Mumbai: Rang Panchami is a significant Hindu festival, deeply rooted in religious traditions and beliefs. Celebrated five days after Holi, it falls on the Panchami Tithi of the Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Chaitra. The festival is also known as Dev Panchami and Shri Panchami, as it is believed that on this day, deities descend to Earth to play with colours. As a result, Rang Panchami is often referred to as the divine Holi of the gods, where they are offered gulal (coloured powder) as a mark of devotion.

The festival has historical and mythological significance, with its origins tracing back to the Dwapar Yuga. According to Hindu scriptures, it was on Rang Panchami that Lord Krishna and Radha Rani played with colours, marking the beginning of this vibrant tradition. Devotees observe the day with special prayers and offerings to deities, believing that this brings happiness and prosperity into their lives.

When is Rang Panchami in 2025?

As per the Hindu Vedic calendar, the Panchami Tithi will commence on 18th March at 10:09 PM and will conclude on 20th March at 12:36 AM. However, since Hindu traditions consider the sunrise-based tithi (Udaya Tithi) as significant, Rang Panchami will be celebrated on 19th March 2025.

Rituals and Offerings on Rang Panchami

On this day, devotees perform special rituals and make offerings to seek divine blessings. It is believed that certain offerings bring prosperity and peace:

• Gulal to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi – Offering red-coloured gulal to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi is said to remove financial obstacles and bring wealth.
• Sweet Offerings to Goddess Lakshmi – Devotees offer white sweets or kheer to Goddess Lakshmi, symbolising abundance and prosperity.
• Red Attire for Lord Krishna and Radha – Dressing Lord Krishna and Radha in red-coloured clothes and applying red gulal is believed to bless devotees with a harmonious married life.

Significance of Rang Panchami

Rang Panchami is much more than a festival of colours; it represents spiritual positivity and divine grace. It is believed that playing with colours on this day pleases celestial energies, removes negative influences, and brings peace and happiness into people’s lives. The festival also upholds values of love, unity, and harmony, fostering a sense of brotherhood among communities.

As devotees prepare to celebrate Rang Panchami 2025, the festival stands as a reminder of the power of faith, joy, and togetherness. By following traditional customs and honouring the divine, people seek blessings for a prosperous and happy life.

(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not independently verify the religious significance of these rituals.)