Hindu Festivals and Vrat This Week: December 9 to December 15, 2024

Hindu Festivals and Vrat This Week

This week, from December 9 to December 15, 2024, is packed with significant Hindu festivals and fasting (vrat) days that hold deep spiritual and cultural importance. From observing the sacred Mokshada Ekadashi to celebrating the luminous Karthigai Deepam and the full moon festival of Margashirsha Purnima, devotees have numerous opportunities to engage in prayer, fasting, and rituals.

December 11, 2024 (Wednesday)

On this day, three auspicious events are observed:

Mokshada Ekadashi marks a day of fasting dedicated to Lord Vishnu, believed to liberate devotees and their ancestors from the cycle of birth and death.

Gita Jayanti celebrates the birth of the Bhagavad Gita, commemorating the divine teachings of Lord Krishna to Arjuna in the Mahabharata.

Guruvayur Ekadashi, especially revered in Kerala, involves grand rituals at the Guruvayur Temple in honor of Lord Krishna.

December 12, 2024 (Thursday)

Mokshada Ekadashi Parana is the auspicious time for breaking the Ekadashi fast, observed from 6:57 AM to 9:10 AM.
Matsya Dwadashi celebrates Lord Vishnu’s Matsya avatar, symbolizing the protection of dharma and preservation of life.

December 13, 2024 (Friday)

Pradosh Vrat, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is observed during twilight, bringing peace and prosperity.

Hanuman Jayanti (Kannada) celebrates the birth of Lord Hanuman with prayers and rituals across Karnataka.

Karthigai Deepam, the festival of lights in Tamil Nadu, honors Lord Shiva, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.

December 14, 2024 (Saturday)

Dattatreya Jayanti honors the deity Dattatreya, the embodiment of the trinity—Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

Rohini Vrat, observed primarily by women, is dedicated to Lord Krishna for the welfare of the family.

December 15, 2024 (Sunday)

Margashirsha Purnima mark the full moon day with fasting and donations.

Anvadhan involves ritual offerings for the ancestors to seek blessings.

Annapurna Jayanti celebrates Goddess Annapurna, the provider of nourishment.

Bhairavi Jayanti is dedicated to the fierce form of the Goddess, observed with meditation and rituals.

Dhanu Sankranti marks the Sun’s transition into the Dhanu zodiac, celebrated with charity and prayers.

This week provides a rich blend of devotion, fasting, and cultural festivities, offering devotees spiritual growth and the chance to reconnect with their traditions.