MAASAMULU

Chaithra Maasam - The Madhu Maasam (Merits & Significance)

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vaasudevaaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaaya Namaha!

Chaithra maasam also known as Madhu maasam marks the beginning of spring season known as Vasantha Ruthu first among the Hindu seasons. Madhu means honey and Chaithra maasam is as sweet as honey. In Bhagawadgeeta, Vibhoothi Yoga (canto#10 sloka#35) Lord Sri Krishna says that He is the Vasantha Ruthu among the seasons “Ruthunaam Kusumaakarah” All pervading supreme Lord, Kaala Purusha, Lord Vishnu is the presiding Deity (Maasa Niyaamaka) of Chaithra maasam and hence this month is also known as Vishnu maasam.

It is so auspicious that it is the month when Lord Brahma had commenced the creation and to commemorate that day we celebrate Ugaadi festival. Chaithra maasam is the sacred month in which Maryaada Purushottama; Lord Sri Raama was born on the 9th day of bright fortnight that is celebrated as Sri Raama Navami. It is the most sacred and auspicious month in which highly meritorious and powerful Thaaraka manthra RAMA took birth. It is the sacred month in which Lord Vishnu incarnated as Matsyaavathara (Giant Fish) the very first among the Dasaavatharas and restored the lost Vedas that day is celebrated as Matsya Jayanthi on Chaithra sukla Trutheeya. It is said as per scripts that it was the first day of the bright fortnight in the month of Chaithra Maasam that Lord Sri Krishna’s Niryaana took place that is marked as the beginning of Kaliyuga.

It is the sacred month when Sun God transits into first house of the zodiac viz. Aries (Mesha Raasi) where Sun gets exalted. That day known as Mesha Sankramana is celebrated as Vishu festival in some parts of South India. Chaithra maasam is the sacred month in which the mighty God, Lord Hanuman was born that is celebrated as Hanuma Jayanthi on the full Moon day. It is the sacred month in which the sixty year cycle of Hindu Calendar Samvatsara had begun, starting from Prabhava and ending with Akshaya.

Full Moon day during Chaithra maasam known as Chittraa Poornima or Maha Chaithri is the day when Moon will be at or nearer to the constellation of Chitta and hence the name Chaithra maasam. Mars (Kuja) is the star Lord of Chitta constellation and star Deity is Lord Subramanya. Third day of the bright fortnight in the lunar month of Chaithra maasam is known as Gouri Trutheeya when Goddess Gouri and Lord Shiva are specially worshipped. Starting from this day for a period of one month Goddess Gouri & Lord Shiva and Lord Sri Rama along with other Deities are offered with special pooja ritual known as Dolotsava (Aandolini Vratha). While Chaithra Sukla Trutheeya and Pournami are Manvaadi days the days Manvanthara had begun, Chaithra sukla Panchami is known as Kalpaadi the day Kalpa had commenced.

Like we celebrate Devi Navarathri during Aaswayuja maasam known as Sharannavarathri which falls in Dakshinaayana, a nine day festival known as Vasantha Navarathri is also celebrated during Chaithra maasam starting from Ugaadi day during Uttaraayana. During this nine day period Goddess Durga is worshiped in some parts of the country while in some other parts, it is known as Sri Raama Navarathri worshiping Lord Sri Raama. During this period sacred texts like Ramayana, Sundarakaanda, and Devi Bhaagavatham are read.

With so much of significance attributed to Chaithra maasam, almost all the Deities are worshiped during the bright fortnight of this month apart from Lord Sri Rama, Lord Hanuman, Lord Shiva and Goddess Gouri. On the first day (Paadyami) Lord Brahma, second day (Dwiteeya) Lord Shiva and Goddess Gouri, on the fourth day (Chaturthi) Lord Ganesha, on the fifth day (Panchami) Naaga Devathas, on the sixth day (Shasti) Lord Subramanya, on the 7th day (Sapthami) Sun God, on the ninth day (Navami) Goddess Durga and on the 15th day (Full Moon day) all the Deities are worshipped.

Chaithra is a Sanskrit word meaning a temple or a memorial. It is the month to commemorate so many auspicious and sacred events including the commencement of creation (Srushti). It is also a sacred month for commencement for Vedic learning. That’s why it is one of the auspicious and sacred months for performing Upanayana that marks the formal eligibility to commence the study of Vedas and Upanishads.

Prapadaanam (chalivendram)

Donating water during Chaithra maasam starting from Ugaadi day for 4 months (summer months) is said to be very auspicious and sacred.

Prapeyam SarvaSamanya Bhoothebhya: prathipaditha
PradanathPitharasarve Thrupyanthucha Pithamaha
Anivaarya Mithodeyam Jalammaasa Chathustayam

We would have observed in many towns voluntary organizations erecting the spots called Chalivendram where passersby are served with water stored in earthen pots covered with cloth during summer months. It is said that by doing this activity all the fore fathers gets pleased.

Udakakumbha daana

Udaka means water, Kumbha means pot. Giving charity of water stored in a pot made up of Copper, Silver, or at least earthen pot (made up of mud) covered with a new cloth to a Brahmin during this period is said to be very sacred and highly meritorious.

Yesha DharmaGhato Dhattoh Brahma Vishnu Sivathmaka
Asya Pradhanathsakalam mamasanthu manoratha

Meaning: This water pot called Dharma Ghata signifying the trinal lords (Brahma, Vishnu and Siva) bring unto me fulfillment of all desires.

Taking bath in sacred rivers, arranging of water and shelter to the travelers and people walking in the Sun, Anna Daana (food) to the hungry and needy are some of the maasa dharma prescribed during Chaithra maasam.

Important days to remember in Chaithra maasam

Ugaadi (Chaithra Sukla Paadyami)
Gouri Trutheeya (Chaithra Sukla Trutheeya)
Sri Raama Navami (Chaithra Sukla Navami)
Kalpaadi (Chaithra Sukla Panchami)
Manvaadi (Chaithra Sukla Trutheeya & Pournami)
Hanuma Jayanthi (Chaithra Sukla Pournami)
Mesha Sankramana (Transit of Sun into Mesha Raasi)

It is said as per Bhavishyottara Purana that, Kartheeka maasam is more meritorious than Vaisakha maasam, Maagha maasam is more significant and meritorious than Kaartheeka maasam, and Chaithra maasam is much more auspicious than Maagha maasam. First and the best among the Hindu lunar months, Chaithra maasam has acquired lot of merits and significance in Hindu philosophy and is regarded as the mother of all the months.

Sraavana Maasam - The Nabho Maasam
Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vaasudevaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

The month in which full moon day coincides with Sravana star, that month is denoted as Sraavana Masam. Sravana star is considered as Sri Hari (Vishnu) Nakshathra. While Moon is the star lord, Sri Maha Vishnu is the Star Deity of Sravana nakshathra. It is said that Lord Brahma had darshan of Sri Maha Vishnu for the first time at the beginning of the creation in Sravana constellation. Sri Maha Vishnu’s Vaamana avathara had taken place in the constellation of Sravana. It is also believed that Lord Sri Maha Vishnu (Lord Srinivasa) stepped His foot on the Tirumala hills in search of his consort Goddess Sri Maha Lakshmi in Sravana constellation. At Tirumala temple, the nine day festival Brahmotsavam concludes every year on the day coinciding with Sravana Star.

Astrologically Sravana star is regarded as an auspicious star which falls in the zodiac sign of Makara Raasi (Capricorn) ruled by Saturn. It is said that when Sun during his transit in Makara Raasi comes opposite to Sravana star the doors of Vaikuntam (Moksha Dwara) gets opened. When Sun enters into Makara Raasi, Uttarayana begins. Sravana is considered as a star of learning and Sraavana masam is the auspicious month to begin learning. That is why the sacred ritual Upakarma takes place in the sacred month Sraavana masam that marks the beginning of study of Vedas in olden days. Sravana star forms the basis for performing Upakarma for Rug-Vedis in Sraavana masam. Literally Sravana means to listen. Without good listening one cannot be a good learner. Listening is an art and a good listener is a good decision maker.

In Vedic terminology Sraavana masam is referred to as Nabho-Masam. Nabho is a Sanskrit word meaning Aakasa (Sky) that refers to the celestial nature of Sraavana masam and the Sravana star. Sanskrit dictionary also connects the word Nabhasa to Sraavana masam meaning the rainy season and Nabhas means celestial or heavenly. During Sraavana masam Sun transits into Simha Raasi (Leo sign) that is known as Simha Sankramana. Sraavana masam marks the beginning of Varsha Ruthu when the monsoon will be active. Lord Sri Maha Vishnu in the name of Sridhara is the Presiding Deity (Maasa Niyamaka) governing Sraavana Masam. We find a reference to the word Sridhara in sloka # 65 of Sri Vishnu Sahasranama Stothram. Sri means Goddess Sri Maha Lakshmi and Dhara means bearing. Sridhara means the One who always bears on His chest Goddess Sri Maha Lakshmi. In 24 Kesava Naamaas also we find the word Sridhara as the ninth one.

Fifth in the line of Hindu lunar months, Sraavana masam is a highly auspicious month in Hindu philosophy flooded with festivals and austerities. Out of the seven week days that we have, four days viz. Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday have acquired lot of significance in Sraavana masam. Mondays for worshipping Lord Shiva, Tuesdays for Goddess Gouri, Fridays for Goddess Sri Maha Lakshmi and Saturdays for Lord Sri Maha Vishnu in the form of Lord Venkateshwara. In Hinduism, we have a tradition of worshiping Snakes (Naagaaraadhana) since time immemorial and Sravana masam is the sacred month that is identified for Snake worship. Fourth and fifth day of the bright fortnight in Sraavana masam is exclusively earmarked for Snake worship that is known as Naaga Chaturthi and Naga Panchami. The festival of Garuda Panchami that occurs on the fifth day of the bright fortnight in Sravana Masam is dedicated to Lord Garuda.

Full Moon day in Sraavana masam (Sraavana Pournami) has lot of religious and spiritual significance as that day is celebrated as Upakarma, a Vedic ritual. Starting from this day in olden days people used to resort to study of Vedas by symbolically changing the Yagnopaveetham. Traditionally Sraavana Pournami is celebrated as Raakhi or Raksha Bandhan that symbolizes the unmatched bondage of love, care and respect between a brother and a sister. Sankasta Chaturthi associated with Lord Vinayaka (Ganesha) occurring during Sraavana masam is considered as highly sacred day to begin the Sankasta Chaturthi vratha. Observing this Vratha on this day is said to yield merits equivalent to observing the same for the whole year.

Pouranically, Sraavana Pournami is the day Lord Sri Maha Vishnu incarnated as Hayagreeva (Horse headed) that is commemorated as Sri Hayagreeva Jayanthi. Lord Hayagreeva is the presiding Deity and Supreme God of learning, knowledge, and wisdom. Sraavana masam is the most sacred and celestial month that has given birth to Lord Sri Krishna the Paripoorna Avathara of Lord SriManNarayana. Lord Sri Krishna was born on the 8th day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight of Sravana masam that is celebrated across the country as Sri Krishna Janmaashtami.

At Tirumala temple a sacred ritual known as Pavithrotsavam will be held for three days during Sraavana masam starting from Sukla Dasami which is more or less a purificatory ceremony.

Aaraadhana of great Saint and Madhva philosopher, Guru Saarvabhouma Sri Raghavendra Swamy (Rayaru) of Mantralayam takes place during Sraavana masam. It was on the second day (Vidiya) of dark fortnight in Sravana masam Sri Raghavendra Swamy made Sajeeva Brundavana Pravesa that is commemorated as Sri Rayara Aaraadhana.

Checklist of Festivals and Austerities during Sraavana masam

Sukla Paksha

Chaturthi: Naaga Chaturthi

Panchami: Naaga Panchami &
Garuda Panchami

Shasti: Siriyaala Shasti

Ekaadasi: Puthrada Ekaadasi

Dwaadasi: Dadhi Vratha

Pournami: Upakarma, Raakhi,
Hayagreeva Jayanthi

Krishna Paksha

Vidiya: Sri Raghavendra Swamy Aaradhana

Chaturthi: Sankasta Chaturthi


Ashtami: Sri Krishna Janmaashtami

Ekaadasi: Aja Ekaadasi

Vrathas:

Tuesdays: Mangala Gouri Vratha (by newly married women)

Fridays: Sampatt Sukra Vaara Vratha (By all married women) and Sri Vara Maha Lakshmi Vratha on Friday falling before the full moon day.

During Sraavana masam, austerities like Eka Bhuktha (taking one time meals), Naktha Vratha (fasting during day time and taking meals at night) are prescribed. Saaka-daana (Vegetables) is prescribed on Sravana sukla Dwadasi day. Worshipping Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva during Sraavana masam is highly meritorious. By observing the prescribed austerities and worshipping Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, Goddess Sri Maha Lakshmi and Goddess Gouri during Sraavana masam one will be bestowed with good health, longevity, and prosperity.
Aashaada - The Soonya Masam
Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vaasudevaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

Aashaada - The Soonya Masam

Fourth month in traditional Hindu Lunar calendar, Aashaada masam marks the beginning of Dakshinayana when, the Sun takes a southward turn in the zodiac. During the month of Aashada, Sun transits into Karkataka Raasi known as Karkataka Sankramana that generally occurs in the calendar month of July, exactly six months after the beginning of Uttarayana. The month in which the full moon day coincides with Poorva/Uttara-Aashaada constellation, that month is denoted as Aashaada masam. Astrologically we find the stars Poorvaashaada in the zodiac sign of Sagittarius (Dhanus) and Uttaraashaada partly in Sagittarius and partly in Makara (Capricorn) raasi. While Venus is the star Lord of Poorvaashaada, Sun is the star lord of Uttaraashaada. Both the star lords Sun & Venus are inimical to each other.

Apart from the beginning of Dakshinayana, Aashada masam also marks the beginning of the marathon period of austerities known as Chaturmasam. Hari Sayani Ekadasi, the day Lord SriManNarayana is believed to enter into Yoganidra (divine slumber) falls in Aashaada masam. The sacred act of getting the divine symbols stamped on one’s body known as Taptamudradhaarana is conducted during Aashaada masam on the day of Sayani Ekadasi. Lot of spiritual significance is attributed to the concept of Taptamudradhaarana.

Full Moon day in Aashaada masam known as Guru Pournima is celebrated across the country, symbolically honouring the Gurus and teachers who have taught us the Vidya. This day is also popularly referred to as Vyaasa Poornima associated with Lord Veda Vyaasa, the Divine Literary incarnation of Lord Sri Maha Vishnu. It is believed that Sri Veda Vyasa was born on this day of Pournami in the Lunar month of Aashaada. It is also said that it is the day on which Sri Veda Vyasa commenced his work on Brahma Sutras. Though Chaturmasam starts from Sayani Ekadasi for general public, traditionally, Ascetics start their Chaturmasa Deeksha from this day of Guru Pournima in Aashaada masam.

Aashaada Bahula Panchami, fifth day during the dark fortnight of the month is celebrated as Sri Jayatheerthara Aaradhana. Popularly known as Sri Teekarayaru, it was the day on which Sri Jayatheertharu, an advocate and great exponent of Dvaita philosophy, entered into Brindavana at Malakheda in Karnataka state during 13th century.

World famous car festival of Sri Jagannatha temple at Puri (Orissa) known as Jagannatha Ratha Yatra or Gundicha Yatra is held during Aashaada masam starting on the second day of the month during sukla paksha. The festival is witnessed by lakhs of devotees from across the world. Aashaada sukla Dasami and Pournami (10th & 15th day of the month) are regarded as Manvaadi days. Pada Raksha (Chappals), Chatthra (Umbrella), Lavana (Salt) and Amla (Amalaki) are prescribed as charity to be given during Aashaada masam.

Lord Sri Maha Vishnu in the name of Sri Vaamana is the presiding Deity (Masa Niyamaka) governing the month of Aashada masam. We find a reference to Vaamana in Sri Vishnu Sahasranama Stothram in sloka # 17 and 56 who is also described as Upendra and Trivikramah. He was known as Vamana because he was dwarf in form at the beginning. While suppressing the pride and vanity of King Bali, He was known as Trivikrama when, He grew to a gigantic size and conquered the three worlds, Earth, Upper worlds and Nether worlds with just three paces of his foot. Born to Sage Kashyapa and Aditi, He was also referred as Upendra the younger brother of Indra. We find all the three names Trivikrama, Vamana and Upendra while reciting 24 Kesava Namas. An exclusive Purana named after Lord Vamana called Sri Vamana Purana scripted by Lord and Sage Veda Vyasa forms part of 18 great Puranas called Ashtadasa Puranas.

Traditionally, Aashaada masam is considered as Soonya masam. Soonya means nothing, empty, or null and void. Numerically Soonya means zero that has philosophical and spiritual significance. As per the texts of Electional Astrology, Chaithra masam, when the Sun is transiting in Meena raasi, Aashaada masam when the Sun is transiting in Mithuna raasi, Bhaadrapada masam when the Sun is transiting in Kanya raasi and Pushya masam when the Sun is transiting in Dhanus raasi, these four months are considered as Soonya Masams.

May be due to the spiritual significance affixed to these months, auspicious functions like Upanayanam, Marriage and Gruha Pravesam etc. are not generally undertaken during Soonya Masams. We find this tradition being followed even today in South India especially in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. There is also a convention among the traditional families in South India, of not allowing the newly married couple to stay together during Aashaada masam. It is more of a pragmatic approach and safeguard that was followed in olden days which is slowly getting vanished and not being followed in these modern days.

While Aashaada masam is considered as inauspicious for mundane activities, it is considered as sacred month for performing spiritual activities. Aashada, Kartheeka, Maagha and Vaisakha are regarded as spiritually important months in the Hindu lunar calendar. Aashada masam is the month when the rains (monsoon) will start afresh and a number of creatures (living beings) will sprout on the earth. This month is said to be the appropriate period for sprouting of spiritual knowledge in the minds of human beings.

Phalguna Masam - The meritorious month (Significance & Merits)
Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vaasudevaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

Phalguna - The meritorious month
(Significance & Merits)

Last but not the least, Phalguna masam is the 12th month as per traditional Hindu Lunar calendar that generally occurs during English calendar months of February-March. The season is known as Sisira-Ruthu when we find still cool but pleasant climate, change in the colour of the leaves as they start withering. When the season ends we find new leaves start springing up that marks the beginning of spring season and the temperature slowly gets warmer. During this month Sun transit takes place from Kumbha raasi (Aquarius) to Meena Raasi (Pisces). Sisira is one of the thousands of names of Lord Sri Maha Vishnu that we find in sloka number 97 of Sri Vishnu Sahasranama Stothram.

Araudrah kundali chakri vikramyurjita-shasanah
Shabdatigah shabdasahah sisirah sarvari-karah

Sisira is a Sanskrit word meaning cool. Lord Vishnu is very cool in his disposition and Who is a solution to those who are suffering from worldly burning passions.

As per Hindu lunar calendar, the month in which full moon day coincides with Poorva/Uttara Phalguni star that month is denoted as Phalguna masam. Astrologically we find the stars Poorva Phalguni in the zodiac sign of Leo (Simha raasi) and Uttara Phalguni partly in Leo and partly in Virgo (Kanya raasi). While Venus is the ruling planet of Poorva Phalguni star, Sun is the ruling planet of Uttara Phalguni star.

Phalgu is the name of a holy river on the banks of which the sacred Gaya Kshethra is located in Bihar. Two streams Lilajan (Niranjara) and Mohana originating from a hill called Korambe Pahar about 75km south of Gaya meet together to form the river Phalgu at Gaya. It is a tributary of river Ganges and most of the time it remains dry due to a curse given by Goddess Sita Devi. The river is also referred to as Gupta Ganga because most of the year its bed usually appears dry but if you scoop with your hand you will at once come to clear water. It is said that as per Vayu Purana the river Phalgu is considered to be superior to river Ganges since it is the liquid form of Lord Vishnu whereas Ganges has originated from the foot of Lord Vishnu. As per Agni Purana it is said that Phalgu means highest power of piousness added with merit. Phala means merit and Gau means wish fulfilling cow (Kamadhenu).

Lord Sri Maha Vishnu in the name of Sri Govinda is the presiding Deity (Masa Niyamaka) governing the month of Phalguna masam. Govinda is a very popular name of Lord Sri Vishnu which we find commonly being chanted by one and all. In 24 Kesava Namas we find Govindaya Namaha as the fourth one which we recite while performing Aachamanam and also we recite Sri Govinda, Govinda while performing Sankalpa. The name Govinda also popularly figures in Sri Vishnu, Naamathraya Japam viz. Achyutaya Namaha, Ananthaaya Namaha and Govindaaya Namaha. We find a reference to the word Govinda in Sri Vishnu Sahasranama Stothram in sloka number 20 & 58 as follows

Maheshvaso mahibharta shrinivasah satam gatih
Aniruddhah suranando govindo govidam patih

Mahavaraho govindah sushenah kanakangadi
Guhyo gabhiro gahano guptas chakra-gadadharah

Govinda means the One who is the Lord of Cows, protector of Cows, the one who has lifted the hill called Goverdhanagiri with His little finger to save and protect the Cows and Cowherds, also the one who is the protector of Earth. Go also means Vedas. One who is the protector of Vedas and who is eulogized by Vedas. Go means Cow and Vinda means one who helps to survive or surmount. Go+Vinda = Govinda means the One who helps us to survive and surmount the earthly existence and reach Supreme realization of the Self. Lord Sri Krishna is popularly known and called as Govinda and who is also called as Gopala the protector of cows. We also find Lord Sri Venkateshwara popularly being referred to as Govinda and devotees chanting Govinda-Govinda when they visit Tirumala Kshetra.

Payo-Vratha (in brief)

When King Bali (Bali Chakravarthi) and his followers invaded Swarga Loka, dethroned Indra and other Demi-Gods and captured all their wealth, Aditi the Divine Mother of Demi-Gods and wife of Sage Kashyapa got highly distressed with the plight of her sons. Aggrieved with her sons’ condition she prayed to her husband Sage Kashyapa to suggest the way to make her sons reoccupy their respective positions in the Heaven. Moved by the Aditi’s request, Sage Kashyapa suggested her to worship Lord Sri ManNarayana by performing an austerity known as Payo Vratha and explained its rules and regulations.

According to its principles one has to perform with proper sankalpa this austerity for twelve days, starting from Sukla Paadyami and ending with Dwadasi. During this period one should perform Sri Vishnu Aaradhana by worshiping Him daily with shodasa upachaara pooja and feeding poor and Brahmins as much as possible and subsisting only on Milk. One is required to perform this austerity with total faith and devotion towards Lord Vishnu, strictly observing celibacy, taking bath thrice a day, sleeping on floor etc. At the end of the vratha one should perform a homa/yagna, feed Brahmins, and give charity. Since this Vratha is ought to yield far reaching results and fulfills all desires it is also known as Sarva Yagna.

Aditi then performed Payovratha strictly adhering to its rules resulting in Lord Sri ManNarayana appearing before her and assuring her that her wish would get fulfilled and that He would take birth as her son. Accordingly, Lord Sri Maha Vishnu took the incarnation of Lord Vaamana and fulfilled Aditi’s desires. We find reference to this Payovratha in Ashtama Skhanda (8th Canto) of SriMad Bhagavatham in the episode of Sri Vaamana Avathara. This Vratha is performed during Phalguna masam. This austerity is suggested as one of the Divine remedies for lack of progeny.

In Mahabharatha epic, we find Arjuna being referred to by several names and one such name is Phalguna. It is said that Arjuna was born in Phalguna masam and in the constellation of Uttara Phalguni. Great Madhva Saint and Philosopher, Guru Saarvabhouma, Sri Raghavendra Swamy of Mantralayam was born during Phalguna masam on the seventh day Suddha Sapthami that is celebrated as Guru Saarvabhoumara Jayanthi. In fact Sri Rayaru took his Sanyasa Deeksha in the month of Phalguna masam only. We also find during Phalguna masam Aaradhana of other Great Madhva Saints viz. Sri Sudheendra Theertharu (Vidya Guru of Sri Raghavendra Swamy), Sri Vaadiraaja Theertharu (Sodhe) and Sri Vyasarajaru (Anegondi).

Full Moon day in Phalguna masam is celebrated as Holi festival. If that day is associated with Uttara Phalguni star it is said to be highly meritorious for worshiping Goddess Sri Maha Lakshmi. Holi is also known as colour festival which is celebrated with great fanfare by Hindus as well as Sikhs sprinkling colours/colour water on each other. In South India it is known as Kama-Dahana. We find people lighting a bonfire in commemoration of Manmatha (Kamadeva) the Lord of passion, getting burnt to the furious gaze of Lord Shiva when He was disturbed from His meditation. This tradition of lighting a bonfire carries a message to mark the burning of our Arishadvargas (Negative passions). This festival of colours has socio-cultural and religious significance which is participated by one and all irrespective of their caste and creed.

Famous Boat festival or Float festival known as Teppotsavam is held at Tirumala Sri Swamy Pushkarini Theertham during Phalguna masam. This is held for five days during Sukla paksha starting from Dasami and ending with Pournami thithi. During the five day festival, first two days Lord Sri Rama and Lord Sri Krishna along with their consorts are taken out in procession on a decorated boat in Swamy Pushkarini theertham. Last three days Lord Malayappa Swamy (Lord Venkateshwara) is taken out in procession along with His consorts. This float festival attracts thousands of devotees coming from across the country.

Ekadasi thithi falling in sukla paksha of Phalguna masam is called as Amalaki Ekadasi. It is said that fasting on this day of Amalaki Ekadasi is more meritorious than giving one thousand cows in charity. One who observes fast on this day and worship Lord Sri Maha Vishnu with total faith and devotion would get freed from all kinds of sins and attain liberation. Ekadasi falling in Krishna Paksha is known as Papa-Vimochani which is self explicit.

During Phalguna masam, Go-dhana (giving Cow as charity) along with its maintenance, Vasthra dana are prescribed. Phala + Guna = Phalguna. Phala means merits and Guna means qualities and Phalguna masam is a highly auspicious month that is full of meritorious qualities.


Maagha Maasam - Merits & Significance
Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

Maagha Maasam – Merits & Significance
Significance
As per Hindu lunar calendar the month in which full moon day coincides with Makhah (Maghah) star, that month is denoted as Maagha masam which occur during the calendar months of January-February. Makhah also means Yagna and Lord Vishnu is referred to as MahaMakhah (Sri Vishnu Sahasranama sthothram sloka # 47) the presiding Deity of Yagna. The Lord is also worshipped through the medium of Yagna. Maagham is a Sanskrit word Ma+Agham. Ma means not present and Agham means sin, evil, malefic, annoyance, suffering, grief and Maagha masam is the month which is highly meritorious, auspicious and free from any sin or suffering.
Lord Maha Vishnu in the name of Maadhava is the presiding deity (Masa Niyamaka) who governs the month Maagha Masam and to be worshipped. We find a reference to the words Madhava in sloka #8, 18 and 78 of Sri Vishnu Sahasra Nama Sthothram. Madhava means one who is the consort of Goddess Lakshmi Devi, one who is the bestower and Lord of superior knowledge. Astrologically, Kethu the Mokshakaraka is regarded as the ruling planet of Magha star and Pithru Devathas as the presiding Deities. Maagha masam, the eleventh month as per Hindu lunar calendar is considered as an auspicious month for performing marriages, upanayanam, Gruha Pravesam, Aksharabhyasam etc.

Significant days of Maagha masam

During Maagha masam we find several significant and sacred days to be celebrated. To begin with,
Maagha sukla Panchami the fifth day of Maagha masam in the bright fortnight is celebrated as Vasantha Panchami also known as Sri Panchami. Goddess Saraswathi, the presiding deity of Akshara Gyana, the female Divine energy of Learning, Knowledge and Wisdom is said to have born on this auspicious day of Sri Panchami. Dedicated to Vaakk Devi (Goddess Saraswathi) this day is considered to be highly auspicious day especially for Aksharabhyasa (inducting a child into education). Goddess Saraswathi is to be worshipped on this day to get rid of our sluggishness, lethargy and ignorance.

Ratha sapthami also known as Magha Sapthami or Maha Sapthami is a very popular Hindu festival dedicated to Sun God, Sri Surya Narayana. It occurs on the seventh day (Sapthami) of Magha Masam during sukla paksha. It is celebrated as Surya Jayanthi the day on which Sun God was born to Sage Kashyapa & Aditi and considered as an incarnation of Lord Sri ManNarayana. Special celebrations are held at all Vaishnavite temples especially at Tirumala and Srirangam apart from Arasavelli and Konark. It is an age old custom and tradition that people on this day take special bath with seven Arka leaves.
Bheeshmaastami is associated with Bheeshma Pitamaha, the most revered and grandiose character of the great Epic, Mahabharata. It was on this day Bheeshma had his last breath and this day is commemorated as the day of his Niryana. Bheeshmaastami occurs on the 8th day (Ashtami) of the bright fortnight (Sukla Paksha) in Magha Masam, the day after Ratha Sapthami.

Sri Madhwa Navami falling on the 9th day of Lunar month of Magha Masam during the bright fortnight is associated with Sri Madhwacharya one of the greatest Hindu Saints and Philosophers who was the founder and exponent of Dvaita Philosophy. It is said that it was on this day in the year 1317 AD, Sri Madhvacharya while teaching his disciples at Udupi Sri Anantheshwara Temple, suddenly a heap of flowers were showered on him and he disappeared from that heap of flowers not to be seen later. It is considered as the day He entered the Badarikasrama.

Maagha Pournami the full moon day in Maagha masam is celebrated as Maha Maaghi. This day marks the end of Maagha Snana vratham. It is said and believed that any Divine worship, prayer, charity or rites performed on this day are highly meritorious that gives significant results. Thilapaathra Danam is prescribed to be given to a Brahmin on this day of Mahamaaghi. Taking bath in a sea on this day is considered as highly meritorious.

Maha Shivarathri a festival dedicated to Lord Shiva occurs on the 13th /14th day of dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in Magha Masam coinciding with Chaturdasi thithi. Worshipping Lord Shiva on this day of Maha Shivarathri is considered as highly meritorious and sin remover. Special celebrations are held on the eve of Maha Shivarathri at all the holy Shiva Kshetras where lakhs of people gather to offer their obeisance and salutations to Lord Shiva the great destroyer of sins and the most benevolent God.
Sunday associated with Amaavaasya + Sravana Nakshatra + Vyatheepatha Yoga + in the lunar month of Pushya or Maagha is referred to as Ardhodhaya which is considered to be a very sacred day, a parvakala that occurs very rarely that is more meritorious than an eclipse. Maagha Bahula Amaavasya associated with Satabhisha star is considered as highly sacred and meritorious. According to Dharmasindhu by performing Pithru Shraaddha on this day, Pithrus (ancestors) gets pleased for ten thousand years.

Charities during Maagha masam

During Maagha masam following charities are prescribed to be given which is considered as highly sacred and meritorious.

Veni Danam at Prayaga, Thila-Paathra Danam (Black/white sesame seeds along with a copper or a bronze vessel), Salagrama Dana, Anna Dana (Food), Gold or gold items, Hiranya danam, Thila (Sesame) + Sugar in the ratio of 3:1, Kooshmaanda Danam (Pumpkin). Apart from the above Thila homa and Thila bhakshana are also prescribed during Maagha masam.

Maagha Snanam
While Kartheeka masam is given lot of significance for lighting of lamps, Maagha masam is given special significance for taking bath that is known as Maagha Snanam. It generally starts from Pushya sukla Pournami and ends with Magha sukla Pournami or it can also be from Makara Sankramana to Kumbha Sankramana as per Solar/Luni-Solar calendar. For followers of lunar calendar it starts from Pushya Bahula Amaavaasya and ends with Maagha Bahula Amaavaasya. During this period it is prescribed to take bath early in the morning before Sunrise preferably during Arunodaya kala. This sacred bath is preferred to be taken in any river, lake or theertha or at least at home. Apart from the daily routine (Nithya Karma) special arghya is to be given to Lord Madhava and Sun God after Maagha Snanam.

Merits of Maagha Snanam
Taking a bath (Snana) which is refreshing, not only cleanses our external body, but also has been given lot of significance from the religious and spiritual point of view in the daily routine of an individual. In Hindu philosophy daily routine generally begins with a bath before worshiping God, a discipline that is inculcated with a sense of cleanliness in our actions. When it is during an auspicious period like Maagha masam, its spiritual merits are in multiple. It is said that Maagha Snana can purify a person even from ghastly and dreadful sins committed. Taking bath in Maagha masam, early in the morning as said above is highly sacred, spiritual and meritorious. Sacred texts like Vayu Purana, Brahmanda Purana are said to have made a reference to the merits and significance of Maagha Snanam. Its merits get increased depending on the place where the bath is taken as given below.

At home with hot water – Merits equivalent to Six years of such Snana phala
From the waters of a well –12 years of such Snana phala
In a lake –24 years of such Snana phala
In any river – 96 years of such Snana phala
In any sacred river – 9600 years of such Snana phala
At the confluence (Sangam) of sacred rivers–38400 years of such Snana
In Ganges River – Merits equivalent to 38400000 years of such Snana phala
At Triveni Sangam (Prayaga) – 100 times of Ganga Snana phala
Maagha Snana in a sea (Samudra) is considered as more meritorious than all the above.

Wherever bath is taken, one should always remember to recollect Prayaga and also pray Maasa Niyamaka Sri Maadhava (Lord Vishnu) silently. Those who cannot take bath as said above for the entire month should at least take it for the last three days which is known as Anthya Pushkarini. Maagha Snanam is prescribed for all ages of men and women.
ಗಂಗಾಸಿಂಧು ಸರಸ್ವತೀ ಚ ಯಮುನಾ ಗೋದಾವರೀ ನರ್ಮದಾ
ಕೃಷ್ಣಾ ಭೀಮರತೀ ಚ ಫಲ್ಘುಸರಯೂ ಶ್ರೀಗಂಡಕೀ ಗೋಮತೀ
ಕಾವೇರೀ ಕಪಿಲಾಪ್ರಯಾಗವಿನುತಾ ನೇತ್ರಾವತೀತ್ಯಾದಯೋ
ನದ್ಯ: ಶ್ರೀ ಹರಿಪಾದಪಂಕಜಭವಾ: ಕುರ್ವಂತು ನೋ ಮಂಗಳಂ

maagha snaana manthra