India is a land of diverse cultures and traditions, where festivals are an integral part of life. One such festival that holds a special place in people's hearts, especially in the southern states of India, is Gowri Habba. Also known as Swarna Gowri Vratha, this festival celebrates the divine feminine energy and is observed with great devotion and enthusiasm. In this article, we will delve into the date, significance, and the puja vidhi (rituals) associated with Gowri Habba. Gowri Habba 2023 Decoration Ideas: How To Prepare Mantapa? What Items Are Added in Baagina for Gowri Vratham Pooja Rituals?

Gowri Habba 2023 Date, Timing & Shubh Muhurat

Gowri Habba is typically celebrated on the third day of the bright half of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada. This usually falls one day before Ganesh Chaturthi, another widely celebrated festival in India. The festival occurs in the months of August or September, depending on the lunar calendar.

The auspicious timings and muhurat (auspicious moments) for Gowri Habba can vary based on the location and individual preferences. The timing of the festival is determined by the lunar calendar, so it changes from year to year. In 2023, Gowri Habba falls on September 18th.

The Pratahkala Gowri Puja Muhurat will begin at 06:26 AM and last until 08:53 AM on September 18. The Tadige Tithi will begin at 11:08 AM on September 17, 2023, and end at 12:39 PM on September 18, 2023.

Gowri Habba Significance

Gowri Habba is a festival dedicated to Goddess Gowri, who is considered the embodiment of purity and motherly love. It is believed that on this day, Goddess Gowri visits her devotees' homes to bless them with happiness and prosperity. Married women, in particular, observe this festival with great devotion to seek the blessings of Goddess Gowri for the well-being and longevity of their husbands. Unmarried girls also participate in the puja to find a loving and caring life partner.

The significance of this festival goes beyond the religious aspects. It serves as a reminder of the importance of feminine energy and the pivotal role played by women in society. It promotes the idea of women as the nurturing and caring force in families.

Gowri Habba Puja Vidhi (Rituals)

Cleaning and Decoration: The preparations for Gowri Habba begin with cleaning the house and decorating it with colourful rangoli (decorative patterns made with coloured powders), fresh flowers, and traditional torana (decorative arches).

Goddess Gowri Idol: A clay idol or image of Goddess Gowri is prepared or purchased and placed in a prominent area of the house. The idol is adorned with traditional clothing, jewellery, and flowers.

Offerings: Devotees offer a variety of fruits, coconuts, betel leaves, betel nuts, and traditional sweets like obbattu (puran poli) to the goddess. These offerings are considered a symbol of purity and devotion.

Puja Rituals: The main puja involves performing aarti (ritual of waving lit lamps), chanting sacred mantras, and offering prayers to Goddess Gowri. Married women perform the puja with utmost devotion, seeking the blessings of the goddess for their husbands' well-being.

Vrat (Fasting): Many women observe a day-long fast as a part of the ritual. They consume only sattvic (pure and vegetarian) food once the puja is completed.

Storytelling: Elders often narrate the mythological stories associated with Goddess Gowri to younger generations, passing down the cultural and spiritual significance of the festival.

Visiting Relatives: Gowri Habba is also a time for families to come together. Married women often visit their parents' homes, and friends and relatives exchange gifts and sweets to symbolise love and unity.

Happy Gowri Habba 2023 Messages: Greetings To Celebrate the Festival Ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi

Gowri Habba is a beautiful festival celebrating the divine feminine and the importance of women in our lives. It brings families together, strengthens bonds, and reminds us to appreciate and respect the women in our society. The rituals and traditions associated with this festival are not just religious but also cultural, carrying forward the rich heritage of India.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 17, 2023 03:37 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).