Mumbai: Gangaur Vrat, a significant festival in Hindu culture, will be observed on 31st March 2025. Celebrated in honour of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, the festival is especially important for women, both married and unmarried. While married women observe the fast to pray for the long life and prosperity of their husbands, unmarried girls take part in hopes of finding a desirable life partner. The term ‘Gangaur’ is a blend of ‘Gan’ (Lord Shiva) and ‘Gaur’ (Goddess Parvati), symbolising the divine couple’s union.
According to the Hindu calendar, the Tritiya Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Chaitra begins at 9:11 AM on 31st March and ends at 5:42 AM on 1st April. As per tradition, the fast will be observed on the day of Udaya Tithi, which is 31st March. The day holds immense spiritual value and is marked by devotional rituals, traditional attire, and offerings to the deities.
On the day of Gangaur Vrat, women wake up during the Brahma Muhurta to bathe and prepare for the rituals. Worship is offered to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati with full devotion and traditional customs. Married women adorn themselves with solah shringar (16 bridal ornaments), which is considered essential for enhancing marital fortune.
During the puja, yellow clay is often used to make idols or decorate the altar. Devotees offer items of adornment to Goddess Parvati, seeking blessings for a happy married life. Devotional songs, bhajans, and mantras are also recited, as they are believed to invoke divine grace and fulfilment of wishes.
The day is meant to be observed in peace and spiritual focus. Women are advised to avoid any arguments, harsh language, or negative thoughts. It is also considered inauspicious to let a Brahmin or guest leave the house empty-handed—giving alms or food is believed to multiply the blessings of the vrat.
Sleeping during the day should be avoided, and those observing the fast are encouraged to remain fully devoted throughout the day. Consumption of non-vegetarian food, alcohol, or any intoxicants is strictly prohibited to maintain mental and physical purity during the vrat.
Religious texts suggest that unmarried women who observe Gangaur Vrat with sincerity are blessed with an ideal life partner, while married women receive the boon of Akhand Saubhagya (everlasting marital bliss). It is believed that during this time, Goddess Parvati descends to Earth with Lord Shiva to bless women with happiness, peace, and prosperity.
Gangaur Vrat is not just a religious observance, but a cultural celebration of devotion, womanhood, and divine blessings that continues to hold deep relevance in modern times.
(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not independently verify the religious significance of these rituals.)
