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Sakat Chauth 2025 Date and Moonrise Time: Know Tilkut Chauth Puja Vidhi, Significance, Traditions and Celebrations Related to Sankatahara Chaturthi Festival
Sakat Chauth 2025 Date and Moonrise Time: Sakat Chauth, also known as Tilkut Chauth and Sankatahara Chaturthi, an important Hindu festival, is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is observed primarily by women for the well-being, long life, and prosperity of their children. The day holds great significance, as it is believed that fasting on Sakat Chauth brings happiness and success to the lives of children, protecting them from misfortune and ensuring their bright future. Also known by other names like Tilkuta Chauth, Vakra-Tundi Chaturthi, and Maghi Chauth, the festival falls on the fourth day of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the Magh month of the Hindu lunar calendar. Sakat Chauth 2025 date falls on Friday, January 17. Let us learn more about the moonrise time on Sakat Chauth Day, significance, traditions, puja vidhi and celebrations related to the Sankatahara Chaturthi festival. January 2025 Holidays and Festivals Calendar: From Republic Day to Makar Sankranti to Chinese New Year, Check Dates of Important Events in the First Month of the Year.

Sakat Chauth 2025 Date and Shubh Muhurat

For the year 2025, Sakat Chauth will be observed on January 17, with the fasting period beginning at 4:06 AM and ending on January 18 at 5:30 AM. This year, the festival falls on a Friday, which is considered especially auspicious for worship and fasting.

Moonrise Time on Sakat Chauth Day
- Sakat Chauth on Friday, January 17, 2025
- Moonrise on Sakat Chauth Day – 09:12 PM
- Chaturthi Tithi Begins – 04:06 AM on January 17, 2025
- Chaturthi Tithi Ends – 05:30 AM on January 18, 2025
Significance of Sakat Chauth

The Sakat Chauth fast is primarily observed to ensure the long life and good health of children and to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings for their well-being and prosperity. It is believed that those who observe this fast with full devotion experience harmony and happiness in their children’s lives, and any obstacles or challenges they face are removed. The festival is also associated with the worship of Mata Sakat and Chandra Dev (Moon God), both of whom are believed to bring good fortune.

The fast is done with full reverence, and it is thought that women who follow the rituals with sincere devotion are granted happiness, abundance, and the protection of their children. Special offerings made during the puja include tilkut prasad (a sweet made of sesame seeds and jaggery), fruits, and flowers, all of which are presented to Lord Ganesha during the prayers.

How Sakat Chauth Is Celebrated

The rituals of Sakat Chauth are both spiritual and personal. On this day, women keep a Nirjala fast, meaning they abstain from food and water, dedicating the day entirely to worship and devotion. The fast is broken only after offering Arghya (water) to the moon in the evening, following the completion of the puja. This marks the culmination of the fast, bringing blessings and prosperity.

Sakat Chauth Puja Vidhi
- Preparation of the Worship Area: Begin by setting up a clean space and placing the idol or image of Lord Ganesha on a wooden stand.
- Ganesh Puja: Apply a tilak (mark) on the forehead of the idol of Lord Ganesha to honour him. Offer flowers, especially marigolds, and other sacred offerings, such as fruits and sweets, to the deity.
- Offering Tilkut: Tilkut, a special sweet made from sesame seeds and jaggery, holds significant importance on this day. It is offered as part of the prasad (blessed food) to Lord Ganesha.
- Lighting the Lamp: A ghee lamp should be lit as part of the puja, symbolizing the removal of darkness and the arrival of light (knowledge and prosperity).
- Recite Ganesh Chalisa: Chanting the Ganesh Chalisa and other prayers dedicated to Lord Ganesha invokes his blessings for the well-being of the children and the family.
- Arti and Conclusion: End the puja with the Aarti of Lord Ganesha, followed by wishes for happiness, success, and prosperity. It is important to pray for the protection and bright future of the children during the concluding part of the rituals.
Traditional Offerings and Celebrations

The offerings during Sakat Chauth primarily include sesame seeds, jaggery, sugarcane, and fruits, which are placed on the altar as part of the puja. Sesame seeds and jaggery are considered sacred and are said to purify the atmosphere and bring prosperity. After the puja, the prasad is shared with family members and friends as a symbol of goodwill and affection.

Besides fasting and worship, Sakat Chauth is also a time for social gatherings, especially in rural areas. Women often come together to observe the fast, perform the rituals, and share the offerings with each other, strengthening their bonds of friendship and community. Sakat Chauth Vrat Katha Video: Celebrate Lambodara Sankashti Chaturthi by Worshipping Lord Ganesha With Utmost Devotion (Watch).

Sakat Chauth is a festival of faith, hope, and devotion, where the primary focus is on the welfare of children and the family. Through prayers, fasting, and rituals, devotees seek blessings for the health, happiness, and prosperity of their loved ones. By honouring Lord Ganesha and observing the traditional practices, the festival brings positivity and harmony into the lives of those who participate. Whether celebrated as Tilkuta Chauth, Vakra-Tundi Chaturthi, or Maghi Chauth, Sakat Chauth remains a cherished occasion for families to unite in prayer and gratitude, ensuring a blessed and prosperous future for their children.

(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 02:43 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
January 12, 2025
Magh Bihu 2025 Date in Assamese Calendar: Which Day Is Uruka? Know Names of 7 Days of Magh Bihu, Significance, Traditions and Celebrations, Know All About Bhogali Bihu

Magh Bihu 2025 Date in Assamese Calendar: The Bihu festivals are an integral part of Assamese culture, with three distinct types celebrated throughout the year: Bohag Bihu, Magh Bihu, and Kati Bihu. Each of these festivals is unique and carries its own cultural significance. Bohag Bihu, for instance, marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year and the agricultural season, while Kati Bihu signals the completion of sowing and transplanting rice. On the other hand, Magh Bihu, also known as Bhogali Bihu, celebrates the end of the harvest season, a time to rejoice in the fruits of hard labour. The main day, Magh Bihu 2025 date, falls on Wednesday, January 15, but what about Magh Bihu 2025 Uruka as per the Assamese calendar? The first day of Magh Bihu is known as Uruka or the Bihu Eve. What are the seven days of Magh Bihu? Let’s dive deep into the significance, traditions and celebrations related to the harvest festival of Assam. Makar Sankranti 2025 Calendar: Know Dates of Pongal, Magh Bihu, Lohri, Khichdi Parv and More To Celebrate the Harvest Festival in India.

Magh Bihu stands out as a festival that deeply honours the efforts of the farming community. It is a time of gratitude for the bountiful harvest and is marked by joyful feasts, the lighting of bonfires, and the participation in cultural games. As a tribute to the God of Fire, the festival is also a prayer for the coming year to bring prosperity and continued success.

Magh Bihu 2025 Date

Magh Bihu is celebrated on the final day of the Assamese month of Puh, which in 2025 falls on January 15. This festival is symbolic of the arrival of spring, a season that brings nature to life with colourful blossoms. The day is not just a festival but also a regional holiday in Assam, offering people time to celebrate and reflect.

Magh Bihu 2025 Uruka Date

The first day of Magh Bihu is known as Uruka. It is also known as the Bihu Eve, as it is celebrated a day before the main festival day. Magh Bihu 2025 Uruka date falls on Tuesday, January 14.

Seven Days of Magh Bihu

1. Bhogali Uruka: The eve of Magh Bihu, when families gather to feast and build Meji structures around a bonfire.

2. Magh Bihu: The central day of the festival, when people light the Meji to symbolise the renewal of the agricultural cycle.

3. Goru Bihu: A day to honour cattle, who are important for farming.

4. Manuh Bihu: A day to emphasise social bonds and greetings.

5. Kutum Bihu: A day to seek blessings from elders.

6. Mela Bihu: A day to engage in cultural events and fairs.

7. Chera Bihu: The final day of the celebration, when the Meji is dismantled, and its ashes are scattered in the fields as fertiliser.

Magh Bihu 2025: Traditions, Celebrations & Significance

In earlier times, the festivities surrounding Magh Bihu would span an entire month, but in modern times, they have evolved into a week-long event, with the main celebration taking place on a single day. The eve of Magh Bihu, known as Uruka, is when the celebrations begin. This night is filled with joyous activity, with the sounds of the traditional Dhols (drums) setting the atmosphere for the occasion. People gather to cook together, enjoy hearty meals, and celebrate around a large bonfire.

Uruka – Significance in Magh Bihu Celebrations

One of the fun-filled traditions of Uruka is the playful act of stealing vegetables from neighbouring gardens. This mischievous custom, though lighthearted, adds a sense of community spirit and camaraderie to the festival.

The main day of Magh Bihu, however, begins at dawn with a special post-harvest ceremony called “Meji.” On this day, people gather around bonfires in the fields, offering prayers to their ancestors and gods for blessings and good fortune in the future. A unique aspect of the Meji ritual is the collection of half-burnt firewood from the bonfire. Participants take these pieces of wood home and throw them at fruit trees, believing it will bring positive outcomes for the harvest in the following year.

As the day progresses, the festival transforms into a cultural spectacle. Music fills the air as people participate in traditional performances. The celebration includes a variety of engaging traditional games such as cockfighting, buffalo races, nightingale singing contests, and egg-throwing. These activities, combined with feasting and merriment, create an atmosphere of celebration and unity that is central to Magh Bihu.

This festive spirit, filled with cultural pride and gratitude for the harvest, continues to be a vital part of Assamese tradition, and Magh Bihu remains one of the most cherished festivals in Assam.

(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 02:05 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

January 12, 2025
When Is Thai Amavasai 2025? Know New Moon Date, Thai Amavasai Muhurtham, Significance and Rituals To Offer Prayers to the Ancestors

Thai Amavasai 2025 will be marked on January 29. As the name suggests, Thai Amavasai is marked on the new moon day, in the Tamil month of Thai. Thai Amavasai holds great religious and spiritual significance. While all Amavasya are supposed to help people pay homage to their forefathers, Thai Amavasai is considered to be an especially auspicious time to do this. As we prepare to celebrate Thai Amavasai 2025, here is everything you need to know about this day, how to celebrate Thai Amavasai and its significance. Amavasya 2025 Dates and Tithi: Complete New Moon Calendar, Rituals and Other Important Details Dedicated to Ancestor Worship and Charity.

When is Thai Amavasai 2025? Thai Amavasai Muhurtham

Thai Amavasai 2025 will be celebrated on January 29. The annual celebration of Thai Amavasai is often focused on remembering the forefathers and indulging in special rituals and activities that help pay homage to them and seek their moksha. The Amavasya tithi for Thai Amavasai 2025 will be marked from 07:35 PM on January 28 to 06:05 PM on January 29. Purnima 2025 Calendar: Know Full Moon Dates, Poornima Significance and Fasting Rituals for the Auspicious Observance.

Thai Amavasai Significance and Rituals

The main reason that Thai Amavasya has special significance is that it is the first Amavasya tithi that is marked in the Uttarayan – during the sun’s northward movement. The celebration of Thai Amavasai is marked by waking up early in the morning, taking a holy bath, making special delicacies and offerings that can be offered to their forefathers and indulging in charity work. Many people also observe the Thai Amavasai fast and seek penance. The celebration is dedicated to the souls of the departed and is marked by observing shrad, tarpan and participating in other rituals on this day.

The celebration of Thai Amavasai helps people to feel connected to their loved family members, who may have passed on. This observance is one of the most important Amavasya tithi and we hope that this celebration helps you to feel peace.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 12, 2025 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
National Youth Day 2025 Date: Know History and Significance of Rashtriya Yuva Diwas That Marks the Birth Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda

National Youth Day in India is celebrated on January 12 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, one of the greatest spiritual leaders and thinkers in Indian history. The observance is also known as Rashtriya Yuva Diwas. In 1984, the Government of India declared this day as National Youth Day. Since 1985, National Youth Day is being celebrated in India every year on January 12. The day celebrates the ideals, philosophies, and teachings of Swami Vivekananda, who was a strong advocate for youth empowerment, education, and character-building. The annual event emphasises the importance of young minds in shaping the future of the nation. In this article, let’s know more about National Youth Day 2025 date, history and the significance of the annual event.

National Youth Day 2025 Date

National Youth Day 2025 falls on Sunday, January 12.

National Youth Day History

In 1984, the government of India declared January 12 to be celebrated as National Youth Day with an aim to recognise Swami Vivekananda’s immense contribution to inspiring the youth. The Government said that the philosophy of Swamiji and the ideals for which he lived and worked could be a great source of inspiration for the Indian Youth Day. Hence, National Youth Day focuses on channelling the energy, enthusiasm, and creativity of the youth towards constructive activities for societal progress. Swami Vivekananda Jayanti 2025 Quotes To Send on National Youth Day and Honour Swami Vivekananda.

National Youth Day Significance

National Youth Day highlights the importance of young people in India in shaping the nation’s future. The day draws inspiration from Swami Vivekananda’s teachings and ideals that youth can help greatly in societal progress. The annual event is observed all over India with great enthusiasm at schools and colleges, with processions, speeches, music and competitions.

Swami Vivekananda’s message remains timeless that the youth of India have the potential to transform society. His words and speeches continue to inspires action, boost growth, and build a foundation for a better future.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 12, 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 12, 2025
Swami Vivekananda Jayanti 2025 Date: Know National Youth Day Theme, History and Significance To Celebrate Swami Vivekananda’s Birth Anniversary

Swami Vivekananda Jayanti 2025 is marked on January 12. This annual celebration marks the birth anniversary of the Hindu monk – Swami Vivekananda. Every year, the celebration of Swami Vivekananda Jayanti is marked with great fervour and enthusiasm by people across the country. Sharing the teachings and quotes of Swami Vivekananda, retelling his story and practicing his life lessons are common ways of celebrating Vivekananda Jayanti. As we prepare to mark Swami Vivekananda Jayanti 2025, here is everything you need to know about this day, how to celebrate Swami Vivekananda Jayanti and more. When Is National Youth Day 2025? Know Rashtriya Yuva Diwas Date, Theme, History and Significance To Commemorate the Birth Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.

Swami Vivekananda Jayanti 2025 Date

Swami Vivekananda Jayanti 2025 is celebrated on January 12. This annual commemoration is also celebrated as National Youth Day or Rashtriya Yuva Diwas in India.

National Youth Day 2025 Theme

The theme for National Youth Day 2025 is “Arise, Awake, and Realize the Power You Hold.”

Swami Vivekananda Jayanti History and Significance

Born as Narendranath Datta in a Bengali Kayastha family on January 12, 1863, Swami Vivekananda went on to become one of the most influential philosophers and social reformers in his contemporary India, and the most successful missionary of Vedanta to the Western world. The celebration of Swami Vivekanada Jayanti allows people to remember his life and work and spread his key teachings forward. Hindu Festivals Calendar 2025: Know Dates of Holi, Chaitra Navratri, Durga Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali and Other Major Festivals in India.

Swami Vivekananda was one of the most noted leaders from our country who shaped the way that India was seen in the western world. His grasp on our history and his strong beliefs helped us to make a mark internationally. Swami Vivekananda Jayanti is a way to celebrate this life and work that continues to influence millions. Swami Vivekananda was a true believer in the power of the youth of a country and the impact that they can have. This is the reason that Vivekananda Jayanti is also celebrated as National Youth Day in India.

The dedication of Swami Vivekananda towards religion, spirituality and social reforms from a very young age is a key reason that he is revered and his story is inspiring many. We hope that the celebration of Vivekananda Jayanti helps you to accustom yourself more with the life and work of Swami Vivekananda.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 12, 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 12, 2025
Swami Vivekananda Jayanti 2025 Date, History and Significance: Everything To Know About National Youth Day That Marks the Birth Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda

Swami Vivekananda Jayanti is an annual celebration in India that marks the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, the great spiritual leader. Born on January 12, 1863, in Kolkata, Swami Vivekananda was one of the most influential spiritual leaders, philosophers, and social reformers of India. His birthday is observed as National Youth Day in India, an annual event that recognises the importance of youth in the development of the nation. This year, it will be the 162nd birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. To celebrate Swami Vivekananda Jayanti 2025 on January 12, in this article, we bring you Swami Vivekananda Jayanti date, history and significance to celebrate and honour Swami Vivekananda’s legacy. National Youth Day 2025: Know Rashtriya Yuva Diwas Date, Theme, History and Significance To Commemorate the Birth Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.

Swami Vivekananda Jayanti 2025 Date

Swami Vivekananda Jayanti 2025 falls on Sunday, January 12.

Swami Vivekananda Jayanti History

In 1984, the Government of India declared January 12 as the National Youth Day. Since 1985, Swami Vivekananda Jayanti has been celebrated across India with various events. Vivekananda was a follower of the Vedanta philosophy of Hinduism and was a disciple of Ramakrishna. He founded Belur Math, Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission and is best known for his speech at the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago in 1893, where he spoke about universal brotherhood, religious tolerance, and the need for a united human race. Swami Vivekananda Jayanti 2025 Quotes.

Swami Vivekananda Jayanti Significance

Swami Vivekananda played a crucial role in the revival of Hindu philosophy and values in India and introduced Indian spirituality to the Western world. As per the Gregorian calendar, Swami Vivekananda was born on January 12, 1863 to a Bengali family in Calcutta.

According to the Hindu calendar, Vivekananda was born on Krishna Paksha Saptami after seven days of Paush Purnima. On this day, schools, colleges, and organisations hold seminars, competitions, and cultural programs to honour his life and teachings.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 12, 2025 05:30 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

January 12, 2025
January 12, 2025 Special Days: Which Day Is Today? Know Holidays, Festivals, Events, Birthdays, Birth and Death Anniversaries Falling on Today’s Calendar Date
January 12, 2025, Special Days: The second Sunday of the year has a number of festivals and events lined up, both at national and international levels. Starting with major celebrations in India, Rajmata Jijau Jayanti will mark the birth anniversary of the mother of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Then, there will be National Youth Day in India, which will be observed in honour of Swami Vivekananda Jayanti. The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, or Theophany, is the feast day commemorating the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River by John the Baptist. It concludes the Christmas Season and transitions into the beginning of Ordinary Time. Apart from this, there are numerous minor national holidays like National Pharmacist Day, National Hot Tea Day, National Curried Chicken Day and so on. Then there are major birthdays and birth anniversaries of influential people like Jeff Bezos, Priyanka Gandhi, Zayn Malik and so on. January 2025 Festivals, Events and Holidays Calendar: Complete List of Important National and International Days and Dates.

List of Festivals & Events Falling on January 11, 2025 (Saturday)
1. Rajmata Jijau Jayanti
2. Swami Vivekananda Jayanti
3. National Youth Day in India
4. Feast of the Baptism of the Lord
5. Feast of Fabulous Wild Men Day
6. National Hot Tea Day
7. National Kettlebell Day
8. National Curried Chicken Day
9. National Pharmacist Day
10. Remembrance Day in Haiti / Jour De Remembrance
11. Unknown Citizens’ Day
12. Work Harder Day
13. Home Office Safety and Security Week
14. National Mocktail Week
15. National Pizza Week
16. Universal Letter Writing Week
Famous January 12 Birthdays and Birth Anniversaries
1. Jeff Bezos
2. Priyanka Gandhi
3. Zayn Malik
4. Sakshi Tanwar
5. Arun Govil
6. Maharishi Mahesh Yogi (1917-2008)
7. Ajay Maken
8. Veerappa Moily
9. Yellapragada Subbarow (1895-1948)
10. Basant Kumar Birla (1921-2019)
11. Raekwon
12. Howard Stern
13. Haruki Murakami
14. Kirstie Alley
15. Heather Mills
16. Naya Rivera (1987-2020)
17. Rachael Harris
18. Oliver Platt
19. Melanie C
20. Richie Richardson
21. Emre Can
22. Axel Witsel
23. Pragya Jaiswal
24. Mahesh Kale
25. Shibani Kashyap
January 11, 2025, Special Days.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 12, 2025 12:05 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
January 11, 2025
When Is Republic Day 2025? Know Gantantra Diwas Date, Theme, History and Significance To Celebrate the Day When the Constitution of India Came Into Effect

Republic Day, also known as Gantantra Diwas is one of the two national holidays in India, which celebrates the day that India adopted the constitution that makes India a secular, democratic republic. The celebration of Republic Day 2025 will be marked on January 26. This annual celebration is the anniversary of the date that The constitution replaced the Government of India Act 1935 as the governing document of India. As we prepare to celebrate Republic Day 2025, here is everything you need to know about the observance, significance of India’s Republic Day and how it can be celebrated. January 2025 Holidays and Festivals Calendar: Check Dates of Important Events in the First Month of the Year.

Republic Day 2025 Date and Theme

Republic Day 2025 will be celebrated on January 26. The theme for the 76th Republic Day is “Golden India: Heritage and Development.”

Republic Day of India: History

While India got independence from the British Raj in 1947, it was governed by the Government of India Act of 1935 for the following few years. It was only on November 26, 1949 that the constitution was adopted by the Constituent Assembly of India. This constitution was then brought into effect from January 26, 1950. The date of January 26 was chosen as India’s Republic Day as it was the day in 1930 when the Indian National Congress proclaimed Purna Swaraj, or complete independence, from colonial rule. Republic Day 2025 School Holiday: Educational Institutes To Remain Close For January 26? Know Holiday Details Across Different Indian States As R-Day Falls on Sunday.

Republic Day Significance

The celebration of Republic Day is a key observance that mainly celebrates the Constitution of India, which was carefully created by key leaders who were integral parts of India’s struggle to independence. The celebration of Republic Day now serves as a reminder to appreciate and stand up for the Indian constitution, understand the meaning of the document and ensure that we inch towards building a country that our ancestors envisioned as they found for our independence.

Every year, the celebration of Republic Day is marked by special parades and events across the country. People often make it a point to promote the key highlights of the Indian constitution. Understand what it means to be a secular, democratic republic and encourage more people to stand up for the country that the freedom fighters who shaped our country wanted us to build. Here’s wishing everyone a Happy Republic Day 2025!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 11, 2025 09:50 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

January 11, 2025
Dussehra (Vijayadashami) 2025 Date, Shubh Muhurat and Celebrations: All You Need To Know About the Day That Marks the Culmination of Sharad Navratri and Durga Puja
The name “Dussehra” originates from the Sanskrit words “dasha” (referring to the ten heads of Ravana) and “hara” (signifying Lord Rama’s triumph over Ravana). This festival is not only about celebrating the defeat of the demon king Ravana by Lord Rama but also marks the beginning of the joyous festival of Diwali, commemorating Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after his 14-year exile. Below, find Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami 2025 date, shubh muhurat, celebrations and other rituals that marks the culmination of Navratri festival and Durga Puja. Hindu Festivals Calendar 2025: Know Dates of Holi, Chaitra Navratri, Durga Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali and Other Major Festivals in India.

Across India, Dussehra is celebrated in diverse ways, each region adding its unique twist to the occasion. In many northern and southern states, the festival is strongly linked to the mythical battle between Lord Rama and Ravana. The highlight of the celebrations includes the burning of enormous effigies of Ravana, as well as his brothers Kumbhakarna and Meghanada. These effigies are set ablaze to symbolise the victory of good over evil. In eastern and western India, Dussehra coincides with Durga Puja, where the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura is celebrated. For devotees in these regions, Vijayadashami (another name for Dussehra) also marks the return of Goddess Durga to her heavenly abode, bringing peace and prosperity. Purnima 2025 Calendar: Know Full Moon Dates, Poornima Significance and Fasting Rituals for the Auspicious Observance.

Dussehra 2025 Date and Shubh Muhurat

Dussehra 2025 will be celebrated on Thursday, October 2. The key timings and rituals for the day are as follows:
- Vijay Muhurat: 02:12 PM to 03:00 PM
- Aparahna Puja Time: 01:24 PM to 03:48 PM
- Dashami Tithi: Begins at 07:01 AM on October 1, 2025 and ends at 07:10 AM on October 2, 2025
- Shravana Nakshatra: Begins at 09:13 AM on October 2, 2025 and ends at 09:34 AM on October 3, 2025
Dussehra Rituals and Celebrations Across India

On Dussehra, devotees gather to perform prayers and rituals in honor of Lord Rama, along with his brothers Bharat, Lakshman, and Shatrughan. Offering lamps, incense, and foods like bananas, jaggery, radish, and rice to the deities are integral parts of the celebrations. An important tradition involves exchanging leaves from the Shami tree, which is believed to bring good fortune.

Public celebrations include grand fairs, vibrant parades, and large gatherings where the effigies of Ravana are burned. This signifies the triumph of righteousness over evil and serves as a reminder of the importance of virtue.

In Gujarat, the festival is particularly vibrant, with people wearing colorful outfits and dancing the traditional Garba and Dandiya to celebrate. In West Bengal, the occasion is marked by Durga Puja (also called Bijoya Dashami), where the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura is commemorated with immense devotion and festivities. Dussehra is a festival that symbolizes the eternal fight between good and evil and brings together communities to celebrate the strength of virtue, unity, and tradition.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 11, 2025 03:48 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
January 11, 2025
Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 Date in India: Get Ganeshotsav Full Calendar With Start and End Dates, Know the Significance of Madhyahna Kala, Rituals and Forbidden Moon Sighting Explained

Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 Date in India: Ganesh Chaturthi marks the birth of Lord Ganesh, the revered deity of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. This festival celebrated with grandeur across India, is observed during the Shukla Paksha of Bhadrapada month, typically falling in August or September in the Gregorian calendar. Below, find out the Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 calendar with start and end dates, Ganeshotsav rituals, the significance of Madhyahna Kala and why moon sighting is forbidden. Hindu Festivals Calendar 2025: Know the Dates of Holi, Chaitra Navratri, Durga Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali and Other Major Festivals in India.

Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 Dates and Shubh Muhurat

Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 27, with the Madhyahna Ganesha Puja Muhurat (the most auspicious time for the ritual) occurring from 11:05 AM to 01:40 PM, lasting for 2 hours and 34 minutes. It marks the beginning of Ganeshotsav, and the grand festival culminates with Ganesha Visarjan (the immersion of the Ganesha idol) on Saturday, September 6, 2025.

Ganesh Chaturthi Rituals

Ganesh Chaturthi marks the start of Ganeshotsav, a ten-day festival that honours the birth of Lord Ganesh. The celebration concludes with Anant Chaturdashi, also known as Ganesh Visarjan day, when devotees partake in a lively street procession to immerse Lord Ganesh’s idol in water, symbolizing the deity’s return to his celestial abode. Purnima 2025 Calendar: Know Full Moon Dates, Poornima Significance and Fasting Rituals for the Auspicious Observance.

Significance of Madhyahna Kala For Ganesh Puja

The worship of Lord Ganesh on Ganesh Chaturthi is performed during the Madhyahna Kala—midday, which is considered the most auspicious time for the Ganapati Sthapana (installation of the idol) and Ganapati Puja. According to the Hindu division of the day, the time between sunrise and sunset is divided into five parts: Pratahkala, Sangava, Madhyahna, Aparahna, and Sayankal. Among these, Madhyahna is the ideal time for performing the Shodashopachara Ganapati Puja, a detailed ritual that involves 16 steps of worship to honour the deity.

The Forbidden Moon Sighting on Ganesh Chaturthi

One important tradition associated with Ganesh Chaturthi is the prohibition of moon sighting. It is believed that seeing the moon on this day leads to Mithya Dosha (false accusations or dishonour). According to Puranic legends, Lord Krishna was falsely accused of stealing the Syamantaka jewel after he gazed at the moon on the same day. The curse, placed by Lord Ganesha, decreed that anyone who sights the moon on Bhadrapada Shukla Chaturthi would incur Mithya Dosha and face dishonour in society.

This mythological tale is why devotees avoid moon gazing during Ganesh Chaturthi, with the belief that observing the fast and performing the rituals correctly will ensure the removal of any such curses or misfortunes.

Ganesh Chaturthi, therefore, is not only a time of joyous celebration but also a time for devotees to seek blessings for wisdom, prosperity, and spiritual growth while adhering to ancient customs and rituals passed down through generations.

(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 11, 2025 03:28 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

January 11, 2025