Category: festivals

  • Vaikuntha Ekadasi

    It is believed that by observing a fast on Vaikuntha Ekadasi day and spending the day in poojas and prayers to Lord Vishnu, one will be absolved of all sins and will attain Moksha and the doors of Vaikunta will be kept open for the soul after it leaves this physical body.

  • Dhanteras – First day of Diwali

    Dhanteras is celebrated on the thirteenth day (teras) of the Krishna paksha (the waning cycle) of the lunar month of Ashwin in the Hindu calendar. It heralds the beginning of the five days of Diwali, the biggest festival for Hindus in India and all over the world. Dhanteras falls on October 26th, 2008. Dhanteras also…

  • Karva Chauth – A Celebration for Women

    Karva Chauth is celebrated on the fourth day of the waning moon (the period after Sharad Poornima). It usually falls in late October, ten days or so before Diwali. According to tradition, women keep a day-long fast and pray to Goddess Parvati for the health and longevity of their husbands.

  • Ganesha Chaturthi Mantras – Part 6

    Ganesha Chaturthi is celebrated on the fourth day after the new moon in the waxing portion of the lunar fortnight of Bhaadrapada (usually in late August or early September). One way to celebrate the festival is to meditate upon the 108 names of Lord Ganesha. Each of the 108 names evokes a specific quality, power…

  • Ganesha Chaturthi Mantras – Part 5

    Ganesha Chaturthi is celebrated on the fourth day after the new moon in the waxing portion of the lunar fortnight of Bhaadrapada (usually in late August or early September). One way to celebrate the festival is to meditate upon the 108 names of Lord Ganesha. Each of the 108 names evokes a specific quality, power…