Chaturmasya is a sacrifice made in every four months. The period of Chaturmasya starts in the month of June-July. It starts during the fortnight of the diminishing moon. The Chaturmasya period ends in the month of Kartika (October-November) on the Ekadasi day known as Utthana Ekadasi in the fortnight of the waning moon.
This four-month period is known as Chaturmasya. Some Vaishnavas also observe it from the full-moon day of June-July until the full-moon day of Kartika. That is also a period of four months. This period of Chaturmasya is calculated by the lunar months. Chaturmasya period is observed during the rainy season and it is observed by all groups of people.
The real purpose behind the vow taken during these four months is to minimize the quantity of sense gratification. This is not very difficult. During the Chaturmasya period, one should not eat spinach, yogurt and should not drink milk. One cannot eat fish or any non vegetarian food during the month of Kartika. Masur dal and urad dal are also considered non vegetarian so these are also not consumed during Chaturmasya period. On the whole, during the four-month period of Chaturmasya one should practice giving up all food intended for sense enjoyment.
(Last Updated on : 16-09-2009)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recently Updated Articles in Indian Festivals
|
|
|
• | Jammu and Kashmir Temple Festivals Jammu and Kashmir temple festivals are closely knitted with north Indian culture and tradition. The state celebrates many religious occasions in complete fervor. These temple festivals now represent a part of the culture and tradition of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
| | • | Uttar Pradesh Temple Festivals Uttar Pradesh Temple Festivals include almost all national festivals along with some of the regional festivals of north India. this state celebrates each festival with great fervor mirroring the cultural and social unity of the people.
| | • | Hindu Festivals Hindu festivals are observed according to the lunar and solar calendars. These are festivals that are celebrated throughout the year. They are region specific and bear different names.
| | • | Chhattisgarh Temple Festivals Chhattisgarh temple festivals are some of the spectacular events in the state, participated by all age groups. These festivals not only reflect the culture of the natives but also mirror social harmony among people in this state.
| | • | Mizoram Temple Festivals Mizoram temple festivals, influenced by tribal rituals reflect the aboriginal culture of the state. Majority of festivals are focused on agricultural harvest and are celebrated with dance, family get together and grand feats.
| | |
|
|
|
|