February 3, 2012 - Jaya Ekadasi - Bhoumi and Bheeshma Ekadasi

February 3, 2012 - Jaya Ekadasi - Bhoumi and Bheeshma Ekadasi

Bhoumi Ekadashi is observed in the Shukla Paksha of Magha Month in Orissa during the waxing phase of the moon. Bhoumi Ekadasi is of great significance at the Lord Jagannath Temple in Puri. In 2012, the date of Bhoumi Ekadasi is February 3. This Ekadasi is also observed as Jaya Ekadasi and Bhishma Ekadashi by other Hindu communities.

Special pujas and rituals dedicated to Lord Jaganntah are held on Bhoumi Ekadashi. It is an auspicious day at all Jagannath temples around the world.

Ekadasi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and it falls on the on the eleventh day of every lunar fortnight in traditional Hindu calendar. Vishnu devotees fast on the day and some devotees keep vigil during night.

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January 19, 2012 – Putrada Ekadasi

Ekadasi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is observed on the 11th day of waning and waxing phase of moon in traditional Hindu calendar. It is believed that by fasting on Putrada Ekadasi one is relieved of all the sins committed. The greatness of this Ekadasi was explained to Yudhishtira by Lord Krishna and is found in the Bhavisyotara Purana.

There is a popular belief that married couples without children will be blessed with children if they observe Putrada Ekadasi.

Most Vishnu devotees fast on the day and some devotees do not sleep. Those people observing partial fasting abstain from food made of rice.

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Margali Masam begins December 17, 2011 in Tamil Calendar

Margazhi Month, or Margali Masam, is a highly auspicious period in Tamil Calendar. In the Bhagavad Gita, Sri Krishna says ‘Maasanam Margasheershoham’ - among the twelve months, I am Margazhi. Margazhi month is from December 17, 2011 to January 14, 2012.

 The month is kept aside for spiritual activities and the chanting of Thiruvaimozhi and Tiruppavai of Andal.

Vaikunta Ekadasi fasting is observed in this month.

Another ritual in the month is the Pavai Nombu.

 Hanuman Jayanti is Tamil culture is also observed in this month.

Arudra Darshan festival dedicated to the Nataraja form of Shiva is also observed in the month. Apart from this thousands of classical music concerts and dance programs are held in the month.

The month ends with the Bhogi Pongal ritual.

Tiruppavai is recited as morning prayer during the month of Margazhi at the Tirumala Tirupati Temple.

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