Hartalika Teej Today, Know Muhurat Timings

Why fast for Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati today? Know Hartalika Teej Vrat Puja rituals. Also know the significance of this auspicious festival for girls and married women.

Just like Hariyali Teej and Kajari Teej, Hartalika Teej is the festival of married women. Dedicated to Shankar Bhagwan and Maa Parvati, the fast is performed by married women for the wellness and long life of their husband and family.

हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहाँ क्लिक करें

As per Hindu Calendar or Panchang, this festival is observed on the third day (Tritiya) in Shukla Paksha of Bhadrapada month. It is believed that this auspicious fast was performed by Goddess Parvati to get Lord Shiva as her husband. Therefore, the fast of Hartalika Teej can also be performed by unmarried girls. This festival is also known by the name of Badi Teej in some parts of India. It is especially celebrated in Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan along with other states with lots of zeal and happiness.

Hartalika Teej Puja Muhurat
Muhurat in Early Morning	From 06:03:49 to 08:33:02
Duration	2 Hours 29 Minutes

Note: The Muhurat is valid for New Delhi. To know muhurat timings in your city, click on Hartalika Teej Muhurat

Hartalika Teej Vrat Rituals

The festival of Hartalika Teej is celebrated on Tritiya of Shukla Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada. This time period is of great significance as God Shiva and Mata Parvati are especially worshipped in this duration during Hasta Nakshatra.

On this occasion, Shiv Parvati idols made of clay or sand are worshipped. Since, this is a Nirjala Vrat (without water), therefore, the devotees should only offer fruits to the deities. At night, Jagrans and Bhajans are performed to worship Parvati Maa and Bhagwan Shankar. This fast of Hartalika Teej is completed after immersion of Puja material (Samagri) in the morning, the next day.

Hartalika Teej Vrat Katha and Significance

According to religious beliefs, Parvati ji performed difficult austerity to get Lord Shiva as her husband. Seeing her condition, her father Parvat Raj Himalaya was very sad. Meanwhile, Narada Muni brought the marriage proposal for Maa Parvati on behalf of Lord Vishnu. When the Goddess heard about this, she became upset. After being asked by one of her friends, Parvati told them that she’s performing penance to get God Shiva as her husband. After this, her friends took the Goddess to the forest. Since then, the festival is known by the name of Hartalika Teej, as Maa Parvati was abducted by her friends, so that she could achieve her goal to marry Bhagwan Shankar.

Here, the word Hartalika comprises “Harat”, which means abduction, and “Talika” that signifies female friends. After taken to the forest, Goddess performed severe austerity. On the Tritiya of Bhadrapada Shukla Paksha during Hasta Nakshatra, the Goddess created the idol of Lord Shiva with sand and worshipped him with complete devotion. Pleased with her sincerity and Puja, Lord Shiva accepted her as his wife as desired by Mata Parvati.

Thus, performing this fast with utmost devotion, and worshipping Shiv Parvati while following all Puja rituals sincerely, blesses a girl or women with luck and prosperity. This is the reason why Hartalika Teej Vrat and festival is of high significance for girls and married women.

AstroSage wishes our readers a happy Hartalika Teej and hopes that Maa Parvati blesses you all the happiness in life!

Kajari Teej Today, Know Its Significance and Puja Vidhi

Know the auspicious effects of Gau Pujan today! Kajari Teej festival will be celebrated today, i.e. on August 29, 2018. Read here to know the importance of this propitious occasion, fasting rituals and Puja Vidhi.

In Hinduism, married women take certain fasts (Vrat) every year for the long-life of their husbands as well as for the happiness and prosperity in their families. Fasts such as Karwa Chauth, Hartalika Teej, Hariyali Teej, Vat Savitri Vrat and Kajari Teej are among the most important fasts for women.

हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहाँ क्लिक करें

According to Hindu Panchang, fast for Kajari Teej is performed on Tritiya (third day) of Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada. However, as per Gregorian Calendar, this festival falls in the month of July or August. This year, the festival is occuring today on August 29, and will be celebrated by women across the country with devotion and enthusiasm. However, it is mainly celebrated in Hindu states of the country including Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Bihar. This festival is also known by the name of Kajali Teej. Goddess Neemdi or Neemdi Mata is worshipped on this day. Married women fast on this occasion for longevity of their husbands. Additionally, unmarried girls also fast on this day to get blessed with a right and suitable husband.

Vrat Rituals on Kajari Teej

• Like Karva Chauth, this fast is also performed without drinking water (Nirjala Vrat). Although, pregnant women may have fruits on this day.
• Usually the fast is opened by looking at the Moon as per rituals. But, if it is not visible in the sky, a woman can open her fast by looking to the sky around 11:30 PM, and offering Argh to the Moon God.
• Once the fasting rituals (Udyapan) for Kajari Teej are performed, if proper Nirjala fast is not possible by a woman in the coming years, she can have fruits.

To know more about this festival, read: Kajari Teej Vrat Puja Vidhi

Rituals for offering Argh to Moon God

• It is a tradition to offer Argh to Moon God on Kajari Teej. At night, women should sprinkle some water while looking to the sky, and offer vermillion (Roli) and Akshat (rice) to the God. After this, they should offer food as Bhoga to Moon God.
• Offer Argh to Moon God while holding a Silver ring and few Wheat grains in your hand. Then, circumambulate (Parikrama) 4 times on the same place in a clockwise direction.

Kajari Teej and Importance of Worshipping Cows

In Hindu religion, Cow has been given the status of a mother, and is considered the holiest being in the world as per Vedas and Puranas. It is also believed that all the deities reside in Gau Mata (Cow). She is also known as Kamadhenu (a bovine Goddess, also known as the mother of fulfilment), who when worshipped brings happiness, peace and prosperity in the house. Gau Mata is especially worshipped on the occasion of Kajari Teej. The food is consumed only after feeding small round Chapatis made from flour dough along with Ghee and Gur (Jaggery) to the Cow.

Traditions related to Kajari Teej

• Several dishes are prepared on this auspicious occasion using barley, wheat, gram (Chana) and rice-mixture called Sattu along with Ghee and Meva.
• Beautifully adorned swings are thrown on trees in the fields or gardens, and women gathers and celebrate this festive occasion by dancing to the tunes of folk-songs.
• The tradition of singing folk songs while riding on a boat on this day is performed by the people of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

Just like Hariyali and Hartalika Teej, married women celebrate the propitious festival of Kajari Teej with lots of zeal and happiness. The fast performed on this day is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

We, at AstroSage, wishes our readers a very prospering and blissful Kajari Teej.

72nd Independence Day Celebrations Today

Know how will be upcoming days for India! Today, India is celebrating its 72nd years of independence. On this occasion, know how will be the future of India according to its birth chart.

The country is celebrating its 72nd anniversary of independence today. Its picture has transformed completely since 1947. In these 7 decades, Indians have worked hard to lead India to the heights of eminence. One can see huge development in the field of Medical Science, technology, Finance, Economy, Defence, Business, Agriculture, etc. but challenges are still there and India is ready to take them head-on.

हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहाँ क्लिक करें

Not only Government, but people of India should also make effort for improvement in terms of illiteracy, unemployment, health facilities, financial inequality, discrimination and various other national issues. This should be the motto of this year’s Independence Day. Now take a look at how will be the upcoming days for India according to its horoscope.

Also Read: Nag Panchami Today and its Religious Significance!

India got its freedom on August 15, 1947 at 12:00 AM midnight. As per astrology, independent India outset at this time, and therefore, according to this time, its Birth Chart is as follows:

India's Birth Chart

According to this birth chart, Lagna (ascendant) of India is Taurus and it is residing in Rahu Ascendant House. Mars is posited in 2nd House. Planets such as Venus, Mercury, Sun, Moon and Saturn are situated in 3rd House. At the same time, Jupiter is in 6th House and Ketu in the 7th House. Lagna for Navmansh Kundli is Pisces, which is in the 11th position from Taurus in Lagna Kundli. The status of both the Kundli (horoscopes) reflects auspicious and progressive results in all situations. From the beginning of year 1947, India has passed through the Mahadashas of Saturn, Mercury, Ketu, Venus and Sun. Now, from August 11, 2018, India is going through Moon and Jupiter Mahadasha.

• As per birth chart of India, Moon is posited in 3rd House in Cancer. At the same time, Jupiter (being the ruling planet of 8th and 11th House) is residing in 6th House in Libra sign.
• From 3rd House, one can finds details about transport communication, telecommunication, share market, writing and similar things of India. 8th House tells about the natural disasters and problems that may occur in future in India. 11th House informs about parliament, assembly and nations’ law and order.
• Furthermore, 6th House informs about the possible infectious diseases in the country, military ammunitions, labor class, foreign support, mortgages, etc. Moon, which is the lord of 3rd House is residing in it. This situation reflects India’s aggressive personality and self-confidence globally. However, Jupiter’s situation in the 6th House indicates toward natural calamities and instability, and further toward debt situation of India, which may decrease initially, but later may increase.

According to the 72nd anniversary of free India, Cancer Lagna has risen on August 15, 2018. This year, Lagna ruling planet, i.e. Moon is posited in the 3rd House with its friendly planet as well as with its enemy planet, Venus. Muntha is in 10th House, and the ruling planet of Muntha is situated in 7th House in its exalted sign. However, the planet is bothered by Ketu. Additionally, Sun, Mercury, Rahu, Mars, etc have their hidden aspect on Muntha, while Jupiter has direct aspect on Muntha. Now, with the help of this year’s horoscope of India, let’s take a look at the bigger picture of India in the coming future.

India and Its Neighbouring Countries at a Glance

As per India’s yearly horoscope, China will try to bother India again. It will try to obstruct India’s economy, and with the help of other countries including Pakistan, China will also try to politically restrain our country. However, India will remain prepared for facing the challenges that China will reflect on the country, and will also try to overcome China and Pakistan diplomatically.

Inflation, Corruption and the Common Man

Agitated by inflation, corruption, new rules and regulation, and the overbearing attitude of government officials, the common man may act aggressively or may show protest on the streets. However, the government will try to strengthen its administrative system, along with its working situation. As a result, government schemes would be fully implemented, which will benefit the citizens of the country.

Political Instability and Struggle

As Kaal-Sarp Yoga is in India’s Kundali till September 19, 2018, therefore one would see political instability in the country. Social conditions are also likely to be unstable in this period. There may also be the loss of life or property in some states of India due to natural calamities.

Let's take an oath on the occasion of 72nd anniversary of India’s independence! We should vow to keep our country clean and maintain its unity, integrity and mutual goodwill. AstroSage wishes our readers a happy Independence Day!

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Dhanteras Today - Muhurat & Puja Vidhi

Dhanteras, the festival of wealth and prosperity commemorates Lord Kuber and Goddess Laxmi. On Dhanteras or Dhantrayodashi, purchasing metals, utensils and jewellery is considered auspicious. Read along to know more.

हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहाँ क्लिक करें 

Dhanteras Pujan Muhurat

Pradosh Muhurat	17:38:52 - 20:13:22
Dhanteras Pujan Muhurat	17:38:52 - 18:22:34

Note: The above mentioned timings are for New Delhi, To know about the Pujan Muhurat in your city, follow this link: Dhanteras Pujan Muhurat

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Kuber Mantra

॥ Om yakshaya kuberaya vaishravanaya dhandhaanyadhipateya

Dhandhanyasamriddhi mei dehi daapya swaha॥

ॐ यक्षाय कुबेराय वैश्रवणाय धनधान्याधिपतये। 

धनधान्यसमृद्धिं मे देहि दापय स्वाहा॥

Kuber Mantra For Wealth

॥ Om shreem hreem kleem shreem kleem vitteyshwaraya namah ॥

ॐ श्रीं ह्रीं क्लीं श्रीं क्लीं वित्तेश्वराय नमः॥

Kuber Ashta-Lakshmi Mantra

॥ Om hreem shreem kreem shreem kuberaya ashta-lakshmi mam grhe dhanam puray puray namah ॥

ॐ ह्रीं श्रीं क्रीं श्रीं कुबेराय अष्ट-लक्ष्मी मम गृहे धनं पुरय पुरय नमः॥

The festival ‘Dhanteras’ gets its name from two words; ‘Dhan’ meaning wealth and ‘Teras’ meaning the thirteenth day. The festival is celebrated two days before Diwali and people commemorate Lord Kuber and Goddess Laxmi on this auspicious day. The day honors the lord and goddess of wealth and prosperity. On this festival people buy new utensils, jewelries, gems and clothes to lure in wealth and prosperity in their life. 

Read about this festival in detail from here: Dhanteras 2016

The story behind the festival states that Lord Kuber gave a loan to Lord Venkateshwara so that he could marry Padmavati. In memory of this, people all over country visit Lord Venkateshwara's temple to donate utensils and jewelry bought this day, so that he could repay his debt to Kuber. 

The jewelry and utensils bought on Dhanteras are also used to worship Goddess Laxmi on the day of Diwali. Paying homage to the deities on Dhanteras brings prosperity and wealth in one’s life. 

With this AstroSage wishes you a very Happy Dhanteras 2016

May Goddess Laxmi and Lord Kuber bless your life with health, wealth and riches.

Navratri Day Two - Maa Brahmacharini Puja Vidhi

Maa Brahmacharini blesses her worshippers on the 2nd day of the Shardiya Navratri. AstroSage has compiled an informative blog on how to please the goddess of warmth and love, and get the maximum results during these 9 auspicious days.

हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहाँ क्लिक करें

The 2nd day of the Shardiya Navratri commemorates Maa Brahmacharini. The goddess did austere absolution for Lord Shiva and till the time she married him, she was called Brahmacharini. The unmarried form of Goddess Parvati is worshipped as Maa Brahmacharini. The goddess possesses a grand and bright aura around her. Her right hand carries a rosary while the left carries a Kamandal. By worshipping and praying to her, we can balance our Swadhishtan chakra. 

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Devi Avatar: Maa Brahmacharini

The second day of Navratri is dedicated to pay homage to Goddess Brahmacharini. This avatar of Goddess Durga is particularly worshipped by the sages and monks. 

Know more about the Goddess of fortune and courage - Maa Brahmacharini

Maa Brahmacharini governs the planet Mars, who brings good fortune and wealth in our life. AstroSage has launched an EXCLUSIVE OFFER to provide its users with the products that will manifold the benefits attained in this duration.

The following products are to be used on the 2nd day of the Shardiya Navratri to please Maa Brahmacharini and to get benefic results of planet Mars:

• Teen mukhi Rudraksh
• Mangal Yantra
• Sphatic mala
• Coral

To Order these products, please CLICK HERE.

May Maa Brahmacharini shower her blessings on you and fulfill all your aspirations.

AstroSage wishes you a very Happy Shardiya Navratri 2016.

Navratri Special Offer, Ghatasthapana Muhurat & Puja Vidhi

This year Shardiya Navratri is starting from the 1st of October 2016 and will continue till the 10th of October. AstroSage brings to you the Ultimate Shardiya Navratri 2016 manual to guide you through these 9 days along with a special Navratri offer for you.

AstroSage.com has started an EXCLUSIVE SALE, only for this Shardiye Navratri 2016. Appease the 9 goddesses with faithful and dedicated pujan with the help of our EXCLUSIVE PRODUCTS.

Maa Shailputri blesses her devotees and ends their Moon related agony and woes. Try to get the maximum benefits this Shardiya Navratri by using our Exclusive products.

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हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहाँ क्लिक करें

Ghat Sthapana Muhurat: Morning 6:14 to 07:29

To know about the Muhurat Timings in your city, click here: Ghatsthapana Details

According to the Shakt community, it is believed that Navratri of the Ashwin month of the Hindu calendar is most auspicious for worshipping Maa Aadishakti. In the 9 days of Navratri, the devotees of Goddess Durga worship her and her avatars religiously to attain a higher degree of peace and prosperity in their life. People fast and pay homage to the divinity for their well being. During these auspicious days of Navratri, it is believed that our sins and mistakes are pardoned by Maa Aadishakti as she showers her blessings on us, and uplifts our soul. Goddess Mahakali, Goddess Mahalakshmi, and Goddess Mahasaraswati are worshipped the most in navratri. Worshippers chant ‘Shri Durga Sapshati’ to please the goddess as well. In the period of 9 days, Goddess Durga’s pujan and lesson of Durga Saptshati are performed. People also keep a fast for one time’s meal. The foremost process of the Navratri’s is the ‘Ghat Sthapana’, after which all other auspicious activities take place.

AstroSage.com brings to you the ultimate Navratri Guide to lead you through these 9 days of  Durga worshipping and help you attain health, wealth, and happiness for the coming year. 

Devi Avatar: Maa Shailputri 

Maa Shailputri is believed to be the first avatar of Goddess Durga. The first day of navratri begins by commemorating Maa Shailputri. Blessed to Lord Himalaya, Maa Shailputri gets her name from the mighty lofts, Himalayas. The goddess mounts on a bull, and carries a Trishul in one hand, and a lotus flower in another. It’s believed that its auspicious to offer cow milk ghee to Maa Shailputri. Worshipping her is deemed to awake your Mooladhaar Chakra, which blesses you with good attitude, patience and spiritual enlightenment.

To know more about Goddess Shailputri, click here: Maa Shailputri

Puja Procedure (Poojan Vidhi): Ghat Sthapana and other Puja Rituals:

1. On the first day of Navratri, take a bath in the morning and vow solemnly. After this, make an altar with fertile earth and sow barley in it. On this altar, place your kalash filled with sacred water. This is your 'ghatsthapana'. Place Maa Durga’s idol on the kalash. During all the rituals of puja, make sure that you maintain an Akhand Jyoti. (an oil/ghee lamp that alights for 24 hours constantly) While worshipping, keep all the ingredients required for worshipping, facing towards east direction. After this, perform the rituals according to the instructions given below:
2. Chant the below mentioned mantra, and sprinkle water on yourself as well as the puja ingredients. 
   
   “Om Apavitrah Pavitro va Sarvastha Gatopi va
   Ya Smarate Pundarikaksha Sa Bahantar Shuchi
   
   ॐ अपवित्र: पवित्रो वा सर्वावस्थां गतोअपी वा |
   य: स्मरेत पुण्डरीकाक्षं स बाहान्तर: शुचि:||
   
   
3. Keep Akshat (sacred rice mixed with turmeric and red vermillion, used for blessing), flower, and water in your palms while praying to the divinity. 
4. Perform the rituals meticulously.
5. Perform aarti, and after that distribute prasad amongst everyone.
6. During Navratri, worship a little girl, and offer her food with some donation.
7. If the above mentioned ritual cannot be done regularly, it’s advised that on the last navratra(Navmi), worship 9 girls and give them donations.
8. In the Kanya Pujan( Worshipping of Girls) make sure that you only worship girls aged 2-10.
9. In the 9 days of navratri, Durga Saptshati and aparajita lessons are believed to manifold the blessings of the divine on you.

AstroSage.com wishes you a very Happy Shardiya Navratri 2016.

Chandra Grahan Today - Timings

Know time duration, do’s & don’ts, areas of visibility, and much more about this lunar eclipse here.

हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहाँ क्लिक करें

Date: September 16 to 17, 2016

Time Duration: 22:23 to 02:26 IST

Visibility in India: Yes

Peak Time: 00:24 IST

(Above given details are for India.)

Areas of visibility: Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, West in South America, Pacific, Atlantic, Indian Ocean, Arctic, Antarctica, India

Type of eclipse: Penumbral Lunar Eclipse (This type of eclipse occurs when Sun, Moon, and earth are not exactly positioned in the straight life. Some of part of the Moon receives the sunlight and some part stays under the shadow of earth. It is difficult to observe this phenomenon with naked eyes.)

Do’s

• It is believed that whatever is done in this duration gives multiplied results. That’s why most people do Mantra chanting and different religious as well as spiritual practices. If you have a weak Moon in your birth-chart, chanting Moon Mantra in this duration can give immense benefits.
• Once the Grahan is over, sprinkle the holy water everywhere to purify the area.
• It will be great if you can take shower or dip in a holy water body after the Grahan.
• Put basil leaves in all the food items before the Grahan begins. It will protect these items from the negative effects.

Don’ts

• Avoid starting anything important in the duration of Grahan.
• Avoid eating during Grahan.
• Sexual intercourse should also be avoided.
• Don’t cook food in Sutak and Grahan period. (Sutak is the 9 hours time before the Grahan begins. Some people consider it for 12 hours.)

Exclusive Tips For Pregnant Women

• Stay inside home and avoid looking at the Moon.
• Avoid sleeping during Grahan, rather meditate or chant Mantras.
• Avoid doing anything that requires you to cut or peel something.
• Avoid wearing tight clothes. Also, avoid stitching or pinning anything.
• It will be great if you can chant Santana Gopal Stotra in this duration.

A Big Fact About Chandra Grahan

Moon is believed to be quite impactful in our lives. With its changing shapes, the energy also changes to affect our lives. As the Moon grows from New Moon to the Full Moon, its energy increases and many people use this time for planting new seeds or crops. As far as energy is concerned, Lunar Eclipse is the best time for quitting the bad habits like smoking, drinking, etc.

Know everything in detail about this lunar eclipse here: Chandra Grahan 2016

We hope that this information will be helpful to you in making this event fruitful for you. Utilize this time to the fullest.

Anant Chaturdashi Muhurat & Puja Vidhi

Today i.e. on September 15, Ganesh Visarjan will be performed by those who had brought Ganesha at their homes on Ganesh Chaturthi. Know the Muhurat and other important details about the day.

हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहाँ क्लिक करें

Ganesh Visarjan Muhurat

Auspicious Chaughadia durations of the day are given below:

• Shubh: 06:06:11 - 07:38:42
• Chal, Labh, Amrit: 10:43:44 - 15:21:17
• Shubh, Amrit, Chal: 16:53:48 - 21:21:17

Continuation to September 16, 2016:

• Labh: 00:16:15 - 01:43:44
• Shubh, Amrit: 03:11:13 - 06:06:11

Anant Chaturdashi Tithi: 05:29:44 (15.9.2016) - 03:17:57 (16.9.2016)

Above timings are for New Delhi, India. Please click here to know the exact timings for your area: 

Chaughadiya Muhurat For Your City

Panchang For Your City

Celebrations

1. All the rituals of Ganesh Visarjan are given here: Ganesh Visarjan Puja Vidhi
2. If you want to attract prosperity in life, this day is exceptionally auspicious. Follow this article to know those rituals: Anant Chaturdashi & Prosperity
3. Know all the details about the festival from here: Anant Chaturdashi 2016

We hope that this information will be helpful in making this festival fruitful for you.

Happy Anant Chaturdashi!

Chhath Puja 2015 Muhurat

In 2015, November 17 is devoted to Chhath Puja, the day to worship Sun God. It is one of the toughest fast celebrated by women and men of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and other parts of India. Let us know in detail about this beautiful festival...

हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहाँ क्लिक करें

Sunset on Sandhya Argh (17.11.15) - 05:27pm
Sunrise on Suryodaya Argh (18.11.15) - 06:45am

Above given timings are as per New Delhi. If you want to know the timings for your city, download our app AstroSage Kundli.

Chhath Puja is a 4-day festival devoted to worship god Sun, the epitome of life and energy. Each day has its own significance and importance. First Day if for Nahai Khai, Second Day is for Kharna, Third Day is the most important one devoted to Sandhya Argh and the last day that is the Fourth Day is Parna (Suryodaya Argh). Indians observe variety of fasts but this festival is considered to be the toughest of all. The devotees (majorly women) worship Sun God and His consort, Goddess Chhathi Maiya (known as Usha in the Vedas) and pray for the well-being of their family and loved ones. This fast is observed with complete hygiene and care. The preparation starts months ago and people start taking extra care of themselves so as to complete the Chhath Puja perfectly. We will help you in preparing yourself with the requirements and the best possible way to complete the fast properly.

To read in detail about the significance of Chhath Puja, click here: Chhath Puja 2015

Now, we will tell you about the rituals and the procedure to successfully do the Puja.

1. Nahai Khai (Kartik Shukla Chaturthi) on November 15 - Nahai Khai means eating after the auspicious bath. People go to the nearest river or pond and take auspicious bath which is considered to clean the body as well as soul. On this day, devotees eat chapati (roti), bottle gourd vegetable made with extra care keeping in mind the hygiene.


2. Kharna (Kartik Shukla Panchami) on November 16 - Second day is called Kharna when the observer does not drink or eat anything till the evening time. In the evening, Kheer (made with rice and jaggery) and roti are cooked in new utensils. Observers then have this Kheer as the main prasad along with fruits as per the convenience and later it is distributed among everyone. Chhath Puja songs are sang as well as heard by the devotees with great enthusiasm. The song mesmerises everyone and inspires people to be dedicated towards the fast.
   
   
   Get the Chhath Puja songs here: Chhath Puja Songs


3. Sandhya Argh (Kartik Shukla Shashti) on November 17 - This day is also observed without water and food and is the most important day of Chhath Puja. People decorate Ghaat, the nearest river or pond with candles or diyas to celebrate the joy with spirit. Baskets are decorated with pooja items like fruits, Thekua (made with wheat flour and jaggery), radish, husk coconut, betel leaves (pan ke patte), cloves (laung), cardamom (elaichi) etc. as per the tradition. Sun god is worshiped at the Sunset as per Muhurat. These are the offerings used to give Sandhya Argh (while standing in the water) to god Sun.
   
   
   To know the sunrise & sunset for today, visit: Today’s Sunrise & Sunset


4. Suryodaya Argh (Kartik Shukla Saptami) on November 18 - The Suryodaya Argh or Parna is the last day of the ritual. People gather at the puja destination (Chhath Ghaat) and sing devotional songs till the time of sunrise. Soon after the sunrise, Suryodaya Argh (Parna) is performed to Sun by the observer and then by everyone. The puja gets completed after the Argh and prasad is distributed to all. Observers break their fast with jaggery and ginger.

The true and dedicated worship of Sun God blesses people with prosperity and happiness. Chhath Puja is getting popular internationally for its tough penance and dedication.

To read the sun sign astrology, click here: Sun Sign Astrology

AstroSage wishes you a happy and prosperous Chhath Puja!

Kajari Teej Fast: Muhurat & Vidhi

Kajari Teej is a symbol of love and union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati that will be celebrated today. Adding auspiciousness to this is Ganesh Chaturthi which is also falling on the same day.

हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहाँ क्लिक करें

What Is Special In This Kajari Teej?

Kajari Teej is falling in Uttara Bhadrapada Nakshatra this year. According to the Hindu calendar, Ganesh Chaturthi is also falling on the same day. Our scriptures have considered this combination as auspicious. It is also said that observing fast on both of these days fulfills all the desires of the fast seeker and showers good luck.

Muhurat For Kajari Teej

Date	Time
Tritiya Tithi Begins On August 31, 2015	16:50 PM
Tritiya Tithi Ends on September 1, 2015	13:23 PM

How To Get blessed With Marital Bliss & Suitable Match?

1. Observe Nirjala fast (fast observed without consuming water) on this day.
2. Offer rice, Sattu, Ghee, Mawa, fruits and other marriage adornments (Solah Shringaar) to the Goddess.
3. Offer Puja, fruits, sweets, Dhoopa and Deepak to Lord Shiva and Parvati.
4. Chant this mantra to get a husband of your choice:Donate all the adornments (Shringars) to any poor woman.
   “हे गौरी शंकर अर्धांगिनी यथा त्वं शंकर प्रिया।
   तथा मम कुरू कल्याणी कान्त कान्ता सुदुर्लभम्।।”
5. Take blessings from your elders, mother and sister in law.
6. Receive Prasad first after doing charity and then perform Paran.

What Is Kajari Teej?

Kajari Teej is known with different names in different parts of India. It is many times referred as ‘Budi Teej’ or ‘Satudi Teej’. It is known as Kajari Teej because of the presence of dark and rainy clouds during this period. Women in their houses make delicious delicacies with barley, wheat and gram. Therefore, it is also known as Satudi Teej. Kajari Teej is one of the eminent festivals of states like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh etc. Women often sing songs of separation, love and union with their partner on this day.

Importance Of Kajari Teej

It is believed that Goddess Parvati has devoted herself entirely into austerities to get married to Lord Shiva. It took her 107 births to allure him. The duo finally got married in 108th birth and since then Kajari Teej is celebrated mostly in Northern parts of the country. Performing Shiva and Parvati Puja during this day is considered auspicious. According to our scriptures, both married and unmarried women can observe fast on this day. Married women observe fast for protection & longevity of their husbands while unmarried observe fast to fulfill their long yearning desire of a suitable match.

Click here to read more about Kajari Teej: Kajari Teej 2015

Today’s Special Kajari Teej, Angarika Ganesh Chaturthi and Bahula Chaturthi Vrat will be celebrated on the same day this year. Bahula Vrat is done for longevity of brothers and children. Idols of lion, cow, calf and Lord Ganesha are worshipped on this day. Gods are offered with Sattu of Barley on this day. AstroSage wishes you a happy Kajari Teej, Ganesh Chaturthi & Bahula Chaturthi!

Makara Sankranti 2014: The Holiest Day

Makara Sankranti, Pongal or Magh Bihu, though it is called by many names, it stands for one common thing - Harvest Festival. This festival which occurs on January 14 every year is a grand gala celebration. Read on...

Celebrating Harvest Festival - Region Wise

Makara Sankranti will be observed on 14th of January, 2014. Makara Sankranti is a festival celebrated with great zeal and zest all over the country. This harvest festival is known by many names depending on the region it is being celebrated. While Makara Sankranti is name followed in majority of the states of India, it is also known as Pongal in the state of Tamil Nadu, Lohri in Punjab, Magh Bihu in Assam, Uttarayan in Gujarat and so on. We will give you an idea of different rituals and customs followed in various states in this article. 

Makara Sankranti

Makara Sankranti, the grand harvest festival is celebrated to mark the journey of sun towards north. As Sankranti festival is celebrated as per the solar calendar, the date remains the same every year, January 14. The actual definition for the word Sankranti is the journey of sun from one zodiac sign to another. But now-a-days, Sankranti is more popularly known as the harvest festival. People thank the Gods for a good harvest and share the joy with one and all. One of the main attractions of Makara Sankranti is the tradition of Kite flying.

Pongal Or Bhogi

Pongal is the festival celebrated by the people of Tamil Nadu. This festival is celebrated for a period of four days. The first day is the Bhogi festival, which symbolizes new beginning. As such, people follow the tradition of getting rid of all the old stuff by throwing them into the bonfire. The second day is the Surya Pongal, when the traditional Pongal (sweet dish) is prepared and the Sun God is worshipped. The third day is called as the Mattu (cow) Pongal. On this day cows, which are one of the main sources for agriculture are worshipped. The main attraction of this day is the Jallikattu (bull fighting). The fourth and the final day is called the Kaanum Pongal, where in people visit the dear and near ones to exchange sweets and gifts. This Festival is also known as ‘Ellu Beerodu’ in Karnataka, celebrated by the people of Kannada community; and in the state of Andhra Pradesh, this festival is called as Sankranti or ‘Pedda Pandiga’ (big festival). 

Magh Bihu In Assam

Magh Bihu is the harvest festival of Assam. This festival is all about extravagant celebrations, which last for weeks. Many traditions are followed by the people of Assam during the Magh Bihu like Tekeli Bhonga, which is the breaking of earthen pots and bull fighting. People from near and far get their bulls to participate in the annual festivals for attractive prize money. This festival goes on for weeks where in makeshift huts are built, in which festive food is served to enjoy. Once the food is eaten, the huts are burned down as per the traditions which are followed. 

Every festival comes alive when celebrated with dear ones. In that context, mother nature is a dear one here. Sankranti, the harvest festival brings everyone closer to mother nature and gives us a chance to thank her for all the good that has been bestowed on us. With this, we wish one and all a very happy Makara Sankranti 2014!

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Pradosh Vrat: Eliminate The Misdeeds

Pradosh Vrat, a path to overcome negative karmas by pleasing Lord Shiva, falls twice a month. The Lord with supreme power forgives all the sins, mistakes and other bad karmas if prayed with faith and loyalty. Let’s understand the day in detail...

Shivaya Namah Om Bhavaya Namaha | Bhavaya Namah Om Namah Shivaya ||

What Is Pradosham?

The term ‘Pradosh’ means getting relief from sins and negative karmas. It prevails after the sunset for 2 hours 24 minutes and therefore, that duration is known as ‘Pradosh Kaal’. It is believed that one who worships Lord Shiva during Pradosh Kaal gets relief from all the evil deeds and mistakes. 

Weekly Pradosham

Monday/ Soma Pradosham: Bestows the observer with health and all his wishes are fulfilled. 

Tuesday/ Bhauma Pradosham: For those who are facing financial crunches, observing Bhauma Pradosham is very helpful. Also, it is very effective against diseases and ailments.

Wednesday: Pradosham occurring on Wednesday has great importance for the childless couples. Married couples, who do not have any child, observe this Pradosham to get blessed with their progeny. 

Thursday/ Guru Pradosham: Guru Pradosham helps the observer in raising his confidence level which further helps him to defeat his enemies. 

Saturday/ Shani Pradosham/ Maha Pradosham: Shani Pradosham is very effective and is meant for the happy married life of the couples. 

You may also like to read Pradosh Fast significance and legend. Click here to read about it - Pradosh Fast Significance & Legend

Rituals Followed During Pradosham

To begin with the rituals, the observer takes shower before the sunset. After wearing clean clothes, he/she commences the Puja by worshipping Lord Shiva. To worship Him, His idol or Shivlinga or Nataraja Avatar is needed. Along with the Him, following Gods are also worshipped:

• Goddess Parvati
• Kartikeya
• Ganesha
• Nandi

During the Puja, a Kalasha (metal pot) is filled with water followed by covering the Kalasha with Durva grass (Cynodon Dactyl). A lotus is drawn on the surface of the grass. After it, flowers, rice, betel nuts, betel leaf and coin are offered to Shiva. To please the deity, Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra is chanted for 108 times. The devotee then applies the sacred ash to his/her forehead and lights a lamp before the Lord. 

Pradosham Fast Observance

Devotees not only pray to Lord on this day but also observes fast to honor Shiva. Strict observers worship Shiva throughout the day and night. They chant Mantras and recite His songs and prayers. Such observers do not consume any eatable and refrain from having water too. On the other hand are partial observers who follow the same rituals but break their fast in the evening after the evening prayers. 

Puja Materials You Need

Milk: gives long and healthy life

Curd: blesses the childless couple with child

Lemon: to overcome the fear of death

Ghee: grants Moksha (salvation)

Rice: helps to overcome the financial sufferings

Cooked Rice or Annam: grants a royal life

Coconut: provides luxuries and comforts of life

Sandal: blesses the observer with the beauty like Maa Lakshmi 

Panchamrutham: bestows the devotee with health and wealth

Honey: is used for a melodious voice

Sugar: helps to overcome anger

Sugar cane juice: bestows with good health

Invoke Lord Shiva’s blessings and expel out all the negative karmas with Pradosh Vrat. Pradosham falling every month, provides the best platform to overcome the evil deeds and achieve Moksha.

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Lohri 2014: Celebrating Fertility With Bonfire

In Punjab, the festival of Lohri will be observed on January 13, 2014. Lohri is considered to be the most important and most awaited day. People who belong to Punjabi community are mostly robust, fun-loving and enthusiastic by nature. The festival of Lohri symbolizes their enthusiasm for festive celebrations.

The festival of Lohri will be observed on January 13, 2014. With the first light of the New Year, people in India are all set to get started with the journey full of celebrations and festivals. The distinctive and perfectly assorted Indian culture is attracting the inhabitants to get closer to some of the very thrilling and enjoyable festivities. The commencement of these celebrations is to be initiated by the festival of Lohri. It is a festival related to harvesting and is celebrated annually in January. 

Legends And Traditions 

On the day of Lohri, little children demand for Lohri from their elders in the form of money and eatables such as Sesame seeds (Til), Gajak, Jaggery, Rewari and Peanuts, to name a few. The children also sing a festive song in praise of Dulla Bhatti. He is considered as the Punjabi Avatar of Robin Hood. He robbed the riches to assist the poor people. 

Performing Bonfire On Lohri

On the day of Lohri, as the sun sets in the evening, huge bonfires are lit in the harvested fields. A few people also perform this in the front yard of the house. At the time of Lohri celebration, a lot of people gather up at one place. They circle around the rising flames of fire and at this time, they throw edibles like puffed rice, popcorns, etc. While doing so, they say “Adar Aye Dilethar jaye”, by this they mean to pray that “may honor come and may poverty peter out”. 

At the time of celebrating the festival of Lohri, they also sing folk songs. Lohri is a festival in which people offer prayers to Agni (fire) to let their land get blessed with fertility and abundance. After they are done with the rounds around the bonfire (Parikrama), gift exchange ritual with relatives and friends begin. Once the Pooja and other related rituals are done, Prasad (holy food offering) is distributed to all the people present in the celebration. The most important part of this celebration is the Lohri Prasad, which includes sweets like Gajak and Rewri together with some other munchies such as peanuts, popcorns and jaggery. After that, all the guests are served with some traditional edibles like cooked mustard herbs with multi-millet chapattis for dinner.

The Traditional Performance

After getting done with all the related rituals, Bhangra, which is the traditional dance of Punjab, is performed by men. This celebration goes on till late night on the day of Lohri. These traditional touches add up more vigor and excitement to the festive mood.

Maghi: The Day Following Lohri

The day of Maghi falls on the next day of Lohri. This day signifies the commencement of Magh month. In accordance with the beliefs of Hindu religion, Maghi is considered to be the most auspicious day for taking a dip into the holy river together with doing some charity. Sweets such as Kheer (sweet rice porridge dessert) are prepared by adding sugar cane juice, rice and milk as Prasad for the day.

Showing Gratitude Toward The Harvest God 

The festival of Lohri comes up with a chance for the people to put aside all their tensions and worries. On this day, people get an opportunity to keep away from their hectic work schedules and to enjoy this festive day to the fullest. On this day, people offer prayers to the harvest God so their land could get the blessings to be amazingly fertile.

Hope you will have a great time this Lohri 2014. Stay tuned to AstroSage for more such interesting stuff.

Happy Lohri 2014!

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