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Festivals of India: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti

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In 2026, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti, celebrated tomorrow, marks the 395th birth anniversary of one of India’s most admired historical figures, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This festival is commemorated with grandeur across Maharashtra and by Indian diaspora communities worldwide, honouring the Maratha king’s courageous legacy, leadership, and continuing relevance in modern times.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, born in 1630 at the Shivneri Fort, was destined to transform the political landscape of 17th-century India. From an early age, he demonstrated exceptional strategic acumen and courage, capturing the Torna Fort at sixteen—a feat that marked the beginning of his campaign for Swarajya, or self-rule. Over the next decades, Shivaji expanded his realm by capturing and constructing over a hundred forts, most notably Rajgad, Sinhagad (formerly Kondana), and Purandar, establishing the Maratha Empire’s core. His most celebrated military exploits include the daring victory over Afzal Khan at the Battle of Pratapgad in 1659, in which Shivaji’s tactical brilliance and personal valour prevailed over seemingly insurmountable odds. Another defining episode was the audacious sack of Surat in 1664, a strategic blow to Mughal economic dominance that also provided crucial resources for strengthening the Maratha state. Shivaji’s naval vision was just as remarkable: recognising the significance of maritime security, he built formidable sea forts like Sindhudurg and Vijaydurg and created one of India’s earliest indigenous navies to secure the Konkan coast from foreign threats.

A master of guerrilla warfare, Shivaji’s ability to outmanoeuvre larger armies earned him the moniker “Mountain Rat” from his adversaries. His confrontations with the powerful Mughal Empire, especially Emperor Aurangzeb, often ended in success through a combination of surprise tactics, local support, and deep knowledge of the terrain. In 1674, Shivaji’s grand coronation at Raigad Fort, celebrated by people from diverse communities, was not only a declaration of sovereign Maratha rule but also a powerful symbol of indigenous pride and unity. His governance extended beyond the battlefield: he assembled the Ashtapradhan (Council of Eight Ministers), instituted a direct land revenue system favouring peasants, and elevated Marathi and Sanskrit as administrative languages, bolstering regional identity.

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Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj revolutionised warfare through his innovative guerrilla warfare tactics, known as “Ganimi Kava,” which focused on speed, surprise, and deception. He trained his army, especially the Mavalas, in mountain warfare, leveraging the rugged terrain of the Western Ghats to launch swift hit-and-run attacks that disrupted enemy forces before they could organise a response. This use of mobility and knowledge of local geography made his troops elusive and difficult to defeat, earning him the nickname “Mountain Rat” from his foes. His forces specialised in ambushes set in narrow passes and dense forests, striking unexpectedly, often at night or during bad weather, to maximise confusion and damage. Beyond battlefield manoeuvres, Shivaji’s guerrilla tactics included targeting enemy supply lines to weaken their operational strength without engaging in costly, prolonged battles.

A crucial pillar supporting these tactics was Shivaji’s sophisticated intelligence network, composed of spies disguised as traders and farmers, which provided real-time information on enemy movements and plans. This intelligence enabled precise surprise raids, such as the famous attack on Shaista Khan’s camp. Shivaji Maharaj’s mastery of deception extended to spreading misinformation to sow confusion within enemy ranks. His highly mobile and fearless small units could rapidly assemble for decisive strikes and just as swiftly disperse, keeping adversaries off balance and conserving Maratha resources.

These tactics not only allowed Shivaji to defend and expand his kingdom against larger, better-equipped armies but have also influenced modern special operations and counter-insurgency strategies worldwide.

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Shivaji’s reign stood out for religious tolerance and social equity. Despite being a devout Hindu, he respected all faiths, ensured the protection of non-Hindu places of worship, and included Muslims within his court and army. He protected the rights of women and the downtrodden, upheld justice and humane treatment even for enemies, and rebuilt temples that had fallen into neglect. Shivaji’s life was a relentless pursuit of freedom, empowerment, and good governance, the very qualities that have made him a legendary figure whose exploits are celebrated with pride and reverence across India.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s leadership combined strategic foresight, personal bravery, and a commitment to inclusivity. He inspired loyalty among his followers by leading from the front, fostering unity, and promoting merit-based advancement. His innovative use of guerrilla tactics, emphasis on intelligence-gathering, and ability to form alliances allowed him to outmanoeuvre his rivals and consolidate power. In governance, Shivaji established a progressive administration grounded in justice and accountability, focused on the welfare of his subjects and the fair treatment of all communities. His ethical governance was guided by principles of righteousness (dharma), emphasising both economic stability and social cohesion. Shivaji’s legacy endures as a model of adaptable, visionary, and compassionate leadership, inspiring generations with values of resilience, integrity, and public service.

Shivaji Jayanti isn’t just a commemoration of a historical birth; it is a celebration of values: courage, justice, patriotism, and cultural unity. For millions in Maharashtra and Indian communities abroad, the day signifies renewal of pride and heritage. Shivaji’s model of governance and dedication to welfare, social reforms, and inclusivity remain aspirational for contemporary India. 

The day is especially important for fostering a sense of national and regional pride. Shivaji’s fight for ‘Hindavi Swarajya’ inspired not only his contemporaries but also generations of freedom fighters and reformers. His secular policies and egalitarian outlook are viewed as beacons of responsible leadership, worthy of remembrance and emulation.

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The spirit of Shivaji Jayanti is best experienced in Maharashtra, where public celebrations turn into cultural extravaganzas. The festivities typically include grand processions featuring decorated tableaux depicting scenes from Shivaji’s life and military exploits, cultural performances that include traditional dance and music, street plays (‘tamasha’), and reenactments of battles or coronation ceremonies, and community speeches by eminent leaders, scholars, and activists who deliver addresses drawing inspiration from Shivaji’s values and vision. Schools and colleges organise essay competitions, dramatisations, and exhibitions about Maratha history. Devotees gather at temples and forts associated with Shivaji, offering garlands and flowers to his statues and images and blood donation drives, clean-up campaigns, and charity events showcasing community service are held in Shivaji’s name. These events foster a renewed sense of patriotism, social unity, and pride in regional heritage. They also serve to educate younger generations about their illustrious history and inspire them to uphold values of justice, inclusivity, and self-determination.

The legacy of Shivaji Maharaj is more than historical; it’s a living source of inspiration. His emphasis on justice, people’s rights, and good governance is invoked by leaders and reformers even today. The day serves as a rallying point for the reaffirmation of collective identity, not just in Maharashtra but also for the Indian diaspora around the world. Shivaji’s life and the annual Jayanti celebrations continuously remind society to pursue integrity, resilience, and respect for diversity. By honoring Shivaji Maharaj, the day renews commitment to these timeless principles.

Festivals of India: Ganga Sagar Mela

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The Ganga Sagar Mela is one of India’s grandest and most spiritually charged festivals, taking place at the holy confluence of the Ganges River and the Bay of Bengal on Sagar Island, West Bengal. The festival attracts millions of devotees, saints, and tourists who gather to seek purification, find salvation, and celebrate.

The Ganga Sagar Mela is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and legendary stories that have been passed down over millennia. The saga begins with King Sagar, whose 60,000 sons were cursed and reduced to ashes by Sage Kapil after mistaking him for a thief during their quest for a sacrificial horse. The souls of these princes could not attain moksha or liberation, leading their descendant King Bhagirath to undertake intense penance to bring the river Ganga from the heavens to earth. However, Ganga’s descent was so powerful that it threatened to destroy the earth. Lord Shiva agreed to absorb her mighty force in his matted locks or jata, allowing her to flow gently onto the world. Ganga finally touched earth at Gangotri, but it was at Sagar Island, where her waters merge with the Bay of Bengal, that Bhagirath was able to perform the necessary rites and liberate the souls of his ancestors. This epic tale is the heart of Ganga Sagar’s spiritual significance, and the location itself derives its name from King Sagar. The Ganges River is also called Bhagirathi in honour of King Bhagirath’s perseverance and devotion.

Various stories and beliefs enhance the festival’s allure. Local myth holds that a bath in the Ganga Sagar during Makar Sankranti washes away one’s sins and bestows salvation. It is believed that the Kapil Muni temple marks the exact spot where Sage Kapil meditated and the fateful incident with King Sagar’s sons occurred. The Mahabharata also references the importance of bathing at Ganga Sagar for spiritual merit, further entrenching its sacred reputation.

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The Mela is celebrated with vital Hindu rituals, vibrant displays of spirituality, and a remarkable atmosphere of devotion. The central ritual is the holy dip, the Ganga Snan, in the river at sunrise on Makar Sankranti, which usually falls on 14 or 15 January each year. Pilgrims believe that submerging themselves in the sacred waters cleanses their souls and removes accumulated karma, paving the way for moksha. The dip is followed by prayers and offerings to Lord Surya, the Sun God and to the river goddess herself. After the bath, devotees visit the Kapil Muni Temple to offer prayers and seek blessings. Special pujas and arati ceremonies are conducted in the temple, commemorating Sage Kapil’s role in the legend. Other notable rituals include the lighting of diyas or oil lamps and the chanting of Sanskrit hymns at the riverbanks.

The festival attracts an immense number of ascetics, sadhus, and yogis, who set up camps and perform devotional chants, bhajans, and spiritual discourses. The presence of Naga sadhus, ascetic warriors, often draws attention due to their austere practices and distinctive appearance. Ganga Sagar Mela is not just a religious gathering; it’s a vibrant cultural fair with stalls selling offerings, handicrafts, spiritual artefacts, and local cuisine. The fairgrounds are abuzz with devotional songs, dance, and performances, showcasing the cultural heritage of Bengal. Charity and almsgiving, or daan, is considered highly auspicious, and devotees distribute food, clothing, and basic commodities to the needy. The observance of Shraddhas, which are the rituals for ancestors, by priests and devotees are an echo of Bhagirath’s original rites.

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In recent years, Ganga Sagar Mela has grown exponentially, now welcoming millions, making it the second-largest Hindu festival after the Kumbh Mela. Local government and organisations facilitate safe logistics, tent accommodation, security, and healthcare for the multitude of pilgrims. Special transport arrangements, temporary shelters, and emergency medical services ensure smoother experiences amid the surge of crowds.

The festival is a magnificent tapestry of faith, unity, and tradition, representing the enduring power of mythology in the modern age. The Ganga Sagar Mela celebrates liberation from the cycle of reincarnation, a fundamental concept in Hindu philosophy. It demonstrates the profound relationship between the spiritual and the physical in Hindu belief: “the act of pilgrimage, communal worship, and the connection to ancient legends come alive every year”. The gathering is also an expression of cultural diversity, as devotees of every background, nationality, and sect converge at Sagar Island.

While the Ganga Sagar Mela itself is the centrepiece, the surrounding area offers further sites of interest. The Kapil Muni Temple is where pilgrims pay homage to the ancient sage, and many meditate there, seeking spiritual tranquillity. Sagar Lighthouse and Port is a scenic landmark providing views of the confluence and the crowds. The Ramakrishna Mission Ashram is a centre for spiritual study and service while the island’s serene beaches are a haven for reflection and relaxation amid the spiritual fervour.

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The Ganga Sagar Mela continues to cement its role as a cornerstone of spiritual unity and celebration in India. The myths and legends surrounding the event infuse the gathering with sacred meaning, while its rituals offer avenues for purification, devotion, and the hope of eternal liberation. Each year, as millions gather at Sagar Island, ancient stories are relived, traditions are renewed, and faith is reaffirmed—making the Ganga Sagar Mela an unforgettable tapestry of myth, ritual, and communal spirit.

Festivals of India: Bastar Dusshera

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Bastar Dussehra is not just a festival; it is a grand cultural phenomenon that transcends the conventional understanding of Dussehra. Celebrated in the tribal heartland of Chhattisgarh, this festival is a vibrant tapestry of ancient traditions, spiritual fervour, and community unity. Unlike the rest of India, where Dussehra marks the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana, Bastar Dussehra is a unique celebration dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari, the revered deity of the region. Spanning an astonishing 75 days, it is one of the longest festivals in the world, deeply rooted in the history and culture of the Bastar region.

The origins of Bastar Dussehra trace back to the 15th century, during the reign of Maharaja Purushaottam Deo of the Kakatiya dynasty. Legend has it that Maharaja Purushaottam Deo, a devout follower of Lord Jagannath of Puri, undertook a year-long pilgrimage to the Jagannath Temple. Pleased by his devotion, Lord Jagannath gifted him a massive wooden chariot with 16 wheels for his return journey. However, due to the chariot’s unwieldy size, it was divided into two parts: one with 12 wheels and the other with 4 wheels. These chariots became integral to the Dussehra celebrations in Bastar, symbolising the divine connection between the king and the deity.

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Another narrative suggests that the festival was initiated to unite the diverse tribal communities of Bastar under a common cultural umbrella. The festival, which began in Bade Dongar, the capital of the Kakatiya rulers, was later shifted to Jagdalpur during the reign of Maharaja Dalpat Deo in the 17th century. This move was aimed at integrating the local tribes and preserving their unique traditions, which continue to thrive to this day.

Bastar Dussehra is a multi-faceted celebration that involves a series of rituals, ceremonies, and community events. The festival begins on the new moon day of the Hindu month of Shravan in July-August and culminates on the 13th day of Ashwin in September-October.

The festival commences with the Pat Jatra ritual, where the first log of wood is brought from the forest to construct the grand chariot for Goddess Danteshwari. This ritual is a symbolic act of worshiping the forest and its resources, reflecting the deep connection between the tribal communities and nature. The wood is meticulously selected and transported using traditional methods, with the participation of various tribal groups.

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Following the Pat Jatra, the construction of the chariot begins in a ceremony known as Deri Gadhai. Carpenters from different villages come together to build a two-storied chariot, which will later carry the idol of Goddess Danteshwari during the Rath Yatra. This process is a testament to the collective effort and unity of the tribal communities, each contributing their skills to the grand endeavour.

The highlight of Bastar Dussehra is the Rath Yatra, where the idol of Goddess Danteshwari is placed on the chariot and paraded through the streets of Jagdalpur. This procession is accompanied by traditional music, dance, and the fervent participation of the local populace. The Rath Yatra symbolises the journey of the goddess from her temple to the city, blessing the people and the land.

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The festival concludes with the Muria Darbar, a unique democratic assembly where the Maharaja of Bastar listens to the grievances and requests of the people. This ritual underscores the egalitarian ethos of the tribal communities, where every voice is heard and respected. The Muria Darbar is a fitting end to the festival, reinforcing the bonds of community and governance.

Bastar Dussehra is steeped in legends and stories that add to its mystique and cultural significance. One of the most prominent legends revolves around the spiritual powers of a young girl who plays a crucial role in the transfer of power during the festival. Before the Diwan or the chief minister assumes control of the state, a girl believed to be possessed by divine energy is consulted for her approval. She stands with a wooden sword in a warrior-like posture, symbolising the protective power of the goddess.

Another fascinating aspect of Bastar Dussehra is the absence of the burning of Ravana’s effigy, a common practice in other parts of India. Instead, the festival focuses on the worship of Goddess Danteshwari and the coming together of various tribal deities. This unique feature highlights the festival’s emphasis on spiritual harmony and preserving indigenous traditions.

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Bastar Dussehra is more than just a religious festival; it celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Bastar region. The festival brings together the diverse tribal communities of Bastar, each contributing their unique customs, music, and dance to the grand celebration. This cultural amalgamation reminds us of the region’s historical unity and the resilience of its traditions in the face of modernisation.

The festival also plays a crucial role in promoting tourism in Bastar, attracting visitors from across the country and the world. The vibrant rituals, traditional crafts, and tribal performances offer a glimpse into the region’s unique cultural landscape, making Bastar Dussehra a must-see event for cultural enthusiasts.

Bastar Dussehra is a testament to the enduring spirit of the tribal communities of Chhattisgarh. The festival transcends religious boundaries, celebrating the region’s unity, diversity, and cultural richness. With its ancient origins, unique rituals, and profound cultural significance, Bastar Dussehra stands as a beacon of tradition in an ever-changing world. As the festival continues to evolve, it remains a vibrant reminder of the power of faith, community, and cultural preservation.

Festivals of India: Ramlakshamana Dwadashi

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A significant Hindu festival holding deep religious and cultural importance, particularly in South India, Rama Lakshmana Dwadashi is dedicated to Lord Rama and his brother Lakshmana. The festival falls on the twelfth day, or Dwadashi, of the bright fortnight, or Shukla Paksha, in the month of Jyestha according to the Hindu lunar calendar.

The origins of Rama Lakshmana Dwadashi can be traced back to ancient Hindu scriptures and legends. It is believed that this observance has its roots in the Treta Yuga, one of the four ages in Hindu cosmology. The festival’s inception is closely tied to the story of King Dasaratha, the ruler of Ayodhya and father of Lord Rama. According to legend, King Dasaratha, who was childless, observed a stringent fast and performed rituals on this day, praying fervently for a son. His devotion and adherence to the Rama-Lakshmana Dwadashi Vrat were rewarded, as Lord Vishnu himself incarnated as his son, Rama, in the following year. This divine birth occurred on the auspicious day of Chaitra Masa Navami, which is celebrated as Ram Navami. The significance of this festival extends beyond its historical origins. It symbolises the power of devotion, the fulfilment of righteous desires, and the blessings that can be attained through sincere worship and adherence to spiritual practices.

Rama Lakshmana Dwadashi is celebrated with great fervour, especially in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka, and among certain Hindu communities in Tamil Nadu. The observance involves a series of rituals and practices that devotees follow with dedication. One of the primary aspects of this festival is fasting. Devotees have the option to observe a full-day fast or a simpler version where they consume only fruits and milk. This act of abstinence is believed to purify the body and mind, making one more receptive to spiritual energies.

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The core of the celebration involves the worship of Lord Rama and Lakshmana. Devotees perform elaborate pujas, or ritual offerings, which include the offering of prayers and reciting mantras, lighting lamps as a symbol of divine light, and presenting sacred offerings to the deities. As Dwadashi is considered an auspicious day for worshipping the sacred Tulsi plant, devotees pay special attention to Tulsi Puja on this day. The Tulsi plant, also known as Holy Basil, holds a significant place in Hindu worship and is often associated with Lord Vishnu. Reading or listening to passages from the Ramayana, the epic that narrates the life and adventures of Lord Rama, is considered highly auspicious on this day. This practice not only reinforces the spiritual significance of the festival but also helps in imparting moral and ethical values to the listeners.

Rama Lakshmana Dwadashi holds immense importance in the Hindu faith for several reasons. One of the primary significances of this festival is its association with the blessing of children. Childless couples often observe this Vrat with the hope of being blessed with offspring, inspired by the story of King Dasaratha. It is believed that observing the Rama Lakshmana Dwadashi Vrat can bestow great spiritual merit. Devotees who partake in this auspicious observance are said to be blessed with happiness, prosperity, and even access to Vaikunta, or Vishnu Loka, the abode of Lord Vishnu, after their earthly life.

The festival celebrates the divine virtues embodied by Lord Rama and Lakshmana: righteousness, brotherhood, and unwavering devotion. By worshipping these deities, devotees aim to imbibe these qualities in their own lives. The fasting and rituals associated with this day are believed to purify the body and mind, allowing for spiritual growth and renewal.

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Several myths and legends are associated with Rama Lakshmana Dwadashi, adding depth to its cultural and spiritual significance. The central legend revolves around King Dasaratha’s observance of this Vrat. It is said that Sage Vasishtha, the royal guru, instructed King Dasaratha on the proper rituals for this observance. The king’s steadfast devotion and adherence to the Vrat pleased Lord Vishnu, who then incarnated as his four sons—Rama, Lakshmana, Bharata, and Shatrughna.

While this festival primarily focuses on Rama and Lakshmana, it’s interesting to note that other Dwadashi observances are associated with different avatars of Vishnu. For instance, Kurma Dwadashi is dedicated to the Kurma or tortoise avatar, and Vamana Dwadashi honours the Vamana or dwarf avatar. This interconnection emphasises the overarching presence of Vishnu in various forms throughout Hindu mythology.

While the essence of Rama Lakshmana Dwadashi remains consistent, there are regional variations in its celebration. In some parts of India, particularly in Odisha, this day is observed as Champaka Dwadashi. It is an important festival celebrated in the famous Jagannath Temple of Puri, holding special significance for the Utkala Brahmins. The festival is particularly prominent in South Indian states, where the worship of Rama and Lakshmana has deep-rooted traditions. The rituals and celebrations in these regions often have unique local flavours and customs.

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Rama Lakshmana Dwadashi stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Hindu traditions and beliefs. From its mythological origins rooted in the story of King Dasaratha to its continued observance in various parts of India, this festival encapsulates key aspects of Hindu spirituality and culture. The observance of this day goes beyond mere ritual – it is a celebration of devotion, familial bonds, and the triumph of righteousness. Through fasting, prayer, and charitable acts, devotees not only honour Lord Rama and Lakshmana but also strive to embody their virtues in their own lives. As with many ancient traditions, Rama Lakshmana Dwadashi continues to evolve, finding new relevance in contemporary society. It serves as a bridge between the past and the present, offering spiritual solace and cultural connection to those who observe it. It reminds us of the enduring power of faith, the importance of righteous living, and the blessings that come from sincere devotion and adherence to spiritual practices.

Festivals of India: Varuthini Ekadasi

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Also known as Baruthani Ekadashi, Varuthini Ekadashi is a significant festival that holds deep spiritual and cultural importance. Falling on the 11th lunar day, or Ekadashi, of the waning moon in the Hindu month of Chaitra or Vaishakha, the festival typically falls in April or May of the Gregorian calendar.

The origins of Varuthini Ekadashi are rooted in ancient Hindu scriptures and mythology. The festival’s name, Varuthini, is derived from the Sanskrit word meaning armoured or protected, signifying the spiritual protection bestowed upon devotees who observe this sacred day. The day is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, particularly his fifth avatar, Vamana, and devotees believe that observing this Ekadashi is believed to bring devotees closer to the divine and offer protection from negative energies and evil influences.

The significance of this festival is highlighted in various Hindu texts, including the Bhavishya Purana, where Lord Krishna narrates its importance to King Yudhishthira. According to these scriptures, observing Varuthini Ekadashi brings numerous benefits, including protection from evil and good fortune, prosperity in this life and the next, liberation from curses and sins, and blessings equivalent to rigorous penance.

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The celebration of Varuthini Ekadashi involves a series of rituals and practices that devotees follow with great devotion. The primary observance is fasting, which is considered crucial for reaping the spiritual benefits of this day. Devotees typically observe a strict fast on Varuthini Ekadashi, abstaining from certain foods and activities. Many choose to fast completely, while others may have a single meal while grains, certain vegetables, and specific foods are avoided. The consumption of Havishyanna, or boiled food without spices, salt, and oil from the previous day, is recommended.

The day is marked by various religious and spiritual activities. Devotees wake up during Brahma Muhurta, the auspicious pre-dawn hours, and take a purifying bath. This is the time before dawn that is considered a sacred time for meditation and spiritual practices. It is also known as the creator’s hour. Brahma muhurta is a 48-minute period that begins 1 hour and 36 minutes before sunrise, with the exact timing depending on the location and the time of sunrise, though it usually occurs between 3:30 and 5:30 am. A wooden platform is set up with an image of Lord Vishnu, covered in red or yellow cloth, and offerings of Panchamrit, a mixture of milk, curd, ghee, honey, and Ganga water, are made to Lord Vishnu. Incense, lamps, and camphor are lit as offerings, and mantras dedicated to Lord Vishnu are chanted by devotees, and an aarti is performed. Many engage in meditation and spiritual contemplation throughout the day.

Performing acts of charity is considered highly auspicious on Varuthini Ekadashi. Devotees are encouraged to donate various items, with the belief that different donations yield varying levels of spiritual benefits. Donating knowledge is considered the highest form of charity. Other beneficial donations include cows, gold, food grains, sesame seeds, land, elephants, and horses.

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Several mythological stories are associated with Varuthini Ekadashi, each highlighting its spiritual significance and transformative power. One of the most prominent legends involves Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma. In a fit of rage, Lord Shiva cut off the fifth head of Lord Brahma. As a consequence, Lord Brahma cursed Lord Shiva. Seeking a remedy, Lord Vishnu advised Lord Shiva to observe the Varuthini Ekadashi fast. By following this advice, Lord Shiva was eventually released from the curse. Another tale speaks of King Mandata, who gained enlightenment through the observance of Varuthini Ekadashi. The legend of King Dhundhumara from the Ikshvaku dynasty is also associated with Varuthini Ekadashi. According to this story, the king was freed from a curse by Lord Shiva through the observance of this sacred day.

While not specific to Varuthini Ekadashi, the origin story of Ekadashi itself is worth mentioning. Lord Vishnu was in a state of deep sleep or meditation. A demon named Murdanav attempted to attack the sleeping Vishnu. A beautiful woman emerged from Vishnu’s 11th sense, the mind. Murdanav, infatuated, asked to marry her. She agreed on the condition that he defeat her in battle. During the fight, Murdanav was killed. Vishnu awoke and blessed the woman, naming her Ekadashi. He decreed that those who fast on this day would attain moksha or liberation. This legend explains the spiritual significance of all Ekadashi observances, including Varuthini Ekadashi.

Varuthini Ekadashi holds a special place among the 24 Ekadashi observances that occur in a lunar year Its importance is multifaceted, touching various aspects of Hindu spiritual and cultural life. The observance is believed to cleanse the soul and elevate spiritual consciousness. Devotees seek the grace of Lord Vishnu, believing that sincere observance brings immense spiritual benefits. It is thought to help individuals overcome the burden of past sins and negative karma. The festival is seen as a shield against evil influences and negative energies. Many believe that observing Varuthini Ekadashi can lead to the fulfilment of righteous wishes and aspirations. The festival also brings people together, strengthening social and cultural ties within the community.

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In contemporary times, the observance of Varuthini Ekadashi continues to be an important part of Hindu religious practice. While the core spiritual principles remain unchanged, the way the festival is celebrated has adapted to modern lifestyles. Many temples now offer online darshan and puja services, allowing devotees to participate remotely. While traditional fasting practices are still followed by many, some adapt the fast to suit their health needs and work schedules.

Varuthini Ekadashi stands as a testament to the rich spiritual heritage of Hinduism. It embodies the principles of devotion, self-discipline, and the pursuit of spiritual growth. The festival’s enduring popularity and significance highlight its relevance in both ancient and modern contexts.

Through its rituals, myths, and spiritual practices, Varuthini Ekadashi offers devotees a path to connect with the divine, seek personal transformation, and contribute to the welfare of their community. As with many Hindu observances, it blends deep philosophical concepts with practical spiritual practices, making it accessible to devotees from all walks of life. In an increasingly fast-paced and materialistic world, festivals like Varuthini Ekadashi serve as important reminders of the eternal spiritual truths that have guided Hindu civilization for millennia. They offer a moment of pause, reflection, and renewal, allowing individuals to realign themselves with their higher purpose and spiritual goals. It is these festivals that stand as a bridge between the ancient and the contemporary, ensuring that the spiritual legacy of Hinduism remains vibrant and relevant for generations to come.