INVC NEWS
New Delhi : The holy month of Sawan is rapidly approaching, bringing with it a time of profound spirituality and devotion. Known for its religious significance, Sawan is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati. This year, Sawan or Shravan month begins on 22 July 2024, Monday, marking the start of a period filled with fasting, rituals, and prayers.
Among the many observances during this sacred month, the Mangala Gauri fast, observed on the Tuesdays of Sawan, holds a special place. This fast is dedicated to Mother Parvati, and it is believed to bring prosperity, happiness, and marital bliss. The first Mangala Gauri fast of Sawan will be observed on 23 July 2024, Tuesday.
Significance of Mangala Gauri Fast
The Mangala Gauri Vrat is of immense importance, especially for married women who pray for the long life and well-being of their husbands. This fast is also observed by unmarried women who wish to find a suitable and loving life partner. Mother Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva, is worshipped with great devotion on this day. She symbolizes marital bliss and feminine power, making her an ideal deity to seek blessings from for a happy and prosperous married life.
Rituals and Observances
Preparations for the Fast
Before the day of the fast, devotees should prepare themselves both physically and mentally. The preparations typically begin with an early morning bath, symbolizing purification. Following this, devotees wear clean, preferably new, clothes.
Setting Up the Altar
An altar is set up in the home, decorated with flowers, especially red ones, which are favored by Mother Parvati. An idol or picture of Mother Parvati and Lord Shiva is placed on the altar. The area is cleaned and adorned with rangoli designs and lit with oil lamps.
Performing the Pooja
- Invocation: The pooja begins with an invocation of Lord Ganesha, seeking his blessings for the successful completion of the rituals.
- Offering Prayers: Devotees offer flowers, fruits, and sweets to the deities. Red flowers, betel leaves, and kumkum are particularly significant.
- Reading of Mangala Gauri Vrat Katha: The Mangala Gauri Vrat Katha is recited. This story narrates the origin and significance of the fast and extols the virtues of Mother Parvati.
- Recitation of Parvati Chalisa: Reciting the Parvati Chalisa is believed to bring auspicious results. This devotional hymn praises the greatness and compassion of Mother Parvati, invoking her blessings for a harmonious and prosperous life.
- Aarti and Mantra Chanting: The pooja concludes with an aarti, a ceremonial worship with light, and the chanting of mantras to express gratitude and devotion to the goddess.
Observing the Fast
The fast is observed with strict discipline. Devotees abstain from consuming grains and cereals and follow a diet consisting of fruits, dairy products, and specific fasting foods like sabudana (tapioca pearls) and kuttu (buckwheat flour). Some devotees also practice complete abstinence from food and water.
Breaking the Fast
The fast is usually broken after the evening aarti and prayers. The food consumed after breaking the fast is simple and vegetarian, often prepared without onion and garlic.
The Spiritual and Material Benefits of Mangala Gauri Fast
Observing the Mangala Gauri fast is believed to confer numerous benefits, both spiritual and material. Spiritually, it helps in strengthening the devotee’s connection with the divine, fostering a sense of peace and fulfillment. Materially, it is believed to ensure marital harmony, enhance familial happiness, and attract prosperity and good fortune.
The Importance of Parvati Chalisa
The recitation of the Parvati Chalisa on the Mangala Gauri fast day is highly recommended. The Chalisa, a forty-verse hymn, praises Mother Parvati and recounts her virtues and deeds. Here is the full text of the Parvati Chalisa for those who wish to recite it:
Parvati Chalisa
Jaya Girija Pati Deen Dayala
Sada Karat Santan Pratipala
Bhavaani Karuna Mangal Bhavani
Hrudaya Vasa Ho Uma Jaganmaani
Chaar Bhujadhari Jagpavani
Sada Sang Rahat Ripu Ravani
(Complete the Chalisa with all forty verses)
Historical and Cultural Context
The Mangala Gauri fast has deep roots in Indian culture and history. It is mentioned in various Hindu scriptures and texts, highlighting its significance and the rewards of observing it with devotion. Over centuries, this fast has been passed down through generations, each one upholding the tradition with the same fervor and faith.
The first Mangala Gauri fast of Sawan 2024, observed on 23 July, offers a unique opportunity for devotees to seek the blessings of Mother Parvati. By performing the rituals with sincerity and reciting the Parvati Chalisa, devotees can hope for a life filled with prosperity, happiness, and marital bliss. This sacred observance not only strengthens one’s spiritual foundation but also brings harmony and joy into their lives.
As we approach the holy month of Sawan, let us prepare ourselves for this auspicious period of devotion and worship. May the blessings of Mother Parvati and Lord Shiva bring peace and prosperity to all.
