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Tag: Festivals of India

  • Dhanteras 2024: Why Do We Purchase Gold On Dhanteras? , Culture News

    Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali festival and is one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar. In 2024, Dhanteras will be celebrated on October 29. The day is dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda and health, and is also associated with wealth and prosperity. One of the most well-known traditions of Dhanteras is the purchase of gold. But why is this custom so important?

    The Mythological Significance

    The tradition of purchasing gold on Dhanteras has its roots in ancient mythology. According to legend, it was on this day that Lord Dhanvantari emerged from the ocean during the churning of the Milky Sea, known as Samudra Manthan, holding a pot of amrita (elixir) in one hand and the holy text of Ayurveda in the other. This event symbolizes the emergence of health and wealth from the depths of the ocean, making Dhanteras a day to celebrate both.

    Another popular mythological tale is the story of King Hima’s son, who was destined to die from a snake bite on the fourth day of his marriage. To prevent this, his wife kept him awake all night by lighting lamps and placing all her gold and silver ornaments in a heap near the entrance of their bedroom. The bright lights and dazzling gold are said to have blinded Yama, the god of death, when he arrived. Pleased with the devotion and wisdom of the young bride, Yama spared the prince’s life. This legend emphasizes the protective and auspicious qualities of gold, reinforcing the tradition of buying gold to ward off ill fortune.

    Cultural and Economic Significance

    Symbol of Wealth and Prosperity: In Indian culture, gold is considered a symbol of wealth, purity, and prosperity. Purchasing gold on Dhanteras is believed to bring good fortune, financial stability, and prosperity to the household. It is a way of invoking the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth. Investment for the Future: Gold has always been a preferred form of investment in India. It serves as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainties. The tradition of buying gold on Dhanteras aligns with the practical aspect of securing one’s financial future. Cultural Beliefs and Rituals: Dhanteras is a day dedicated to performing pujas and rituals that invoke the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi. Many families believe that bringing home gold on this day pleases the goddess, ensuring her blessings for the year ahead. Family and Community Bonds: The act of purchasing gold and other valuables on Dhanteras often involves the entire family. It is a communal activity that strengthens family bonds and promotes a sense of unity and shared prosperity.

    Modern-Day Celebrations

    In contemporary times, the essence of Dhanteras remains deeply rooted in tradition, but the ways of celebrating have evolved. While gold jewelry and coins continue to be popular purchases, many people also buy silver, new utensils, and electronics. The underlying belief is that new acquisitions on this auspicious day will bring luck and prosperity.

    Markets and shops across India witness a significant surge in sales as people indulge in festive shopping. Jewelers offer attractive discounts and new collections to cater to the increased demand. The festive atmosphere, coupled with the anticipation of Diwali, adds to the excitement of the occasion.

    Dhanteras is a celebration of health, wealth, and prosperity. The tradition of purchasing gold on this day is deeply embedded in Indian culture and mythology, symbolizing the hope for a prosperous future and the blessings of divine deities. As we prepare to celebrate Dhanteras in 2024, let us embrace the traditions with joy and reverence, ensuring that the spirit of prosperity and well-being touches every home.

    Tips for Buying Gold on Dhanteras

    Check Purity: Ensure that the gold you purchase is hallmarked and meets the required purity standards. Compare Prices: Gold prices can vary across different jewellers. It’s wise to compare prices before making a purchase. Understand Making Charges: Different jewelers may have different making charges for gold jewelry. Please clarify these charges beforehand. Buy from Reputed Jewelers: Purchase gold from well-known and trusted jewelers to ensure authenticity and quality. Consider Investment Options: If buying jewelry is not a priority, consider investing in gold coins or bars, which often have lower making charges.

    Wishing you a prosperous and joyful Dhanteras!



    (This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)

  • Mohini Ekadashi 2024: Know Date, Shubh Muhurat, Significance, Rituals And Parana Timings | Culture News

    Mohini Ekadashi, one of the most auspicious Hindu festivals will be observed on Sunday, May 19, 2024. Ekadashi, the eleventh day of the lunar calendar, is considered auspicious for Hindus and occurs twice a month during the waxing and waning phases of the moon. . Devotees of Vishnu observe this day by fasting, either abstaining from food and water (Nirjala) or consuming a sattvic diet to purify the body and mind.

    Mohini Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of Ekadashi of Shukla Paksha of the month of Vaishakha.

    Mohini Ekadashi 2024: Date

    In 2024, Mohini Ekadashi will be observed on May 19, Sunday.

    Mohini Ekadashi 2024: Auspicious time

    As per drik panchang the shubh muhurat tithi for Mohini Ekadashi in 2024 is as follows:

    Ekadashi Tithi begins at 11:22 on May 18, 2024

    Ekadashi Tithi Ends at 13:50 on May 19, 2024

    Mohini Ekadashi: Significance

    Mohini Ekadashi is believed to be the day when Lord Vishnu appeared in the shape of a beautiful nymph, Mohini. Mohini Ekadashi is observed by the devotees every year to commemorate this occasion.

    According to Hindu mythology, it was during the Samudra Manthan which was the churning of the ocean-produced nectar, flaring a battle between the demons and divinities over who would consume it. To settle the dispute, the deity Guru Brihaspati sought help from Lord Vishnu. To answer his prayers, Lord Vishnu emerged as the enchantress Mohini, took the Amrit Kalash from the demons, and distributed the ‘Amrit’ among the deities.

    Mohini Ekadashi 2024: Parana timings

    As per Drik Panchang, the timings for Parana will begin on May 20 at 5:28 am and will end at 8:12 am.

    Mohini Ekadashi 2024 Puja Rituals To Follow

    – Wake up early, take a holy bath, and place idols of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi on an altar, offering flowers, sweets, and water.

    – Start a strict fast from sunrise on Ekadashi to sunrise the next day, sometimes refraining from consuming water.

    – During the fast, devotees engage in puja, offering flowers, incense, and fruits to Lord Vishnu while reciting Vishnu mantras.

    – Reading or listening to the Vishnu Sahasranama is considered highly meritorious.

    – Devotees perform charitable acts, visit Lord Krishna temples for special prayers and bhajans, and listen to the story of Mohini Ekadashi for spiritual benefits.

    (This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)

  • Pradosh Vrat In May 2024: Date, Puja Timings, Pradosham Tithi, Rituals And More | Culture News

    Pradosh Vrat is regarded as the most auspicious fast that is observed by devotees twice in the month of Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha. Pradosh Vrat has been said to be very significant in Hinduism as devotees worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati on this day and offer prayers. The word Pradosh means removal of darkness. Pradosh vrat falls twice every month during the Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha and this year in May two Pradosh Vrats will be observed in May 2024, one on Sunday, May 5 known as Ravi Pradosh Vrat and the other on May 20 also known as Som Pradosh. Vrat.

    Pradosh Vrat 2024: Tithi and Puja Muhurat

    The first Pradosh Vrat in May 2024 will be observed on May 5, Sunday or ‘Ravivar’ on the Trayodashi tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Vaishakha.

    As per Drik panchang, the Ravi Krishna Pradosha Vrat falls on Sunday, May 5, 2024, with the Pradosha Puja Muhurat from 06:59 pm to 9:06 pm, lasting for 2 hours and 7 minutes. The Trayodashi Tithi begins at 5:41 pm on May 5, 2024, and ends at 2:40 pm on May 6, 2024.

    Pradosh Vrat: Significance

    Pradosh Vrat is observed to honor and commemorate Lord Shiva and the holy day when the lord himself consumed poison during Samudra Manthan to save the people and earth and all its creations. During Samudra Manthan when the devas and asuras churned the ocean to look for the Amrit, the first thing that came out of the ocean was Halahala or poison.

    The day, when Lord Shiva drank the poison, began to be known as the day of Pradosh.

    Pradosh Vrat has great importance in Hinduism. On this day devotees observe fast with a pure heart and worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is believed that all the wishes of those who keep Pradosh Vrat for the whole day are fulfilled.

    Pradosh Vrat 2024: Puja vidhi/Rituals

    – On this day, wake up early in the morning, take a bath etc., wear clean clothes and resolve or ‘Sankalp’ to fast by taking water in your hand.

    – After this, clean the temple and worship. In Pradosh Vrat, worship is done during Pradosh period and hence in the evening worship Bholenath with rituals.

    – Offer Belpatra, Bhang, Dhatura, Gangajal, milk, lamp and flowers to Bholenath.

    – After this, light a ghee lamp and read Pradosh Vrat Katha.

    – Observe a day-long fast from sunrise to sunset and perform puja twice in a day.

    – Then perform aarti of Lord Shiva and break the fast the next day after sunrise.

    – Offer bhog and distribute it as prasad to all family members.

    (This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)

  • Kanya Puja Maha Ashtami 2024: Worship Maa Durga’s Avatars- Check Shubh Muhurat, Significance And Puja Vidhi Of Kanjak Puja. Culture News

    Kanya Puja, also known as Kanjak Puja, is a significant and cherished ritual during the auspicious festival of Navratri. This beautiful tradition involves worshiping young girls as a form of the goddess Durga. Kanya Puja falls on Maha Ashtami, the eighth day of Navratri, and holds immense importance in Hindu culture. In this article, we will explore the date, Shubh Muhurat, significance, and rituals associated with Kanya Puja in 2024.

    Each avatar of Maa Durga is worshiped during the Mahasthami Puja, highlighting the Goddess’s diverse features of strength and grace. This year Chaitra Durga Ashtami will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 16, 2024.

    Kanya Puja during Chaitra Navratri will be observed on Maha Ashtami, i.e., April 16. Devotees eagerly anticipate this day as it symbolizes the worship of divine feminine energy.

    The Ashtami Tithi starts at 12:11 on April 15, 2024, and concludes at 13:23 on April 16, 2024, according to Drik Panchang.

    Kanya Puja Ashtami 2024: Kanya (Kanjak), Kumari Puja Vidhi

    1. Devotees prepare for Kanya Puja by inviting nine young girls, typically between the ages of 2 and 10, to their homes. These girls represent the nine forms of the goddess Durga.

    2. The feet of the young girls are washed to purify them and symbolize the purification of the goddess herself.

    3. Devotees offer young girls new clothes, bangles, kumkum, haldi, fruits, and other gifts as a sign of respect and to seek their blessings.

    4. A traditional aarti is performed for the young girls, accompanied by singing bhajans and hymns in praise of goddess Durga.

    5. After the puja, a delicious meal is prepared and served to the young girls. This meal is an expression of gratitude for participating in the ritual.

    6. It is customary to make donations, particularly in the form of money or food, to the young girls as a symbol of charity.

    Kanya Puja Ashtami 2024: Significance of Kanya Pujan

    1. Kanya Puja is a heartfelt homage to the feminine energy of the universe. It symbolizes the belief that the goddess Durga manifests in the form of young girls.

    2. This ritual encourages the belief that all women, regardless of their age or background, embody the divine. It promotes gender equality and respect for women.

    3. Devotees believe that by worshiping young girls, they invite blessings, prosperity, and well-being into their lives. It is also considered an act of seeking forgiveness from the goddess for any wrongdoings.

    4. Kanya Puja reinforces cultural values ​​and traditions within families and communities, fostering a sense of togetherness.

    (The information given in this article is based on general assumptions and information. Zee News does not confirm this.)

  • Chaitra Navratri 2024, Day 7: Who is Maa Kalaratri? Seek goddess Durga’s Blessings And Power- Know Puja Muhurat, Rituals, Mantras | Culture News

    Chaitra Navratri, a nine-day celebration in India, is dedicated to honoring the Hindu goddess Durga. This festival takes place during the Hindu month of Chaitra, which typically falls in March or April in the Gregorian calendar. One of the significant aspects of Chaitra Navratri is the worship of Kalaratri, the seventh manifestation of Maa Durga, on its seventh day. Kalaratri, meaning “the one who is black as night,” symbolizes the goddess’s fierce and powerful nature, destroying ignorance and darkness.

    Chaitra Navratri: Worshiping Maa Kalratri

    The seventh day of Chaitra Navratri, known as “Saptami,” marks the culmination of the festival. Devotees pay homage to Goddess Kalratri on this day through special puja rituals, seeking her blessings for courage and strength. Blue is the auspicious color associated with the seventh day of Navratri.

    On this day, worshipers revere Goddess Kalratri, also known as Kalika, Shubhankari, and Kali Maa, the seventh incarnation of Goddess Durga. She is revered as one of the most potent manifestations of the goddess, symbolizing strength and power. The name Kalratri translates to “the one who is dark as night,” reflecting her formidable appearance and symbolic representation of omnipotence.

    Chaitra Navratri 2024 Day 7: Auspicious time

    The seventh day, or Saptami, of Chaitra Navratri 2024 begins at 11:44 am and concludes the following day, 15th April, at 12:11 pm.

    Chaitra Navratri 2024 Day 7: Puja Vidhi

    During the worship of Goddess Kalratri, jaggery or dishes made from jaggery are offered as prasad. Devotees also perform the “sringar” ceremony, adorning the goddess with items like sindoor, kajal, comb, hair oil, shampoo, nail polish, and lipstick, among others.

    Chaitra Navratri Day 7: Maa Kaalratri Mantras and Stuti

    Om Devi Kalratriai Namah

    (Om Devi Kalaratriya Namah)

    Om Jayanti Mangala Kali Bhadrakali Kaplini

    (Om Jayanti Mangala Kali Bhadrakali Kapalini)

    Sarvamangala Mangalye Shive Sarvarth Sadhike Sharanye Trayambake Gauri Narayani Namostute

    (Sarvamangala Mangalye Shive Sarvartha Sadhike Sharanye Trayambake Gauri Narayani Namostute)

    (This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)

  • Chaitra Navratri 2024: Date, Shubh Muhurat, Puja Rituals And Things To Avoid | Culture News

    The Hindu festival of Chaitra Navratri, a nine-day festival celebrated from the first day of the bright fortnight of the month of Chaitra until the ninth day, is a time for fasting and worship. Beginning on April 9th ​​and concluding on April 17th, this significant celebration marks the onset of the Hindu Luni-Solar calendar. Devotees devoutly worship Goddess Durga and her nine divine avatars – Maa Shailputri, Maa Brahmacharini, Maa Chandraghanta, Maa Kushmanda, Skanda Mata, Maa Katyayani, Maa Kaalratri, Maa Mahagauri, and Maa Siddhidatri.

    On Chaitra Navratri, the auspicious period for Kalash Ghatasthpana will last for approximately four hours in the morning, starting from the night of April 8th at 11:50 PM.

    Chaitra Navratri 2024: Auspicious time

    According to Drik Panchang, the shubh muhurat for Ghatasthapana and other auspicious rituals are as follows :

    Pratipada Tithi begins on April 8 at 11:50 pm

    Pratipada Tithi ends on April 9 at 8:30 pm

    Vaidhrti Yog begins on April 8 at 6:14 pm

    Vaidhrti Yog ends on April 9 at 2:18 pm

    Ghatasthapana Muhurat: 6:02 am to 10:16 am on April 9

    Ghatasthapana Abhijeet Muhurat: 11:57 am to 12:48 pm on April 9

    Rituals for Conducting Puja During Navratri

    – Take a bath in the morning during the auspicious time of Ghatasthapana, which is from 6:02 AM to 10:15 AM.

    – If you cannot establish the Kalash during this time, you can also do it during the auspicious time of Abhijit, from 12:00 PM to 12:45 PM.

    – Meditate on Lord Ganesh in the temple of the house before tying Mauli to the copper pot in a swastika shape.

    – Fill the pot with water mixed with a few drops of Ganga water, and add a coin, incense, betel nut, perfume, and rice. Finally, light the diya/deepak (sacred flame) of Maa Durga.

    -Alongside the Kalash establishment, put soil in a clay vessel and sow barley seeds in it.

    – Those fasting during Navratri should continue with their regular diet.

    Avoiding Debt During Navratri

    Celebrity Astrologer Praduman Suri advises against buying new items on loan during Navratri. Purchasing items on debt, whether it’s new clothes, electronics, or other goods, can invite negative energy into your life. Suri suggests that acquiring items through loans, whether from a bank or acquaintance, can lead to a burdened mind and heart, compromising the positive energy within the household. Therefore, it’s important to refrain from taking on loans during Navratri to maintain positivity.

  • Happy Holi 2024: Last Minute Pre-Holi Skincare And Haircare Do's And Don'ts To Protect Your Skin | Beauty/Fashion News

    The joyful festival of colours, Holi, celebrated on March 25 this year, marks the arrival of the spring season in full swing but it also increases both happiness and skincare problems. The harsh March sun could be another adversary during Holi. Prioritizing skincare before the festivities is essential to shield the skin from the harsh chemicals in the Holi colours. This entails using sunscreen to create a barrier of protection and maintaining moisturized skin.

    Here is a smart guide on how to prepare your skin as you set for a joyful Holi celebration. This article provides valuable advice on skincare that is both effective and beneficial for your skin.

    It is important to protect your skin and hair from the bright colors during the exuberant Holi celebrations. To maintain a bright and safe appearance, Mansi Sharma, Founder of The Honest Tree by Boddess shares easy tips to adhere to.

    Pre-Holi Skincare Protection

    Use a moisturizing moisturizer to hydrate your skin. To establish a shield of defense, dab on some rosehip or argan oil or use a barrier lotion. To prevent sun damage, use sunscreen with an SPF of at least thirty.

    Pre-Holi Haircare

    An hour before you go out, rub coconut or olive oil through your hair. This will prevent the color from absorbing into your hair. To provide an extra layer of defense against the colour, gather your hair and tie it with a vibrant bandana.

    Also Read: Holi 2024 Haircare: Pre-Holi Beauty Guide For Vibrant And Healthy Tresses- 5 Tips To Protect And Pamper

    Do's & Don'ts to Protect Your Skin and Hair This Holi

    Dr Navnit Haror, dermatologist and founder at Dr. Haror's Wellness shares the perfect do's and don'ts for your hair and skin.

    Do's:

    1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: If we haven't stressed this enough, start by hydrating your skin from within. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin well-hydrated and supple.

    2. Apply a barrier cream: Before stepping out to play Holi, apply a thick layer of moisturizer or a barrier cream on your face and body. This will create a protective barrier and make it easier to wash off the colors later.

    3. Wear protective clothing: Opt for full-sleeved clothes and pants to minimize direct contact with colours. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics that won't irritate your skin.

    4. Protect your hair: Apply coconut oil or a leave-in conditioner to your hair to shield it from harsh colors and prevent damage.

    Also Read: Holi 2024: Pre And Post Skincare Routine Tips You Cannot Miss!

    5. Use organic colours: Whenever possible, choose natural or organic colors made from flower extracts or herbal ingredients. These are gentler on the skin and less likely to irritate.

    Don'ts:

    1. Usage of harsh chemicals: Steer clear of harsh soaps and cleansers, as they can strip your skin of its natural oils and cause dryness and irritation.

    2. Washing with hot water: After playing Holi, resist the temptation to wash off the colors with hot water. Instead, use lukewarm or cool water to gently rinse off the colors.

    3. Scrubbing vigorously: Avoid scrubbing your skin vigorously to remove the colours, as this can cause abrasions and damage the skin's protective barrier.

    4. Opting for DIY remedies: While it may be tempting to try DIY remedies to remove stubborn colors, such as lemon juice or baking soda, these can be harsh and may further irritate your skin. Stick to gentle cleansers and moisturizers instead.

  • Guru Ravidas Jayanti 2024: Know Date, History, Significance And Wishes To Share | Culture News

    Guru Ravidas, also known as Raidas, was a great Saint, philosopher, poet, and social reformer of the 15th century. He stands out as one of the eminent saints of the North Indian Bhakti movement. Born into a marginalized untouchable leather-working caste in Varanasi, his life and works profoundly reflect the challenges and struggles of his social background.

    Guru Ravidas Jayanti is celebrated with great enthusiasm, especially in the states of Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Haryana, to honor the birth anniversary of Guru Ravidas.

    Guru Ravidas Jayanti 2024: Date and Time

    Guru Ravidas Jayanti falls on February 24. The Purnima Tithi begins at 3:33 PM on February 23 and ends at 5:59 PM on February 24.

    Guru Ravidas Jayanti: History

    Born in 1377 CE in the village of Seer Govardhanpur in Uttar Pradesh, Guru Ravidas emerged from humble beginnings. Despite his impoverished background, he dedicated his life to preaching about human rights and equality. A celebrated poet, some of his verses are enshrined in Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Mystic poet Meera Bai also regarded Guru Ravidas as her spiritual mentor.

    Guru Ravidas Jayanti: Significance

    On this day, people organize Nagarkirtans, sing gurbani, and perform special aarti to honor Guru Ravidas. At Shri Guru Ravidass Janam Asthan Mandir in Varanasi, a grand ceremony is organized, attracting devotees from across the nation to celebrate the day and remember the teachings of the great saint. Devotees also visit holy places and take dips in sacred rivers to dedicate their prayers to Guru Ravidas.

    Guru Ravidas Jayanti 2024: Celebrations and Wishes

    The day is marked by various rituals and celebrations. Nagarkirtans, processions accompanied by singing and chanting, are a common sight. Devotees gather to perform special aartis, and at the Shri Guru Ravidass Janam Asthan Mandir, a grand ceremony commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Ravidas.

    1. On this auspicious Guru Ravidas Jayanti, may the teachings of Guru Ravidas Ji guide you towards a path of righteousness and compassion. Happy Jayanti!

    2. Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed Guru Ravidas Jayanti! May this day inspire you to embrace equality, love, and harmony in all aspects of life.

    3. As we celebrate Guru Ravidas Jayanti, let’s reflect on his teachings of humility and service. May his divine blessings be with you always. Happy Jayanti!

    4. On this Guru Ravidas Jayanti, may the light of his wisdom illuminate your heart and soul. May you find peace and joy in his teachings. Warm wishes to you and your family.