Agni Utsav

Introduction:

The state of Orissa celebrates many festivals with lots of religious fervor and a splash of colors juxtaposed with celebration styles varying from district to district and tribe to tribe. One such festival named Agni Utsav is also celebrated the same way in different parts of the state.

Celebration

Agni Utsav is the festival mainly celebrated by the farmers of Orissa. The festival holds special importance for farmers as rituals associated with the festival are believed to be helpful for farmers. Many prior preparations are made for the festival. Whole family get indulge in the planning for the festival.

Females of the family start cleaning their houses, a week before the festival and males collect straws to be burn on the Agni Utsav day. The entire village is cleaned by the people before the Agni Utsav.

As per the name of the festival, “Agni” the fire is worshipped on the day and large bundles of dried grasses or straw heaps are burnt on this festival.

On the day of Agni Utsav, the gathered straws from each family are collected in the village making huge heaps of hay.

Then, all people gather in village and the heap of straws is burnt with a fire.

All people gather and see the hay burning while enjoying together with family and friends.

Significance:

Farmers in Orissa believe that burning heap of dried grass on the day of Agni Utsav help them to predict about their crops in the coming year. The straw heaps are burnt and the direction of the straw while burning is believed to predict the next year's crop. Following predictions are made on the basis of direction of flame:

• An eastward tilt reflects high tides and entry of saline waters into the fields.
• A westward tilt predicts floods
• A tilt towards the Northeast means good crops.

Time for Celebration:

Agni Utsav is generally celebrated in Mid January to Mid February every year.The date of festival keeps changing every year.

Army Day

Army Day marks a day to salute the valiant soldiers who sacrificied their lives to protect our country and the people living in it. The day is celebrated on January 15 every year. On this day in 1948 Lieutenant General K. M. Cariappa became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief.

Army played equally important role as the other freedom fighters in instilling democratization in India.

General Kodandera Madappa Cariappa shared a good bonding with both natives and Britishers and then succeeded General Roy Butcher of British Army to become the first Indian Commander in Chief of the democratic India.

The Indian Army fights adversities on borders as well as with natural calamities. The Army works with true dedication and spirit of the motto ‘fight to win’.

Celebration

Indian army will celebrate its 62nd anniversary on January 15, 2010 as Army Day. The Army re-dedicates itself to become a part of the ‘War Winning Team’ on this day. The day begins with paying homage to the martyred soldiers at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at the India Gate, New Delhi. It is followed by parades and many military shows which feature the technology and achievements in Army are being held at the Delhi Cantonment. Unit credentials and Sena Medals were also presented for gallantry on the occasion.

Time to Celebrate

India will celebrate its 62nd Army day on January 15. Every year the day is celebrated on the same date.

Arattupuzha Pooram

Introduction:

This festival is the oldest and most extravagant of all the poorams celebrated in Kerala, thus is may rightly be called ‘big daddy’ of festivals. The festival is celebrated at the famous Arattupuzha temple in Thrissur district of Kerala. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.

The celebration takes place before the 3,000 year old Sree Sastha Temple. The occasion is known as conclave of Gods.

It is believed that on this day hundred and one gods and goddesses of the neighbouring villages visited lord Ayyappa, the deity of the Arattupuzha Temple.

The festival is celebrated for seven days. All the buildings of the town were beautifully illuminated by strings of colourful bulbs.


Arattupuzha pooram is the largest devamela in the world. A group of elephants and musicians performing in front of the temple is a common sight during the whole festival.

 Many palmists, small vendors etc. are also there. The festival falls in March/April.


On the fifth day of the festival, a procession is held in which drummers, and eight elephants accompany the beautiful elephant carrying idols (‘thidambu’) of 23 deities, including Thripayar Thevar, Oorakathamma Thiruvadi, Cherppil Bhagavathy, Chathakudam Sastha, Anthikad Bhagavathy, Thottipal Bhagavathy, Pisharikkal Bhagavathy, Edakkunni Bhagavathy, Ayyunnil Bhagavathy,Thaikkattussery Bhagavathy, Kaduppassery Bhagavathy, Choorakkottu Bhagavathy, Poonilarkkavil Bhagavathy, Kattupisharikkal Bhagavathy, Chakkamkulangara Sastha, Kodannur Sastha, Nankulam Sastha, Sreemattil Sastha, Nettissery Sastha, Kalloli Sastha, Chittichathakkudam Sastha and Medamkulam Sastha.

The idol of the deity of the Arattupuzha Sastha temple is taken to the Thottipal temple. It is brought back after the Thottipal Pooram to the Sastha temple and then regular rituals and ‘Sreebhoothabali’ are performed.


An elephant peagent is held on the sixth day which features beautifully ornamented 61 elephants. There were huge crowd of people bearing glowing traditional torches, some were dancing, singing and Panchavadyam, nadaswaram, pacharimelam and pandimelam add to the festive tempo. Lord Ayyappa is given holy bath (arattu) with great pomp and gaiety in the Arattupuzha river on the subsequent day.


The caparisoned elephants bear muthukkudas (silken umbrella) and venchamarams (white tufts) make a delightful sight. Traditional art forms are displayed here. The dazzling fire works bedazzle the onlookers with the beauty of sparks which are like jewels embellished in the darkness of night. This sight is amazing! ‘Grama Bali’ is performed. An elephant race is also held.


This colourful festival attracts spectators from all parts of the state. The ceremonial processions of the images of the deities from 41 neighboring temples to the Arattupuzha temple make it a unique festival.

Time to celebrate


Arattupuzha pooram is the largest devamela in the world. The festival falls in March/April or Meenam month according to Malyalam calendar. The festival is celebrated for seven days.

How to reach


By Road


Trichur is well connected with all important places and cities. The KSRTC bus station, near the railway station operates long distance and inter-state services. Sakthan Thampuran bus stand is 1 km away from town.


By Rail


Trichur is an important railhead of the Southern Railways. It is connected with all the major cities of India.


By Air


The nearest airport is at Nedumbassery which is 58 kms away from the town.

Attuvela Mahotsavam

The Attuvela Mahotsavam is a grandiose water carnival as opposed to many of usual temple festivals celebrated in God’s own country, Kerala where elephants play an important role and is a centre of attraction.

The festival is continued for two days. The Attuvela Mahotsavam is associated with the Elankavu Bhagavathy temple, sited at Vadayar village 3 kilometers far from Vaikom, of Kottayam district in Kerala. Goddess Bhagavathy is installed and worshipped in this temple. The festival is celebrated in ‘Meenam’ month of Malyalam calendar which corresponds to March-April of Gregorian calendar.

The Goddess of Elamkavu is believed to be the sister of Kodungallur Bhagavathy. According to the legend associated with the festival that this day celebrates the welcome ceremony for the Kodungallur Bhagavathy to Elankavu who came to visit the goddess here.

Elamkavu Bhagavathy temple is a visual treat to the eyes of the visitors during festival time. A procession of devotees carrying beautifully decorated and warmly lit canoes, and huge colourful replica of the Elankavu temple navigate down the river Moovattupuzha waters. 

In addition, the procession is also accompanied by hordes of festooned small canoes and traditional temple music. This water procession starts from the Attuvela kadavu, 2 kilometers away from the temple.

Getting there:

Vaikom is between Ernakulam (30 km) and Kottayam (40 km).

By Rail

The nearest railway station is Ernakulam which is about 30 km away from Vaikom.

By Air

The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, which is about 50 km away.

Time to celebrate

The festival is celebrated in ‘Meenam’ month of Malyalam calendar which corresponds to March-April of Gregorian calendar. In 2010 the festival will fall on 19 March.

La Tomatina Festival

La Tomatina festival Valencia is held every year in the town of Buñol which is a short journey away from the city of Valencia. It's held on the last Wednesday in August so this year it will be held on 30 August 2006.
 

For those coming to this crazy and very bizarre event make sure you wear something old. Even better, bring a change of clothes and a pair of goggles so you can have more fun!

The days events begin with a whole ham being tied to a greased pole and you guessed it! Before the event begins, someone must retrieved the ham.

This is followed by absolute mayhem when millions of tons of tomatoes are released from the backs of trucks. What follows is an absolute orgy of tomatoe, water and shirt fights - all in good fun!

The event is free and starts at 11.00am. .

The origin of this fun-filled event began during a festival in 1945 in the town square of Buñol. 

The procession included many 'Gigantes y Cabezudos' (giant carnival figures with grotesque heads) and everyone was having fun. Many of the young people tried to join those at the head of the procession and in their haste someone fell. 

The scuffles that followed spilled over into an enormous brawl and an open crate of tomatoes (which just 'happened' to be there) proved too tempting - the rest is history!

The young people of Buñol repeated the 'battle of tomatoes' the following year and although the authorities tried to stop it they had no choice but to give in.

The event ignited so much passion from the surrounding areas that everyone came to join in the fun.

The town of Buñol is now well and truly on the map. People flock from all over the world to enjoy this annual festival of slush and fun which really is a child's (and many adults!) dream come true.

Safety Tips for La Tomatina Festival Valencia

There are a few safe-guards such as a set of rules which all participants must respect and abide by.

For example, 'tomatoes must be crushed before being thrown so they can't hurt anybody'.

The town of Buñol is easily reached from Estació del Nord which is in the centre of Valencia.

It's a good idea to get there as early as possible so as not to miss the fun. 

Trains can get very crowded and run approximately every hour to Buñol. 

We'd love to know how you enjoyed La Tomatina Festival Valencia so please feel free to send your messages (and pics) to our 'Contact Us' page.

Aadiperrukku

Aadiperukku or Padinettam Perukku or the 'Flood of the Eighteenth' 

Place and community

Aadiperukku is celebrated only in the Kaveri delta.

Month

This festival is called Aadiperukku since the river swells on the 18th day of the month of Adi.

Description

The people of Tamil Nadu celebrate monsoon through this festival. This festival is called the ‘Flood of the Eighteenth’ as the water of the Kaveri river rises on the 18th day of the month of Adi i.e. during July and August. This festival is also therefore known as Aadiperukku.

The river Kaveri holds a lot of significance to the people of Tamil Nadu especially those living near the delta. The primary occupation of most of the people living there is agriculture. As a result the river has a direct impact on the economy of the place.

Adi is the month for planting seeds and vegetation. The increased water levels along the Kaveri basin in Thanjavur and Tiruchirapalli districts contribute significantly to the rice cultivation of the area.

People celebrate this occasion by offering chitrannam or rice cooked in different flavors, colors and ingredients to the river-goddess.

Aadiperukku is a festival of fertility and people of Tamil Nadu especially women offer prayers. They wear new clothes and perform abhishekham for Kaveri amman.

Some even buy jewelry. It is a day when people worship the river and light special lamps along the river side. This day also holds special significance for the newly weds as the bride is brought to her parents home and stays on for the month of Adi.

On Adi Pathinettu, the bride is reunited with her husband and sent back to her in-laws with gifts and new clothes.  

Moatsu Festival

The North-eastern state of Nagaland is a vibrant hilly locale that is sheltered by Myanmar in the East; Assam in the West; Arunachal Pradesh and Assam in the North with Manipur in the south. The state is a home for many tribal communities. Nagaland is rich in traditions and cultural heritage.

One of the tribal communities Ao tribe celebrates Moatsu Festival in the first week of May every year. Various rituals are performed during this period. Moatsü Mong is observed after the sowing is done. It gives an opportunity for recreation and entertainment to flex the muscles after the weeklong stressful work of harvesting, ploughing and sowing seeds, cleaning up the Tsubu (Wells) and repairs and construction of houses by elders of the Putu Menden. The environment becomes vibrant and lively during Moatsu festival by peppy songs and dances on the pulsating music by the tribal men and women.

The joy and fun of festival continues for full three days. The ritual called Sangpangtu in which camp fire is lit and the well-dressed folks sit around it are served wine and meat forms an intricate part of the festival. A virtuous man who claims to have directed by the Almighty forecast about good and bad days of natives and village.

Best rice-beer is prepared and the best breed of pigs and cows are slaughtered for the feast during the festival. The womenfolk and men folk enjoy the festivity by participation in eating, dancing, drinking and singing songs in praise of fighters and love with gusto.

Ravindranath Jayanti

Ravindra Jayanti is the day which marks the birth anniversary of the great scholar and novelist Rabindranath Tagore. Birthday of the poet laureate Rabindra Nath Tagore is celebrated on 25th day of Baisakh. In Kolkatta it is popularly called Poncheeshe Boishakh and is celebrated ceremoniously and jauntiness all across West Bengal. According to Gregorian calendar Ravindra Jayanti is celebrated on 8th or 9th may every year in the month of May. Homage is paid to Rabindranath on this day.

The celebration of Rabindra Jayanti is among the important festivals for Bengalis there. Cultural shows and poetry recitations are organized throughout the city by and for Rabindranath lovers. All cultural activities during the Jayanti are held at Jorasanko Thakurbari. Music, skits, dramas, traditional songs and dances are performed in institutes and theatres are followed by the distribution of awards.

Jorasanko Thakurbari and Rabindra Sadan is the main venue of all cultural activities during Ravindra Jayanti. The celebration continues from dawn to dusk.

It is celebrated with equal fervour at Shantiniketan, the university started by Rabindranath Tagore.

Rabindra Nath Tagore/ Rabindranath Thakur




Rabindranath Tagore was born in Calcutta in an affluent Brahmin family. Rabindranath was the youngest sibling of the family. An eminent poet, visual artist, playwright, novelist, and composer Rabindranath Tagore gave a new dimension to Indian literature and music in late 19th and early 20th centuries. He became Asia's first laureate winner of the most prestigious award Nobel Prize in1913.

Tagore composed novels, short stories, songs, dance-dramas, and essays on political and personal topics. His best works Gitanjali, Gora and Ghare-Baire owed him worldwide acclaim. Tagore brought a cultural reform who modernized art by strictly adhering to classical Indian forms. His composition ‘Jana Gana Mana’ has been adopted as national anthem of India and yet another great composition by him ‘Amar Shonar Bangla’ is acclaimed the national anthem of Bangladesh. The lyrics of his songs have a charm of their own and cast a spell on everyone.

His works are an exclusive blend of Indian poetry and pious theology. Tagore took his ideas of great scholarly works from the Vedas and Upanishads. A soothing mixture of Indian classic music and popular folklore of Bengal has been attributed to him and is called as Rabindra-Sangeet.

Time for Celebration

Ravindra Jayanti is celebrated on 8th or 9th may every year in the month of May according to the Gregorian calendar. It is also called as Poncheeshe Boishakh in keeping with the Bengali calendar. Rabindra Jayanti is celebrated as joyfully as any major festival in Kolkatta.
 

Surya Grahan

A Total Solar Eclipse – Purna Surya Grahan – will take place on July 11, 2010. It is not visible in India. The eclipse will be visible only in parts of South America, Cook Islands, French Polynesia etc. Hindu Panchangs and calendars have ignored the Suryagrahanam. As per the India Time the eclipse will be taking place from 23:45:00 hrs on July 11, 2010 to 02:20:00 on July 12, 2010. The GMT or Universal Time of the Eclipse is from 18:15 UT to 20:52 UT

According to NASA, the Suryagrahan on July 11 is a ‘Total Solar Eclipse’ and Moon's umbral shadow crosses the South Pacific Ocean where it makes no landfall except for Mangaia (Cook Islands) and Easter Island (Isla de Pascua). The path of totality ends just after reaching southern Chile and Argentina. The Moon's penumbral shadow produces a partial eclipse visible from a much larger region covering the South Pacific and southern South America.

Usually, Hindus do not perform any work during Surya Grahan and they purify themselves by taking a bath and chants the Ashtakshara Mantra dedicated to Shri Krishna, Lord Vishnu and Shiva. Ashtakshara mantra is ‘Shri Krishna ha sharnam mama.’

Generally most Hindu temples remain closed during the period of solar eclipse and temples reopen on the next day morning after special pujas and rituals. Hindus in large number take holy dip in Rivers like Ganges and other tirths especially at Brahmasarovar in Kurukshetra.

This Surya Grahan is of no importance as per Hindu astrology and calendars. There is no need to follow any rules and rituals.

What do Hindus do during Surya Grahan?

There are numerous recording of Surya Grahan, or Solar Eclipse, in Hindu scriptures. The most famous being the Suryagrahan during the famous Mahabharata war. Usually, Hindus do not perform any work during Surya Grahan and they purify themselves by taking a bath and by chanting mantras. A complete fast is undertaken by many Hindus during the period. In Hindu religion, taking a holy dip at sacred rivers and tirths on the Surya Grahan day is considered highly auspicious.  

The next Surya Grahan is on January 15, 2010.

Ancient sages and texts like Brahman Siddhanta restrict viewing the eclipse – one should look at an eclipse through a cloth or a reflection of it. A pregnant woman should never look directly at an eclipse.

Mantras Chanted during Surya Grahan

Some of the important mantras that are chanted during the Surya Grahan include:

Gayatri Mantra

Ashtakshara Mantra dedicated to Shri Krishna. Ashtakshara mantra is ‘Shri Krishna ha sharnam mama.’ Astakshari Mantra is also taken as ‘Om Namoh Narayan Na Yah.’

Mahamrityunjay Mantra is also chanted during eclipse.

Other mantras chanted are Surya Kavach Strotra and Aditya Hridaya Strotram

 It is important that one chants mantra, or remember god in any form, at this time to keep calm and the aura clean.

Hindu Temples Remain Closed

All Hindu Temples remain closed during Surya Grahan. Temples open only after proper rituals are performed to get rid of the ill effects of the Surya Grahan. However, some Lord Shiva temples remain open during Surya Grahan as Lord Shiva is considered as ‘Layakara,’ who Himself is an embodiment of darkness.

Fasting During Surya Grahan

Adult Hindus stop eating 12 hours before a solar eclipse. Children, old people and those who are ill stop eating 3 hours before the beginning of a solar eclipse. If the solar eclipse ends after sunset, then people fast during night and consume food only next day morning.

One should not take food at the time of Grahan because it is said that at this time the most harmful rays from the sun can be seen and absorbed. 

Pregnant Woman and Surya Grahan

Normally at the time of Surya Grahan, pregnant women are supposed to not come out of the house, with no sunlight entering either by doors or windows. This is to avoid harmful rays.

Story of Surya Grahan and Chandra Grahan in Hindu mythology

Surya Grahan, solar eclipse, is widely mentioned in the Holy Scriptures of Hinduism. There is also an interesting myth regarding the occurrence of Surya Grahan. It happened during the Samdura Manthan (churning of ocean) episode in the Puranas. Rahu (Demon) and Mohini, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, are the main characters in the incident.

The Amrit (elixir) that was obtained from churning the ocean was cunningly stolen by Ausras (Demons). Lord Vishnu took the form of Mohini, a beautiful damsel, to win back the Amrit. She achieved her mission by enamoring the Asuras, they fell for her beauty and handed over the Amrit to her.

Mohini returned to the Devas and started distributing it. Devas sat in a line and mohini gave a portion to each one of them. Rahu, an Asura, who found out that they were tricked took the form a Deva and sat in the line between Chandra (Moon God) and Surya (Sun God).

When Mohini approached Rahu, Chandra and Surya realized that Rahu was not one among them and soon identified him as an Asura. Mohini soon severed the head of Rahu which flew into the sky. Rahu’s, depicted in the form of a Snake head occasionally, continued to live and decided to avenge Surya and Chandra.

Thus periodically Rahu engages in a war with Surya and Chandra. The Chandra Grahan (Lunar eclipse) and Surya Grahan (Solar eclipse) takes place when Rahu gobbles up Moon and Sun respectively. Surya and Chandra then fights to free themselves.

Holy Bath in Brahma Sarovar in Kurukshetra During Surya Grahan

Millions of Hindus take a holy dip the famous Brahma Sarover at Kurukshetra in Haryana on the Surya Grahan or solar eclipse day. The Brahma Sarover located here is a highly sacred ‘Tirth’ and it is believed that Lord Brahma began the creation process from here. Lord Krishna discussed the Bhagavad Gita with Arjuna on the battle field of Kurukshetra and the greatest battle in epic Mahabharata also took place here.

It is widely believed that to bath in the in Brahma Sarover in Kurukshetra is equal to performing the famous Ashwa Medha Yajna or Yagam mentioned in several Hindu scriptures. During the Surya Grahan period it is a mela like atmosphere in Kurukshetra. It is also said that all the holy waters in the rivers mentioned in the Hindu scriptures flow to the Brahma Sarover Tirth during solar eclipse.

It must be also noted that during the famous 18-day Kurukshetra battle fought in the Mahabharata, on the fourteenth day of the battle a total solar eclipse takes place, which helps Arjuna to kill Jayadratha. This happened with the blessing of Lord Krishna. 

Surya Grahan and Pregnent Women

What Should Pregnent Women Do During Surya Grahan

There is lot of fear among many Hindus regarding Surya Grahan (Solar Eclipse) and Pregnancy. Most people want to know about precautions to be taken during Surya Grahanam. The only precaution that you should take is that you should never look at the Sun directly during the Grahan. As a clear cut solution, ancient seers in Hinduism recommend pregnant women remain indoors during Grahan. The mantra chanted during the period is the Santana Gopala Mantra.

Astrological View Point

Now for those of you believe in astrology, there is a ‘punya kala’ when the Surya Grahan is visible. And people observe fasting during this period. If the Grahan is not visible in the particular region, there is no ‘punya kala’ and there are no restrictions.

There is no restriction in moving around if there is no Surya Grahan in your region. 

Ayurvedic View Point

Some traditions in Hindu religion ask pregnant women to sit or lie down on a mat containing Darbha grass or Kusha Grass. It is also advised to keep some Kusha Grass with the pregnant woman.

Fasting during Grahan

Now there are several Hindu communities that fast (Upvaas) during Surya Grahan. A pregnant woman should take the advice of her doctor before fasting. If you are so particular about fasting, you can fast just during the Surya Grahan period and avoid a complete fast. 

The Use of Metal or Sharp Objects

There is a popular belief that pregnant women should not use sharp metal objects like knife, pins etc during the Grahan period. In simple terms they should not cut anything during the period or should not wear pins etc. Some people suggest that it will be hard to stop the blood flow if there is a cut on the body during the period. But this has no proper scientific backing.

Adhik Mas & Chaturmas

Adhik Mas 

The Hindu calendar is based around the lunar cycle. Since this calendar is based around the phases of the moon, a lunar year lasts for 354 days. This creates a difference of 10-11 days between the lunar and solar years. When this accumulated difference exceeds 29 days, approximately every 3 years, an adjustment is made with an extra month, the Adhik (extra), or Purushottam Mas. The extra month carries the name of the next month.

The concept of Adhika Masa is unique to the traditional Hindu lunar calendars. In 2010 Hindu calendar, there is an Adhika Masam or Adhik Masa or an extra month. This Adhika Masam is from March 30, 2010 to April 28, 2010 as per North Indian Calendar. In Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, the Adika Masa is from April 15, 2010 to May 14, 2010. This extra month is known as Adhik Vaishak Maas or Adhik VaishakMahina. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna and as Vaishak is auspicious to Vishnu this makes the extra month in 2010 double auspicious.

So in 2010 there are thirteen months in Hindu Lunar calendar. Apart from the normal 12 months, there is an an Adhik Vaishak Maas.

It must be noted here that there is no Adhika Masam in the calendars followed in Assam, Bengal, Kerala, Orissa and Tamil Nadu as it is based on Solar Calendar.

Why There is an Adhika Masa?

The Hindu calendar is a lunar calendar and is based on the cycles of the Moon. A lunar month is around 29.5 days long. Now, a solar month, that is the usual calendar, is 30 to 31 days.

The lunar year consists of 354 solar days and solar year consists of 365 days. So, as years pass by each lunar month starts earlier to the corresponding solar month. There is a difference of 11 days between the lunar and solar year. In every two or three solar years the difference between the two calendars becomes a full month or around 29 days. To compensate and get the two calendars similar an extra month is added Vasishta Siddhanta, a treatise of Sage Vasishta, says that the Adhika Masa occurs after every 32 months, 16 days and 8 Ghadis. A Ghadi is 24 minutes.

Now, in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Gujarat the lunar month begins and ends with the new moon or no moon (amavasya). In North India, the lunar month begins and ends with full moon (purnima). 

For an average devotee, the Adhika Masa means some change in the temple celebrations in the States following the lunar calendar. For example, due to the Adhika Masam, there will be two Brahmotsavams in Tirupati this year. And the Adhika Masa is dedicated to Lord Krishna.

Acharya Swamishree presents His niyams to Lord Shree Swaminarayanbapa Swamibapa at the start of Chaturmas 

 

The year Samvat 2060 (2004 CE) is such a year where we have an Adhik Mas. We have 2 Shravan months, the first is the Adhik month, which starts on the 18th July and ends on the 16th August. The annual Shravan month begins on the 17th August.

Chaturmas


The Shravan month falls within the auspicious Chaturmas. The 4 month period between Ashad sud ekadashi (usually falls around July) and Kartik sud ekadashi (October / November) is referred to as the Chaturmas, literally, 4 months. During this time, all disciples will take extra vows such as fasting, scripture recitals, meditation and other religious observances as described by Lord Swaminarayan in the Shikshapatri, sloks 76-78. 

A story is narrated in the Purans about the deity Ekadashi, such named because she emerged from the one of the Lord's indriya. There are 5 gnaan indriya, senses, and 5 karma indriya, the controlling organs of these senses. The mind controls all the organs so is considered the 11th organ. Ekadashi literally means eleven, ek + dash, 1 + 10 = 11. The deity Ekadashi was granted her wish and was allowed by the Lord to reside in his eyes for the duration of the chaturmas. Thus the Lord is said to hibernate during this period. That is why the Ashad sud 11 is also referred to as the Devshayan (dev - Lord, shayan - sleep) ekadashi. During the period that the Lord is resting, disciples will practice extra religious practices (niyams) to please the Lord. 

On a practical level, this time period is when the monsoon season falls in India. As a result of the heavy rainfalls, it would be impossible for the wandering sages and preachers to travel the land to preach and offer spiritual guidance. Therefore, during this period they would remain resident at one place. As they are no longer travelling, they have spare time, which is occupied with the extra vows, and thus they further please the Lord. 

Adhik Mas / Chaturmas Discourses

 

The Adhik month and the Chaturmas are considered very auspicious and extra observances (vrat) are taken. One of the major vrats taken is to attend religious discourses. To facilitate this important observance, special Adhik Mas / Chaturmas discourses, lasting 5 days, are held in all the major Temples of Shree Swaminarayan Gadi Sansthan.

Shree Swaminarayan Bapa Charitramrut Sagar 

 

Many years ago, during one of the Chaturmas seasons, Sadguru Shree Ishwar Bapa sent Jeevanpran Swamibapa to tour the villages and perform the special discourses. He used to recite the Sanskrit Granth the Satsangi Jeevan and the Shikshapatri Bhashya. At that time, Jeevanpran Swamibapa asked Sadguru Bapa, "In all the Granths that we read in the Chaturmas, the supremacy of Lord Swaminarayan is not clearly stated. Is there a scripture in which the true supreme status of Lord Swaminarayan is written, and the pure unadulterated tenets of Lord Swaminarayan are clearly stated?" Sadguru Bapa replied, "Yes there is. Lord Swaminarayan Himself gave this divine scripture to our Gopal Bapa who gave it to Nirgun Bapa, who in turn passed it to me (Ishwar Bapa). This scripture is now with you (Swamibapa). It has never been written down, but has been passed by mouth through our divine lineage. Only these divine individuals know and can comprehend how great our Lord Swaminarayan truly is. My wish is that you (Swamibapa) will write down this divine scripture."

After the Amrut Mahotsav celebrations in 1977 CE, Jeevanpran Swamibapa started writing the divine scripture that had been passed down our spiritual heritage. He named it, Shree Swaminarayan Bapa Charitramrut Sagar. It is written in Sanskrit. In Hinduism, the largest granth is said to be the Bhagwat Gita. The Swaminarayan Bapa Charitramrut Sagar comprises of even more verses than the Bhagwat Gita. This great, divine scripture is recited during the Adhik Mas / Chaturmas discourses. 

Akshaya Trithiya

Akshaya Trithiya, or Akha Teej, is a highly auspicious day which falls on the third day after Amavasi (no moon) in the Hindu month of Vaishakha. In 2010, the date of Akshaya Trithiya is May 16. As per Hindu astrology and almanac, each second on the Akshaya Trithiya day is auspicious. It is said that there is no need to look for a ‘muhurat’ on the day. The word Akshaya means ‘that which never diminishes’ and the day is ideal for beginning new ventures as it is believed that all investments on this day appreciates.

Most Panchangs in North India except for Mithila Panchang has termed Akshay Tritiya 2010 as inauspicious - it is not good for marriages and other auspicious events. 

 

In a traditional Hindu lunar calendar, Akshay Tritiya is observed on the third day of Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) in Vaishakh Month. 

It is believed that the sun and the moon are most radiant and best placed on the day. Therefore it is one of the most popular dates in Hindu calendar for marriages, for beginning new ventures, for investing and for purchasing valuables like gold and diamond.

Parashuram Jayanti is also observed on Akshaya Tritiya day. There are numerous legends associated with Akshaya Tritiya; most popular is that of Sudama or Kuchela visiting Lord Krishna in Dwarka with a handful of beaten rice (poha or aval). 

Another legend suggests that the Pandavas received the Akshaya Pathram (bowl) from Lord Krishna (in the Mahabharata) on this day. 

It is also believed that Sage Vyasa began the composition of Mahabharata on the day.

Lord Vishnu and his incarnations are worshipped on the day. People also conduct Lakshmi puja on Akshaya Tritiya.

But nowadays, Akshaya Trithiya is associated with gold purchase and many people wait for the day to make investments in gold.

 Legends associated with Akshay Tritiya

Akshaya Tritiya is one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar and is considered ideal for new beginning and investment. One of the most important legends associated with observing Akshaya Trithiya is that of Lord Krishna and Kuchela. Another significant mythology is that of the Pandavas receiving the Akshay Patra from Krishna. Interestingly, Lord Krishna plays and important part in the stories associated with Trittiya. 

In the most famous story associated Akshaya Tritiya, Kuchela, a poor Brahmin and schoolmate of Sri Krishna, visited Krishna with the intention of asking some financial favor. Kuchela, also known as Sudama, carried with him handful of poha or aval (beaten rice). On reaching, the palace of Krishna at Dwarka, Kuchela was ashamed to give the ‘poha’ to Krishna.

But the ever playful Krishna noticed the small bag in the hand of his schoolmate and soon grabbed it and ate a handful of ‘poha’. Kuchela could not believe his eyes, Krishna, the king, eating his poha.

It is said ‘Athiti Devo Bhava’ (Guest are equal to God) and Krishna treated Kuchela like a God. The poor Brahmin was so overwhelmed by the love shown by Krishna that he forgot to ask for financial help and returned home empty handed.

On reaching his village Sudama could not find his old hut. Instead his hut was replaced by a palace. His wife and children were wearing good clothes and everything that was old and worn out was replaced with new. 

It didn’t take long for Kuchela to realize that all this was the ‘leela’ of the ever-smiling Sri Krishna. The day Kuchela met Sri Krishna was hence observed as Akshaya Tritiya. 

Another legend happened in the Mahabharata. While the Pandavas were in exile, Sri Krishna presented them with an Akshaya Patra – a bowl which gives unlimited amount of food. It is believed that Krishna had presented it on a Trithiya day. Therefore it is believed that all investments on the day will only increase in value.

The day is also the birthday of Lord Parashuram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

According to the Puranas, the day also marks the beginning to Treta Yuga. On this day, Veda Vyasa began the composition of the Mahabharata.

What to do on Akshaya Tritiya

Thanks to the vigorous campaign conducted by banks, jewellery shops and financial institutions, Akshay Tritiya has gained prominence. Although modern retailers are exploiting the materialistic urge in people, there is today a very high awareness regarding Akshaya Tritiya or Akha Teej. So, how to observe Akshay Tritiya and what are the special pujas?

The main puja and prayers on the day is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Therefore you can do a simple Vishnu pooja in the morning with Tulsi leaves and flowers. Some people also perform an elaborate Lakshmi puja or Lakshmi kubera homa.

Annadhanam – offering food to the poor is considered to be the greatest thing one can do on this day. Hindus believe there is no Dhanam greater than Annadhanam.

There is a popular belief that whatever one invests in on the day will continue to grow and bring prosperity. Therefore people invest in gold on the day. 

People also make donations and give alms on the day. Umbrellas, sandals etc are also donated in some regions.

Since it is one of the most auspicious days in a Hindu calendar, people begin new ventures on the day.

People also visit shrines of Goddess Lakshmi, Vishnu and Lord Krishna.

Significance of Akshaya Tritiya

Every moment is auspicious on the Akshaya Tritiya day, which falls on the third day of the bright half of Hindu month Vaishakh. ‘Akshaya’ in Sanskrit means ‘that which never diminishes.’ It is also the birthday of Parashurama, Lord Vishnu’s Sixth incarnation. Today, Akshaya Tritiya has become the ‘Hindu gold rush’ day.

 Astrologically, it is believed that the sun and the moon are most radiant and best placed on the Askhaya Tritiya day. Many devout Hindus choose the day to conduct auspicious functions. There is no need to select a ‘muhurat’ on this day as the entire day is devoid of malefic influences. Large number of marriages and several new beginnings take place on the day.

There are numerous legends associated with Akshaya Tritiya. According to the Puranas, the day marks the beginning to Treta Yuga. On this day, Veda Vyasa began the composition of the Mahabharata. Another myth is that Kuchela visited Lord Krishna on this day.

In the Mahabharata, the Pandavas received the Akshaya Pathram (bowl) from Lord Krishna on this day. The Akshaya Pathram provided unlimited food for the Pandavas during their exile. Due to this reason, people believe that anything that is acquired on this day will be replenished. Therefore people conduct special puja for Goddess Lakshmi and buy new gold and silver ornaments and invest money in shares and real estate.

Nowadays, the media managers of various jewelry houses create hype around Akshaya Tritiya day. Due to this jewelry shops witness heavy rush. To add to the gold craze, many banks bring out special gold coins for the occasion.

Jewellers plan brighter this Akshay Tritya 

Another significant development is that better technology and organized manufacture is taking place in the country over the last 18 months

Akshay Tritya under which to invest by the man still widely remains a preferred option will strengthen. In the absence may be liquidated at any time. Standard gold and ornaments said record-high increases.

GJF According to estimates, the country will grow 15% in sales compared to last Akshay Tritiya. Vinod Hayagriv President, All India Gems and Jewellery Trade Federation, "the economy this year in all sectors, does a great explosion said, we consumers Akshay Tritya an investment as gold will be ready sure the yellow metal because of higher prices, though, or at this level or to stabilize is expected to rise even further. " 

place within the last 18 months in the country is another important development is the production of better technology and organization. Jewelry and gems, this transition also helps to make the new lighter versions. For instance, at the beginning of a bracelet is made that: There were a couple of 40 grams.