on Guru Gobind Singh and his followers. The heroic incident, known as the Battle of Muktsar, occurred on December 29, 1705, according to the Julian calendar. When converted to the Gregorian calendar, this date corresponds to January 9, 1706, which happened to fall on Lohri that year. Maghi thus serves as a day to honour these martyrs who made the ultimate sacrifice in defending their faith and the Guru.

The day of Maghi is traditionally marked by visits to Gurdwaras, where Sikhs gather to pray, meditate, and reflect on the valour of these forty soldiers. A large public gathering known as Mela Maghi takes place in Muktsar, Punjab, where devotees come together to participate in rituals and pay their respects.

Maghi: Traditions and Celebrations

One of the key traditions of Maghi is the preparation and consumption of Kheer, a sweet rice porridge made with milk, which symbolizes prosperity and good health. Families come together to share this dish, and it is often enjoyed after morning prayers at the Gurdwara. Makar Sankranti 2025 Calendar: Know Dates of Pongal, Magh Bihu, Lohri, Khichdi Parv and More To Celebrate the Harvest Festival in India.

In addition to the solemn remembrance of the Chali Mukte, Maghi coincides with Lohri, another major festival celebrated in the region. Lohri marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of the agricultural harvest season. Traditionally, it is a time for families and communities to gather around bonfires, singing songs, dancing, and enjoying the warmth of the fire. The bonfire, symbolic of the Sun god Surya, is a prayer for sunlight and warmth as the long winter days give way to the promise of spring.

Lohri also marks an important milestone in the agricultural calendar, as it is tied to the harvest of the Rabi crops. Farmers celebrate the successful completion of the harvest, and the day is seen as an occasion to honour the hard work of the farming community. Rent is typically collected on this day, signalling the beginning of the new fiscal year according to the Bikrami calendar, further solidifying the festival’s deep agricultural roots.

Legacy of Chali Mukte Maghi

Maghi is more than just a festival; it is a day of profound remembrance and joy. It honours the sacrifices of the Chali Mukte, who gave their lives for their faith, and celebrates the agricultural cycle that sustains communities.

As Maghi aligns with Lohri, it also marks the triumph of light and warmth over the cold, as people celebrate with music, dance, and traditional dishes. This powerful blend of spiritual reverence and joyous celebration makes Maghi a unique and cherished festival in the Punjabi and Sikh cultural calendar.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 13, 2025 06:30 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

January 13, 2025
Shakambhari Purnima 2025 Date: Know Shakambhari Jayanti Purnima Tithi, Significance and Rituals To Celebrate the Last Day of Shakambhari Navratri

Shakambhari Purnima 2025 is celebrated on January 13. This celebration is marked in the Hindu month of Pausha and commemorates the last day of Shakambari Navratri. The celebration of Shakambari Purnima or Shakambari Jayanti is an important observance for devotees of Goddess Shakambhari. The celebration is marked especially in Uttar Pradesh and is sure to be an important observance. As we prepare to celebrate Shakambari Purnima 2025, here is everything you need to know about this day, how to celebrate Shakambhari Purnima and more. Know Shakambhari Navratri 2025 Dates, Auspicious Timings, Rituals and Significance of the Holy Fast Dedicated to Goddess Shakambhari.

Shakambhari Purnima 2025 Date and Tithi

Shakambhari Purnima 2025 is on January 13. This annual celebration is marked on the Purnima tithi in the Hindu month of Pausha. The Purnima Tithi for Shakambari Purnima 2025 Begins at 05:03 AM on January 13, 2025 and will go on till 03:56 AM on January 14, 2025. Shakambhari Mata is the incarnation of Devi Bhagwati. It is believed that Devi Bhagwati incarnated as Shakambhari to mitigate famine and severe food crisis on the Earth. And Shakambhari Purnima is celebrated to revere this form of Goddess Bhagwati. Hindu Festivals Calendar 2025: Know Dates of Holi, Chaitra Navratri, Durga Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali and Other Major Festivals in India.

Shakambhari Purnima Significance and Rituals

Shakambhari Purnima is an important observance as it marks the last day of Shakambari Navratri. While all the other Navratri celebrations in India begin on the Shukla Paksha Pratipada, Shakambhari Navaratri begins on Ashtami tithi and ends on Purnima in the month of Pausha. Shakambhari Navratri therefore only spans for eight days. The celebration of Shakambhari Purnima is celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm by performing a special puja for Goddess Shakambhari in the homes of the adherents as well as at Shakambhari temples across the country.

The most grand Shakambhari Purnima celebration is marked at the Shakambari Devi Temple of the Saharanpur district of Uttar Pradesh, which venerates the goddess on this occasion. We hope that the celebration of Shakambhari Purnima brings with it all the love, light and happiness to you and your family.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 13, 2025 06:15 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

January 13, 2025
Arudra Darshan 2025 Date: Thiruvathirai Nakshathram Timings, Rituals and Significance of the Tamil Festival That Celebrates the Cosmic Dance of Lord Shiva

Arudra Darshan, also known as Thiruvathirai is a significant Tamil festival that is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm by people across the state. Arudra Darshan 2025 is celebrated on January 13. The celebration of Arudra Darshan commemorates the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva, which are representative of the five duties or Pancha Kriyas of Creation (Shrishti), Sthithi (Preservation), Laya (Destruction), Tirobhava Concealment and Revival) and Anugraha (Salvation). As we celebrate Arudra Darshan 2025, here is everything you need to know about this day, how to celebrate Arudra Darshan and its importance.

Arudra Darshan 2025 Date

Arudra Darshan 2025 is on January 13. The celebration of Arudra Darshan takes place on the full moon day in the Tamil month of Margazhi when the Thiruvathirai Nakshatra prevails. Arudra Nakshatram, which is also known as Thiruvaathirai Nakshatram, during Maargazhi Masam is considered highly auspicious.

Thiruvathirai Nakshathram Timings

The Thiruvathirai Nakshathram for Arudra Darshanam begins at 11:24 AM on January 12 and ends at 10:38 AM on January 13.

Arudra Darshan Rituals and Significance

It is believed that Lord Shiva took the form of Lord Natraja on this day and marked the celebration by offering prayers to Lord Natraja and seeking their blessings. The cosmic dance of Lord Shiva and the story behind it is also reiterated on this day. Followers of Lord Natraja also believe that this is the day of the birth of Lord Shiva and celebrate it with great fervour and enthusiasm. The celebration of Arudra Darshan is also known as Thirvathirai. Thiruvathirai 2025 Date, Auspicious Timings and Significance: Know About Arudra Darshan, the Festival Dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Every year, on this day, people make special delicacies called Thirvathirai Kali – which is made with rice and jaggery. The celebration of Arudra Darshan is sure to be celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm by organising special feasts and aartis at the temple. The celebration of Arudra Darshan is believed to bring good luck and blessings to Lord Shiva’s ardent devotees. We hope that Arudra Darshan 2025 brings with it the balance and semblance that you need in your life.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 13, 2025 06:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

January 13, 2025
January 13, 2025 Special Days: Which Day Is Today? Know Holidays, Festivals, Events, Birthdays, Birth and Death Anniversaries Falling on Today’s Calendar Date
January 13, 2025, Special Days: One of the busiest days in the first month of 2025 is January 13. The day boasts a number of festivals and events both on the national and international stage. Lohri, the harvest festival celebrated in the Indian states of Punjab, Delhi and Haryana, falls on January 13. In the other parts of the country, Bhogi will be celebrated as Bhogi Pandigai and Bhogi Pongal. The festival kicks off Sankranti festivities in the country. There are important international observances, such as Korean American Day, Coming of Age Day in Japan, and Plough Day, among many others. Several famous birthday celebrations also take place on the day, with many celebrities born on January 13. Some of them are Rakesh Sharma, Patrick Dempsey, Piyush Mishra, Imran Khan, Lee Seung-gi, Orlando Bloom and Liam Hemsworth. January 2025 Festivals, Events and Holidays Calendar: Complete List of Important National and International Days and Dates.

List of Festivals & Events Falling on January 13, 2025 (Monday)
1. Lohri
2. Bhogi Pandigai
3. Bhogi Pongal
4. Shakambhari Purnima
5. Arudra Darshan or Thiruvathira
6. Paush Purnima Vrat
7. Anvadhan January 2025
8. Calennig
9. Korean American Day
10. Coming of Age Day in Japan
11. National Gluten-Free Day
12. Plough Monday
13. Public Radio Broadcasting Day
14. Stephen Foster Memorial Day
Famous January 13 Birthdays and Birth Anniversaries
1. Rakesh Sharma
2. Patrick Dempsey
3. Michael Peña
4. Shonda Rhimes
5. Ruth Wilson
6. Piyush Mishra
7. Imran Khan
8. Lee Seung-gi
9. Orlando Bloom
10. Julian Morris
11. Liam Hemsworth
12. Andrew Yang
13. Julia Louis-Dreyfus
14. Natalia Dyer
15. Adhyayan Suman
16. Ashmit Patel
17. Kamran Akmal
18. Jermaine Lawson
19. Luis Diaz
20. Glenn Whelan
January 12, 2025, Special Days.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 13, 2025 12:02 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
January 12, 2025
Lohri 2025 Date and Dulla Bhatti Lohri Story in Punjabi Video: From First Lohri Celebrations to Significance, Everything You Need To Know About the Harvest Festival
Lohri, a vibrant harvest festival, is celebrated in various parts of India, particularly in Punjab and the northern states. It holds special significance in these regions, marking the end of the winter season and the beginning of the harvest period. In 2025, Lohri will be observed on Monday, January 13. Though it is deeply rooted in Punjabi traditions, the festival is also celebrated across the country, where people light bonfires and participate in dances to welcome longer days following the winter solstice. For families with recent celebrations, such as a marriage or the birth of a child, the festivities are particularly joyous. Traditional treats like jaggery, gajak, rewri, peanuts, popcorn, and til are commonly shared during these celebrations. How is Dulla Bhatti Related to Lohri Festivities? Know the Significance of Reciting His Songs During the Harvest Festival of Punjab.

Lohri 2025: Date and Shubh Muhurat
- Lohri: Monday, January 13, 2025
- Lohri Sankranti Moment: 09:03 AM, January 14
- Makar Sankranti: Tuesday, January 14, 2025
- History and Significance of Lohri
Lohri marks the conclusion of the sowing season for winter crops, signalling the arrival of a prosperous harvest. Both the Punjabi and Hindu communities take this opportunity to offer prayers to the Sun God (Surya Devta) and the Fire God (Agni), seeking blessings for abundant crops and agricultural prosperity in the upcoming season. The festival is celebrated just a day before Makar Sankranti, which ushers in warmer weather, bringing shorter nights and longer days.

Lohri is also a time of joy for families celebrating milestones such as a marriage or the birth of a child as they gather together to observe their first Lohri with loved ones. A special tradition on this day involves the preparation of “til rice,” which is made by mixing sesame seeds (til), jaggery, and rice, a treat that symbolizes sweetness and good fortune. Happy Lohri 2025 Greetings, Wishes & Harvest Quotes: Send HD Images, Messages, Wallpapers and WhatsApp Status To Celebrate the Festival.

Lohri Celebrations & Significance

Central to the Lohri festivities is the bonfire, which brings warmth and cheer to the cold winter night. The community gathers around the fire, exchanging heartfelt Lohri greetings, wearing new clothes, and enjoying the lively atmosphere. People circle the bonfire, dancing to the rhythmic beats of the dhol, and sing traditional Lohri songs that have been passed down through generations.

The celebration is also marked by the sharing of traditional snacks such as peanuts, gajak, popcorn, and rewri. These treats are offered to the Fire God, symbolizing gratitude and hope for a successful harvest. A festive dinner, often consisting of makki ki roti (cornbread) and sarson ka saag (mustard greens), is prepared in many households and shared with family and friends.

In rural areas of Punjab, a unique tradition involves groups of young boys and girls going around their neighbourhoods in the days leading up to Lohri. They collect firewood for the bonfire and, in some cases, also gather items like grains and jaggery, which are sold to raise funds. The proceeds from the sale are then shared among the group, adding a sense of community and togetherness to the celebration.

What Is the Story of Dulla Bhatti on Lohri? Watch Video

Lohri is a festival that brings communities together to celebrate the end of winter and the promise of a fruitful harvest. It’s a time for families to connect, offer prayers, and enjoy traditional foods and rituals. Whether it’s the warmth of the bonfire, the music, or the sharing of festive treats, Lohri reflects the spirit of joy, gratitude, and renewal. May this year’s Lohri bring warmth, prosperity, and happiness to all who celebrate it.

(Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on beliefs and legends only. Before applying any information in real life, consult the concerned expert.)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 12, 2025 11:41 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
January 12, 2025
Thiruvathirai 2025 Date: When Is Arudra Darshan? Know Thiruvathirai Nakshathram Timings, Significance and Rituals To Celebrate the Tamil Festival Dedicated to Lord Shiva

Thiruvathirai is the annual celebration of the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva, which is also known as Tandav. This dance form is believed to represent the continuous cycle of creation and destruction. Thiruvathirai 2025 will be celebrated on January 13 and this festival is sure to be celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm. Every year, the commemoration of Thiruvathirai takes place during the Tamil month of Margazhi when the Thiruvathirai Nakshatram or Arudra Nakshatram presides over the full moon day. Thiruvathirai celebrations are structured around offering our prayers to Lord Shiva and are marked with great fervour and enthusiasm by people across Tamil Nadu. As we prepare to celebrate Thiruvathira 2025, here is everything you need to know about this day, how to celebrate Thiruvathirai and more.

Thiruvathira 2025 Date and Thiruvathirai Nakshathram Timings

Thiruvathirai 2025 will be marked on January 13. The celebration falls on the full moon day in the Marghazli Masam according to the Tamil Hindu calendar. The celebration of Thiruvathirai is celebrated when the Thiruvathirai Nakshatra presides over the full moon day. The Thiruvathira Nakshatra begins at 11:24 AM on Jan 12, 2025 and will go on till 10:38 AM on Jan 13, 2025. Hindu Festivals Calendar 2025: Know Dates of Holi, Chaitra Navratri, Durga Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali and Other Major Festivals in India.

Thiruvathirai Significance and Rituals

The celebration of Thirvathirai is an important observance of the devotees of Lord Shiva. It commemorates the day that Lord Shiva took the avatar of Lord Natraj and is worshipped during Arunodaya along with holy chanting from Vedas. The celebration of Lord Shiva in this form and the dance of creations and destruction that he performs will be marked on this day. Those who are dedicated to the Lord Natraj form of Lord Shiva also consider this day to be the birthday of Lord Shiva. Meanwhile, people across the country celebrate Lord Shiva’s birthday on Maha Shivratri.

Every year, to mark Thiruvathirai, people often prepare special delicacies and offer it to the almighty. An important dish that is made for this festival is the Thiruvathirai Kali that is made with rice, jaggery and other special delicacies. We hope that you have a Happy and safe Thiruvathirai 2025!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 29, 2024 10:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

January 12, 2025
Thiruvathirai 2025 Date, Auspicious Timings and Significance: Know About Arudra Darshan, the Festival Dedicated to Lord Shiva

Thiruvathirai, also called Arudra Darshan or Arudra Nakshatram, is an auspicious and significant Hindu festival. Thiruvathirai 2025 falls on Monday, January 13, 2025. It is mainly celebrated in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu and in some parts of Kerala. The festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it celebrates his cosmic dance known as the Nataraja, which symbolises the continuous cycle of creation and destruction. On this day, devotees worship Lord Shiva’s Nataraja form at sunrise, sing hymns, and recite holy mantras from the Vedas. As the day is dedicated to Lord Shiva’s Nataraja form, it is also considered his birthday. The festival takes place in the Tamil month of Margazhi (which corresponds with the months of December or January) according to the Gregorian calendar. Arudra Darshan Images and HD Wallpapers for Free Download Online: Share Wishes, Greetings and WhatsApp Messages on Thiruvatharai.

Thiruvathirai 2025 Date

The Thiruvathirai festival is celebrated on the full moon day. Thiruvathirai Nakshatram 2025 starts on January 12 at 11:24 AM IST and concludes on January 13, 2025 at 10:38 AM IST.

Thiruvathirai 2025 Auspicious Timings

On this day, many devotees observe a fast. For those who are observing a fast, the auspicious time is from 06:30 AM IST to 07:30 AM IST.

Thiruvathirai Rituals

On this day, devotees wake up early in the morning, cleanse themselves, worship Lord Shiva’s Nataraja form at home or in temples, and light his holy abode with ghee lamps. Several offerings are made to Lord Shiva, and a ritual of giving bath with curd and milk is performed. In addition, special delicacies like Kootu and Thalagam are prepared and offered to Lord Shiva. Many observe a fast and break it the next day after worshipping Lord Shiva.

Thiruvathirai Legends

The festival has several legends tied to it. According to legends, the day marks Lord Shiva’s cosmic dance known as the Nataraja dance. It symbolises preservation, creation, and destruction. The festival also honours the story of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati’s divine union. Arudra Darshan Date: Know Significance and Celebrations Related to Thiruvathirai or Thiruvathira, the Cosmic Dance of Lord Shiva.

The festival holds great significance for Tamil Hindus, and it is considered highly auspicious. On this day, various temples prepare and distribute special delicacies along with the prasad to devotees.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 24, 2024 10:18 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

January 12, 2025
Thiruvathira or Arudra Darshan 2025 in Tamil Date, Time and Shubh Muhurat: How To Observe Thiruvathirai Viratham? Follow 7-Step Puja Vidhi To Celebrate of Lord Shiva’s Cosmic Dance
Thiruvathira or Arudra Darshan, a significant Tamil festival, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is observed on the day of Arudra Nakshatram, also known as Thiruvaathirai Nakshatram, during the Maargazhi Masam. This day is considered highly auspicious as it coincides with the Pournami (Full Moon), enhancing its spiritual significance. Thiruvathira 2025 date falls on January 13. For many devotees, Arudra Darshan marks the celebration of Lord Shiva’s divine Nataraja form, and it is believed to be the day of Lord Shiva’s cosmic birth. This is in contrast to the Maha Shivaratri festival, which is considered Lord Shiva’s birthday in other parts of India.

Thiruvathira or Arudra Darshan 2025 Date & Shubh Muhurat

In 2025, Arudra Darshan will fall on Monday, January 13, with Thiruvathirai Nakshathram beginning at 11:24 AM on January 12 and concluding at 10:38 AM on January 13.

Arudra Darshan Significance & Importance

Arudra Darshan holds special importance as it honours Lord Shiva in his Nataraja form, symbolising the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction. The festival is a time for devotees to connect with the divine energy of Lord Shiva and reflect on the eternal cycle of the universe. This celebration is particularly special in Tamil culture, where it is believed that Lord Shiva performed the Ananda Tandava, a celestial dance, to reveal the secrets of the universe. The dance signifies the continuous flow of creation, preservation, and destruction in the cosmic order.

Thiruvathira Puja Vidhi

The rituals for Thiruvathira are conducted early in the morning and follow a traditional procedure to honour Lord Shiva. Here’s a detailed guide to the steps involved in the celebration:

Step 1: Morning Preparations

Devotees begin the day with a holy bath before sunrise, which is believed to purify the body and soul. Fasting, whether partial or complete, is also a customary practice on this day to aid in spiritual purification.

Step 2: Setting Up the Altar

In homes and temples, a sacred altar is prepared with an idol or image of Lord Shiva, preferably in the Nataraja form. The altar is decorated with fresh flowers, and oil lamps are lit to honour the deity, creating an atmosphere of devotion and reverence.

Step 3: Abhishekam (Holy Bath)

In temples, priests perform Abhishekam, where the idol of Lord Nataraja is bathed with a variety of sacred substances such as milk, honey, curd, ghee, coconut water, and rose water. Each of these items has its symbolic significance:
- Milk symbolises purity.
- Honey represents sweetness and compassion.
- Curd signifies nourishment.
- Ghee embodies strength and clarity.
- Coconut water symbolises fertility and growth.
- Rose water is a symbol of love and beauty.
Step 4: Chanting Sacred Mantras

Priests and devotees chant mantras, with the Om Namah Shivaya mantra being particularly prominent. This powerful mantra is believed to invoke blessings from Lord Shiva and radiate positive energy.

Step 5: Offering Prayers and Rituals

A common offering during Arudra Darshan is the Bilva leaf, which holds great importance in Hindu rituals. Devotees also present fruits, sweets, and incense sticks as prayers for peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth.

Step 6: Reciting Shiva Stotras

Devotees recite sacred texts such as the Shiva Tandava Stotra, Shiva Sahasranama, and other Shiva hymns to honour Lord Nataraja. These hymns describe his cosmic dance and the universe’s creation and dissolution. The recitations are considered acts of reverence and meditation.

Step 7: Observing the Fast

Many devotees choose to observe a full-day fast as part of their offering. The fast is typically broken at sunset with sattvic food, symbolising discipline, self-control, and respect toward the divine.

Arudra Darshan is deeply intertwined with several mythological stories that highlight Lord Shiva’s cosmic dance. One of the most celebrated legends tells the story of Lord Shiva performing the Ananda Tandava at the Chidambaram Temple in Tamil Nadu. In this legend, Lord Shiva reveals his cosmic form and performs the dance to show the gods, including Vishnu and Brahma, the rhythms of creation and dissolution. His dance signifies the ceaseless cycle of life and death, creation and destruction, that governs the universe.

Another story revolves around Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva’s consort, who asked him to reveal his cosmic dance. On the day of Arudra Darshan, Lord Shiva granted her wish, showcasing his divine dance. This tale emphasises devotion, surrender to the divine, and the blessings that come with true faith and humility.

Arudra Darshan is a powerful and spiritually enriching festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, offering devotees an opportunity to connect with the divine energies of the universe. The rituals, prayers, and legends associated with this day serve as reminders of the cosmic balance that governs life and the universe. It is a time for devotees to reflect on their spiritual journey, seek Lord Shiva’s blessings, and honour the eternal rhythm of creation, preservation, and destruction that he embodies through his Nataraja form.

(Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on beliefs and legends only. Before applying any information in real life, consult the concerned expert.)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 12, 2025 04:38 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
January 12, 2025
Bhogi 2025 Date, Time and Significance of Bhogi Pallu and Bhogi Mantalu: Know All About Bhogi Pandigai and Bhogi Pongal, the First Day of Sankranti Festivities and Celebrations
Bhogi Pandigai, or Bhogi Pongal, also known simply as Bhogi, marks the beginning of the four-day Sankranti celebrations in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. In these regions, Sankranti is not just a single day of celebration but spans four days, each with distinct customs and rituals. Bhogi 2025 date falls on Monday, January 25. There are so many important things to know about Bhogi, such as Bhogi Pallu and Bhogi Mantalu (bonfires), along with other key details around rituals and the significance of the first day of the Sankranti festival. Makar Sankranti 2025 Calendar: Know Dates of Pongal, Magh Bihu, Lohri, Khichdi Parv and More To Celebrate the Harvest Festival in India.

Bhogi Pandigai 2025 Date & Sankranti Moment

In 2025, Bhogi Pandigai will be observed on Monday, January 13, and the Bhogi Sankranti moment will occur at 09:03 AM on January 14.

The four-day Sankranti festival is as follows:
- Day 1: Bhogi (Bhogi Pandigai)
- Day 2: Makara Sankranti (Pedda Panduga in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Pongal in Tamil Nadu)
- Day 3: Kanuma Panduga in Andhra Pradesh and Mattu Pongal in Tamil Nadu
- Day 4: Mukkanuma in Andhra Pradesh and Kaanum Pongal in Tamil Nadu
Bhogi Pandigai: A Day of Renewal and Gratitude

The first day of Sankranti celebrations, Bhogi, is a day to cleanse and prepare for the coming year by discarding old, unused items. It is an occasion to let go of the past and welcome new beginnings. Traditionally, people wake up before dawn to celebrate with a grand bonfire, known as Bhogi Mantalu, which is made from wood and other solid fuels. Derelict wooden items, often gathered from around the house, are offered to the fire as part of a cleansing ritual. The fire symbolizes the burning away of the old to make way for the new.

On this day, it’s also customary to set off crackers early in the morning, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Bhogi Pallu: A Tradition of Blessings for Children

A unique aspect of Bhogi Pandigai, particularly in Telugu families, is the ritual of Bhogi Pallu, which is performed for children aged three to six. Children are dressed in bright, colourful outfits, often wearing traditional attire such as Langa-Voni for girls. A mix of Regi Pallu (Indian jujube fruit), Senagalu (soaked black grams), flower petals, pieces of sugarcane, jaggery, and even coins are showered upon them. The ceremony is believed to protect the children from the evil eye, bring them prosperity, and bless them with long and healthy lives. In addition to Bhogi Pallu, the ritual of Ariselu Adugulu is also carried out. Ariselu, a sweet dish made of rice, is placed on the floor, and small children are encouraged to walk over it. This ceremony marks the joyous occasion when a child takes its first steps.

Rangoli and Bommala-Koluvu: Celebrating the Spirit of Bhogi

On Bhogi day, the festivities extend to the decoration of homes with Rangoli. Many communities organize Rangoli competitions, where intricate and colourful designs are created using bright hues of powders and flower petals. These beautiful designs are drawn outside homes and buildings, symbolizing prosperity and welcome. Another popular tradition during Bhogi is the display of Bommala-Koluvu, a traditional arrangement of dolls and figurines, often showcased in tiered displays in homes. The display is a part of the festivities and is a sign of good fortune for the coming year.

Feasting and Sharing Joy

As with many traditional festivals, food plays an essential role in Bhogi celebrations. Sweets such as Ariselu, til laddoos and other delicacies are prepared in abundance and shared among family and friends. The spirit of Bhogi is one of community, sharing, and gratitude as families come together to celebrate the festival with delicious food and lively conversations.

Bhogi Pandigai is a day filled with rituals that bring people together to celebrate the end of the old and the arrival of new beginnings. Whether it’s the cleansing fire of Bhogi Mantalu (bonfire), the blessings of Bhogi Pallu for children, or the colourful rangolis that brighten up homes, this day sets the tone for the rest of the Sankranti festivities, bringing warmth, joy, and hope for the year ahead.

(Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on beliefs and legends only. Before applying any information in real life, consult the concerned expert.)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 12, 2025 04:18 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
January 12, 2025