Rishi Panchami

Rishi Panchami is celebrated on the Panchami (Fifth Day) of Shukala Paksha (Waxing moon period) in the Hindu Month of Bhadrapada. On Rishi Panchami,a ritual bath is taken in holy rivers,ponds or in other water masses.Hands and mouth is washed 108 times. Lord Ganesh, Navagraha( nine planetary Gods), Saptarshis (seven Sages) and Arundathi are worshipped.Women offer the 'Prasad' to Gods and wash husbands' feet.By taking one more ritual bath in sacred water,devotees feel blessed that their all sins are cleansed away.After a bath in the sacred water, clean your hands 108 times, wash your mouth 108 times and listen to the story of Ganesa, Navagrah, Saptrishi and worship Arundhati.

2016 Date : 6^th September, Tuesday.

2017 date : 26th August.

Hartalika Teej

The Hartalika Teej is the most important of all the three Teej festivals observed by Hindu women. It is celebrated on the Tritiya (3rd day) of the Skukla Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the Hindu month of Bhadrapud. The festival of Hartalika Teej is observed by married women in the honour of Goddess Parvati and involves strict fast for three continuous days. The word Hartalika is made by joining the words �harat� meaning abduction and �Aalika� implying female friend. According to the Hindu mythology, it was on this day only that the incarnation of Goddess Parvati was abducted by her friends to stop her marriage to Lord Vishnu, against her wishes. Ultimately she was later married to Lord Shiva.

Being a significant festival for Hindus, Hartalika Teej is observed in most parts of the country with equal enthusiasm. But in the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand and Bihar the celebrations are even more grandeur. The festivities can also be witnessed in some parts of Madhya Pradesh. In the state of Rajasthan there is a huge procession carrying an idol of Goddess Parvati, accompanied by music and singing. In the southern states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, the Hartalika Teej Vrat is celebrated as Gowri Habba. Married women on this day pray to obtain blessing of happy married life from Goddess Gowri.

Rituals of the Hartalika Teej:

• The festival of Hartalika Teej celebrates the reunion of Goddess Parvati with Lord Shiva. On this day, big processions carrying beautifully clad idols of Goddess Parvati are taken out in different parts of the country. The procession is made more pleasurable by performances from varied artists. The idol of Parvati is escorted by several camels and elephants making the teej procession more attractive. In some places, magnificent fairs are also organized on the occasion of Hartalika Teej.
• Hartalika Teej is observed especially by married women with immense enthusiasm and zeal. As a part of the ritual married women on this day return to their parent�s home for celebration. On this special teej, women dress up in new clothes and striking jewelry. `Green is the preferred color for this occasion and women love to apply kajal and bindi. During this time, every women desires to look her very best.
• In the midst of all these celebrations, married women observe a strict fast for a period of three days for the welfare and long life of their husbands. They spend the days without eating and having even a single drop of water. On the day of Hartalika Teej, the observer of the vrat gets up early and takes a dip in the holy waters. Following this they visit the mandir and touch their husband�s feet on returning home. Just before sunset, women again take a bath and get dressed up as newlyweds. The main worshipping ritual begins in the afternoon. The idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are worshipped with flowers, Bilwa leaves and incense sticks. Mantras are recited all throughout and the puja is ended by telling the Hartalika Teej vrat katha. While listening to the katha, one must only think about their soul mate. The fast is only broken next morning after finishing all the worshipping rituals.
• Various sweets and other delicacies are prepared at home to offer to Goddess Parvati. Fresh fruits and green vegetables are offered to the deity. As a ritual, women distribute beautiful painted coconuts to other female friends and relatives. After completing all the rituals, the women of the household feast together on jaggery and rice patolis on the banana leaves along with mixed vegetables cooked in coconut milk and other spices. A special sweet made from rice and coconut milk is also prepared. Women also drink tender coconut water.

2016 Date : 4th September, Sunday.

2017 Date : 24th August.

Polala Amavasya

Polala Amavasya is one of the important fasting days dedicated to Goddess Poleramma. It is observed on the �amavasya� (no moon day) during the �Shravana� masam in the state of Andhra Pradesh. Hence this festival is also known as �Shravana Amavasya�. According to the Hindu legends, Goddess Poleramma or Goddess Pochamma is considered to be protector or guardian of children, and married women therefore keep the Polala Amavasya vratam for the wellness and longevity of their children. Polala Amavasya is also referred as �Pithori Amavasya�.

Polala Amavasya is majorly a festival observed in South India, particularly in the state of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and adjoining areas. It is celebrated with immense devotion and enthusiasm. The observance of Polala Amavasya is very much similar to �Shital Sasthi� in Orissa and �Sheetal Saptami� puja in the northern states of India. Goddess Poleramma is considered to be the local deity who protects children from all evils and mishaps. She is believed to be one of main incarnation of Goddess Shakti or Durga. The day of worshipping Poleramma coincides with �amavasya� each year; hence this vratam is called as �Polala Amavasya. On this day special rituals and pujas are organized in Poleramma temples, all across India.

Significance of Polala Amavasya:

The festival of Polala Amavasya holds immense significance for women bearing children. As Goddess Poleramma is the protector of children, mothers worship Her with full dedication and affection. By observing a fast on this day, it is believed that Goddess Poleramma will protect the children from several diseases, particularly small pox and chicken pox. As the month of Shravana corresponds to months of July-August that marks the onset of monsoon season, diseases spread quickly during this time. As Children are most vulnerable, Polala Amavasya vratam is observed to keep children healthy.

Rituals during Polala Amavasya:

• The day of Polala Amavasya is dedicated to Goddess Poleramma and this festival is mainly observed by married women in Andhra Pradesh. The women get up early on this day and finish their morning chores to make preparations for the special puja.
• On this day, women sketch a picture of the �Pochamma Temple� at the place of worship and offer the �shodashopachar� puja there to the Goddess. During the puja, a sacred thread known as �Raksha Daaram� or �Raksha Thoranam� is also worshipped. After the completion of puja rituals, women tie this �Raksha Daaram� to their children to ensure their safety. On this day they also read the story of the mother who brought back her dead children after worshipping Goddess Poleramma.
• On Polala Amavasya special offerings are prepared to offer to Goddess Poleramma. Women prepare fried sweet balls made from jaggery and chana dal for the welfare of male children whereas urad dal vadas are offered to the Goddess for the wellbeing of female child.
• During the time of puja several mantras or prayers dedicated to Goddess Shakti like �Durga Stuti�, �Gauri Astottaram� and �Bhavani Astakam� are chanted all through the day.
• Women also keep a strict fast on this day to please Goddess Pochamma. There is no �Udyapana� for this vratam and it can be observed by all.

2016 Date : 1^stSeptember.

Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with a belief that Lord Ganesha, son of Shiva and Parvati, bestows His blessings on His devotees, on this day. It is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Ganesha, the God of wisdom. Ganesh Chaturthi falls on the fourth day of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, which falls around August or September.

The preparation starts one month in advance, with great enthusiasm, to celebrate this auspicious occasion. The festival starts with the installation of beautifully sculpted Ganesha idols in homes and mandaps. These idols are decorated beautifully and show religious themes.

The occasion becomes very lively and enthusiastic with the devotional songs, dances and drum beats being a part of the procession observed by the devotees of Lord Ganesha, as a part of the festivities. Ganesh Chaturthi is the only festival that involves and welcomes the participation of general public.The occasion also sees various cultural events being held every where, in which people participate with interest. After celebration, the time of farewell comes and the idol of the beloved God is immersed in water. The celebration ends with the immersion, accompanied by loud shouts of 'Ganapati Bappa Moraya'.

2016 Date : 5th September, Monday.

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Varaha Jayanthi

Varaha Jayanti is the birth celebration of the third incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He incarnated himself as a boar to save the world and held Earth on the two tusks from under the ocean. This day is observed and rituals take place on the second day (Dwadashi tithi) of the month of Magh (by the Hindu calendar) in Shukla Paksha. All the different incarnations of Lord Vishnu are celebrated as festivals in different parts of India to receive blessings from the preserver of the Universe according to the Hindu mythology.

It is believed that worshipping Lord Varaha brings all kinds of happiness to the devotee including health and wealth. Half boar half-human Varaha had defeated Hiranyaksha and destroyed all evils. Thus, devotees worship him and pray for goodness to prevail.

Rituals of the Day :

• This festival is mainly celebrated in Southern India. Devotees wake up early and freshen up to worship the God.
• The idol of Lord Varaha is kept in a Kalash (metal pot), which is filled with water and mango leaves along with coconut on the head. This is supposed to be donated to any known Brahmin.
• After the puja is completed, one should read Shrimad Bhagwad Gita and chant hymns to please the God and celebrate the day.
• Devotees who fast on Varaha Jayanti should also daan (donate) money or clothes to the needy people on this day. This would attain more blessings from the Lord.

One old temple of Lord Varaha exists in Mathura where celebration of this day takes place as birth anniversary of the God with joy and happiness. There is another temple in Tirumala; named as Bhu Varaha Swamy temple where the idol of Varaha Swamy is given a holy bath on this day. The bath is given with ghee, butter, honey, milk, and coconut water.

2016 Date : 4^th September, Sunday.

Annada/Aja Ekadashi Vrat

The fast observed during the waning phase of the moon (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Bhadrapad is known as Annada Ekadashi. It falls in the month of August or September in the Gregorian calendar. While in North India, it is observed during the Krishna Paksha in Bhadra month, in other Indian regions, it is observed in the month of Shravan.

Hindu devotees believe the observance of this vrat eradicates all their sinful and evil activities. Also known as Aja Ekadashi or Ananda Ekadashi, this vrat is dedicated towards Lord Vishnu and his consort Goddess Lakshmi.

The legend behind the observance of Annada Ekadashi can be taken back to the famous king Harischandra. He was known for his truthfulness and honesty. One day, Sage Vashista and Sage Vishwamitra betted on the truthfulness of the king. While sage Vashista was in favor of the king, sage Vishwamitra objected that the king also lies. As a result, king Harischandra had to give up his kingdom and leave for Kashi. Though he became an undertaker in Kashi, he never lied. He always stood by his word and followed a proper code of conduct. One fine day, the king happened to meet the great sage Gautama. The king recounted his entire sad story to the sage.

Thereafter, the sage suggested the king to observe the Annada Ekadashi since it had the power to wash away all the sins. Agreed, the king observed the fast and continued with his firm belief in honesty and truthfulness. Hence, as expected, sage Vishwamitra accepted his defeat and returned the kingdom to the king. Moreover, the king was even able to get back his wife and his dead son became alive. Eventually, the king ruled his kingdom happily for many years and finally, attained Moksha (salvation) and reached the Vaikunta. There are no specific rules for observing the fast on Annada Ekadashi. All general rules for the Ekadashi are followed on this day as well. Rice, grains and beans are avoided.

201 Date : 28^th August, Sunday.

Gayatri Japam

Gayatri Japam is a very glorious and holy day for Hindus. It is observed just after Shravana Purnima (full moon day in the Hindu month of Shravana) as per the traditional Hindu calendar. This date corresponds to the months of July-August in the Gregorian calendar. On the auspicious day of Gayatri Japam, also known as �Gayatri Japa Sankalpam�, the Sama Vedi, Rig and Yajur Brahmins chant the Gayatri mantra with utmost devotion and dedication. In the Southern states of India, this ritual forms a part of the Avani Avittam and Upakarma rituals. During this ritual Brahmins who wear the �janeyu� or the sacred thread, chant the Gayatri mantra 108 times. The Gayatri Japam day is celebrated with full fervour all across India and is popularly called as �Gayatri Padyami� or �Gayatri Pratipada� in the Telangana and Andhra regions.

Significance of Gayatri Japam:

The supremacy of Gayatri Mantra is mentioned in several Hindu religious scriptures and puranas. The greatness of this mantra has been known since the Vedic times. This mantra is more powerful than any other mantras and forms the foundation for all other mantra in Hinduism. As per the legends, Gayatri is known to be the Supreme Goddess and is also referred as Mother Goddess. It is believed that a person who performs Gayatri Japam sincerely will be bestowed with all spiritual and worldly happiness. The power of Gayatri mantra is such that it frees the individual from all his/her sins, besides offering self purification.

Rituals during Gayatri Japam:

• Brahmins get up before sunrise and take an early bath on the day of Gayatri Japam. They first offer prayers to their deities to get enlightened with knowledge and wisdom.
• After finishing the initial puja rites, Brahmins chant the Gayatri Mantra for 108 or 1008 times continuously. The mode and sequence of performing this ritual majorly depends on the mutt affiliation. The Gayatri Japam ritual is performed during the morning and within the speculated time.
• Not only Brahmins but any individual can perform the Gayatri Japam ritual. A Brahmachari (on who follows celibacy), a Grihastha (householder) or even one in �Vanaprastha� (old age) can selflessly chant this mantra with a pure conscience.
• Gayatri mantra is dedicated to Sun God. It is believed to be highly meritorious to chant Gayatri Mantra three times during the day, in the morning when the sun rises, at noon when Sun reaches its apex and in the evening when the Sun sets. Gayatri Mantra is one that unites the individual with the Supreme Power, the Almighty.

2016 Date :18^thAugust.

2017 Date : 29th July.

Avani Avittam

Avani Avittam also known as �Upakramam� is a significant ritual for Brahmin community in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It is observed on the �Shravan Purnima� (full moon day) of the traditional Hindu calendar, which is the also the day of Raksha Bandhan. The word �Avani� implies the �Tamil month� and �Avittam� is �one among the 27 Nakshatras�. Brahmins community in all corners of the world observe the Avani Avittam ritual with full dedication and devotion.

The Yajur Vedic Brahmins begin reading Yajur Veda on this day for next six months. On Avani Avittam Brahmins are bestowed with a holy thread and it is believed that the third eye (eye of wisdom) opens up. Avani Avittam is celebrated with immense zeal in Orissa, Maharashtra and southern states of India and is also known as �Janeyu Purnima� or �Jandhyala Purnima�.

Significance of Avani Avittam:

The festival of Avani Avittam signifies a new beginning of learning Veda. In the Hindu mythology, this day is considered very auspicious as Lord Vishnu incarnated as Lord Hayagriva, the God of knowledge, on this day. Lord Hayagriva was the one who reinstated the Vedas to Lord Brahma. This day is also celebrated as �Hayagriva Jayanti�. Avani Avittam holds immense importance to Yajur, Sama and Rig Vedic Brahmins. Avani Avittam is also celebrated as the day to express gratitude towards the Rishis for the spiritual knowledge and ancestors for their existence. The day after Avani Avittam is celebrated as �Gayatri Japam�. In some regions of southern India, this day is known as �Upakarma�.

Rituals during Avani Avittam:

• On the day of Avani Avittam a sacred vow or �Mahasankalpam� is taken for compensation of the sins committed in the past year. Sacred mantras are chanted during this time.
• Brahmins get up at sunrise and take a holy dip. On Avani Avittam Brahmins wear a new sacred thread called as �Janeyu� or �Yajnopavit�. It is the most important ritual on Avani Avittam and Vedic mantras are chanted during this time. It is usually a community observance that is performed on the banks of a river or pond.
• After wearing the new thread or Janeyu, the older one is discarded to signify a new beginning.

2016 Date : 18th August

2017 Date : 28^th July.

Sri Krishna Janmashtami

Janmashtami also known as Gokulashtami marks the celebration of the birth of Lord Sri Krishna.Sri Krishna was born in the 'Rohini' nakshatram (star) to King Vasudeva and Devaki Devi on the eighth day of the dark fortnight in the month of Sravana. This festival is also known as Sri Krishna Jayanti and Krishnashtami.

The Shravana month corresponds to the month of Bhadrapada Krishnapaksha, according to Barhapatyamana. It is said that Lord Krishna took birth in the year of Visvavasu, about 5,227 years ago. He was the avatar of Lord Vishnu which came to the earth in Dwapara Yuga.In present time, this festival is rejoiced for over two days because the nakshatra called Rohini and the 8th day of Krishna Paksh may not fall on the same day.

This is why this festival is celebrated for two days, in which the first day is known as Krishnashtami, as on this day Lord Krishna took birth which comes on the eighth day after the festive occasion of Raksha Bandhan whereas the second day is called as Kalashtami.

HISTORY & LEGENDS :

For Hindus, the life of Krishna exemplifies morality and virtuousness. Some historians have surmised 3227 BC to be the year of birth of Lord Krishna. It was prophesied that the eighth son Of Devaki and Vasudeva will kill the demon king Kamsa. Upon hearing the divine proclamation, Kamsa imprisoned his sister Devaki and her husband Vasudeva. Krishna, the much awaited eighth son of Devaki, who was to free the earth from all demons, was born in prison at the stroke of midnight. Though, Kamsa succeeded in killing all the previous seven children of Devaki and Vasudeva, Krishna was saved by divine intervention.

During the Mahabharata war between the Kauravas and the Pandavas, Krishna acted as the charioteer of Arjuna, one of the Pandavas. While delivering his discourse to Arjun, which has been compiled in the sacred Hindu Scripture of 'Bhagwat Gita', he spread the concept of karma and divinity to the entire human race. In one of the verses Krishna says, "Whenever there is decay of righteousness, O! Bharata and a rise of unrighteousness, then I will manifest myself." Hindus still believe that, Lord Krishna will be born again to banish all that is evil and profane and will thus re-establish the religious sanctity.

Hindus, since ages, have been celebrating the birth of their great savior, Lord Krishna on the occasion of Janmashtami, with great devotion and ardor. Celebrated all across India, the festival of Janmashtami bears a special significance in Indian culture and is marked for the inspirited festivities. If you wish to make this pious occasion of Janmashtami special and memorable for your loved ones, send a wonderful gift bearing all your love and hearty wishes.

Rituals and Traditions :

The most common and essential ritual followed on the day of Janmashtami is the fasting by devotees. Most of Lord Krsihna�s devotees fast for on this day and open the fast at midnight when it is assumed that Lord Krishna has been born. At the time of midnight also, the people who have observed fast whole day prefer to have only milk and milk products as they are considered auspicious as well pure. Some of the ardent devotees of Krishna observe the fat for the entire day even without consuming water- it is called �Nirjal Vrat�. There are other devotees who observe two day fast in the honor of Lord Krishna.

It is said that chanting Lord Krishna�s name with entire devotion brings immense joy and pleasure in the life of the devotee. So, on the birthday of Lord Krishna, devotees indulge in continuous chanting of Krishna�s name for the entire day. They chant sholkas, mantras, richas from the Veda. They also read Bhagwat Geeta and sing bhajans in the name of Krishna. It is said that chanting 108 names of Lord Krishna brings auspiciousness in one�s life. 

Bhajans are a vital custom of the Janmashtami celebrations. Devotees sing and dance with fervor in the name of Lord Krishna. In many temples of Mathura and Vridavana, you will find devotees mesmerized and overwhelmed with their love and devotion for Shri Krishna.

It is known to everybody that Lord Krishna was extremely fond of sweets and dairy products. So on the day of Krishnashtami, devotees of Lord Krishna prepare umpteen varieties of sweets and dairy products and offer them to the idols of Krishna. This ritual is called �bhog�. Later, these sweets are distributed amongst the devotees as � Prasada�. 

 Celebrations :

The festivities of Janmashtami can last for two to three days in different parts of India. During these days, special prayer sessions are organized in the temples. Devotees visit Krishna temples in large numbers to pay homage to the Lord. The celebrations and prayer ceremonies reach to their zenith at midnight of the first day when Shri Krishna was born. To symbolize this auspicious occasion, the idol of the infant Krishna, also known as Bal Gopal, is bathed with milk, butter and honey. The idol is later placed in a beautifully ornamented cradle. With the blowing of a conch shell, Krishna's avatar is announced to the world. To celebrate this pious occasion, many homemade dishes are prepared throughout India to present as an offering to Lord Krishna, like Murukku, Vella Seedai, Paal Payasam, Peda and Shrikhand.

Devotees from all over the world visit Krishna temples placed at Vrindhavan, Mathura and Dwaraka for the celebrations of Janmashtami, as it is believed that Lord Krishna spent most of his life in these places. In some parts of Northern India, the festivities of Janmashtami are even more elaborate. Dance dramas based on various incidents of Lord Krishna's life are performed and enjoyed by the public. 'Dahi Handi' contests are organized in which groups of youngsters compete to reach and then break the pot of curd or butter hung on a rope quite high from the ground.

Janmashtami Pooja :

 Some of the very important puja items for Krishna Janmashtami include a puja thali, bell, diya (earthen lamp), rice, cardamom, betel nuts (pan supari), beetle leaves, roli, small container (lota) filled with Gangajal, honey, vermilion (sindoor), incense sticks, flowers and clarified butter (ghee). Apart from this, one also requires new clothes and jewelry for the deity as well as a small cradle. The items needed to make the Panchamrit include Gangajal, honey, ghee, milk and yogurt. 

Special puja is conducted at Lord Krishna temples on Janmashtami. The puja for the festival usually begins early in the morning, when a sacred bath is given to the idol of baby Krishna, using the holy water of Hindus - Ganga jal (water collected from River Ganga). After bathing, the idol is adorned with new clothes (that are decked with precious stone) that are made especially for embellishing it on the auspicious occasion. Yellow, orange and red may be the color of the clothes. Thereafter, the idol is clad with jewelry. The holy place is illuminated with diyas, while the devotees chant mantras and sing bhajans, praising Lord Krishna. Next, the idol is swung in a cradle, during which conches are blown. When the entire pooja is over, the devotees break their fast by having 'panchamrit'. Thereafter, the prasad is distributed among the devotees.

Janmashtami Fast 

Nirjal Fast (Fast Without Water)

On this day, the devotees of Lord Krishna observe Nirjal Fast to give honour to the God and also to celebrate the festive occasion of Janmashtami. In this type of fast, people do not take any type of food and not even water for the entire day. The followers of Lord Krishna keep this type of fast to come closer to the divine being. Also, they ask forgiveness for the sins they have committed till the date. At 12 o'clock, at night the ardent followers perform special puja and aarti, and offer prasad to the Lord Krishna. After this, they break their fast by eating the prasad.

Phalahar Fast (Fast With Fruits)

On the day of Janmashtami, the followers of Lord Krishna also observe Phalahar Fast. In this type of fast, one is allowed to take water, fruits and milk. However, salty food items and cereals are not permitted. The entire day people keep them busy in singing Janmashtami songs and chanting the mantras of Lord Krishna. According to them, this is the best way to make the God contented and to be in close contact with Lord Krishna. Also, they observe this fast to apologise for the mistakes they have done in their life till the time.

Krishna Janmashtami Decorations :

During Janmashtami, temples of Lord Krishna are beautifully decorated. Generally, the temples are decorated with natural flowers and the tableaus depicting popular incidents from Lord Krishna's life. The grandeur of the decoration of Janmashtmi at Dwarakadheesh temple in Mathura is worth watching.

Rasa Leela On Janmashtami :

On the auspicious occasion of Janmashtami, the devotees of Lord Krishna would enjoy the scenes of Rasa leela performed by professional artists. Generally,  boys aged between 10 and 13 years are selected to enact as Lord Krishna in Raslila. The main theme of the dance drama revolves around the formative years of Lord Krishna. Apart from Raslila, other themes are also chosen for the performance. These may include Janamleela (the birth of Lord Krishna), Shanklarleela, Putanaleela (the assassination of the demon Putana) and Nagleela (the killing of serpent Kaliya). The troupes perform the dance drama with utmost devotion. In fact, Shri Krishna Rasa leela is one of the main forms of entertainment on Janmashtami.

Significance Of Rangoli

Rangoli or kolam forms a significant part of Janmashtami. This is because on the day, Lord Krishna is expected to visit the homes, which are kept neat and beautifully decorated. Since the devotees of lord Krishna expect his visit, they scrub-clean their house and premises, decorate the place with festoons and draw his footsteps, using rice flour, at the entranceway. The footsteps are considered complete, only when they are complemented by a beautiful kolam. This is the reason why on the occasion of Janmashtami, people draw kolam at their entranceway. Moreover, rangoli is considered auspicious for any Hindu festival. All the decorations are given a finishing touch by beautiful rangoli motifs.

Janmashtami In India

In India, Janmashtami is celebrated with fun and fervor. The festivities extend to six days or a week in some of the famous Lord Krishna temples located in Mathura and Vrindavan. People observe fast (either nirjal or phalahar) during the day time and break it at the midnight stroke of the eighth day of Savana month, when Lord Krishna was born. Cultural programs are organized by various committees. Sri Krishna Raslila, the dance drama depicting the important phases of the deity's life, is one of the highlights of the cultural programs. Mouthwatering sweets made of milk and milk products are served during the festival.

2015 Date : 5th September, Saturday. 

2016 Date : 25th August, Thursday.

Kajari Teej

Kajari Teej is one among the three important Teej festivals of India, the other two being �Hariyali Teej� and �Hartalika Teej�. The celebrations of Kajari Teej start fifteen days after the Hariyali Teej. It is observed on the �tritiya� (3rd day) of the Krishna Paksha (the dark fortnight of moon) in the month of �Bhadrapada� as per the North Indian calendar while in the South Indian calendar it falls in the month of �Shravana�. It usually comes three days after the celebrations of �Raksha Bandhan� and five days prior to �Krishna Janmashtami�. Kajari Teej is also called as �Badi Teej�, �Kajali Teej� and in some regions it is also referred as �Satudi Teej�.

The festival of Kajari Teej is primarily the celebration and funfair time for unmarried girls and women. In the northern states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, the festivities the festivities soar to great heights. Large processions of Goddess Parvati are carried out on this day in Rajasthan, especially in the small town of Bundi. The procession is accompanied by artists, folk dancers, musicians, camels and elephants. It is one of the most beautiful and colourful processions that attracts tourists to Bundi from all corners of India and even abroad. The day of Kajari Teej is known to be very auspicious in the life of married women.

Significance of Kajari Teej:

The Hindu festival of Kajari Teej celebrates the spirit of womanhood and observed for the longevity and prosperity of husbands. Married women observe this festival with immense enthusiasm and gaiety. The celebration of Kajari Teej also welcomes the beginning of the monsoon season. After the scorching heat of the summers, the arrival of monsoon season is very pleasant and fills everyone with excitement. All the three most important Teej festivals of the Hindus are observed during the month of �Sharavan�. It can be summed up that the festival of Kajari Teej showcases the uniqueness of the Indian culture. Even though it is observed for two consecutive days, its essence can be felt till �Janmashtami celebrations.

Rituals during Kajari Teej:

• On the day of Kajari Teej women worship Goddess Parvati and ask Her blessings for a blissful married life. Women get up early on this day and finish all their morning chores. They then wear new clothes and adorn themselves with sindur, bindi and bangles. Women also apply mehendi on their hands and feet. It is a customary practice for women to dress up as newlywed brides on the day of Kajari Teej.
• In some regions, women also worship the holy neem tree on this day. They gather in small groups and perform the puja around the neem tree under the guidance of a knowledgeable priest.
• Women also observe a strict fast on this day, known as Kajari Teej Vrat. The observer of this vrat gets up before sunrise and eats some food during this time. They then spend the whole day without eating or drinking even a drop of water. During the evening women in the neighbourhood get dressed up and gather for the puja. The women worship the �Neem� tree with �kumkum�, �chawal�, �haldi�, �henna� and also offer fruits and sweets. Following this the priest recites the �Kajari Teej Katha�. In some communities women can break their fast by eating �Sattu�or fruits, after worshipping the moon. Married women keep the sacred Teej vrat for the long life of their husbands. Some unmarried girls also observe this fast to get a husband of their choice. When a woman starts the Kajari Teej vrat she must continue doing it for her lifetime or for a period of 16 years.
• As this festival is mainly meant for the females, women spend this day enjoying amongst them. On Kajari Teej day, swings are put up on the trees for women. This special day is spent dancing, singing songs and swinging along with other pleasurable activities. �Kajli Songs� are an integral part of this Badi Teej celebration. In the rural areas, it is celebrated in a musical way.
• Any Hindu festival is incomplete without the spread of gourmet food delicacies. The women make special preparations for Kajari Teej. Some of known delicacies prepared on this occasion are �Kheer�, �Puri�, �Badam ka Halwa�, �Gujiya�, �Ghevar� and �Kaju Katli� to name a few. Sattu, a sweet made from chana dal is a special delicacy that is also significant in the rituals and celebrations of Kajari Teej. These special offerings are prepared by the ladies of the household for offering to Goddess Parvati. The food is then later distributed among family members and friends.
• On the day of Kajari Teej, there is a tradition of gifting �Shringara� items to married women. This includes clothes, jewelry and sweets.

2016 Date :21^stAugust.

Varalakshmi Vratam

Varalakshmi Pooja is celebrated  before the full moon day (purnima) in the traditional month of Sravan (Sravanam/Aadi/Sawan). Varalakshmi Vratham is one the popular pious fasting days for South Indian and Maharashtrian people. All Women can perform pooja on this auspicious day, but mostly married women observe Varalaksmi Vratham. Varalaksmi Vratham means Vrat (fast) dedicated to Goddess laksmi. 

Varalakshmi Vratam is performed by married woman for the well being of all the family members, especially husband, to get progency etc. It is believed that worshipping Goddess Varalakshmi on this day is equivalent to worshipping Ashtalaksmi � the eight goddesses of Wealth, Earth, Learning, Love, Fame, Peace, Pleasure, and Strength.

LEGEND :

As the legend goes, this is a pooja that was pronounced by no other than Lord Parameswara to be performed by his consort Parvathi to seek prosperity and happiness for the family. Thus it came to be emulated by married women who sought boons (varam) for the health, wealth and knowledge for the entire family. In some cases, women prayed for being blessed with children. The prescribed day for the pooja is the Friday of the month of Sravan in the fortnight known as Sukla paksha, preceding the full moon day. It is only in India where only Hindus have belief.

STORY :

Varalakshmi Vratham is profoundly attached to a lady in ancient time with name Charumati. It is believed that Charumati was a great devotee of Goddess Laksmi. She was also very much dedicated for her family-her husband and children. One day Goddess Varalaksmi came in her dream and directed her to perform the Varalaksmi Vratham religiously. Following guidelines of Goddess Laksmi, Charumati cheerfully invited all her neighbours and near dear people to take part in her Varalaksmi Vratham and pooja. With immense devotion she observed fast, performed pooja and delighted Goddess Varalaksmi. Observing her pious efforts and great devotion, Goddess Laksmi blessed not only her but also all present people over there. Charumati and all present people were offered abundant wealth, and long-life prosperity by Varalaksmi Goddess.

RITUALS : 

All the women who are performing the vrat wake up early in the morning and have a bath. They decorate their homes with beautiful rangolis, First lord ganesha is worshipped  to remove obstacles and then Arrange the kalasha and decorate it with turmeric, kumkum and place a coconut on it; place it in front of the goddess.Tie a toram (a thread dipped in turmeric) to the goddess,Tie another toram around your wrist. And perfom the puja while the puja is going on Chant Lakshmi Ashottarnamavali or the Lakshmi Sahasranamam. After the puja is completed offer prasadams to goddess.In the evening, if feasible, invite other women and offer tamboolam to them.

This puja is so important for married women that it is described in the Skanda Purana. Goddess Parvati asked Lord Shiva about a vrata that would be of great benefit to women and help them lead a life of bliss and happy marriage. Lord Shiva told her about the Varalakshmi Vratam.

2016 Date : 12th August.

2017 Date : 4th August.

Damodar Dwadashi

Damodar Dwadashi, or Damodara Dwadasi, is observed on the 12th day of the waxing phase of moon (Shukla Paksha) of Shravan month.It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Donating rice, fruits and clothes to Brahmin priests is considered auspicious on this day. Devotees observe fast on this day and visit lord Vishnu temples.

2016 date : 15^th August.

Garuda Panchami

Garuda Panchami  is a festival dedicated to Garuda, Lord Vishnu�s vahanam.It is observed on Shravan Sukla Paksha Panchami, the fifth day of the waxing phase of the moon in the month of Shravana.

Garuda is commonly referred to as Pakshiraja, Vainateya, Suparna, Garuthman, Periya Tiruvadi, Vinatasuta, Vishnuvahana, Nagantaka and Kashyapeya. Garuda is engaged in eternal service to Lord Narayana at Sri Vaikuntam.

It is believed that his radiance is equal to that of  the SUN. Lord Garuthmantha on this Garuda Panchami freed his mother from slavery by bringing AMRUTHAM, by defeating all Gods protecting it. He is very powerful and has immense strength. Even Vajrayudha the primary weapon of King Indra could not harm Garuthmantha.

2016 Date : 7th August.

Naga Panchami

Nag Panchami is a  festival which is celebrated by the Hindus in several parts of India. This festival is celebrated on Panchami in Shravan month (July/August). On this day people worship  Naga devata (Cobras) and people go to temples where snake pits and worship the snakes. They offer milk and silver jewelry to the Cobras to protect them from all kinds of evils. People take Fast on this day. 

Naga Panchami is one of the most ancient fasts in India and also finds mention in the Puranas. It is believed to be one of the most auspicious days of the entire year. According to the Bhavishya Purana, when men bathe the snakes Vasuki, Takshaka, Kaliya, Manibhadra, Airavata, Dhritarashtra, Karkotaka and Dhananjaya with milk, on the fifth day of the bright fortnight of Shravan, they ensure freedom from danger for their families. As per a legend, on the day of Naga Panchami, ploughing a field is forbidden.

In India, snakes are so revered that temples have also been erected in their honor. There is a particularly famous one in Mysore, at a place called Subramania (Sheshnaga).

The temples dedicated snakes (sarpa) are flocked by devotees, who carry milk and turmeric powder as offerings for the deity. In fact, in some part of the country, Nag Panchami is called 'snake day'. In some regions, live cobras are given a ceremonious bath in milk and offered rice, because it is believed that by treating them properly, one could get immunity from their bites. Women also take part in the celebrations. They would get up early in the morning, take bath and head to the nearest Snake temple, carrying pots of milk and flowers to the deity. According to the legends, if a snake drinks milk, then it is a symbol of good luck. 

2016 Date : 7^th August,Sunday.

2017 Date : 27th July.

MadhuShravani Festival

Madhushravani Festival or Madhu Sravani Puja is a main festival observed in Bihar and some parts of North India. Madhushravani is celebrated in Shravan Month (July � August) for consecutive 13 days and ends on Shravan Shukla Tritiya with elaborate pooja and feasting. 

MadhuShravani Puja represents the arrival of monsoon season. It is observed by married women. During this festival, women worship Naga devatas (Serpent Gods), Gauri, Shanti Kalash, Surya, Chandrama, Navagrah, and several Nags such as Nag dampati, Bairasi along with hundred brothers, Chanai, Kusumawati, Pingla, Lili, Gosauni nag with seven sisters,and lastly Shasthi or sathi . Legends and stories related to Madhsravani festival are recited on the first day (Madhushrava Panchami) and the last day (Madhushrava Tritiya) of the puja. Stories are recited and women folk are feasted on first and last days.

During the festival of Madhushrava Tritiya, newly married girls stay at their parent�s home. Stay with parents during Shravan or at least during this festival is considered necessary.Presents (Bhar) are sent from Groom�s family to Brides family. Traditionally the bride is supposed to eat only things sent from her husband�s home. At least five (Sadhawa) married women accompany the bride while eating.

2016 date : 5th August.

Hariyali Teej

Hariyali Teej is observed on the Tritiya (3rd day) of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight of the moon) in the month of �Shravan� as per the Hindu calendar .  Shravan month marks the beginning of monsoon i.e. the rainy season in India.  The word �Hariyali� means �greenery� that is a symbol of growth and prosperity. Thus, Hariyali teej is the celebration on this greenery and growth.

 This day is also referred as �Shravani Teej�. Hariyali Teej is also known as �Choti Teej� and �Madhusrava Teej�. The festival of Hariyali Teej is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Her unison with Lord Shiva. It was on this auspicious day that Lord Shiva accepted Goddess Parvati as his wife.

On this occasion women worship Goddess Parvati (wife of Lord Shiva) and they fast for the long life of their husband. It is believed that Devi Parvati underwent a penance and prayed continuously to show her devotion towards Lord Shiva and it was after 108 births and rebirths that he accepted her as his wife. Married women seek her blessings by honoring Devi Parvati and unmarried women imbibed by her spirit to be blessed by a husband like Lord Shiva.

Legend has it that the Goddess Parvati once underwent a self-imposed penance in an effort to demonstrate her devotion to Lord Shiva and was born and reborn on earth 108 times before he took her as his wife. The day was �Teej of Shrawan Month� when Lord Shiva took her as his wife, then Devi Parvati promised every women who invokes her will be bless with marital bliss and her blessings.

The Hariyali Teej celebration comprises of dancing, singing and swinging. Special fairs are being organized by local authorities to celebrate the occasion of Hariyali Teej. It is a customary practice for the women themselves to sit in swings in imitation of those deities.

Hariyali Teej is observed with great pomp and show in the north Indian states of Punjab, Chandigarh, Haryana and Rajasthan. In Punjab it is known as �Teeyan� and in the state of Rajasthan it is called as �Shingara Teej�. In most of these states, the day of Hariyali Teej is declared to be an official holiday. Grand Processions are carried out and tourists flock to these places in large number to witness the festivities. The celebrations of Hariyali Teej may vary slightly from region to region, but the spirit and enthusiasm is same everywhere.

The celebrations of Hariyali Teej are very elaborate in all the Krishna Mandirs in Vridavan. Swings are laid for their deity and this ceremony is known as �Jhullan Leela�. Religious hymes and songs are chanted in all the mandirs and devotees celebrate this festival with complete excitement and enthusiasm. The idols of Lord Krishna and Radha are beautifully adorned with ornaments and after the celebrations; water is showered over the devotees to mark the arrival of monsoons.

2016 Date : 5th August, Friday.