Tag: Sacred

  • Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi 2025 Date: Know Moon Rise Time, Auspicious Tithi, Shubh Muhurat, Significance and Rituals of the Sacred Fast Dedicated to Lord Ganesha

    Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi 2025 Date: Know Moon Rise Time, Auspicious Tithi, Shubh Muhurat, Significance and Rituals of the Sacred Fast Dedicated to Lord Ganesha

    Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi is an important occasion observed by Hindus to honor Lord Ganesha and seek his blessings for the removal of obstacles and the fulfillment of desires. Falling on the Chaturthi Tithi (the fourth day of the lunar phase) in the Krishna Paksha (waning moon) of the Phalguna month, this sacred event holds deep spiritual significance. It is believed that fasting and worshipping Lord Ganesha on this day ensures peace, prosperity, and the removal of any hindrances in one’s life. In this article, let us know more about Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi 2025 date, moon rise time, auspicious tithi, shubh muhurat, significance and rituals to observe the sacred fast. Hindu Festivals Calendar 2025: Know Dates of Holi, Chaitra Navratri, Durga Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali and Other Major Festivals in India. 

    Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi 2025 Date and Timing

    The Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi 2025 falls on February 16. The Chaturthi Tithi begins on Saturday, February 15 at 11:53 PM and concludes on Monday, February 17 at 02:15 AM. However, according to the Udaya Tithi (the prevailing lunar day at sunrise), the fast will be observed on Sunday, February 16, 2025. The Moon rise time on Sankashti Dat, February 16 is at 09:38 PM. February 2025 Holidays and Festivals Calendar: Get Full List of Major Events in the Second Month of the Year. 

    Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi 2025 Shubh Muhurat

    The following are the shubh muhurats (auspicious timings) for performing the rituals and worship during Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi in 2025:

    • Brahma Muhurta: 05:16 AM – 06:07 AM
    • Vijay Muhurta: 02:28 PM – 03:12 PM
    • Godhuli Muhurta: 06:09 PM – 06:35 PM
    • Amrit Kaal: 09:48 PM – 11:36 PM

    These timings are considered highly auspicious for performing prayers and rituals during the day. Devotees are encouraged to perform the worship during these periods for maximum spiritual benefits.

    Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi Rituals and Significance

    The observance of Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi involves several steps, beginning with early morning rituals and culminating in the worship of Lord Ganesha. Here is a step-by-step guide for performing the puja:

    Early Morning Rituals:

    • Wake up early and take a holy bath (snan).
    • Offer Arghya (water offering) to the Sun God as a part of purification and devotion.

    Setting Up the Puja Space:

    • Prepare a clean and sacred space for performing the puja.
    • Lay a clean cloth on a wooden platform, which will be used for placing the idols.
    • Installation of Idols:
    • Place idols or images of Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva on the platform.

    Offerings to Lord Ganesha:

    Modaks, Laddoos, Akshat (rice grains), and Durva grass are considered auspicious offerings to Lord Ganesha. Place these offerings in front of the idols.

    Performing Aarti and Reciting Vrat Katha:

    • Apply a Tilak (sacred mark) on Lord Ganesha’s forehead as a mark of respect and devotion.
    • Light a lamp with pure ghee and perform the Aarti to Lord Ganesha.
    • Recite the Vrat Katha (the story or narration associated with the Sankashti Chaturthi fast) with devotion. This Katha is an important aspect of the fast as it connects the devotee to the divine blessings of Lord Ganesha.
    • After the Katha, offer sweets, Modaks, and fruits to Lord Ganesha as a mark of gratitude. Distribute the prasad (holy offerings) among family members and others in the household. This is considered a way to share the blessings received from Lord Ganesha.

    Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi holds immense spiritual significance. Observing a fast and worshipping Lord Ganesha on this day is believed to remove all obstacles, both material and spiritual, from one’s life. The fast is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, who is revered as the remover of Vighnas (obstacles) and the lord of intellect and wisdom.

    Devotees believe that by honoring Lord Ganesha, their lives will be filled with peace, prosperity, and success. Additionally, performing this fast is believed to bring the blessings of Lord Shiva, as Lord Ganesha is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Therefore, this day holds an important place in the hearts of devotees who seek divine blessings for their personal and professional wellbeing.

    Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi is a day of immense spiritual significance for Hindus, particularly for those who seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings for the removal of obstacles and the attainment of peace and prosperity. The rituals performed on this day, including fasting, offering prayers, and following the sacred puja vidhi, help devotees purify their minds and bodies while bringing them closer to the divine.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 16, 2025 05:45 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • Magha Puja 2025 Date & Significance: Everything You Need To Know About Makha Bucha, the Sacred Buddhist Celebration

    Magha Puja 2025 Date & Significance: Everything You Need To Know About Makha Bucha, the Sacred Buddhist Celebration

    Magha Puja, also known as Makha Bucha Day, is a significant and sacred event in the Buddhist calendar, particularly for Theravada Buddhists in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and other Southeast Asian nations. Magha Puja 2025 falls on February 12. It is celebrated with a lot of faith and devotion. This celebration marks a pivotal moment in Buddhist history when Lord Buddha delivered a profound teaching to his disciples. It is observed with reverence and devotion, focusing on spiritual purification and the practice of good deeds. Makha Bucha Day: Netizens Share Wishes, HD Images Of Lord Buddha And Spiritual Sayings On Twitter To Mark The Buddhist Festival.

    Magha Puja 2025 Date

    In 2025, Magha Puja Day falls on February 12 according to the traditional lunar calendar.

    What is Magha Puja (Makha Bucha) Day?

    Magha Puja Day, or Makha Bucha, commemorates an event in the life of Lord Buddha that holds great spiritual significance. It marks the day when 1,250 enlightened monks gathered spontaneously to hear Lord Buddha’s teachings. This event, which occurred on the full moon of the third lunar month, is seen as a moment of divine harmony and spiritual unity, where Buddha imparted critical lessons on the essence of his teachings.

    The term ‘Makha’ originates from the Pali word ‘Magha,’ referring to the third lunar month. ‘Bucha’ translates to ‘to worship’ in Pali, signifying a day dedicated to the veneration of the Buddha. This celebration highlights the importance of living in accordance with the Buddha’s teachings and focusing on self-purification, mindfulness, and moral conduct.

    Magha Puja Significance

    Magha Puja Day is celebrated with profound devotion and spiritual observance across Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and other Buddhist countries that follow the Theravada tradition. Magha Puja Day is one of the five most revered religious events for Buddhists, particularly in countries that practice Theravada Buddhism. It holds immense spiritual value as it commemorates not only the gathering of Lord Buddha’s disciples but also the core principles of the Buddhist faith. Abhidhamma Divas Honours Teachings of Lord Buddha, Celebrates Revival of Pali Language.

    Magha Puja Day is more than just a religious observance; it is a time to reflect on one’s spiritual journey, purify the mind, and practice good deeds. Whether through meditation, acts of charity, or participating in candlelight processions, this sacred day reminds Buddhists of the importance of living according to the Buddha’s teachings. As Magha Puja Day approaches, it is a time for people to unite in worship and devotion, honour the profound teachings of Lord Buddha, and strive to cultivate peace and mindfulness in their lives.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 12, 2025 06:16 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • Lalita Jayanti 2025 Date & Significance: What is Shodashi Jayanti? Everything You Need to Know About This Sacred Celebration on Magha Purnima

    Lalita Jayanti 2025 Date & Significance: What is Shodashi Jayanti? Everything You Need to Know About This Sacred Celebration on Magha Purnima

    Lalita Jayanti, also known as Shodashi Jayanti, is an important festival in the Hindu calendar, celebrating the birth anniversary of Goddess Shodashi, one of the ten Mahavidyas. Lalita Jayanti 2025 falls on February 12. The day honours the Goddess, who is revered as the epitome of beauty, power, and grace. Her worship holds deep spiritual significance, with devotees seeking her blessings for family harmony, spiritual growth, and perfection in various arts. February 2025 Holidays and Festivals Calendar: Get a Full List of Major Events in the Second Month of the Year.

    Lalita Jayanti 2025 Date

    Shodashi Jayanti is celebrated on Magha Purnima, the full moon day of the Magha month. In 2025, Lalita Jayanti on Wednesday, February 12.

    Lalita Jayanti Significance

    Shodashi Jayanti is a day dedicated to worshipping Goddess Shodashi with devotion and reverence. The significance of this festival lies in the Goddess’s ability to bring about both Bhukti (worldly pleasures) and Mukti (spiritual liberation) through her worship. Her devotees believe that invoking her blessings helps them attain control over the senses, attain virility, and experience harmony within the family.

    Who is Goddess Shodashi?

    Goddess Shodashi, also known by several other names such as Mahatripura Sundari, Lalita, Balapanchadashi, and Rajarajeshwari, is the third of the ten Mahavidyas in the Shri Kula tradition. She is widely regarded as the most beautiful and powerful goddess in all three realms—earth, heaven, and the underworld. Shodashi is not only adored for her physical beauty but also revered as the goddess who brings about transformation, spiritual awakening, and divine protection.

    The Five Faces of Goddess Shodashi

    In the tantra scriptures, Goddess Shodashi is often depicted as having five faces, referred to as Panchavaktra, symbolising the five forms of Lord Shiva. Each face represents one of the five primary aspects of the divine and is associated with a distinct colour:

    • Tatpurusha (Green): Represents the cosmic aspect of creation.

    • Sadyojata (Red): Represents the aspect of the creator.

    • Vamadeva (Smoke): Symbolises the aspect of preservation.

    • Aghora (Blue): Represents the aspect of dissolution.

    • Ishana (Yellow): Symbolises the aspect of transcendence.

    Each of these faces has specific spiritual meanings, and the colours represent the different energies and elements within the universe. These aspects of Lord Shiva manifest in Goddess Shodashi’s powerful form, making her one of the most revered deities in the tantric and spiritual traditions.

    Rituals and Celebrations of Shodashi Jayanti

    Shodashi Jayanti is celebrated with elaborate rituals and ceremonies. Devotees perform prayers, chant mantras, and offer flowers, incense, and fruits to Goddess Shodashi in temples and homes. Many also conduct Shri Vidya Pujas, which include elaborate worship of the Shri Yantra, a sacred symbol associated with the Goddess. In these ceremonies, devotees seek the blessings of Goddess Shodashi for spiritual growth, prosperity, and the realisation of their divine potential. Hindu Festivals Calendar 2025: Know the Dates of Holi, Chaitra Navratri, Durga Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali and Other Major Festivals in India.

    Shodashi Jayanti (Lalita Jayanti) is a day of spiritual awakening, offering devotees the opportunity to invoke the blessings of one of the most powerful and revered goddesses in Hinduism. Her worship is believed to bring both material success and spiritual liberation, making her a central figure for those seeking balance and transformation in their lives.

    (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 Feb 10, 2025 09:07 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • Palantir CEO touts Elon Musk’s DOGE, ability to hold ‘sacred cows of the deep state’ accountable

    Palantir CEO touts Elon Musk’s DOGE, ability to hold ‘sacred cows of the deep state’ accountable

    When asked whether the Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) would serve as roadblocks to their business, Palantir’s CEO and chief technology officer were overwhelmingly optimistic about the check-and-balance foundation that DOGE is laying.

    “Palantir’s real competition is a lack of accountability in government, these forever software projects that cost an insane amount that don’t actually deliver results. They’re sacred cows of the deep state,” CTO Shyam Sankar said in the fourth-quarter earnings webcast on Tuesday.

    “And I think DOGE is going to bring meritocracy and transparency to government. And that’s exactly what our commercial business is,” he continued. “The commercial market is meritocratic and transparent, and you see the results that we have in that sort of environment. And that’s the basis of our optimism around this.”

    The artificial intelligence-enabled data analytics firm reached its own milestone this week, as investors reacted positively to Palantir’s Q4 earnings and caused shares to surge as high as 28% before settling at a 24% gain by market close.

    WHAT IS U.S.A.I.D. AND WHY IS IT IN TRUMP’S CROSSHAIRS?

    Forbes reported that Palantir’s market capitalization jumped up to $240 billion, a company record, making it more valuable than popular names like McDonald’s, American Express and Disney.

    Top Palantir executives reportedly have no fears about risks DOGE could pose to its government contract-led business. (Getty Images)

    More than half of Palantir’s business comes from government contracts. During an appearance on FOX Business in December, its CEO Alex Karp shared his wholehearted support for DOGE, adding that there’s no “better person” than Musk to lead it.

    “We love disruption, and whatever is good for America will be good for Americans and very good for Palantir,” Karp said on Tuesday’s webcast. “Disruption, [at] the end of the day, exposes things that aren’t working. There’ll be ups and downs. There’s a revolution. Some people can get their heads cut off.”

    “We’re expecting to see really unexpected things and to win, basically, that’s what we’re going to do,” he expanded. “And we’re pretty optimistic about the U.S. environment.”

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    “The work that we’ve done in government, it’s deeply operational, deeply valuable, and we’re pretty excited about exceptional engineers getting in there under the hood and being able to see that for a change,” Sankar also said.

    As of Wednesday’s opening bell, Palantir stock was down slightly from its all-time Tuesday high of $105.79. 

    READ MORE FROM FOX BUSINESS

  • Kash Patel vows to end Biden-era ‘targeting’ of Christians: ‘Sacred trust’

    Kash Patel vows to end Biden-era ‘targeting’ of Christians: ‘Sacred trust’

    President Trump’s FBI director nominee Kash Patel pledged in his confirmation to end the “targeting” of Americans by the government specifically as it relates to citizens who were in the crosshairs of the Biden administration for religious reasons.

    “Is it appropriate for the Federal Bureau of Investigation to attempt to recruit spies or informants into religious institutions in this country, particularly Catholic parishes?” GOP Sen. Josh Hawley asked Patel in his confirmation hearing on Thursday.

    Patel responded, “I don’t believe so, senator.”

    “Mr. Patel, are you familiar with the recent actions of the FBI in this regard, including this memo that I have right here making a list of Catholic churches and parishes that they regard as potentially suspect and directing the potential recruitment of informants and other spies, let’s be honest, into those parishes,” Hawley asked.

    GRAHAM GRILLS FBI NOMINEE PATEL OVER ‘DISGUSTING’ AND ‘CORRUPT’ CROSSFIRE HURRICANE PROBE

    Kash Patel, President Donald Trump’s choice to be director of the FBI, appears before the Senate Judiciary Committee for his confirmation hearing, at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025. ((AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite))

    Patel told Hawley is familiar with the memo leading the Missouri Republican into his next question.

    “Mr. Patel, would you commit to me that you will, if you are confirmed, that you will finally and officially withdraw this memo and make it clear that this is not only unacceptable, but that it is an absolute violation of the First Amendment, that every American voice under the Constitution of the United States,” Hawley asked.

    “If I’m confirmed, Senator, yes,” Patel said back. 

    KASH PATEL FLIPS SCRIPT ON DEM SENATOR AFTER BEING GRILLED ON J6 PARDONS: ‘BRUTAL REALITY CHECK’

    Sen. Josh Hawley speaks from the podium in a Senate hearing.

    WASHINGTON, DC – FEBRUARY 28: Sen. Josh Hawley. (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)

    Will you also commit to me that you will conduct an investigation and find out who wrote this memo, who spread this memo?” Hawley asked. “The field offices involved in this memo, because I can tell you, we’ve had your predecessor sit right where you’re sitting. And he has repeatedly, repeatedly lied, there’s no other word for it, lied to this committee. He told us initially that it didn’t happen, that the FBI didn’t make any list of churches. That’s not true. We have it. A whistleblower brought forward the list for us.”

    “He said then that only one field office had worked on, it turns out we know from another whistleblower, multiple field offices worked on it, worked on it. He said that it was never posted on the internal system. It turns out it was. We believe it’s still in effect. Will you find out who was involved in this gross abuse of Americans First Amendment rights? And will you discipline them? And if you possibly can, will you fire them? Mr. Patel, consistent with Department policy and law?

    Patel told Hawley that the senator has his “commitment” to “investigate any matters such as this” that “are important to Congress.”

    Kash Patel

    President-elect Donald Trump has named longtime ally Kashyap “Kash” Patel, who has been a frequent and harsh critic of the FBI, to serve as the bureau’s next director in the new administration. (Reuters)

    “I will fully utilize, if confirmed, the investigative powers of the FBI to give you the information you require, and also to hold those accountable who violated the sacred trust placed in them at the FBI,” Patel told Hawley.

    Hawley responded, “I’m glad to use the word sacred trust, because that’s exactly what it is. The FBI’s the most powerful law enforcement body in this nation, arguably the most powerful law enforcement body, at least in a free nation in the world and to have this body corrupted politically such that it is targeting people of faith in this country and then lying about it to this committee and the American people is unimaginable.”

    “I’ll be honest with you, I never thought this would happen in the United States of America, I just didn’t. If you had told me five years ago we’d be reading memos like this, I would have said, no way, no way. That’s bad fiction. In fact, it’s a horrible reality. The department needs to be cleaned up.”

    The exchanges comes on the heels of Trump’s recent announcement that he would pardon pro-life activists convicted under the FACE Act during President Joe Biden’s administration.

    Kash Patel Donald Trump

    A side-by-side of Kash Patel and President Donald Trump. (Getty Images)

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    The pardons, first reported by The Daily Wire, would apply to activists convicted of protesting near abortion clinics during various demonstrations. The details and scope of the pardons have yet to be revealed.

    Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, has also introduced legislation that would dismantle the FACE Act. Many lawmakers have argued that Democratic administrations have weaponized it against pro-life groups and Christians.

    Fox News Digital’s Anders Hagstrom contributed to this report
     

  • 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).

  • When Is Makaravilakku 2025? Significance of Makara Jyothi and the Sacred Festival That Marks the End of the Pilgrim Season at Sabarimala Temple in Kerala

    When Is Makaravilakku 2025? Significance of Makara Jyothi and the Sacred Festival That Marks the End of the Pilgrim Season at Sabarimala Temple in Kerala

    Makaravilakku is the annual commemoration that is known as the most important observance at the Sabarimala Temple. It marks the lighting of the auspicious light – which is known as Makara Jyoti – that can be witnessed from the Sabarimala temple. Makaravilakku 2025 will be observed on January 14. This annual commemoration is witnessed by millions of people across the country and people often plan their visit to the Sabarimala to witness this auspicious event. Those who cannot come to the event often watch the Makaravilakku lighting online through Makara Jyoti 2025 live streams and Makaravilakku broadcasts. As we prepare to celebrate Makaravilakku 2025, here is everything you need to know about this day, the significance of this day and how to mark it. Sabarimala Festival Calendar 2024-25: Mandala-Makaravilakku Dates, Pilgrimage Schedule, Rituals, Sabarimala Temple Hours and Important Guidelines for Devotees To Know. 

    When is Makaravilakku 2025? Importance of Makara Jyothi

    Makaravilakku 2025 will be celebrated on January 14. The celebration is marked by the lighting of an auspicious diya – which is known as Makara Jyoti – which is visible from the Sabarimala temple. The diya is lit in the evening, around sunset and people believe that watching this light, which almost appears like a star in the sky, will help bring love, light and happiness to one and all. The Makaravilakku is lit between 6pm and 7pm, when they can see the Makara star or Makara Jyoti. January 2025 Holidays and Festivals Calendar: Check Dates of Important Events in the First Month of the Year. 

    Makaravilakku Significance

    Makaravilakku festival is held on Sankranti day at the Sabarimala Temple. It is the way of celebrating the sun’s entry into the Capricorn sign, by the people of Kerala. Makaravilakku is part of a religious ritual that was practised since the past by the Malayaraya tribe who are believed to be the descendants of Malayaman Kaari in the forest of Ponnambalamedu. It is estimated that an average of half a million people travel to Sabarimala every year to witness the Makara Vilakku.

    The lighting of Makaravilakku is believed to be an immensely important observance that helps spread the light and hope for a better tomorrow. The festival also includes the Thiruvabharanam (sacred ornaments of the deity Ayyappan) procession and a congregation at the hill shrine of Sabarimala. Here’s wishing everyone a Happy Makaravilakku.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 11, 2025 02:28 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • When Is Shakambhari Purnima 2025? Know Date, Purnima Tithi, Auspicious Timings, Shubh Muhurat of Paush Purnima Upavasa, Puja Rituals and Significance of the Sacred Day

    When Is Shakambhari Purnima 2025? Know Date, Purnima Tithi, Auspicious Timings, Shubh Muhurat of Paush Purnima Upavasa, Puja Rituals and Significance of the Sacred Day

    Shakambhari Purnima, also popularly known as Shakambhari Jayanti, is an auspicious Hindu occasion dedicated to Goddess Shakambhari. Shakambhari Purnima is observed in the month of Pausha, which usually corresponds with January in the Gregorian calendar. Shakambhari is a Hindu goddess of nourishment, a form of Mahadevi, who manifested on Earth to save the world from a drought and by killing the asura named Durgamasura, and restoring the sacred Vedas seized by him, back to the Brahmins. Shakambari Purnima is the last day in the eight-day long holiday of Shakambari Navaratri. Shakambhari Purnima 2025 will be celebrated on Monday, January 13. The Purnima Tithi will begin at 05:03 AM on January 13 and end at 03:56 AM on January 14.

    Most Navratri begins on Shukla Pratipada except for Shakambhari Navratri which begins on Ashtami and ends on Purnima in Paush month. Hence, Shakambhari Navratri spans for eight days. The occasion is celebrated with great fervour, especially in Rajasthan, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and other regions where Shakambhari Devi is highly venerated. In this article, let’s know more about Shakambhari Purnima 2025 Date, shubh muhurat, timings, puja rituals and the significance of the auspicious day. January 2025 Holidays and Festivals Calendar: Check Dates of Important Events in the First Month of the Year. 

    Shakambhari Purnima 2025 Date and Purnima Tithi

    Shakambhari Purnima 2025 falls on Monday, January 13, 2025. The Purnima Tithi will begin at 05:03 AM on January 13 and end at 03:56 AM on January 14.

    Shakambhari Purnima Puja Rituals

    • On the day of Shakambhari Purnima, devotees perform Puja for Goddess Shakambhari both at the houses and at temples.
    • Devotees should wake up early in the morning, take a bath, and offer special prayers.
    • A murti of the goddess is venerated with the Aarti ceremony, with diyas lighted and flowers and sweets ritually offered to the deity.
    • Scriptures such as the Durga Chalisa might be recited by the devotees
    • Devotees also observe a fast and seek blessings of the Goddess and sing bhajans and kirtans praising the goddess.

    Shakambhari Purnima Significance

    Goddess Shakambhari is incarnation of Devi Bhagwati. As per religious beliefs, it is believed that Devi Bhagwati incarnated as Shakambhari to mitigate famine and severe food crisis on the Earth. She is also known as Goddess of vegetables, fruits and green leaves and depicted with green surroundings of fruits and vegetables. The Shakambhari Devi Temple of the Saharanpur district of Uttar Pradesh venerates the Goddess on this occasion.

    According to the Devi Bhagavata Purana, Goddess Shakambhari answered the plea of the Brahmins by producing vegetative products from her own form to feed all the creatures of the Earth. She is described to watch over human beings to ensure that they are not short of food and water, as well as punishing those who commit sins and evil.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 11, 2025 01:37 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).