Govardhan Puja 2024: Date, Muhurat, Significance, and Puja Method

Govardhan Puja, a significant Hindu festival, is celebrated the day after Diwali. It commemorates Lord Krishna's lifting of the Govardhan Hill to protect the villagers of Vrindavan from torrential rains caused by Lord Indra. The puja is also known as Annakut Puja and is dedicated to nature and Lord Krishna.

Govardhan Puja 2024: Date and Muhurat

This year, Govardhan Puja falls on November 2, 2024.

• Pratipada Tithi: Begins on November 1 at 6:16 PM and ends on November 2 at 8:21 PM.
• Morning Muhurat: 6:34 AM to 8:46 AM on November 2.
• Evening Muhurat: 3:23 PM to 5:35 PM on November 2.

Significance of Govardhan Puja

According to Hindu scriptures, on this day, Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill to shelter the villagers and animals of Vrindavan from heavy rains sent by Lord Indra. This act is a reminder of Krishna's role as the protector and caretaker of nature. Devotees honor Govardhan Hill, Krishna, and nature by preparing an elaborate food offering known as Annakut, symbolizing gratitude to the earth.

Govardhan Puja Method (Puja Vidhi)

1. Preparation: Clean the area where the puja will be conducted. Many devotees create a small hill symbol, representing Govardhan, using cow dung or clay and decorate it with flowers and colors.

2. Annakut Arrangement: Prepare a variety of food items, including rice, wheat, green leafy vegetables, pulses, and sweets, to offer to Lord Krishna as an Annakut (mountain of food). These items are arranged artistically and placed near the Govardhan symbol.

3. Puja Process:

   • Light a lamp and incense sticks to purify the area.
   • Offer flowers, fruits, and the prepared Annakut to the Govardhan symbol and Lord Krishna's idol or picture.
   • Recite prayers and mantras dedicated to Lord Krishna and Govardhan.
   • Conclude the puja by distributing the prasadam (offered food) to family members and others.

4. Govardhan Parikrama (Circumambulation): Performing a symbolic circumambulation (parikrama) around the Govardhan symbol is common, especially for those who cannot visit the actual Govardhan Hill in Mathura.

Kedara Gauri Vratam 2024 Katha and Process telugu PDF download

 Kedara Gauri Vratam, also known as Kedara Vratam, is a prominent tradition primarily observed in the southern states of India, particularly in Tamil Nadu. This vratam, or religious observance, is performed on the day of Diwali Amavasya and is closely associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi during the Diwali festivities. Devotees of Lord Shiva observe this vratam with deep devotion, fasting as a form of prayer and seeking blessings.

Some families observe Kedara Gauri Vratam for a continuous 21-day period, beginning in early October and concluding on Diwali Amavasya. For others, fasting is observed only on the main day of the vratam. Regardless of the duration, this tradition holds great importance for Lord Shiva's devotees and is performed to honor and seek His divine grace.

The story behind Kedara Gauri Vratam centers on the sage Bhringi Rishi, a devoted follower of Lord Shiva. His devotion was so intense that he worshipped only Shiva, setting aside Shakti Devi, Shiva’s divine energy. This offended Shakti Devi, who removed her energy from Bhringi’s body, symbolizing her presence as Goddess Gauri.

The separated Shakti, yearning to reunite with Lord Shiva, performed intense penance through the Kedara Vratam. Lord Shiva, moved by this devotion, allowed Shakti to merge as a part of His form, symbolizing unity as Ardhanarishvara, an androgynous form that embodies both masculine and feminine energies.

Because Goddess Gauri herself observed this rigorous vratam to please Lord Shiva, it is known as Kedara Gauri Vratam. This observance symbolizes unity, balance, and harmony between masculine and feminine energies, and devotees practice this vratam to cultivate these spiritual virtues.

Significance of Kedara Gauri Vratam

Kedara Gauri Vratam goes beyond fasting; it represents deep spiritual unity and balance. It is observed to honor the divine love and devotion between Lord Shiva and Goddess Gauri, imparting lessons of balance, dedication, and unwavering devotion. By observing this vratam, devotees believe they can earn Lord Shiva’s grace, bringing blessings, unity, and overall well-being.

Kedara Gauri Vratam 2024 PDF Link: https://kashidharmakshetra.com/keda-gauri-vratam-pdf-%e0%b0%95%e0%b1%87%e0%b0%a6%e0%b0%be%e0%b0%b0%e0%b1%8d-%e0%b0%97%e0%b1%8c%e0%b0%b0%e0%b1%80-%e0%b0%b5%e0%b1%8d%e0%b0%b0%e0%b0%a4%e0%b0%82-2024/

Diwali Traditions: Scientific and Ayurvedic Insights into Health Benefits of Fireworks and Sweets

 

1. Introduction: Diwali and Its Influence on Health and Environment

• Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, brings unique rituals like fireworks, herbal incense, and traditional sweets that add to its charm. However, these customs hold more than cultural value—they carry scientifically backed and Ayurvedic benefits. From influencing the air quality to boosting respiratory and immune health, each Diwali practice plays a role in holistic well-being and environmental harmony.

2. Fireworks and Environmental Balance: Reducing Mosquito Populations

• Impact on Mosquito Control:
  • The smoke from fireworks releases particulate matter, temporarily disrupting mosquito activity and their olfactory senses, leading to a significant reduction in their population. This effect lowers mosquito-borne disease risk in the post-Diwali period.
• Ayurvedic Approach to Natural Repellents:
  • Ayurveda recommends burning herbs like neem and guggul, which are known for their purifying and mosquito-repellent properties. Charaka Samhita describes these as natural remedies for maintaining cleanliness and purity in the environment, aligning well with Diwali practices that cleanse the surroundings.

3. Supporting Respiratory Health and Building Lung Resilience

• Adapting to Air Quality Changes:
  • Short-term exposure to smoke activates the lungs’ natural detox mechanisms. Following Diwali, Ayurvedic breathing exercises (Pranayama) help clear the respiratory tract, boosting lung resilience and aiding in toxin expulsion.
• Herbal Respiratory Support:
  • Herbs like Tulsi (holy basil) and Mulethi (licorice root) are recommended in Bhava Prakash Nighantu for respiratory health. Consuming these herbs as teas post-Diwali soothes the respiratory tract, reduces inflammation, and aids in lung recovery.

4. Balancing Vata and Digestive Fire with Sweets

• Scientific Benefits of Festive Sweets:
  • Post-fireworks, sweets provide quick energy, counteracting fatigue and stabilizing blood sugar levels. Traditional sweets with ghee, jaggery, and nuts are rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, replenishing energy while supporting digestive health.
• Ayurvedic Perspective on Digestive Health:
  • The act of consuming sweets after Diwali’s intense sensory experiences balances Vata dosha (associated with air and movement), helping neutralize any acidity and grounding the body. These sweets support Agni (digestive fire) and counterbalance the body’s Vata-driven tendencies, promoting warmth and digestive stability.

5. Strengthening Immunity and Mental Clarity through Diwali Rituals

• Natural Immunity Boosters:
  • Herbs like camphor, neem, and guggul are known for their air-purifying qualities, as detailed in Sushruta Samhita. The compounds in these herbs act as natural disinfectants, reducing pathogens and supporting immune function.
• Promoting Mental Clarity and Reducing Stress:
  • The smoke from herbs like camphor and sambrani releases calming compounds that help relax the mind. Ayurveda considers these scents beneficial for Prasanna Atma (a calm and clear mind), reducing stress and enhancing focus, particularly as the season shifts.

6. Digestive Health After Festivities: The Role of Warming Spices

• Reviving Digestive Fire with Ayurvedic Spices:
  • Consuming warm, spiced teas made with ginger, ajwain, and cardamom aids digestion post-Diwali. According to Charaka Samhita, these spices stimulate digestive enzymes, promote Agni, and prevent indigestion, making them ideal for post-festive digestive support.
• Herbal Teas for Gut Health:
  • Herbal teas with turmeric and fennel help cleanse and soothe the digestive system. Their anti-inflammatory properties aid in calming the stomach lining, countering any acidity or bloating after celebrations.

7. Practical Tips for Post-Diwali Health Recovery

• Pranayama and Lung Detox Techniques:
  • Breathing exercises like Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) and Kapalabhati (Breath of Fire) are recommended to expel pollutants and enhance lung function. These techniques, as described in Hatha Yoga Pradipika, promote respiratory health and cleanse the lungs of any residual particles.
• Incorporating Herbal Teas and Spices into Daily Routines:
  • Adding cardamom, turmeric, and clove to meals or teas helps reduce inflammation, support immunity, and fortify the lungs, especially during the cooler season post-Diwali.

8. Conclusion: Embracing Diwali’s Holistic Benefits

• Diwali’s festive practices—fireworks, herbal smoke, and sweets—do more than bring joy; they foster physical and mental well-being through both scientific and Ayurvedic lenses. Together, they support mosquito control, respiratory health, immunity, and digestion. Incorporating Ayurvedic practices post-Diwali, like Pranayama and herbal remedies, can further enhance these benefits, leading to a balanced and healthy start to the winter season.

Kubera Ashtothram – 108 Names of Lord Kubera

  శ్రీ కుబేర అష్టోత్తర శతనామావళి (Sri Kubera Ashtottara Shatanamavali) in Telugu

Kubera Ashtothram – 108 Names of Lord Kubera

1. Om Kuberaaya Namah

2. Om Dhanadaaya Namah

3. Om Srimate Namah

4. Om Yaksheshaya Namah

5. Om Guhyakeshwaraya Namah

6. Om Nidheeshaya Namah

7. Om Shankarasakhaya Namah

8. Om Mahalakshmi Nivasabhuve Namah

9. Om Mahapadmanidheeshaya Namah

10. Om Purnaya Namah

11. Om Padmanidheeshwaraya Namah

12. Om Shankhaakhyanidheenathaya Namah

13. Om Makaraakhyanidhipriyaaya Namah

14. Om Sukachchapanidheeshaya Namah

15. Om Mukundanidhinaayakaya Namah

16. Om Kundaakyani Dhinathaya Namah

17. Om Neelanit Yaadhipaaya Namah

18. Om Mahate Namah

19. Om Varanit Yaadhipaaya Namah

20. Om Pujyaya Namah

21. Om Lakshmi Samrajya Daayakaya Namah

22. Om Ilapilapatyaaya Namah

23. Om Koshaadhishaya Namah

24. Om Kulodhishaya Namah

25. Om Ashwarudaya Namah

26. Om Vishwavaandyaya Namah

27. Om Visheshajnaaya Namah

28. Om Vishaadaya Namah

29. Om Nalakubera Naathaaya Namah

30. Om Manigriva Pitre Namah

31. Om Goodhamantraya Namah

32. Om Vaishravanaaya Namah

33. Om Chitralekha Manah Priyaya Namah

34. Om Eka Pingaya Namah

35. Om Alakadhishaya Namah

36. Om Baulasthaaya Namah

37. Om Naravahanaya Namah

38. Om Kailasa Shailanilayaaya Namah

39. Om Rajyadaaya Namah

40. Om Ravanagrajaya Namah

41. Om Chitra Chaitrarathaya Namah

42. Om Udyana Vihaaraya Namah

43. Om Sukutuhalaya Namah

44. Om Mahotsahaaya Namah

45. Om Maha Prajnaya Namah

46. Om Sada Pushpakavahanaya Namah

47. Om Sarvabhoumaya Namah

48. Om Anganathaya Namah

49. Om Somaya Namah

50. Om Saumyadikeshwaraya Namah

51. Om Punyaatmane Namah

52. Om Puruhuta Shriyaya Namah

53. Om Sarva Punya Janeshwaraya Namah

54. Om Nityakirtaye Namah

55. Om Nitivedre Namah

56. Om Lanka Prak Dhananathaya Namah

57. Om Yakshaaya Namah

58. Om Parama Shantaatmane Namah

59. Om Yaksharajaya Namah

60. Om Yakshini Vrutaaya Namah

61. Om Kinnarashaya Namah

62. Om Kimpurushaaya Namah

63. Om Nathaya Namah

64. Om Khadgayudhaya Namah

65. Om Vashine Namah

66. Om Ishana Daksha Paarshvasthaya Namah

67. Om Vayu Vaama Samaashrayaaya Namah

68. Om Dharma Marga Nirataaya Namah

69. Om Dharma Sammukha Samsthitaya Namah

70. Om Nityeshwaraya Namah

71. Om Dhanadhyakshaaya Namah

72. Om Ashta Lakshmi Ashrithaalayaaya Namah

73. Om Manushya Dharmine Namah

74. Om Sakrutaya Namah

75. Om Kosha Lakshmi Samashrithaaya Namah

76. Om Dhana Lakshmi Nitya Vaasaaya Namah

77. Om Dhanya Lakshmi Nivasabhuve Namah

78. Om Ashwa Lakshmi Sadavasaya Namah

79. Om Gaja Lakshmi Sthiralayaaya Namah

80. Om Rajya Lakshmi Janma Gehaya Namah

81. Om Dhairya Lakshmi Kripaashrayaaya Namah

82. Om Akhanda Aishwarya Samyuktaaya Namah

83. Om Nitya Aanandaaya Namah

84. Om Sukhaashrayaaya Namah

85. Om Nitya Triptaya Namah

86. Om Nidhi Dhaatre Namah

87. Om Niraashrayaaya Namah

88. Om Nirupadravaaya Namah

89. Om Nitya Kamaya Namah

90. Om Nirakaankshaaya Namah

91. Om Nirupadhika Vaasabhuve Namah

92. Om Shaantaaya Namah

93. Om Sarva Guna Upetaya Namah

94. Om Sarvajnaaya Namah

95. Om Sarva Sammataaya Namah

96. Om Sarvani Karunapatraya Namah

97. Om Sadaananda Kripalaya Namah

98. Om Gandharva Kula Samsevyaaya Namah

99. Om Saugandhikusuma Priyaaya Namah

100. Om Swarna Nagari Vasaaya Namah

101. Om Nidhi Peeta Samashrayaaya Namah

102. Om Maha Meru Uttara Sthayanaya Namah

103. Om Maharshi Gana Samstutaaya Namah

104. Om Tushtaaya Namah

105. Om Surpanaka Jyeshtaya Namah

106. Om Shiva Pooja Rataaya Namah

107. Om Anaghaya Namah

108. Om Rajayoga Samyuktaya Namah

Iti Shri Kubera Ashtottara Shatanamavali Sampurnam

Dhanteras, Kubera, and Dhanvantari Puja 2024: Complete Rituals for Invoking Health and Wealth

 

Introduction: Dhanteras, celebrated before Diwali, marks a time for worshipping deities associated with health and wealth. Dhanvantari Puja is also observed on this day, emphasizing blessings for good health alongside wealth rituals dedicated to Lord Kubera.

What is Dhanteras? Observed on the 13th day of Kartik's Krishna Paksha, Dhanteras signifies prosperity and health, invoking the blessings of Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, who emerged from the ocean with amrit (nectar of immortality).

Kubera Pooja for Wealth and Prosperity

1. Shopping Muhurat: Purchase metals or gold between 10:34 AM and 8:31 PM on October 29, to welcome prosperity.
2. Pooja Muhurat: Conduct the Kubera and Dhanvantari Pooja between 6:31 PM and 8:31 PM for maximum benefits.

Dhanvantari Puja Vidhi: The following detailed rituals align with traditional Vedic practices:

1. Achamana (Purification): Begin by sipping water with specific mantras, invoking purity.
2. Sankalpa (Pledge): Make a heartfelt intention for the pooja, focusing on health, wealth, and well-being.
3. Atma-Shodhan (Self-Purification): Sprinkle water on yourself, symbolizing inner cleansing.
4. Dhyana (Meditation): Meditate on Lord Dhanvantari with an ignited ghee lamp, visualizing his divine image.
5. Avahana (Invocation): Invite Lord Dhanvantari to accept the worship, chanting mantras.
6. Pushpanjali (Offering Flowers): Offer flowers with respect, creating an auspicious atmosphere.
7. Swagat (Welcome): Offer a heartfelt welcome, expressing reverence.
8. Padya (Foot-Washing): Symbolically cleanse the deity’s feet as a mark of devotion.
9. Arghya (Head Ablution): Pour water over the deity, symbolizing respect.
10. Gandha (Sandalwood Offering): Apply sandalwood paste, revered for purity.
11. Dhoop (Incense) and Deep (Lamp): Light incense and lamps, removing darkness and negativity.
12. Naivedya (Food Offering): Offer sweets, fruits, and milk, invoking nourishment and health.

Each step holds symbolic meaning, aimed at cleansing, purifying, and inviting divine blessings into the home. Performing these rituals on Dhanteras helps usher in peace, prosperity, and health, aligning with ancient Hindu traditions.

Conclusion: Observing Dhanteras with dedicated prayers to Kubera and Dhanvantari ensures blessings for health and wealth. Embrace these rituals to enrich life with prosperity, happiness, and divine protection.

Kedara Gauri Vrat Amavasya Timings for Indian & World Cities (2024)

 

Let's convert the Kedar Gauri Vrat times into the local time of other major cities in the World, considering the time differences.

Here are the key times in New Delhi, India (IST):

1. Amavasya Tithi Begins: October 31, 2024, at 3:52 PM IST
2. Amavasya Tithi Ends: November 1, 2024, at 6:16 PM IST

Major City Timings Conversion

The times below are based on the current standard time zones, and Daylight Saving Time (DST) adjustments are considered where applicable:

1. Amavasya Tithi Begins - October 31, 2024, at 3:52 PM IST

• New York, USA (EDT): October 31, 2024, at 6:22 AM
• London, UK (BST): October 31, 2024, at 11:22 AM
• Tokyo, Japan (JST): October 31, 2024, at 7:22 PM
• Sydney, Australia (AEDT): October 31, 2024, at 9:22 PM
• Dubai, UAE (GST): October 31, 2024, at 2:52 PM
• Beijing, China (CST): October 31, 2024, at 6:22 PM
• Los Angeles, USA (PDT): October 31, 2024, at 3:22 AM
• Berlin, Germany (CEST): October 31, 2024, at 12:22 PM
• Moscow, Russia (MSK): October 31, 2024, at 2:22 PM
• Cape Town, South Africa (SAST): October 31, 2024, at 12:52 PM

2. Amavasya Tithi Ends - November 1, 2024, at 6:16 PM IST

• New York, USA (EDT): November 1, 2024, at 8:46 AM
• London, UK (BST): November 1, 2024, at 1:46 PM
• Tokyo, Japan (JST): November 1, 2024, at 9:46 PM
• Sydney, Australia (AEDT): November 1, 2024, at 11:46 PM
• Dubai, UAE (GST): November 1, 2024, at 4:16 PM
• Beijing, China (CST): November 1, 2024, at 8:46 PM
• Los Angeles, USA (PDT): November 1, 2024, at 5:46 AM
• Berlin, Germany (CEST): November 1, 2024, at 2:46 PM
• Moscow, Russia (MSK): November 1, 2024, at 4:46 PM
• Cape Town, South Africa (SAST): November 1, 2024, at 2:16 PM

Notes:

• DST Considerations: The times are adjusted for Daylight Saving Time, which may affect some regions in October and November.
• Conversion Method: To determine these timings, I used the standard difference between the time zone of New Delhi (IST, UTC+5:30) and each city's local time zone.

Since the timings given here are related to New Delhi's local time (IST), there is no need to convert them for other major Indian cities. All of India follows the same time zone (IST - Indian Standard Time, UTC+5:30). Therefore, the timings remain the same for all major Indian cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Pune, and Lucknow.

Thus:

Timings for Major Indian Cities

1. Amavasya Tithi Begins - October 31, 2024, at 3:52 PM IST

   • New Delhi: October 31, 2024, at 3:52 PM
   • Mumbai: October 31, 2024, at 3:52 PM
   • Kolkata: October 31, 2024, at 3:52 PM
   • Chennai: October 31, 2024, at 3:52 PM
   • Hyderabad: October 31, 2024, at 3:52 PM
   • Bengaluru: October 31, 2024, at 3:52 PM
   • Ahmedabad: October 31, 2024, at 3:52 PM
   • Pune: October 31, 2024, at 3:52 PM
   • Lucknow: October 31, 2024, at 3:52 PM

2. Amavasya Tithi Ends - November 1, 2024, at 6:16 PM IST

   • New Delhi: November 1, 2024, at 6:16 PM
   • Mumbai: November 1, 2024, at 6:16 PM
   • Kolkata: November 1, 2024, at 6:16 PM
   • Chennai: November 1, 2024, at 6:16 PM
   • Hyderabad: November 1, 2024, at 6:16 PM
   • Bengaluru: November 1, 2024, at 6:16 PM
   • Ahmedabad: November 1, 2024, at 6:16 PM
   • Pune: November 1, 2024, at 6:16 PM
   • Lucknow: November 1, 2024, at 6:16 PM

Since all cities in India follow Indian Standard Time (IST), there is no need for any conversion.

Kedareswara Vrat (Keda Gouri Vrat) 2024 date

 

Kedar Gauri Vrat: Dates, Muhurat, and the Divine Story Behind It

Modern Clock Timings for Kedar Gauri Vrat

• 12 Hour Format

• 24 Hour Format

• 24 Plus Format

Kedar Gauri Vrat Muhurat and Key Dates

• Main Day of Kedar Gauri Vrat: Friday, November 1, 2024

• Beginning of the Vrat: Saturday, October 12, 2024

• Total Days of Fasting: 21 days

• Amavasya Tithi Begins: 3:52 PM on October 31, 2024

• Amavasya Tithi Ends: 6:16 PM on November 1, 2024

These timings are provided in a 12-hour clock format, local to New Delhi, India, and have been adjusted for Daylight Saving Time where applicable. It is important to note that in the Hindu Panchang, each day begins and ends with sunrise, and timings that extend past midnight are considered to belong to the following day.

About Kedar Gauri Vrat (2024)

Kedar Gauri Vrat, also known as Kedara Vratham, is an important ritual primarily observed in Southern Indian states, especially Tamil Nadu. This vrat coincides with the Deepavali Amavasya and also aligns with the day of Lakshmi Puja during Diwali. The tradition is a significant practice for devotees of Lord Shiva, and it involves fasting as a means to honor and seek blessings from the divine.

In certain families, Kedar Gauri Vrat is observed for a duration of 21 days, beginning in early October and concluding on Deepavali Amavasya. For others, it is often a single day of dedicated fasting on the main day of the vrat. Regardless of the duration, this ritual holds special significance for Lord Shiva's devotees and is seen as a way to honor his divine grace.

The Story Behind Kedar Gauri Vrat

The legend of Kedar Gauri Vrat revolves around the great sage Bhringi Rishi, who was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. Sage Bhringi’s devotion was so strong that he worshipped only Lord Shiva and chose to ignore Shakti Devi, Shiva's divine consort. This disregard upset Goddess Shakti, who then removed her energy from the body of Bhringi. The energy she withdrew was, in essence, none other than Goddess Gauri herself.

Longing to be reunited with Lord Shiva, the removed Shakti decided to observe severe penance through the Kedara Vrat. This act of devotion deeply moved Lord Shiva, and he responded by allowing Shakti to become an inseparable part of him, giving rise to the form of Ardhanarishvara—the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti, where both energies coexist within one body.

Since Goddess Gauri herself underwent this rigorous fasting to unite with Lord Shiva, the vrat is known as Kedar Gauri Vrat. It symbolizes devotion, unity, and balance between masculine and feminine energies, and continues to be celebrated by Shiva devotees for these profound spiritual reasons.

Significance of Kedar Gauri Vrat

Kedar Gauri Vrat is not just about fasting; it represents a deep spiritual union and harmony. It honors the love and devotion between Lord Shiva and Goddess Gauri and teaches us about balance, dedication, and the power of unwavering devotion. By observing this vrat, devotees believe they can seek the blessings of Lord Shiva for prosperity, harmony, and overall well-being.