Vaishaka Masam
The greatness of vishaka masa was first put across by sage narada to king ambarisha..Vaishaka masam is said to be the most dearest to lord vishnu.If a person takes a holy bath in karthik masam they incur 10 times benefit than taking bath in other months, if a holy bath is taken during margarshira month they incur 100 times benefit, if taken during mag masam they incur 1000 times benefit, if taken during vaishaka masam the benefit occurred cannot be described in one's life time.
Just as there is no yuga equal to that of krta, there is no masam equal to that of vishaka for holy bath. For a period of 144 minutes from 4:000 am all the tirtha dieties enter into rivers, lakes, etc. as commanded by the lord. Their only sole purpose is to purify all the beings that take bath during that time.
A person who bathes in the morning during vaisaka masamam in any river or lake shall be liberated from the sins committed ever since the birth. If a person bathes in either one of the seven gangas namely ganga, budhi ganga, yamuna, sarasvathi, kaveri, narmada and krshna is liberated from sins acquired during crore of births.
One who donates water sheds to the needy during this month elevates a crore of the memebers of his fmily, and is honoured in abode of Vishnu.If cool water is given to disciplined brahmin oppressed by thirst; that act incurs the merit of more than thousand rajasuya yagans.If upon the request of a brahmin, a person gives a footware during this month, is born as a king during next birth.
As said earlier the greatness of vishaka month cannot be told completely, therefore a devtoee of vishnu, who with his control over their senses and food takes holy dip, spend most of their time chanting the Lord 's name and by giving charitable gifts during the vishaka masam is said to be very dear to Lord Vishnu.
Legend Of Vaishaka Masam :-
According to Narada muni, Kartika(Tulam-Vrischikam), Magha(Makaram-Kumbham) and Vaisakha(Medam-Idavam) are the finest months, but of these three, Vaisakha is supreme. Vaisakha has the capacity to remove the sins of past births and liberate the worshipper from worldly bondage. It is the best month for dharma, yagna, rituals and tapasya, as it is the most suitable compared to other seasons. Vasant (some write basant) or spring is conducive for worship for the common man ( householder) and during this time, from Meena to Karkata ( Pisces to Cancer) i.e. from Chaitra Sankranti to Shravana Sankranti, Vishnu roams the celestial woods and gardens with Rama. During Vaisakha, Vishnu tests his devotees, as those who sit idle during this month, without any puja or dAna, suffer a fall in dharma. The four purusharthas, namely, Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha are attainable with Vaisakhadharma, i.e., worship and rituals during this month will yield nothing less than the fruits of these highest goals. At a more mundane level, it grants ayu (longevity), yash (fame) and pushti (sustenance) and the unending blessings of Vishnu.
Vaisakha is the month par excellence for doing dAna (charity), yagna (fire sacrifice some write yajna), vrata (fasting ritual) and snan (bathing).
According to sacred scripts it is said that, Tretha Yuga had commenced on 3rd day of the bright fortnight (sukla Thrutheeya) in the Hindu lunar month Vaisakha Masam; Krutha Yuga on the 9th day of the bright fortnight (sukla Navami) in Kaartheeka Masam; Kali Yuga on 13th day of the dark fortnight (Trayodasi) in Bhaadrapada Masam and Dwaapara Yuga on the New Moon day (Bahula Amaavaasya) in Maagha Masam.
As per the above Time schedule Akshaya Thrutheeya can be assumed as the day when Tretha Yuga had commenced known as Tretha Yugaadi. It is also believed to be the day when one of the Kalpas’ had begun.
Auspicious Day:-
Akshaya Thrutheeya is the sacred day Lord Parashuraama (Lord Vishnu’s Avathara) was born celebrated as Sri Parashuraama Jayanthi.
According Simhachala Kshethra Mahatmya, Akshaya Trutheeya is the sacred and auspicious day; Lord Vishnu manifested in dual form (Varaaha + Naarasimha) at Simhachala Kshethra during Krutha Yuga.
Quote From Mahabharatam:-
In Mahabhaaratha, Lord Sri Krishna is said to have enlightened Dharmaraja about the significance of Akshaya Thrutheeya. Sacred scripts like Vishnu Purana; Bhavishyottara Purana are said to have described the prominence of Akshaya Thrutheeya.
Special celebrations are held at all Vishnu related temples on this sacred day of Akshaya Thrutheeya, also known as Maadhava Trutheeya occurring in the holy and meritorious month Vaisaakha maasam during Vasantha Ruthu. Vaisaakha maasam is also known as Maadhava maasam in the name of Lord Vishnu who is also known as Maadhava.
We find even the Brundavanas of Sri Raaghavendra Swamy including the Moola Brundavana at Mantralayam will be adorned with Chandana on the day of Akshaya Thrutheeya.
Change In Planetary Consetellation:-
Astrologically Akshaya Thrutheeya is the day the royal planets (luminaries) Sun and Moon will be in their signs of exaltation; Sun in Aries (Mesha Raasi) and Moon in Vrushabha Raasi (Taurus). If the day is also coinciding with Wednesday and Rohini constellation it is considered to be highly meritorious.
Customs & Traditions Of Akshaya Thrutheeya:-
(What is to be done on this day?)
On this auspicious day one should take head bath early in the morning. Taking bath in the river Ganges on this sacred day is said to be highly meritorious.
Giving Thila Tharpana to fore fathers is prescribed on this sacred day which is considered to be meritorious.
Lord Sri Maha Vishnu should be worshipped in the form of Sri Varaaha, Sri Lakshmi Naarasimha, Sri Krishna and Sri Lakshmi Naaraayana.
Worshiping Lord Sri Krishna with Chandana (sandalwood paste) on this day is given lot of significance and merits. It is said that, one who worships Lord Sri Krishna with Chandana on this day will attain Vishnu Loka.
Ya: karothi thruteeyaayaam Krushnam
Chandana Bhooshitham!
Vaisaakhasya sithe pakshe
sayaachyuta mandiram!!
Reciting Vishnu Sahasra Naama Stothram; stothras related to Lord Varaaha and Lord Lakshmi Naarasimha; on this day are prescribed.
Reading/Listening Sri Venkatesa Mahaatmya (Srinivasa Kalyaanam) Puraana for a week days starting from this day is highly meritorious.
Charity (Daanam) Of This Day:-
Giving charity on this auspicious day is given lot of significance; which is said to be highly sacred; celestial that will give multi-folded meritorious results. Though there are many types of charities that can be given; giving Udaka Kumbha Dana on this day is given lot of prominence.
Udaka means water, Kumbha means pot. Giving charity of water stored in a pot made up of Copper, Silver, or at least earthen pot (made up of mud) covered with a new cloth to a Brahmin on this auspicious day is said to be sacred and highly meritorious.
Yesha DharmaGhato Dhattoh Brahma Vishnu Sivathmaka
Asya Pradhanathsakalam mamasanthu manoratha
Meaning: Let this water pot called Dharma Ghata signifying the trinal lords (Brahma, Vishnu and Siva) bring unto me fulfillment of all desires. This can be given either in memory of fore fathers or to please the deities.
Apart from Udaka Kumbha Daana; giving charity of wheat; curd rice; umbrella; paada raksha (chappals); vasthra (clothes); Gho-Daana (cow), Bhoodana; Hiranya Daana (Gold/silver/Cash) on this day is considered to be sacred, punyadayaka which will produce multifold and everlasting (Akshaya) merits.
Yava homa, Yava Daana (charity), Yava Bhakshana is prescribed on this day that is highly sacred that helps in getting the sins diluted. Only one time meals is prescribed on this day.
Vaisakha Masam is considered as one of the most sacred months among the Hindu Lunar Months. According to Skandha Puraana; Krutha Yuga among the ages; Holy river Ganga (Ganges) water among the Theerthas; Jala Daana (donating water) among charities; and Vaisaakha maasam among the months are said to be the best.
It is the sacred month in which three of Lord Vishnu’s incarnations’ viz. Parashuraama (sukla Thrutheeya); Naarasimha (sukla Chaturdasi) and Kuurma (sukla Pournami) avatharas have taken place.
Akshaya Truteeya:-
Vaisaakha Sukla Trutheeya is celebrated as Akshaya Thrutheeya one of the most auspicious days in Hindu calendar. According to sacred scripts it is said to be the day Tretha Yuga had commenced reckoned as Tretha Yugaadi.
According Simhachala Kshethra Mahatmya, Vaisaakha maasam is the sacred month Lord Vishnu manifested in dual form (Varaaha + Naarasimha) at Simhachala Kshethra during Krutha Yuga.
Among the incarnations of Lord Vishnu; Naarasimha avathara has attained a rare significance and unique importance. All His avatharas are generally in a single form. But Nrusimha avathara is that of a dual form; Nara + Simha.
According to sacred scripts, Naarasimha-avathara occurred in Krutha Yuga during Vaisaakha maasam on the lunar day of sukla Chaturdasi in the constellation of Swathi during Pradosha time. To commemorate incarnation of Lord Naarasimha, special celebrations are held every year on this day called Nrusimha Jayanthi.
Vaisaakha maasam is the sacred month Lord Venkateswara (Sreenivaasa) married Goddess Padmavathi Devi on the auspicious day of Vaisaakha sukla Dasami according to Bhavishyottara Puraana. Commemorating this event a three day festival of Sri Sreenivaasa Kalyaanam is performed on this day at the sacred Tirumala hills.
At the famous temple of Sri Satyanarayana Swamy at Annavaram in Andhra Pradesh; Kalyaanotsavam celebrations are held on the sacred day of Vaisaakha Sukla Ekaadasi.
Electional astrology considers Vaisaakha maasam as one of the most auspicious months for performing auspicious ceremonies like marriage; upanayanam; gruha pravesa etc.
Seventh day in Vaisakha maasam (Sapthami) is known as Ganga Sapthami or Gangotpatti the day Holy Ganga came out of Sage Jahnu’s ear and thenceforth came to be known as Jaahnavi.
According to certain calendars it is the sacred month in which Lord Hanuman said to have born on Vaisaakha Bahula Dasami celebrated as Sri Hanuma Jayanthi on.
Vaisaakha Bahula Amaavaasya is celebrated as Sri Sanaischara Jayanthi the day Lord Shani Mahaatma (Saturn) was born.
Sri Badarinaath temple at the famous Badari Kshethra gets opened for public darshan during Vaisaakha maasam.
Full Moon day during Vaisaakha maasam is known as Mahaa Vaisaakhi when the Moon will be at or nearer to the constellation of Visaakha star and hence the name Vaisaakha maasam. Vaisaakha maasam is the month in which Sun’s transit into Vrushabha raasi takes place known as Vrushabha Sankramana.
Austerities-Customs & Traditions during Vaisakha maasam:-
Praathah Snaana (taking bath early morning) starting from Chaithra Sukla Pournami to Vaisaakha sukla Pournami; Thila tharpana and donating water (Udaka Kumbha daana) are prescribed during Vaisaakha maasam.
Worshiping Lord Vishnu with Krishna Thulasi; Chandana (sandalwood paste) during Vaisaakha maasam is considered as highly meritorious and mukthi daayaka.
Watering of Banyan tree; performing circumambulations around the Aswatta Vruksha; Go-Seva (caretaking of/service to cows) are some of the austerities recommended during Vaisaakha maasam considered to be meritorious.
Paaraayana (reading) or Listening or sponsoring of Sri Venkatesa Mahaatmya (Sreenivaasa Kalyaanam) starting from Akshaya Thrutheeya for a week days up to the sacred day of Vaisaakha Sukla Dasami is highly meritorious.
Performing or participating Sreenivaasa Kalyaanam on the day of Vaisaakha Sukla Dasami is highly meritorious.
Thila daana; Thila Snaana; Thila Homa; Thila-thyla Deepa Daana; Thila Tharpana are prescribed on the day of Vaisaakha Sukla Pournami.
Charities prescribed for Vaisaakha maasam:-
Vaisakha Masam is the most sacred and celestial month for giving charities. Among charities to be given during Vaisaakha maasam; donating water (Udaka Kumbha Daana) is given high prominence.
It can be given throughout the month and most important days for giving Udaka Kumbha daana are; on the day of Akshaya Thrutheeya; Vaisaakha Pournami; on the day of Vrushabha Sankramana;
Other charities prescribed for the month.
Apart from Udaka Kumbha Daana; charity of
wheat;
curdrice;
umbrella;
paadaraksha(chappals);
vasthra(clothes);
Gho-Daana(cow),
Bhoodana(donatingland);
HiranyaDaana(Gold/silver/Cash);
Honey;
are prescribed to be given during Vaisaakha maasam.
With so much of sanctity and auspiciousness assigned to the meritorious Vaisakha Masam; it is one of the most favourite months of Lord Sri Hari referred to as Maadhava Masam and Lord Vishnu known as Madhusuudana is the presiding Deity of this month.
We find a reference to the words Maadhava and Madhusuudana in sloka #8; 18; 78 of Sri Vishnu Sahasra Naama Stothram. Maadhava means one who is consort of Goddess Lakshmi Devi; one who is the bestower and Lord of superior knowledge.
Madhusuudana means the one who has killed the demon Madhu; one who is a great nourisher and who is as sweet and delicious as Honey; one who directs an individual towards performing good deeds, attaining true knowledge and the one who was born in the clan of King Madhu.
Cultural Beliefs:-
According to the skanda puranam, vaisakha masam is the best month. In this month the Lord Vishnu has three incarnations as Sage Parushurama, Lord Narasimha and kurma. It is also believed that treat yuga is formed on sukla tritiya.
In simhachalam, Lord Vishnu is in the form of “Varaha Narasimha”, two forms varaha and Narasimha. Usually he will have only one form but in this month he is in two forms. Special celebration called “chandanavostavam” is performed every year on akshaya tritiya.
People believe that Lord Vishnu tests in this month and helps them to attain the aims of life (dharma, artha, kama and moksha) with following the rituals of vaisaka masam. This helps them to get good health and wealth. Good deeds such as poojas, yagna and homam have to be conducted.
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Pooja Procedure for Vaisakha Masam:-
Daily wake up and do bath in the brahma muhurta time.
Workship Lord Vishnu with Krishna Tulasi and sandalwood paste.
Recite Sri Vishnu Sahasra Naama Stothram.
Do parayanam of Srinivasa Kalyanam on Vaisaka Sukla Dasami.
Read Vaiska puranam daily a chapter to know the details.
Try to water a banyan tree and do pradakshina.
Give service to cows.
Donating water and Tila Tarpanam has to be done.
Significance:-
The important festivals of Vaisaka masam are
Akshaya Tritiya or Parasurama Jayanthi: Akshay Tritiya comes on the third day of Vaisaka Masami e vaisaka sukla tritya. “Akshaya” is inexhaustible and “Tritiya” means third day. It is also called as Akha Teej. The day is very auspicious for starting new ventures, marriages, business, new constructions, investing, property, applying for jobs etc.
Sri Padmavathi-Sreenivaasa Kalyaanam: This comes on the tenth day ie Vaisaka Sukla Dasami. SriVari Kalyanotsavam(Padmavathi Srinivasa Kalyanam) is performed.
Sri Nrusimha Jayanthi: This comes on Vaisaka Sukla Chaturdasi. Lord Vishnu is incarnated as Lord Narasimha and killed King Hiranyakashyap to establish dharma and protect the mankind.
Sri Sanaischara Jayanthi: This comes on Vaisaka Bahula Amaavaasya. Lord Shani was norn on this day.People effected by the Elinati shani, Ashtama Shani and who are under the shani dasha or antardasha has to do powerful prayer Sri Narasimha Stuthi to overcome the difficulties.
Vaisaka saptami is known as Ganga saptami as the holy river Ganga came from the ears of sage jahnu.
Full moon day of vaisaka masam is known as Maha Vaisakam because the moon will be near to the visakha Nakshatra(star) chitta so the masam is called as Vaisaka Masam.
Interesting Facts:
Performing charities is the good aspect in this masam.
Donation of water, food and clothes are considered as the most frequent charities.
Bathing in the brahma muhurtam time at the sacred rivers and worshiping Lord Vishnu.
Observing Vishnu Pooja before sunrise will help to remove all the sins committed.
During Vaisaka Masam in tirumula Srivari Kalyanotsavam and a special three day festival called as Padmavathi Srinivasa Kalyanam is performed.
Preforming the kalyanam or participating is very much meritorious.
Tila Daanam has to be done on Vaisaakha Sukla Pournami.
Charities like food, water, clothes, chappals, umbrella, cow, Land,gold and silver and honey are prescribed.
Donating water is given high preference from the month starting to till Vaisaka Sukla dasami.
Scientific Reasons:
Vishaka month comes in high Summer in India. Every where people face water scarcity and people suffer with heavy thirst. Here comes the tradition to save life's of living organisms in the name of charity.
Water in rivers and sea will have many medicinal benefits.
Bathing tightens the blood vessels and all the exhaust blood and the waste products.
Doing charity will the people in need and some self-satisfaction and helps us to relive from stress.
Special Days in Vaisakha Month:-
Akshaya Tritiya is the most important day in Vaisakha month. Other important days of this month are Sree Shankara Jayanthi, Buddha Jayanthi (Vaisaka poornima), Subrahmanya Jayanti (Vaikasi Visakham), Narasimha Jayanti and Dattatreya Jayanti. The Vaisaka Festival of Kottiyoor Perumal Temple in Kannur district(Kerala) also begins in this month.
Akshaya Tritiya:-
Akshaye Tritiya, falling on the third day of the bright half of the lunar month of Vaisakha of the traditional Hindu calendar, is one of the four most auspicious days of the year for Hindus.
The word Akshaya, a Sanskrit word, literally means one that never diminishes, and the day is believed to bring good luck and success. It is widely celebrated in all parts of India by different sections of the society irrespective of their religious faith and social grouping. The day is particularly considered auspicious for buying long term assets like gold and silver, including ornaments made of the same; diamond and other precious stones; and the real estate. The legend states that any venture initiated on the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya shall continue to grow and bring prosperity. Hence, it is normal to see many of the new ventures, like starting a business, ground breaking for construction etc on the Akshaya Tritiya Day. According to Hindu mythology, on this day the Krita yuga began.
It is believed that by doing a good deed on this day one can earn Punya for life. Every minute of this day is considered sacred. It is considered to be one of the most auspicious days of the Vedic Calendar. Every moment on the Akshaya Tritiya day is auspicious and there is no need to look for a muhurat on the day.Hindus, Buddhists and Jains celebrate this day. It is believed that Satya Yuga (Krita yuga) and Treta Yuga started on this day. On this day the Sun and Moon are at their peak of brightness. Veda Vyaasa dictated and Lord Ganesha started to write the Mahabharata on this day.
New beginnings like weddings, business ventures, new deals, new audit books, business trips are considered to bring luck. Valuables bought on this day, such as gold is deemed auspicious. It is believed that gold multiplies if bought on this day. Akshaya Tritya is an occasion known for bringing communities together. The day is considered auspicious by Hindus and Jains for the purchase of gold, an expression that in some ways is indicative of wealth, beauty and joy. In Rajasthan, the day is called Aakha Teej and is considered very auspicious for weddings as well. With the mass media and marketing, this day has been taken over by marketers to promote sales and bookings for Gold jewellery, houses, consumer electronics.
Akshaya Tritiya, the third day of the bright-half of the lunar month of Vaisakha is considered as one of the most sacred days of the year. The word, "Akshaya" means one that never diminishes. Hence, starting a new activity or buying valuables on this day is considered to certainly bring luck and success. The religious merit that is acquired by giving gifts on this day becomes inexhaustible. Many buy new gold jewelry on this day. Most Jewel stores stock in new jewelry models for this occasion. "Lakshmi-inscribed" gold coins, diamond jewellery and golden dollars with the pictures of many gods and goddesses. The day is generally observed by fasting and worship Lord Vasudeva with rice grains. The day gains more importance when it falls on a Monday or under Rohini Star. A dip in the Ganges on this day is considered to be very auspicious. Akshaya Tritiya is also called Navanna Parvam. Akshaya Tritiya falling on a Rohini star day is considered more auspicious. Lord Kubera, considered to be the richest, is one amongst the Astadikpalakas. Lakshmi Tantram says that this Lord will himself pray to Goddess Lakshmi on this day.
The pujas we have to perform on Akshaya Tritiya include Kubera Lakshmi Puja. This puja has to be performed on this day only. The puja should commence in the morning and end in the evening. From the next day onwards, one has to perform the puja regularly for 108 times by reciting the moola mantra. A photo of Goddess Lakshmi Devi along with Sudarsana Kubera Yantra could be used for the puja. Light with pure ghee should be used. Also light dhoop sticks with Kumkum and turmeric can be used.
The day is generally observed by fasting and worship Lard Vasudeva with rice grains. The day gains more importance when it falls on a Monday or under Rohini Star. A dip in the Ganges on this day is considered to be very auspicious. Akshaya Tritiya is also called Navanna Parvam. This day also happens to be Balarama Jayanti. Akshaya Tritiya falling on a Rohini star day is considered more auspicious. Lord Kubera, considered to be the richest, is one amongst the Astadikpalakas. Lakshmi Tantram says that this Lord will himself pray to Goddess Lakshmi on this day. Most of us are already aware of Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha. Out of these, Artha plays an important role. Artha here means money. Even decades passes by, the importance of Artha remains the same. Without Artha, nothing can be achieved. Here Artha merely does not only mean money but also includes honour, happiness etc. " A child can survive without his mother but he cannot survive without Lakshmi" says Shri Devi Bhagavatha Maha Puranam.
Lord Surya gave Yudhishtira a bowl called Akshaya Patram (meaning inexhaustible vessel) on Akshaya Tritiya day. It was a wonderful vessel, which held a never-failing supply of food to the Pandavas every day. When the Pandavas began their exile in the forest, Yudhishtra was despondent at his inability to feed the holy sages and others who accompanied him. At this, Dhaumya, the priest of the Pandavas, counselled him to pray to Lord Surya. Pleased with Yudhishtira's prayers, Lord Surya blessed him with the Akshaya Patra, a vessel that would give unlimited food every day till Draupadi finished eating.Lord Krishna also once partakes food from the Akshaya Patra, when sage Durvasa arrived at the Pandavas' place with his disciples. When Durvasa arrived, there was no food left to serve him, since Draupadi had already finished eating. The Pandavas became anxious as to what they would feed such a venerable sage. While Durvasa and his disciples were away at the banks of the river bathing, Draupadi prayed to Lord Krishna for help. As always, they were once again saved by Him, who partook of a single grain of rice from the Akshaya Patra and announced that He was satisfied by the meal. This satiated the hunger of Durvasa and all his disciples too, as the satisfaction of Lord Krishna meant the satiation of the hunger of the whole Universe. Akshayapatra, in current usage, refers to any store that is inexhaustible. On Akshaya Tritiya the Pandavas unearthed weapons, which helped the latter to gain victory over the Gandharvas to save the Kauravas in Kamyaka Vana.
The Ganga river, the most holy and sacred river of India, descended to the earth from the heaven on Akshaya Trithiya day. There are several Hindu beliefs that give various versions of the birth of Ganga. According to one version, the sacred water in Brahma's Kamandalu (water-vessel) became personified as a maiden, Ganga. According to another (Vaishnavite) legend, Brahma had reverently washed the feet of Vishnu and collected this water in his Kamandalu. According to yet a third version, Ganga was the daughter of Himavan, king of the mountains, and his consort Mena; she was thus a sister of the goddess Parvati. Every version declares that she was raised in the heavens, under the tutelage of Brahma. Several years later, a king named Sagara magically acquired sixty thousand sons. One day, King Sagar performed a ritual of worship for the good of the kingdom]. One of the integral parts of the ritual was a horse, which was stolen by the jealous Indra. Sagara sent all his sons all over the earth to search for the horse. They found it in the nether-world (or Underworld) next to a meditating sage Kapila. Believing that the sage had stolen the horse, they hurled insults at him and caused his penance to be disturbed. The sage opened his eyes for the first time in several years, and looked at the sons of Sagara. With this glance, all sixty thousand were burnt to death. The souls of the sons of Sagara wandered as ghosts since their final rites had not been performed. When Bhagiratha, one of the descendants of Sagara, son of Dilip, learnt of this fate, he vowed to bring Ganga down to Earth so that her waters could cleanse their souls and release them to heaven. Bhagiratha prayed to Brahma that Ganga come down to Earth. Brahma agreed, and he ordered Ganga to go down to the Earth and then on to the nether regions so that the souls of Bhagiratha's ancestors would be able to go to heaven. Ganga felt that this was insulting and decided to sweep the whole earth away as she fell from the heavens. Alarmed, Bhagiratha prayed to Shiva that he break up Ganga's descent. Ganga arrogantly fell on Shiva's head. But Shiva calmly trapped her in his hair and let her out in small streams. The touch of Shiva further sanctified Ganga. As Ganga travelled to the nether-worlds, she created a different stream to remain on Earth to help purify unfortunate souls there. She is the only river to follow from all the three worlds - Swarga (heaven), Prithvi (earth) and, Patala (neitherworld or hell). Thus is called "Tripathagā" ( one who travels the three worlds) in Sanskrit language. Because of Bhagiratha's efforts Ganga descended on to earth and hence the river is also known as Bhagirathi, and the term "Bhagirath prayatna" is used to describe valiant efforts or difficult achievements.
Akshaya Trithiya is the wedding day of Goddess Madhura Meenakshi and Lord Sri Sundareswara. In order to answer the prayers of the second Pandya king Malayadwaja Pandya and his wife Kanchanamalai, Goddess Parvati appeared out of the Holy Fire of the Putra Kameshti Yagna performed by the king. According to another legend, the goddess herself had given a boon to Kanchanamalai in one of her previous births that she will have the privilege of mothering the goddess. This girl, who came out of the holy fire had three breasts, to the king's shock. A voice from the heavens told him not to worry and added that the third breast would vanish as soon as the girl meets her future husband. The happy king named the girl as 'Tadaatagai' and brought her up. The girl did not have any realization of her birth and she grew up as a normal human girl. Being the heir to the throne after Malayadwaja, Tadaatagai was trained carefully in all the 64 sastras (fields of sciences), which includes warfare, too. As the time came when Tadaatagai should be coronated, according to the customs, she had to wage war on the three worlds across eight directions (Digvijayam). After conquering Satyaloka (Lord Brahma's Abode), Vaikuntha (Lord Vishnu's Abode) and Amaravati (the Divine Abode of the Devas), she advanced to Kailasha (Lord Siva's Abode). She very easily defeated the Bhoota ganas and Nandoi (the celestial bull of Lord Siva) and headed to attack and conquer Siva. No sooner than she looked at Lord Siva, she was unable to fight and bowed her head down due to shyness; the third breast vanished immediately. Tadaatagai realized the reason and understood that Lord Siva is her destined husband. She also realized that she was the incarnation of Goddess Parvati. Both Lord Siva and Tadaathagai return to Madurai and the king arranged the coronation ceremony of his daughter, followed by her marriage with Lord Siva, the next day. The marriage was supposed to be the biggest event on earth, with the whole earth gathering near Madurai. Vishnu, the brother of Meenakshi presided over the marriage function and did the Kanya Dana.
Jagad Guru Sankaracarya during his Brahmacari Bhikshatana one day visited the house of a poor Brahmin lady, whose husband also went to the village for Bhiksha and nothing was available in the house to offer. She was very much upset and worried that she could not offer any thing to such a great person who came to her house. She earnestly searched for some thing to be given in her house. At last she found an Amla fruit (Nellikka - Emblic myrobalan). She was feeling very shy to offer but she gave it with all humility and respect in the bowl of Sankaracarya. Sri Sankaracarya was very much moved at the sight of the poverty, stricken woman and immediately in an extempore way started imploring Goddess Lakshmi to be merciful towards this poor Brahmin lady to drive away her poverty. He recited twenty two slokas in praise of Goddess Lakshmi Who was very much pleased and appeared (Satkshathkara) before Sankaracarya and asked for his cause and all of prayer. Sankaracarya pleaded her to grant riches to the Brahmin lady. Goddess Lakshmi said that this Brahmin lady did not qualify to get any riches in this life as she did not to do any charities in her previous life and carry consideration and she deserves sufferance and justified her stand of not confering any wealth on her. Sankaracarya while accepting her sand replied that in this life she gave him Amla fruit with very great reverence inspiteof not having any thing due toher extreme poverty and this act ofher alone will justify to shower riches on her. Hearing upon this Goddess Lakshmi was greatly moved and immensely pleased with the advocacy of the argument of Sri Sankaracarya and showered instantly golden rain of Amla fruits (Emblic myrobalan). Thus the stotra of Sankaracarya towards Goddess Lakshmi was sacred, famous and popular known as Kanakadhara Stotra. Bhagavatpada Sankaracarya’s Kanakadhara Stotra also called by him as Surarnadhara Stotra studded with Anugraha Bijakshar as aiming at Sri Lakshmi. This event happened on an Akshaya Trithiya Day and the home of that brahmin lady is now famous as Swarnathu Mana. Remembering this incident, Akshaya Tritiya Kanakadhara Yajnam is performed on this day at Kalady Sree Krishna Temple, the family temple of Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya.
Akshaya Tritiya: Revealing the Importance of Daana Mahima:-
Akshaya Tritiya, commences on the third day of the bright half of the lunar month of Vaisakha of the traditional Hindu calendar. This day is considered as one among the four most auspicious days of the year for Hindus. Akshaya Tritiya is gaining much reputation during the past decade. It is alleged that gold multiplies if bought on this day. Highlighting this belief, the jewelries attract customers with vivid discount features and presents. Most of the people have only limited knowledge about this day, as they consider Akshaya Tritiya, the day for buying gold so that prosperity will come to them. The name implies that whatever endeavor we do in this day will become auspicious and perpetual.
The Sathyayuga( Kirtha yuga) begins on Akshaya Tritiya .The incarnation of Vishnu, Balarama, brother of SriKrishna incarnated on this day. MadhuraMeenakshi Devi and Sundaraswara Siva got married in the presence of Lord Vishnu in this day.During Akshaya Tritiya, Saint Bhageeratha , meditated to bring Ganga Devi to earth ,for attaining Mokhsa to the souls of Sagaraputhras, who were cursed by Kapila Maharshi.It is believed that in this day, Aadi Shankara ,recited Kanakadhaara Sthothram to create golden showers of Gooseberry for a poor Brahmin mother who gave Shankara a small berry fruit as Bhiksha. In North India , during this day any virtuous activities can be done without noting Muhoortha. Hence marriages and house warming ceremonies are celebrated more on Akshya Tritiya.
The Matsya Purana, Skanda Purana and Bhavishya Purana describes the importance of Akshya Tritiya emphasizing the Daana Mahima and Vishnu Pooja ,that to be done on this occasion.
In Matsya Purana chapter 65, Lord Mahadeva describes the importance of Akshaya Tritiya and Akshaya Tritheeya Vratha Vidhi. Lord Says - “Oh Narada, I will explain all the rules and procedures of Tritiya day so as to flourish all the noble wishes. You have to do Dana, Havana, and Japa so as to get immense and uncountable prosperity and whoever do Vratha and fasting, will be blessed with good results. Akshaya Tritiya with Karthika Nakshathra is considered to be a divine day. The Homa-Havana-Japa rituals done on this day is stated as Akshaya (eternal). Akshaya Santhana ( virtuous children) and Punya will be showered on to those who undergo Vratha on this day. In this day one should worship lord Vishnu with Akshatham (dry rice and Paddy grains). Hence the name Akshaya Tritiya orginates. The Padmapurana prohibits using Akshatham for Vishnu Woirship(nakshathairarchayeth vishnum - Padmapurana 6:16:20). Akshya Tritiya is the only day in which Akhsatham can be used for Vishnu Pooja. Rest of the days white gigelly must be used. On this day take bath in Akshatha mixed water, worship Vishnu idol using Akshatha, and with Akshatha, do Dana Karma for knowledgeable Bhrahmins. After that eat the Nivedya. Oh! Maharshi Narada, who ever human, following this rituals will be blessed with eternal providence. Whoever done this vratha once in a year gets equal benefits of doing all the Tritiya Vrathas all over the year. Whoever human worship Janardhana Swamy Vishnu during this day following all the rules and regulations of Akshaya Tritiya, will get the prosperity of Raajasooya Yaga and finally attain abode of Lord Vishnu.
The Uthara Parva chapters 30 to 33 of Bhavishya Maha Purana says the significance of Akshya Tritiya. Lord Sri Krishna describes the importance of Akshya Tritiya to King Yudhishtira. Sri Krishna says, “ Oh King Yudhishtira, listen to the story of Shukla paksha Tritiya of Vaishakha Month. Any Karma, Snana, Japa, Homa, Swadhyaya done on this day will become eternal. Sathya yuga has begun in this day. Hence this Thithi is also named as Kritha Yugaadi Tritiya. This day washes all the Papas and brings in endless peace and prosperity. You please hear a famous story about Akshaya Thritheeya.
In Shaakala city, there lived a merchant named Dharman, who was very truthful, righteous, and respectful towards Bhrahmanas, whom he worshipped too. He came to know about the importance of Akshaya Tritiya commencing along with Rohini Nakshathra and Wednesday; that whatever Dana made in this day will become eternal and prosperous. On that day, he bathed in Ganga River and paid homages to his forefathers. After that he offered Dana in the form of food, cloth, water, gold etc to Brahmins very piously. He completely believed in the significance of this date. After some years Dharman died and reborn as King of Kushavathi. Due to the Punya made in previous birth, the King received no scarcity for wealth and affluence, which was immensely showering on him. The King made many Danas, but his wealth didn’t decline and increased countless.
Oh King Yudhishtira , understand the result of Akshaya Tritiya as interminable. Now hear the Vratha Vidhi during this day. Offer Dana to those who deserve, in the form of food( with all the “rasa”), Jala Kumbha, various fruits, cows, land, clothes and gold. All these should be beloved to you also. Whatever Karma (deed) done in this day will not become terminated. That’s why Saints consider this day as “Akshaya Tritiya”
In the 23rd chapter of Skandapurana; Vaishnava khandam; Vaishakha mahaathmyam, Shruthadeva explains the importance of Akshaya Thritheeya.Whoever undergo Snaana (bath) during sun rise; worship Lord Vishnu and hear Bhagavan’s stories in this day will attain Moksha. And whoever does Dana karama on this occasion, will receive eternal prosperity for his deeds, under the supreme command of Lord Vishnu.
All these references from Puranas on Akshaya Tritiya portray the implication of Dana Karma. The Puranas advices not to buy your favorite items during this day, but to donate them so as to perceive eternal prosperity and peace.
Balarama Jayanti:-
The Vaisakha Shuklapaksha Tritiya or Akshay Tritiya is also traditionally celebrated as the birth day of, Lord Balarama or Sankharshana the eighth avatar (incarnation) of Lord Vishnu. He is also known as Halayudha and Balabhadra. Balarama is described as being physically very strong, in fact 'bala' in Sanskrit refers to 'strength'. Balarama is the elder brother of Lord Krishna. Also he is acknowledged as a manifestation of Anantha or Adishesha, the divine serpent on whom Vishnu rests. Balarama Jayanti is celebrated in many Balarama Temples in Kerala like Aluva Srikrishna Balarama Temple, Mazhoor Balarama Temple, Nenmini Balarama Temple and Balarama Shrine in Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple. Chant Balarama Sahasranama Stotra on this day.
Sree Sankara Jayanti:-
Vaisakha Shukla Paksha Panchami is the birth day of Jagadguru Adishankaracharya. Shankracharya was one of India's foremost philosophers. Shankara was born on Vaisakha Shukla Paksha Panchami in a Nampoothiri Brahmin family in 788 AD in a village named Kaladi on the banks of the river Poorna (now Periyar) in Eranakulam district of Kerala. His parents, Shivaguru and Aryamba, had been childless for a long time and the birth of Shankara was a joyous and blessed occasion for the couple. Legend has it that Aryamba had a vision of Lord Shiva and promised her that he would incarnate in the form of her first-born child on Vaisakha Shukla Paksha Panchami. Shankara Jayanti is celebrated with utmost fervor in Shankara Maths all over India. Shringeri Sharada Peetham in Karnataka, Shankar Math in Hyderabad, Kanchi Kamakoti Peetha in Kanchipuram are some places where the celebrations attract a large number of devotees. In Kerala Shankra Jayanti is celebrated at Vadakkunnatha Temple, Brahmaswom Madams, Kalady Sree Shankara Janmasthanam etc.
Narasimha Jayanti:-
Lord Narasimha ("man-lion") is the fourth incarnation (Avatara) of Lord Vishnu. He is worshipped in deity form by a significant number of Vaishnava groups throughout India (especially in the South) and is primariliy known as the 'Great Protector', being a form of Vishnu who specifically defends and protects his devotees in times of need. The most famous story regarding Narashima is described in the Bhagavata Purana : In his previous avatar (incvarnation) of (Varaha), Vishnu killed a rakshasa known as Hiranyaksha. Hiranyaksha's brother Hiranyakashipu, greatly angered by this, started to abhor Lord Vishnu and His followers. Further, he decides to put an end to Vishnu by gaining mystical powers through performance of a great penance for Brahma, the chief among the demigods (devas). Brahma, pleased with his austere penance, then appeared before Hiranyakashipu and granted him a boon. Hiranyakashipu asked for the following:That he would not die on Earth or in Space, nor in fire or water, neither during the day or at night, neither inside a building nor outside, not by a weapon of holding (i.e a sword) or throwing (i.e an arrow), nor by anyone created by Brahma. Thus being granted this boon, Hiranyakashipu then believed himself to be immortal and decided it was now time to avenge the death of his brother Hiranyaksha.
Meanwhile, while Hiranyakashipu had been performing his penance, the divine sage (rishi) called Narada protected Hiranyakashipu's wife Kayadhu after her home had been overtaken by a war party. While under the guidance of Narada, her unborn child (Hiranyakashipu's son) Prahlada, was affected by his transcendental instructions even at such a young stage of development (through the sound vibrations). Thus, Prahlada when born was gradually recognised as being a very devoted follower of Vishnu, much to his father's disappointment.As Prahlada grows in age, his father Hiranyakashipu becomes upset at his devotion to Vishnu, who he sees as his mortal enemy. Eventually his anger leads him to attempt to kill the boy Prahlada in many ways, but each time Prahlada is protected by Vishnu's mystical power. When asked, Prahlada refuses to acknowledge his father as the supreme lord of the universe and claims that Vishnu is omnipresent.
Finally in disgust Hiranyakashipu points to a particular pillar and asks if his Vishnu is in it? Prahlada answers, He was, He is and He will be. In an alternate version of the story, Prahlada answers He is in pillars, and he is in the least twig. Hiranyakashipu, unable to control his anger, smashes the pillar with his mace, and then following a tumultuous sound, Vishnu in the form of Narasimha appears from it and in defence of Prahlada moves to attack his father. In order to kill Hiranyakashipu and not upset the boon given by Brahma, the form of Narasimha was chosen. Hiranyakashipu could not be killed by human, deva or animal, Narasimha is neither one of these, as he is a form of Vishnu incarnate as a part-human, part-animal. He comes upon Hiranyakashipu at twilight (when it is neither day nor night) on the threshold of a courtyard (neither indoors nor out), and puts the demon on his lap (neither earth nor space). Using his nails (neither animate nor inanimate) as weapons, he disembowels and kills the demon. This day (Vaisakha Shukla Paksha Chathurdasi) is celebrated as Narasimha Jayanti.
Vaikasi Visakham - Subrahmanya Jayanti:-
Vaisakha Pournami (full moon day in Vaisakha month) is also famous as Vaikasi Vishakam or Vaigasi Vishakham. It is the birth day of Lord Subrahmnaya or Muruka. Vaikasi Visakam is a major festival observed in Lord Muruga temples. The asterism Visakam is the birth star of Lord Muruka. So Muruka is called Visaka.
Sati, the consort of Shiva immolated herself at Daksha Yaga, which was later destroyed by Shiva. Shakti was reborn as Uma, or Parvati the daughter of the mountain king Himavaan (the Himalayas). Shiva withdrew himself from the universe and engaged himself in yogic meditation in the Himalayas. In the meanwhile, the demon Surapadman ravaged the earth and tormented its beings. It was realized by the gods that only the son born of Shiva and Parvati could lead the gods to victory over Tarakasuran, Surapadman and their demon companions. They plotted with Kaama, the lord of desire, to shoot a flower arrow at Shiva, as he sat in meditation, so as to make him fall in love with Parvati. When Kaama aimed his arrow at Shiva, he opened his third eye and burned him to ashes instantly. Upon hearing the pleas of Kama's wife Rati, he brought back Kama to life, in flesh and blood for her sake, and in a formless state for others. The Devas manage to get Shiva married to Parvati (who was Dakshayani, reborn) by having Manmatha (also known as Kama), the god of love awaken him from his penance, incurring his wrath by opening his third eye of destruction, and being destroyed and resurrected. Shiva hands over his effulgence of the third eye used to destroy Manmatha to Agni, as he alone is capable of handling it till it becomes the desired offspring. But even Agni, tortured by its heat, hands it over to Ganga who in turn deposits it in a lake in a forest of reeds(Shara). The child is finally born in this forest(vana) on Vaisakha Pournami(Vaikasi Vishakam) day with six faces (hence Muruka is also called Shanmugha and Sharavanabhava). He was raised by the six Kartika damsels. He thus got the name Kartikeya. Worship Lord Muruka on vaikasi vishakam day.
Visakha Poornima (Vaisakha Pournami) - Buddha Pournami:-
Visakha Poornima (Vaisakha Pournami) - Buddha Pournami or Buddha Poornima, the principal annual ceremony for all the Buddhists, which falls on the full moon night in the month of Vaisakha commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord Buddha, founder of Buddhism. His life from birth, through marriage, renunciation, enlightenment to maha samadhi is fascinating. Even though he had left his mortal coil over two thousand five hundred years ago, the spirituality created by him has not diminished - it is timelessly ancient. Buddhists celebrate this day with prayer meets, sermons on the life of Gautama Buddha, religious discourses, continuous recitation of Buddhist scriptures, group meditation and processions, worship of the statue of Buddha.
In Hinduism, Lord Buddha is viewed as an Avatar or incarnation of Lord Vishnu. According to Bhagavata Purana, Buddha is the twenty-fourth of twenty-five avatars, prefiguring a forthcoming final incarnation (Kalki). Similarly, a number of Hindu traditions portray Buddha as the most recent (ninth) of ten principal avatars, known as the Daśāvatāra (Ten Incarnations of God). The Buddhist Dasharatha Jataka represents Rama as a previous incarnation of the Buddha as a Bodhisattva and supreme Dharma King of great wisdom. So hindus also worship Buddha on Buddha Poornima day.
Periyalvar's Jayanti:-
Vaiksakha or vaikasi Pournima is also Periyalvar's jayanti. Periyalvar was one among the 12 Alvars. The Alvars (alvar means "one immersed in God") were twelve Vaishnava saints, who during the early medieval period of Tamil history (between the seventh and the tenth centuries CE) helped to revive devotional Hinduism (bhakti) through their hymns of worship to Vishnu and his incarnations. Periyalvar was born into a Brahmin family in Srivilliputhur, near Madurai in the 6th or 9th century(conflicting reports) and was named Vishnuchittar meaning "one who has Vishnu in his mind". Legend says he rejected the vedic philosophical debates of his upbringing to focus on Bhakti, especially on doing simple tasks for God. He would make garlands of flowers for the deity of the temple. One day the Pallava king of the land had a competition between scholars to find one who would explain philosophical principles. Vishnuchittar won the competition by explaining that the path to moksha is by service to God. Legend goes that the king honored Vishnuchittar and God himself came down to earth to see this. Vishnuchittar composed a couplet called "pallandu"(also called Thirup-Palandu out of respect) translating to "Long live for many years, Long live for many years for Hundreds of thousands of years!" to God. This is a very important prayer in Srivaishnava liturgy today. Vishnuchittar composed some pasurams in the 4000 Divya Prabhandham called Perialvar Tirumozhi where he explores a devotee's love for God through the metaphor of Yashoda's motherly love for Krishna. He was the adopted father of Kodhai or Andal, the only woman alvar.
Dattatreya Jayanti:-
Dattatreya or Datta is the son of Sage Athri and Anasooya Devi. The name Dattatreya can be divided into two words - "Datta" (meaning given) and "Atreya" referring to the sage Atri, his physical father). Various Hindu sects worship him differently. In the Nath tradition, Dattatreya is recognized as an Avatar or incarnation of Shiva and as the Adi-Guru (First Teacher) of the Adinath Sampradaya of the Nathas. Although Dattatreya was at first a "Lord of Yoga" exhibiting distinctly Tantric traits, he was adapted and assimilated into the more devotional Vaishnavite cults; while still worshiped by millions of Hindus, he is approached more as a benevolent god than as a teacher of the highest essence of Indian thought. Dattatreya is credited as the author of the Tripura Rahasya given to Parasurama, a treatise on Advaita Vedanta. Dattatreya was born on Vaisakha Krishna Paksha Dasami day and is celebrated as Dattatreya Jayanti.
The sun is a natural giver, giving freely to one and all. Those born in Vaisakha are natural social reformers since they have an integral part of the sun within them. They stand out brilliantly in life, easily overshadowing others. Basaveshwara,Ramanujacharya, Adi Shankaracharya, Swami Chinmayananda and Gautam Buddha were born in this month . Thus, between Akshay Tritiya and Buddha Poornima, there is a celestial gathering and many Mahatmas are born. Almost all social reformers are born during this period and they believed in one thing, Change yourself. The world outside will change dramatically when you change yourself. As the month is summer donating water to the needy helps them.
Shanishchara Jayanti :-
Shani Jayanti is considered to be the day on which Lord Shani was born or appeared on earth. This day is also known as Shanishchara Jayanti or Sani Jayanthi.
Lord Shani is one of the nine planets (Navagrahas) of Indian astrology. Navagrahas are the nine celestial deities in Hinduism. Lord Shani is also called as 'Shaneeswaran', 'Sani dev', 'Sanischara bhagwan' or 'Chaya Putra'. Lord Shani is the god of Shanivar (Saturday). Lord Shani is the son of Surya (Sun God) and his wife Chaya.
Shani Jayanti or Sani Jayanthi is observed on Amavasya (New moon day) in Vaishakh month or Vaisakha masam. This day is also observed as ‘Shani Amavasya’.
This year Shani Jayanti has immense impact and spiritual significance as apart from Amavasya, there is also a Solar Eclipse (Surya Grahan)!
The Hindu religious devotees can do ordinary prayers at Shani Temples or Navagraha Temples.They can visit Lord Ganesha termples as it is regarded as very fortunate.
It is to be noted that Shani Jayanti is celebrated in a grand manner in many temples such as all Navagraha Temples in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, Sri Kalahasti Navagraha Temple, Mandapalli Mandeshwara Swamy Temple, Wargal Shaneeshwara Temple in Medak district of Andhra Pradesh. It is to be remembered that Sani Jayanthi is the most important festival in Shani Shingnapur Shaneshwara Mandir. In these said temples, a lot of rites and rituals are performed on Shani Jayanthi day so all the devotees can participate in these activities.
The Hindu religious devotees can observe fasting on this particular day. They can do fasting as observed on a saturaday as Shanivar Vrat (Fast on Saturday). It is to be remembered that during Shani Trayodashi, Shani Amavasya and ‘Shani Jayanthi’ days the devotees can perform ‘Shani Shanti puja’ and ‘Shani Thailabhishekam’.
The devotees can perform Shani puja. This particular puja can be done by those who are having Shani dosham. They can also conduct Shani homam or yagya with the assistance of an acharya or purohit on these days. They can also indulge in Shani Shanti puja in order to solve the affect of Saturn in their horoscope. The devotees can fix the horse shoe ‘U’ shaped on the main entrance door of the house, wear the horse shoe ring on the middle finger and install Shani Taitisa and mala in the chapel.
