Happy New Year 2025

Tag: Dates

  • Magha Gupt Navratri 2025 Dates: Ghatasthapana Tithi, Pratipada Timings, Significance and Rituals To Observe the 9-Day Navratri Festival

    Magha Gupt Navratri 2025 Dates: Ghatasthapana Tithi, Pratipada Timings, Significance and Rituals To Observe the 9-Day Navratri Festival

    Magha Gupt Navratri is an auspicious nine-day Hindu festival dedicated to all the nine-forms of Goddess Durga. This Navratri is also known as Gupta Navratri. It falls in the month of Magh which corresponds to the month of January or February in the Gregorian calendar. Magh Navratri, which is less known in most places, is mainly observed in North Indian states like Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Magha Gupt Navratri 2025 starts from Thursday, January 30, and continue till Friday, February 7. In this article, let’s know more about Magha Gupt Navratri 2025 start and end dates, auspicious timings, rituals and the significance of the annual nine-day Navratri festival. Magha Gupt Navratri 2025 Start and End Dates: From Ghatasthapana to Navami, Check Full Calendar of the Navratri Festival With Puja Vidhi and Significance. 

    Magha Gupt Navratri 2025 Dates and Auspicious Timings

    Magha Gupt Navratri 2025 starts from Thursday, January 30, and continue till Friday, February 7. The Magha Ghatasthapana muhurat is from 09:41 AM to 10:59 AM on January 30. The Pratipada tithi for Ghatasthapana 2025 begins at 06:05 PM on January 29 and will go on till 04:10 PM on January 30.

    Magha Gupt Navratri 2025: Day-Wise Dates

    • Pratipada: Ghatasthapana, Shailputri Puja – January 30

    • Dwitiya: Brahmacharini Puja – January 31

    • Tritiya: Chandraghanta Puja – February 1

    • Chaturthi: Kushmanda Puja, Skandamata Puja – February 2

    • Shashthi: Katyayani Puja – February 3

    • Saptami: Kalaratri Puja – February 4

    • Ashtami: Durga Ashtami, Mahagauri Puja, Sandhi Puja – February 5

    • Navami: Siddhidatri Puja – February 6

    • Dashami: Navratri Parana – February 7

    Magha Gupt Navratri Significance and Rituals

    Magha Gupta Navratri is considered ‘Gupta’ meaning secret or hidden. This Navratri is not as widely celebrated as the Chaitra Navratri or Sharadiya Navratri, but holds immense spiritual significance for people in India. While Gupta Navratri is not widely celebrated, it is observed in regions in North India.

    According to religious beliefs, devotees who worship Goddess Shakti on all nine days of Magha Gupta Navratri are blessed with health, wealth, and peace. On this day, devotees engage in charity, including donating blankets, clothes, food, and other essentials to the needy.

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

  • Marijuana Awareness Month 2025 Dates and History: Know Significance of the Observance That Raises Awareness About the Benefits of Medical Marijuana

    Marijuana Awareness Month 2025 Dates and History: Know Significance of the Observance That Raises Awareness About the Benefits of Medical Marijuana

    Marijuana Awareness Month is observed throughout the month of February. Marijuana Awareness Month 2025 will be observed from Saturday, February 1, to Friday, February 28. The observance aims to raise awareness about the benefits of medical marijuana. It also aims to highlight the negative effects of the use of marijuana. According to research and studies conducted in the US, the use of marijuana is on the rise, and as millions of people are using it, the illicit drug has become the most widely used one in the country. The recent legalisation of marijuana in some US states has given rise to the myth that the drug is harmless, thereby increasing its popularity. While there are several negative effects of using marijuana, there are many health benefits too, and the observance aims to educate people on the advantages. 4/20 Day Date & Significance: What Is ‘Weed Day’? History, Origin and 420 ‘Cannabis Culture’ – Everything You Need To Know.

    Marijuana Awareness Month Dates

    Marijuana Awareness Month 2025 will be observed from Saturday, February 1, to Friday, February 28.

    Marijuana Awareness Month History

    Marijuana Awareness Month was initiated with the aim of increasing public knowledge about the effects, benefits, and uses of cannabis. It was started by activists who realised that there was a need to educate people on the topic. They aimed to bust the myths associated with marijuana and provide facts to the people. Over the years, it gained traction and was observed by many organisations and communities in the US.

    Marijuana Awareness Month Significance

    Marijuana Awareness Month is a very significant observance as it not only highlights the negative effects of using marijuana; it also highlights the several health benefits. Marijuana helps patients with PTSD to overcome their triggers. PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) happens when a person is triggered by a stressful or terrifying event or experience. It also helps improve anxiety and mood disorders. Patients with such issues often turn to antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, which can be harmful. A safer option is marijuana. In addition, it also helps cancer patients fight the side effects of treatments like radiation and chemotherapy. It also helps with health problems like back pain, muscle spasm, ALS, and more.

    There are many misconceptions surrounding marijuana or cannabis. Hence, the observance is important as it provides accurate information about marijuana. The main focus of the day is to clear up misconceptions, focus on educating people about the benefits, and help people make informed decisions about their health. It is also a time to highlight the importance of response and safe marijuana use and educate people on the proper dosages and risks. The month-long observance is not only about celebrating but also making major strides toward a more accepting and informed society. Fact Check: How Dangerous is Cannabis? Four Myths Exposed.

    The observance is marked by educational workshops and activities, events, and raising awareness on social media. Marijuana Awareness Month plays a crucial role in promoting safe and responsible use and understanding the broader implications of cannabis in society.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 29, 2025 04:10 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • American Heart Month 2025 Dates and History: Know Significance of the Month-Long Observance That Turns the Spotlight on Heart Diseases and Health

    American Heart Month 2025 Dates and History: Know Significance of the Month-Long Observance That Turns the Spotlight on Heart Diseases and Health

    American Heart Month is observed in the US every year in the month of February. American Heart Month 2025 will be observed from Saturday, February 1, to Friday, February 28. The observance sheds the spotlight on heart diseases, the leading cause of death in the US. The observance aims to raise awareness about heart diseases, promote heart health awareness, and educate the public on understanding cardiovascular diseases, the risk factors, and the importance of prevention. It also encourages people to adopt healthy lifestyles by maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active, and avoiding habits or a lifestyle that could cause heart diseases. The day also emphasises the importance of regular checkups, screenings for early detection, and managing any heart-related conditions. World Heart Day Date and Theme: Know Significance of the Day That Aims To Raise Awareness About Cardiovascular Diseases.

    American Heart Month 2025 Dates

    American Heart Month 2025 will be observed from Saturday, February 1, to Friday, February 28.

    American Heart Month History

    American Heart Month was established in 1964 by President Lyndon B. Johnson. The president, who was one among the millions of people who had heart attacks, issued the first proclamation in 1964. Since then, US presidents have declared February as American Heart Month every year. The initiative was started with the aim of raising awareness about the importance of a healthy heart. The president, in his remarks, proclaiming February 1964 as the first American Heart Month, stated that the people of the United States need to give heed to the nationwide problem of the heart and blood-vessel diseases. He also urged the people to support programmes required to bring about a solution.

    American Heart Month Significance

    Heart diseases are a major concern and one of the leading causes of death not just in the US but across the globe as well. The observance is marked by awareness programmes, workshops, seminars, campaigns, and speeches that educate people on the importance of having a healthy heart and adopting a healthy lifestyle. It not only raises awareness about heart diseases but also encourages people to go for early detection and screenings and encourages community involvement in order to combat cardiovascular diseases. It also aims to educate people on how to prevent heart diseases by eliminating smoking, alcohol, or similar habits that could result in heart diseases. It is the perfect opportunity to focus on heart health and raise awareness on the management of heart-related conditions. COVID-19 Survivors Likely To Develop Heart Diseases, Diabetes in Three Months, Says Study.

    American Heart Month is a very significant and important observance. As part of the initiative, the first Friday is observed as National Wear Red Day. People go red during this time to raise awareness about the fight against heart disease. Many also engage in healthy activities like jogging, running, or walking to promote cardiovascular wellness. Others participate in community events and support heart-related organisations and charities through fundraising, volunteer work, or donations.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 29, 2025 02:43 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • Dry Days in India For February 2025 With Festival & Event Dates: Get Full Calendar With Days When Alcohol Will Not Be Available for Sale in Pubs, Bars & Liquor Stores Across the Country

    Dry Days in India For February 2025 With Festival & Event Dates: Get Full Calendar With Days When Alcohol Will Not Be Available for Sale in Pubs, Bars & Liquor Stores Across the Country

    The second month of the year is just around the corner, and it is filled with fun celebrations, religious holidays, and days of political importance. Many people will be planning house parties or getaways for the holidays, taking advantage of long weekends, or organising lunch or dinner parties that might include alcohol. However, if you are planning any such event, a dry day could disrupt your plans. But what is a dry day? Dray days are specific days when the sale, purchase, or serving of alcohol is strictly prohibited in restaurants, liquor shops, bars, or pubs. So, you might want to make a note of the below list of dry days that will be observed in the country in February 2025. February 2025 Holidays and Festivals Calendar: Basant Panchami, Valentine’s Day, Maha Shivratri and More – Get Full List of Major Events in the Second Month of the Year.

    Dry days are very strictly observed in India in order to maintain public decorum and order the festival, celebration, or event. The restrictions are imposed by the government to honour the festival or event. Dry days often coincide with religious festivals, celebrations, or even political events. Hence, it is advised to stock up on alcohol beforehand so it can be enjoyed from the privacy of your home and it does not cause any inconvenience or impact your holidays and celebrations. If you’re wondering where to find a full list of upcoming dry days, look no further and simply scroll below. To help, we have curated a list of upcoming dry days in the month of February 2025.

    The below days have been marked as no-alcohol days or dry days. The list of dry days in February 2025 includes the Delhi elections, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2025, Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati Jayanti 2025, and Maha Shivratri 2025 celebrations. List of Long Weekends in 2025 in India: Check Out the New Year Calendar for the Holiday Dates To Plan Vacations and Weekend Getaways.

    List of Dry Days in February 2025 With Festival & Event Dates

    Dates Days Festival/Event
    February 3–5 Monday – Wednesday Delhi Elections
    February 8 Saturday Delhi Elections
    February 19 Wednesday Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti (Maharashtra)
    February 23 Sunday Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati Jayanti
    February 26 Wednesday Maha Shivratri

    Dry days are not always observed across the entire country. Depending on the event or festival, it could be observed in the country, only a state, or a particular city. It depends entirely on what is being observed in the state or city. To know the exact dates of the dry days, always check with local authorities beforehand or refer to the guidelines issued by the state excise department.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 29, 2025 02:00 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • When and Where Is Next Kumbh Mela After 2025 Mahakumbh? How Is the Location Decided? Know Dates, Pilgrimage Sites and Other Important Details For the Sacred Festival

    When and Where Is Next Kumbh Mela After 2025 Mahakumbh? How Is the Location Decided? Know Dates, Pilgrimage Sites and Other Important Details For the Sacred Festival

    The Kumbh Mela is one of the most significant and sacred Hindu pilgrimages. The event draws millions of devotees from across the globe. Apart from devotees, tourists and travellers from around the world also take part in the event and witness the rituals, traditions, and customs associated with the Kumbh Mela. The Maha Kumbh Mela, which takes place once every 144 years, is currently underway in Prayagraj, and it will continue until February 26. While the Maha Kumbh Mela occurs once in 144 years, the Purna Kumbh Mela happens once every 12 years, the Ardh Kumbh Mela takes place once every six years, and the Kumbh Mela is held once every four years. In addition, the Magh Mela, also called Chhota Kumbh, is held once every year during the Magh month in Prayagraj. Maha Kumbh Returns After 144 Years: Why Is Kumbh Mela 2025 Special? Significance of ‘Deity’s Folly,’ Mythology and Other Details To Celebrate the Grand Festivities in Prayagraj.

    Each Kumbh Mela is held at one of the four holy sites, which are Prayagraj, Ujjain, Haridwar, and Nashik. The location and dates of the event depend on the celestial alignment of the sun, moon, and the planets according to Hindu astrology. During the Kumbh Mela, devotees take a holy dip at the banks of sacred rivers. This tradition is believed to help one attain salvation and freedom from sin. So, when is the next Kumbh Mela? Here’s all you need to know about the event.

    When Is the Next Kumbh Mela?

    Two Kumbh Melas will take place in 2027; one is the Ardh Kumbh Mela, and the other is known as the Kumbh Mela.

    Kumbh Mela 2027 Locations

    The Ardh Kumbh Mela 2027 will take place in Haridwar, and the Kumbh Mela 2027 will take place in Nashik. For the Haridwar Ardh Kumbh Mela, devotees will take a holy dip in the River Ganges. For the Nashik Kumbh Mela, devotees will take a holy dip in the River Godavari.

    Kumbh Mela 2027 Dates

    The tentative Nashik Kumbh Mela 2027 dates are July 14, 2027, to September 25, 2027. The dates of the Haridwar Ardh Kumbh Mela 2027 are yet to be announced. The exact dates of the next Kumbh Mela can vary, and it will depend on the alignment of the planets and the sun and moon. It is better to check the exact dates closer to the event.

    How Is the Kumbh Mela Location Decided?

    The dates and location of the Kumbh Mela are determined based on the planets positions. Religious leaders, akharas, and astrologers meet and decide the next Kumbh Mela’s location. It is usually held at one of the four sacred places, which include Nashik, Ujjain, Haridwar, and Prayagraj. In Hindu astrology, when the sun is in Capricorn and Jupiter in Taurus, the Maha Kumbh Mela is held in Prayagraj, on the banks of the sacred River Ganga.

    When Jupiter is in Aquarius and the sun in Aries, the Kumbh is held in Haridwar, on the banks of the Ganga. When Jupiter and the sun are in Leo, the Kumbh Mela is held on the banks of the River Godavari in Nashik, Maharashtra, and it is believed that when Jupiter is in Leo and the sun is in Aries, then the Kumbh Mela is held on the banks of the River Shipra, also known as Kshipra, in Ujjain. Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Start and End Dates in Prayagraj: What Are the Six Shahi Snan Dates? Know Important Mahakumbh Mela Bathing and Spiritual Rituals To Mark the Grand Festival in Uttar Pradesh.

    The Kumbh Mela is very significant as it is believed that taking a holy dip in the sacred waters of the rivers leads to salvation. The event is a time for spiritual growth, reaffirming their faith and blending tradition and devotion in an extraordinary celebration.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 29, 2025 02:01 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • January 25 Planet Parade Live Streaming: How To Watch ‘Six Planets Aligned’ Online? Check Out the Rare Celestial Event Dates and Other Details To Witness the Astronomical Conjunction

    January 25 Planet Parade Live Streaming: How To Watch ‘Six Planets Aligned’ Online? Check Out the Rare Celestial Event Dates and Other Details To Witness the Astronomical Conjunction

    January 2025 has indeed turned out to be an exciting month, especially for astronomers and stargazers. The January night sky is offering us a spectacular celestial event with the alignment of six planets, which are Jupiter, Saturn, Venus, Mars, Uranus, and Neptune. A planet parade, also called a planetary alignment or planet line-up, is not rare but not that common either, especially six planets aligning. The six planets have already aligned in the sky, four of which are visible to the naked eye and two which require the assistance of a telescope or binoculars. The planets, though millions of kilometres apart, appear to be aligned from our view point on Earth due to their position on the ecliptic plane. Planetary Parade 2025: 6 Planets To Align in the Sky Tonight, When and How To Watch Rare Celestial Event in India.

    January 2025 Planetary Alignment Best Viewing Dates

    The display has been visible since January 18, and the planets form a stunning arc in the sky. The best dates to view the planets are on January 21, January 25, and January 29, which is the new moon night. The planets should be visible from 07:00 PM local time.

    January 2025 Planetary Alignment Skywatching Tips

    If possible, step away to a place that is away from the city lights and light pollution, such as a rural area. The three planets that can be easily located are Venus, Mars, and Jupiter. Though Saturn is not as bright as the other planets, its close proximity to Venus will make it easy to locate the planet as well. Once you locate one planet, you should be able to locate the others as well. However, if you have difficulty, there are several apps that can assist you in locating the planets. Or you can also watch the January 25 planetary alignment through live streaming. Watch the video below. Planetary Alignment 2025 Peak Dates: Rare Planet Parade Visibility Dates, How To Watch the 6 Planets Gracing Night Sky and More, Details About the Spectacular Celestial Event Explained.

    January 25 Planetary Alignment Live Stream

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDlZL45GFhw

    The planetary alignment happens when the planets line up on the same side of the sun around the same time. This rare event is truly a sight to behold, and it’s one you do not want to miss. It is a special moment in the sky that does not always happen.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 25, 2025 10:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2025 Dates and Theme: From Line-Up to Fun Activities and More, Here’s What You Can Expect at the Vibrant Event in Mumbai That Celebrates Art and Creativity

    Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2025 Dates and Theme: From Line-Up to Fun Activities and More, Here’s What You Can Expect at the Vibrant Event in Mumbai That Celebrates Art and Creativity

    If you are travelling to Mumbai in the months of January and February, the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival is an event you do not want to miss! The Kala Ghoda Arts Festival takes place every year in the bustling city of Mumbai. It is a lively, vibrant, and colourful celebration of art, culture, and creativity. It is held every year in the historic area of Kala Ghoda, and it brings hundreds of artists, performers, celebrities, and visitors from the city and different states, as well as travellers from around the world. It is a great opportunity to enjoy art installations, music, dance, and theatre. Visitors can also participate in various workshops, interesting talks, and stalls that sell handmade crafts. Whether you are an art lover or just a curious visitor, the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2025 is a must-visit for a unique experience. Sara Ali Khan Lights Up Mumbai’s Kala Ghoda Arts Festival Stage With Her Mesmerising Dance Performance (Watch Videos).

    Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2025 Dates

    The Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2025 will take place from Saturday, January 25 to Sunday, February 2.

    Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2025 Theme

    The theme for the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2025 is ‘Silver.’ It is celebrating 25 years of the festival’s incredible legacy of transforming Mumbai into a vibrant cultural playground. Mumbai: Kala Ghoda Arts Festival Guest Poet Bappadittya Sarkar, Returning From Anti-CAA-NRC Protest, Taken to Police by Uber Cab Driver.

    Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2025 Events and Line-Up

    The event will feature over 300 programmes across 15 categories that will take place at 25 venues within the precinct. Here’s what you can expect at the arts festival.

    • The 25th edition of KGAF will kick off with a spectacular Silver Sitaare Fusion. It will feature 55 renowned artists and institutions performing 25 unique dance styles.

    • The KGAF literature event will be held at Elphinstone College and David Sassoon Library.

    • Theatre acts and plays will be held at the Yashwantrao Chavan Centre.

    • Musical events will be held at the Asiatic Library Steps, Cross Maidan and Cooperage Bandstand Garden.

    • Don’t miss out on the riveting performances by theatre greats like Juhi Babbar, Makarand Deshpande, Aakarsh Khurana along with other innovative productions.

    • Take part in thought-provoking discussions with Devdutt Pattanaik, Jerry Pinto, and Gurcharan Das.

    • Join Shreeja Chaturvedi and Kumar Varun for some laughter in laugh-out-loud sessions.

    • Catch the extraordinary dance performances by Padma Shri Narthaki Nataraj, Aditi Mangaldas, and Prachee Shah Pandya.

    • Expect dynamic and colourful art installations and delicious food to tantalise your tastebuds.

    • For the complete festival programme click this link.

    Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2025 Is Here!

    The Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2025 is a great opportunity to experience the heart and soul of Mumbai’s creative pulse. Don’t forget to visit for a completely unique yet fun experience.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 23, 2025 01:54 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • January 2025 Planetary Alignment: Know Dates, Best Viewing Times, Visibility, Skywatching Tips and More Details of Planet Line Up

    January 2025 Planetary Alignment: Know Dates, Best Viewing Times, Visibility, Skywatching Tips and More Details of Planet Line Up

    January 2025 has been an exciting month for skywatchers. The night sky has given us many amazing and rare celestial treats. It has indeed been a great time for astronomers, stargazers, and nature lovers. But there is more to come. From January until mid-February, you can see planets in the sky, but the major highlight will take place on January 25. Six planets—Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Neptune, and Uranus—will align, with Mercury joining them for a brief period. According to NASA, a planetary parade is not rare, but it does not happen every year. This rare celestial event promises to be a sight to behold, and it will surely inspire awe in all those who witness it. Here’s all you need to know about the planetary alignment. Planetary Alignment of January 25: Will 7 Planets Be Visible with the Naked Eye? Best Time to View the Planet Parade, Skywatching Tips and Other Details To Know.

    Planetary Alignment Meaning

    A planetary parade happens when multiple planets appear to line up from Earth’s point of view. This is not actually an alignment of the planets, as they are millions of kilometres apart. The position of the planets along the ecliptic planes creates the illusion that they are aligned. But the phenomenon is a spectacular one for observers. These planet parades are rare, especially when four or more planets are involved, making them even more special to witness.

    January 2025 Planet Parade Dates

    The planetary parade is already on show. The planets can be observed from this weekend, with Venus and Saturn appearing exceptionally close in the night sky. From January 21, Jupiter and Venus will become brighter. The planetary alignment will peak on January 25.

    Best Time To View the Planetary Alignment in India

    The best time to view the planetary alignment in India will be after 08:00 PM IST.

    Will the Planetary Alignment Be Visible to the Naked Eye?

    In India, the planetary parade of six planets—Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, and Saturn—will be visible from January 21 onwards, and the phenomenon will be visible for about four weeks. Venus, Mars, Saturn, and Jupiter can be seen with the naked eye, but a telescope or binoculars will be needed to spot Neptune and Uranus. Spotting Mercury, however, will be challenging due to its small size and the planet’s proximity to the sun.

    How Will the Planets Align in the Night Sky?

    After sunset, Venus and Saturn will be visible in the southwest for a few hours, while Jupiter will shine brightly overhead and Mars will appear in the east. On January 25, Mercury will join the planet lineup and complete the parade of seven planets.

    Planetary Parade Visibility

    The visibility of the planets depends on factors like local weather and light pollution. For the best experience, use binoculars or a telescope and travel to a dark area away from city lights, such as a rural location with minimal lighting. This will give you the best chance to spot the planets. Planet Parade 2025 Dates: Venus, Saturn, Jupiter and Mars, 4 Planets To Align in the Sky Throughout January, Know Visibility Time in India & Viewing Tips of Planetary Conjunction.

    The planetary parade, also known as planetary alignment, is a rare and fascinating celestial event. Six planets will be visible from January until mid-February, with Mercury making a special appearance.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 16, 2025 04:45 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • Durga Puja 2025 Calendar With Dates of Mahalaya, Maha Panchami, Sashti, Saptami, Durga Ashtami, Maha Navami and Bijoya Dashami: Know Key Rituals and Significance To Celebrate Durgotsava

    Durga Puja 2025 Calendar With Dates of Mahalaya, Maha Panchami, Sashti, Saptami, Durga Ashtami, Maha Navami and Bijoya Dashami: Know Key Rituals and Significance To Celebrate Durgotsava

    Durga Puja, also referred to as Durgotsava, is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in the Hindu calendar. This grand celebration honors Goddess Durga, the embodiment of power, strength, and virtue. Durgotsava spans five days of vibrant rituals, each with its own significance: Shashthi, Maha Saptami, Maha Ashtami, Maha Navami, and Vijayadashami (also known as Dussehra). The festival is primarily observed during Shardiya Navratri, the nine-night celebration that is held during the Hindu month of Ashvin. According to religious texts, Durga Puja rituals, including Chandi Path, should commence the day after Mahalaya Amavasya, the final day of Pitru Paksha when Hindus honor their ancestors. Mahalaya itself is not considered suitable for starting any auspicious activities, but it marks the beginning of the preparations for Durga Puja. In this article, we bring you Durga Puja 2025 calendar with dates of Mahalaya, Panchami, Maha Shashthi, Maha Saptami, Maha Ashtami, Maha Nabami and Bijoya Dashami along with the key rituals and significance to celebrate Durgotsav. Hindu Festivals Calendar 2025: Know Dates of Holi, Chaitra Navratri, Durga Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali and Other Major Festivals in India. 

    Durga Puja 2025 Calendar With Start and End Dates

    The Shardiya Navratri festival in 2025 will take place from September 22 to October 1, with the following key Durga Puja dates:

    • Mahalaya: September 21, 2025

    • Panchami: September 27, 2025

    • Maha Shashthi: September 28, 2025

    • Maha Saptami: September 29, 2025

    • Maha Ashtami: September 30, 2025

    • Maha Nabami: October 1, 2025

    • Bijoya Dashami: October 2, 2025

    Key Rituals and Timing of Durga Puja

    While Ghatasthapana (the installation of the sacred Kalash, representing the Goddess) traditionally takes place on Pratipada, the first day after Mahalaya Amavasya, different regions have their own customs. In most states, Ghatasthapana or Kalparambha (the invocation of Goddess Durga) happens on Shashthi, the sixth day of the festival. This is the day when Goddess Durga is formally welcomed, and rituals are performed to invite her divine presence. Purnima 2025 Calendar: Know Full Moon Dates, Poornima Significance and Fasting Rituals for the Auspicious Observance. 

    Durga Puja Symbolism and Significance

    One of the most intriguing aspects of Durga Puja is the symbolism surrounding the arrival of the Goddess on a specific vehicle. During Chaitra Navratri earlier in the year, Goddess Durga arrived on a horse, signifying auspicious signs for the year ahead, including good rainfall and crop growth. However, for Shardiya Navratri 2025, it is believed that Maa Durga will arrive riding an elephant. This is considered a positive omen, foretelling abundant rainfall and growth in the country.

    However, the departure of Goddess Durga on a buffalo raises concerns. It is said that this signifies potential challenges ahead, including an increase in sickness and sorrow across the nation. This symbolic departure serves as a reminder of the duality of life, where triumph and struggle often coexist.

    Durga Puja, culminating in Dussehra, symbolises the victory of good over evil. As devotees worship Goddess Durga during these five days, they seek her blessings for strength, prosperity, and the overcoming of challenges. With these profound meanings attached, the festival remains an important occasion for millions across India and the world to celebrate the divine feminine energy and the power of victory.

    (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 03:41 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • 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: 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).