Today is the first Tuesday of Sawan, and with it, the first Mangala Gauri fast is also being observed. This fast is dedicated to Goddess Parvati. According to religious belief, married women observe this fast to pray for their husbands’ long life, a happy married life, and unbroken good fortune. Worshiping Lord Shiva and Goddess Gauri with proper rituals on this day is considered especially significant.
Auspicious Time for Mangala Gauri Vrat
Today, Brahma Muhurta will be from 4:20 am to 5:02 pm. Abhijit Muhurta is from 12:00 pm to 12:54 pm. The time for general worship is from 9:06 am to 2:08 pm. Devotees can worship Goddess Gauri during this period as per their convenience.
Combination of Bhadra and Panchak
Bhadra and Panchak are also coinciding on the day of Mangala Gauri Vrat. According to astrological calculations, Bhadra will last from 10:03 pm to 5:45 am the next day. Chor Panchak will last from 5:44 am to 9:54 pm.
Mangala Gauri Vrat Puja Rituals
Women observing the fast should wake up early in the morning, bathe, and wear clean clothes. Then, clean the place of worship and spread a red cloth on the platform. Install a Kalash (water pot) and place mango leaves and a coconut in it.
Next, install an idol or picture of Goddess Gauri. Offer her turmeric, kumkum, bangles, bindi, clothes, and other Suhaag items. Light a ghee lamp and take a vow to observe the fast. Afterward, listen to the Mangala Gauri Vrat Katha and perform the Aarti of the Goddess. At the end of the puja, it is customary to offer 16 types of Suhaag items to the Goddess.
Significance of Mangala Gauri Vrat
It is traditional to observe the Mangala Gauri Vrat on every Tuesday of the month of Sawan. It is believed that observing this fast brings the blessings of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. Married women especially observe this fast for the long life of their husbands, marital happiness and prosperity of the family.