Vasu Baras 2025 Date and Time: Why cows and calves are worshipped on Govatsa Dwadashi

Vasu Baras 2025 Date and Time: Why cows and calves are worshipped on Govatsa Dwadashi (image: canva)

Vasu Baras 2025: Vasu Baras is also known as Govatsa Dwadashi, it marks the beginning of the Diwali celebrations in Maharashtra and several parts of India. This sacred day is dedicated to the worship of cows and calves, symbolizing motherhood, selflessness, and nourishment. Vasu Baras 2025 will be observed on October 17, 2025, with rituals performed during the Pradoshkala Muhurat.

Vasu Baras 2025: Govatsa Dwadashi Puja Time

According to Hindu tradition, Govatsa Dwadashi falls one day before Dhanteras, on the twelfth day (Dwadashi Tithi) of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Kartik. The festival is celebrated to honor Nandini, the divine cow believed to grant all wishes. Devotees worship cows and their calves, recognizing them as the earthly forms of Kamadhenu, the celestial cow of abundance.

In Hindu scriptures, the cow is considered sacred and revered as a mother because it provides sustenance in the form of milk and other products. Hence, worshipping cows on this day is believed to bring prosperity, good health, and spiritual merit.

Vasu Baras 2025: Rituals

On Vasu Baras, devotees begin the day with purification rituals and prepare a sacred space for worship. Cows and calves are bathed, adorned with flowers, and offered food items like wheat products, jaggery, and gram. Devotees apply tilak to their foreheads and to the cows as a mark of reverence.

An important aspect of the observance is that devotees abstain from consuming wheat and milk products on this day to express gratitude towards the cow and her divine service to humankind.

In Maharashtra, Vasu Baras holds special significance as it marks the first day of Diwali, setting a pious tone for the festival of lights.

Govatsa Dwadashi (Nandini Vrat): Meaning

Vasu Baras is also known as Nandini Vrat, dedicated to Nandini, the sacred cow mentioned in Hindu scriptures as the daughter of Kamadhenu. Observing the Nandini Vrat is believed to wash away sins and bring peace and prosperity to the household. Married women especially perform this vrat for the well-being of their families and children.

Vasu Baras 2025 is not just a ritual but a heartfelt expression of devotion towards the cow, revered as Gaumata, the symbol of nurturing and life-giving energy. The festival beautifully blends gratitude, spirituality, and tradition, marking an auspicious start to the five-day celebration of Diwali.