Vasudeva Dwadashi (05-Jul-2017)

Vasudeva Dwadashi is regarded as an auspicious day dedicated for the worship of Lord Krishna. This holy Dwadashi, which is also referred as the Vamana Dwadashi, falls in the Hindu month of Ashada, on the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon). In other words, Vasudeva Dwadashi is celebrated on the following day of the much revered Shayana Ekadasi (Devshayani Ekadashi) in the month of Ashada. This day also marks the commencement of Chathur Maas (the four holy months of monsoon). Lord Krishna and Maa Lakshmi are the principal deities worshiped on this special day. According to Hindu Mythology, Lord Vishnu signifies Ekadasi while Goddess Mahalakshmi represents Dwadashi. It is widely believed that devotees observing strict penance on Chathur Maas (four months) namely Ashadha, Shravan, Bhadrapada and Ashvin shall be blessed with innumerable wealth and the ultimate salvation.

Rituals of Vasudeva Dwadashi

• Devotees rise early in the morning and take a holy bath.
• They observe a strict fast throughout the day, and recite holy slokas on Lord Krishna and Goddess Lakshmi.
• Offering flowers, incense, water, lamps and a hand fan to the deity is considered auspicious on this day.
• Performing Abhisheka with panchamrit (five elixers) on Lord Vishnu is believed to bring desirable results.
• Many devotees pay a visit to the Vishnu temple on this occasion and render bhajans in praise of the Lord the entire night.
• Reciting the much venerated Vishnu Sahasranamam and other mantras in the name of Lord Vishnu is said to bestow the divine blessings of the Lord.
• Making donations in the form of rice, fruits and clothes to Brahmin priests on this day is considered auspicious.
• Few even make Goo Dhan (Donating cows) on Vasudeva Dwadashi, that is considered as an meritorious deed. Special poojas are also performed to cows, as they are considered sacred according to Hinduism

Radhika T V