The Importance and Traditions of Kedara Gowri Vratham

Introduction

Kedara Gowri Viratham, also referred to as Kedara Gauri Vrat or Kedara Gowri Nombu, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated across India, particularly in Tamil Nadu. This religious ceremony is of great importance to Lord Shiva's followers and is open to all, regardless of gender or caste. The festival lasts for 21 days, beginning on the 8th day of the waxing phase of the moon in the month of Purattasi and ending on the day of Deepavali. In this article, we will explore the history, rituals, and significance of Kedara Gowri Viratham.

The Legend of Kedara Gowri Viratham

According to ancient Hindu texts, the origin of Kedara Gowri Vratham can be traced back to a story involving Goddess Parvati and her devotion to Lord Shiva. It is said that a follower of Lord Shiva, Pramatha Gana, performed a pradakshina (circumambulation) around Lord Shiva, excluding Goddess Parvati. This act of exclusion angered Parvati, and she sought the sage Gauthama's guidance for a solution. The sage advised her to observe the Kedara Vrat with utmost devotion. Lord Shiva, impressed by her penance, granted Parvati his left part, resulting in the manifestation of the divine form of Ardhanareeshwara. Since then, this form of Shiva has been worshipped as Kedara Gowri.

The Significance of Kedara Gowri Viratham

Kedara Gowri Viratham is of immense significance in Hindu mythology and is believed to bring numerous blessings to those who observe it. The ceremony is associated with fulfilling desires and seeking the divine blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. By observing this viratham with devotion, one can attain prosperity, good health, and spiritual growth. The festival is also believed to bestow the devotees with the ultimate goal of Moksha, liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

The Rituals of Kedara Gowri Viratham

The observance of Kedara Gowri Viratham involves several rituals and practices that devotees undertake with great reverence. Let us delve into the key rituals associated with this festival:

• Installing the Kalasha: The viratham commences by installing a Kalasha, a pot filled with water, which symbolizes the presence of the divine. The Kalasha is decorated with turmeric and kumkum (vermilion) and adorned with betel leaves on its inner rim. A coconut smeared with turmeric and kumkum is placed on the mouth of the pot, signifying the divine presence.
• Making Vrata Threads: Devotees prepare vrata threads by taking 21 fibers with 21 knots in them. These threads are tied around the Kalasha and worshipped with sandalwood paste, rice, flowers, and fruits. The vrata threads symbolize the commitment and dedication of the devotees towards Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
• Performing Pujas and Offerings: As a customary practice, the devotees begin the vratham by worshipping Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. Various prayers and mantras are recited, seeking the blessings of the divine. As part of the offerings, 21 types of fruits, 21 betel leaves, and 21 betel nuts are kept during the pooja. Additionally, specific food items, such as Kajjayya (deep-fried sweets prepared in ghee), Chitra Anna (flavored rice), kosmbri (a traditional salad), and palya (a vegetable dish), are prepared and offered to the deities.
• Tying the Sacred Thread: A significant ritual of Kedara Gowri Viratham involves tying the sacred thread, known as Kedaragauridaara, around the neck of the female devotee and on the right hand of the male devotee. This thread is tied with the help of their respective spouses, symbolizing the unity and sacred bond between the couples.
• Observing Fasting: Fasting is an integral part of Kedara Gowri Vratham. Devotees abstain from consuming food and water from the beginning of the viratham until the completion of the puja. However, for those who cannot observe a complete fast, partial fasting is allowed, where they can consume fruits and dairy products.

Conclusion of the Viratham

On the culmination day of the viratham, devotees perform the visarjane (conclusion) ritual. The visarjane mantras are recited, and the Kalasha, believed to contain the presence of the divine, is taken and immersed in a nearby body of water. This act symbolizes the completion of the viratham and the departure of the divine energy.

Conclusion

Kedara Gowri Viratham is a sacred festival that holds deep spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. By observing this viratham with devotion and following the prescribed rituals, devotees seek the blessings of the divine couple and strive for prosperity, well-being, and spiritual enlightenment. Let us embrace the spirit of this festival and embark on a journey of devotion and self-transformation.