Tara Jayanti will be observed on Sunday, April 6, 2025. This auspicious occasion falls on the Chaitra Shukla Navami Tithi, as per the Hindu calendar.
Significance of Tara Jayanti
Tara Jayanti is dedicated to Goddess Tara, one of the ten Mahavidyas in Hinduism, who is revered as the Shakti (divine energy) of Tarakeshwara Rudravatara, a form of Lord Shiva. The origins of Goddess Tara can be traced back to Swatantra Tantra, where it is mentioned that she manifested on the banks of the Cholana River (Cholata Sarovar) in the western part of Mount Meru.
The great sage Maharishi Vasistha was the first to practice the Sadhana of Goddess Tara Mahavidya. He followed an ancient Tantric method known as Chinachara, which led him to attain spiritual enlightenment and divine powers. This deep devotion to Goddess Tara earned him the title Vasistharadhita.
Forms of Goddess Tara
Goddess Tara is worshipped in multiple forms, each symbolizing different aspects of divine power:
- Ekajata – The One with a Single Braid
- Ugratara – The Fierce and Powerful
- Neela Saraswati – The Blue Form of Wisdom and Knowledge
Several important shrines are dedicated to Goddess Tara across India. Some of the most significant ones include:
- Ugratara Shaktipeetha – Located in Mahishi village, Saharsa district, Bihar, this temple houses Goddess Tara along with Goddess Ekajata and Neela Saraswati. It is believed that Maharishi Vasistha attained Siddhi (spiritual accomplishment) by practicing Tara Mahavidya Sadhana here.
- Tara Peetha – This renowned Shaktipeetha is situated on the banks of the Dwarka River in West Bengal. According to mythology, Goddess Sati’s eyes fell at this site, leading to her being worshipped as Nayantara (The Goddess of Eyes).
- Tara Devi Temple – Another revered shrine, it is believed that Goddess Tara appeared in a blue-colored form to defeat the demon Hayagriva. This form of the Goddess is often linked to Goddess Kali, earning widespread recognition as Tara Mahavidya.
One of the most intriguing legends about Goddess Tara is found in Tara Rahasya Tantra, which states that Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana was guided by the divine power of Goddess Tara. This belief highlights that it was not just Lord Rama’s strength but also Tara’s destructive energy that led to the defeat of Ravana.
Another story tells of Lord Shiva narrating the glory of Goddess Tara to Devi Parvati. After the fall of Ravana, Goddess Tara was adorned with weapons like a sword, a severed male head, a dagger, and the Abhaya Mudra (gesture of fearlessness). Her intense and fearsome form frightened the gods, and she later covered herself with a tiger skin given by Lord Brahma. This led to her being worshipped as Lambodari.
Worship and Rituals of Tara Jayanti
Devotees observe Tara Jayanti with devotion and perform special rituals to seek the blessings of the Goddess. The major practices include:
- Chanting Tara Mantras – Reciting powerful Tara mantras helps in spiritual growth and removes obstacles.
- Offering Blue Flowers and Clothes – As Goddess Tara is associated with the blue color, devotees offer blue-colored flowers and clothes to her idol.
- Observing Fasts – Many devotees fast on this day, believing it brings prosperity and divine wisdom.
- Tantric Sadhana – Some followers, especially in regions like Tibet, China, and Ladakh, practice Tantric meditation dedicated to Goddess Tara.
Tara Jayanti is a powerful day that celebrates the fierce yet compassionate form of Goddess Tara. Worshipping her on this day is believed to bring liberation, victory over enemies, wisdom, and spiritual enlightenment. Whether through prayers, mantras, or fasting, devotees connect with her divine energy, seeking her blessings for a prosperous and enlightened life.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
