Anant Chaturdashi is the festival performed by Jains and Hindus. This is an important day in the Jain calendar of festivities.The Jains observe Paryushana(a ritual practiced by The Jains)in the last ten days of the bhado(aug-sep)month. Anant Chaudas(Anant Chaturdashi)is the last day of the Paryushana.Kshamavani,the day in which the Jains ask for forgiveness for all the mistakes they have made intentionally or otherwise,is observed one day after the Anant Chaudas. Anant Chaturdashi is also the last day of the Hindu festival of Ganeshotsav.It is generally the tenth or the eleventh day after the Ganesh Chaturthi,and all Ganesh idols brought into homes or communities are immersed in the sea or nearby lakes and rivers. In parts of Bihar and eastern UP(Uttar Pradesh),the festival is closely linked to Kshirsagar(ocean of milk)and Lord Vishnus Anant Roopa(infinite incarnations).Fourteen tilaks(small vertical strips)of vermillion are made on a wooden plank,fourteen white puri(fried white traditional Indian bread)and fourteen pua(deep fried sweet Indian white bread)are placed on these vermillion strips.A bowl containing panchamrit(a mixture of milk,curd,jaggery,honey and ghee)symbolizing the Kshirsagar(the abode of Lord Vishnu)is placed on this wooden plank.A thread having fourteen knots,symbolizing Lord Anant is wrapped on a cucumber and is swirled five times in this Kshirsagar.Later this Anant thread is tied on the right arm above the elbow by men while women tie this on their left arm.This Anant thread is removed after fourteen days. There is a mythical story behind this festival.To get a complete idea of the festival you are requested to go through the details supplied by the Wikipedia. THANK YOU.....
Posted on: Mon, 08 Sep 2014 17:06:56 +0000
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