As the month of May approaches, it brings along a plethora of festivals and special days in different parts of the world. In India, this month will be filled with various Hindu festivals such as Akshaya Tritiya, Rabindra Jayanti, and more. It is important for everyone to be aware of these dates in order to prepare for the festivities in advance. So mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate the cultural diversity of India in May 2024!
Akshaya Tritiya, Vrata May, Buddha's Birthday, and Ekadashi: Hindu Festivals and Observances in May
Background
May is a significant month in the Hindu calendar, marked by several important festivals and observances. These occasions celebrate religious, cultural, and historical events and serve as opportunities for spiritual reflection, community gatherings, and cultural celebrations.
Akshaya Tritiya
Akshaya Tritiya is a Hindu festival that falls on the third lunar day of the bright half of the month of Vaisakha (usually in May). It is considered an auspicious day for new beginnings, marriages, investments, and purchases. The term "Akshaya" means "undecaying," and it is believed that any action performed on this day will bear eternal benefits.
Vrata May
Vrata May is a fast observed on the full moon day of the month of Vaisakha. It is dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi, and devotees observe the fast to seek her blessings for wealth, prosperity, and well-being.
Buddha's Birthday
Buddha's Birthday, also known as Vesak or Buddha Purnima, celebrates the birth of Lord Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. It is observed on the full moon day of the month of Vaisakha in many parts of Asia. Devotees commemorate this day by visiting temples, meditating, and sharing stories about Buddha's teachings.
Ekadashi
Ekadashi refers to the eleventh day of each lunar fortnight. There are 24 Ekadashis in a Hindu calendar year, and each is dedicated to a specific deity. Fasting on Ekadashi is considered a way to cleanse the body and mind and earn spiritual merit.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is the significance of Akshaya Tritiya?
Akshaya Tritiya is an auspicious day for new beginnings, marriage, investments, and purchases. It is believed that any action performed on this day will bear eternal benefits.
2. What is observed on Buddha's Birthday?
On Buddha's Birthday, devotees visit temples, meditate, and share stories about Buddha's teachings. The day is celebrated to honor the birth of the founder of Buddhism.
3. What is the importance of Vrata May?
Vrata May is a fast observed to seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi for wealth, prosperity, and well-being.
4. When is Ekadashi observed?
Ekadashi is observed on the eleventh day of each lunar fortnight. There are 24 Ekadashis in a Hindu calendar year.
5. What is the benefit of fasting on Ekadashi?
Fasting on Ekadashi is believed to cleanse the body and mind and earn spiritual merit. It is considered a form of purification and atonement.
A fire broke out on Friday afternoon at the Bandra-Kurla Complex metro underground station in Mumbai, suspending train services for nearly two hours. The blaze was quickly contained by eight fire engines and other firefighting vehicles, with support from various authorities. Prime Minister Modi had just inaugurated the first phase of the BKC-to-Aarey stretch of the Mumbai Metro Line 3, but no injuries were reported and train services were restored after the situation was deemed safe.
Over 3.5 lakh earthen lamps will be lit at Vasudev Ghat on the banks of the Yamuna river in New Delhi next week as part of the city's celebration of Dev Deepawali, Guru Purab, and the birth anniversary of tribal icon Birsa Munda. Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena will attend the event and perform a Yamuna Aarti, while a captivating drone and laser show will also be part of the festivities. The recently redeveloped Vasudev Ghat serves as a testament to the L-G's commitment to rejuvenating the Yamuna and involving the people of the city in its conservation.
A tragic car accident in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, has left the community in shock, with six young individuals losing their lives and one in critical condition. The collision occurred in the early hours of November 12, turning the vehicle into a mangled heap of metal. While investigations are ongoing, the incident serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of reckless driving and the fragility of life.
Just days after a tragic accident that claimed the lives of six students and left another injured in Dehradun, a viral video has emerged showing the group consuming alcohol before the crash. The video, shared widely on social media, has sparked speculation about the students' level of intoxication at the time of the accident, though police have yet to confirm this. The heartbreaking accident, which took place in the early afternoon, has left the community in shock and grief as details continue to unfold.
Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Guru Purab, is a significant festival celebrated by Sikhs around the world on the birth anniversary of their founder, Guru Nanak Dev Ji. This year marks the 555th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who was born in Rai Bhoi Ki Talwandi, now known as Nankana Sahib in Lahore, Pakistan. Keep the celebrations meaningful by sharing best wishes, images, messages, and greetings with your loved ones. Get to know more about the history, significance, and timings of Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024. Additionally, stay updated on the latest news, including the ban on the broadcast of Arsh Dalla's trial and the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is pulling out all the stops to ensure victory in the upcoming by-elections. This decision comes after criticism from Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav, who accused Adityanath of campaigning out of fear of losing his position. Adityanath has already campaigned in nine constituencies and will now shift his focus to Majhawan and Khair, in a bid to secure his party's place in the state's political landscape.
As the world celebrates Guru Nanak Dev Ji Jayanti on November 15, 2024, believers honour the birth of the first Sikh guru and founder of Sikhism. Through inspirational quotes and messages, this sacred day serves as a reminder to follow the path of truth and kindness, as taught by Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Let us share love, peace, and happiness with our loved ones on this special occasion.
With the end of the holy Kartik month, Kartik Purnima 2022 falls on November 8, Tuesday. This auspicious day holds significant religious and cultural importance, with people across the country participating in rituals and festivals. The Vaishnava tradition celebrates it as Damodar month, marking the devotion to Lord Krishna. Five days of festivities surround this day, beginning on Prabodhini Ekadashi and ending with Kartik Purnima.
The Karthika Masam festivities have begun at prominent Shaivaite temples in Kurnool and Nandyal districts, including Sri Brahmarambha Mallikarjuna Swamy Varla Devasthanam in Srisailam. Devotees gathered in large numbers to take part in the holy rituals and ceremonies, which will continue throughout the month. Temple authorities have made arrangements for hassle-free darshan and lit lamps at the temple premises and river banks, while also adhering to COVID-19 safety protocols. Punya Nadi Harathi will be held at Patalaganga on November 15, where prayers will be offered to the idol of Krishnaveni.
A tragic accident in Dehradun, Uttarakhand has claimed the lives of six people and left one critically injured. The accident, which involved an Innova car and a cargo truck, occurred late last night at the ONGC crossing. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the collision and authorities are urging for stricter road safety measures, especially during late-night hours.