Diwali in Navaratri-Style

We had placed the Golu at home during Navaratri and we decided not to dismantle the metal steps since it is a little cumbersome. Come Diwali, we placed the idols on the steps and celebrated the Diwali in Navaratri-Style. We also thought that this could be a new way of worshipping the deities in this festival.

Diwali in Navaratri-Style:

Diwali began on the Ekadashi of the Krishna Paksha, gone by. On this Ekadashi, we performed the pooja of Sri Hari. The next day was also auspicious as it was Govatsa Dwadashi. Cows were worshipped on this day. The following day was Dhan Trayodashi and Lord Dhanvantri and Kubera were worshipped that day. Triyodashi and Chaturdashi came together with Hanumat Jayanti, this time. The day immediately following Dhan Triyodashi was Naraka Chaturdashi and the presiding deity for this day was Lord Krishna. The next day was Amavasya. Goddess Lakshmi was worshipped on this day.

Deva Uthani Ekadashi:

The Shukla Paksha Ekadashi that came next was Deva Uthani Ekadashi. On this day, Vishnu Pada, Shaligrama, Conch Shell, Tulasi and Krishna are worshipped. The Uttana Dwadashi day signified Tulasi Vivaha. Shaligrama is placed inside the Tulasi pot and tied to the plant with a yellow thread. A Phyllanthus emblica or Amla fruit (Indian Gooseberry) is also placed near the Shaligrama. If possible an Amla plant is also placed near Tulasi. Sugarcane stalk can also be kept. Tulasi and Shaligrama are wedded together with proper Hindu rites. 5 Amla fruits are used to perform the aarti of the wedded Divine Couple. A ghee lamp is also used for this purpose.

The period between Deva Shayani Ekadashi and Deva Uthani Ekadashi is known as Chaturmasa and comprises of 4 months. During these 4 months, Lord Vishnu goes into Yoga Nidra and wakes up at the end of it.

Vaikuntha Chaturdashi:

Today is Kartigai Vaikuntha Chaturdashi. The worship of Lord Shiva and Vishnu is considered important today. There is a story behind the celebration of this festival.

Lord Vishnu decided to worship Lord Shiva with 1000 gold lotuses, in Benaras. Lord Shiva wanted to test Him. The God of Gods hid one gold lotus. Lord Vishnu searched for the missing lotus, but could not find it. So, He plucked His lotus eye and offered it to the deity. Lord Shiva appeared before Him, blessed and hugged him happily. Lord Shiva also ordained that anybody, who would worship both the Gods on this day, would accomplish all their desires and finally receive moksha, at the end of their lives.

Poornima:

The full moon day has to be celebrated with the pooja of Lord Vishnu. Devotees, desiring to perform Lord Satyanarayana Pooja, can go ahead with their plans. This day signifies the end of the 5 day Tulasi Vivaha Pooja and its Udhyapana is to be done on this day. From this day, devotees can commence the celebration of any auspicious event.