Ananta Chaturdashi, also known as Anant Chaturdashi or Anant Padmanabha Vrat, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated on the Chaturdashi of Shukla Paksha in the Bhadrapada month. In 2023, this auspicious day falls on September 28th. This day holds profound spiritual importance and is dedicated to worshipping the eternal form of Lord Vishnu in his Ananta (infinite) form. It is a day of devotion, fasting, and reflection, celebrated by Hindus across India and beyond.

Chaturdashi date starts: 27 September 2023 at 10:18 PM

Chaturdashi date ends: 28 September 2023 at 06:49 PM

Anant Chaturdashi Puja Muhurta: 06:12 AM to 06:49 PM

Significance of Ananta Chaturdashi

Ananta Chaturdashi celebrates the eternal bond of love and devotion symbolized by Lord Vishnu in his infinite form. The term "Ananta" translates to endless or infinite, emphasizing the concept of eternal relationships, especially the bond between spouses. It's a day to reflect on the enduring and limitless nature of love and commitment.

Rituals and Observance

Vrat (Fasting): Devotees observe a day-long fast on Ananta Chaturdashi. Married women often fast for the well-being and longevity of their husbands, while others fast for various blessings and spiritual merits.

Thread Tying: A sacred thread, known as "Ananta Sutra," is tied on the wrists of devotees. This thread symbolizes the eternal bond and protection of Lord Vishnu and serves as a reminder of the infinite love of the divine.

Puja (Worship): Elaborate prayers and rituals are performed during this day, with a particular focus on Lord Vishnu in his Ananta form. Offerings of flowers, incense, fruits, and sweets are made to the deity as a sign of devotion and gratitude.

Recitation of Mantras: Devotees chant mantras dedicated to Lord Vishnu, including the "Ananta Chaturdashi Mantra," seeking his blessings and divine grace.

Dwadashi Puja: The festival extends over two days, with the day following Ananta Chaturdashi known as "Dwadashi." Special rituals and prayers are performed on this day to conclude the festivities.

Spiritual Essence

Ananta Chaturdashi serves as a powerful reminder of the eternal nature of relationships, particularly the bonds of love and commitment between spouses. It underscores the importance of dedication, faith, and the belief in the infinite grace of the divine. This festival teaches the virtues of patience, perseverance, and the pursuit of spiritual growth.

Historical Significance

In the Mahabharata, Maharaj Yudhishthira observed the Ananta Chaturdashi fast with his brothers and Draupadi. The fast was observed with devotion, and the Ananta Sutra was worn. This act led to the Pandavas being freed from their troubles. It is a testament to the power of faith and devotion in Lord Vishnu's infinite grace.

Puja Vidhan (Worship Ritual)

Mantra:
"Anant evam naaganamadhipah sarvakamadah।
sada bhoyat prasannome yaktanabhayankar॥

Anantasagarmahasamudremagnansambhudhadravasudeva।
Anantrupevinojitatmahayantarupayanamonaste॥"

The worship should be conducted with these mantras, with Lord Vishnu represented in the form of Shri Krishna, and Sheshnag in the form of Kaal. Both deities are worshipped together.

Steps of Worship:

Begin by taking a bath and establish the Kalash.
Install the Ashta Dal on the Kalash, placed in a lotus-shaped pot, with the Ananta God made from Kusha.
Put 14 pieces of turmeric-colored raw cord near the Kalash.
Perform the worship with fragrances, flowers, incense, lamps, and naivedya offerings.
Meditate on the Ananta God and tie the pure Ananta thread on your right arm. This thread is believed to bring infinite blessings and protection.
The fourth knot on the Ananta thread symbolizes the realms, with the Ananta God's presence within.

Ananta Chaturdashi is a day to celebrate the enduring and limitless love and devotion towards Lord Vishnu. It teaches us the values of faith, commitment, and the pursuit of spiritual growth. As we observe this festival on September 28, 2023, let us reflect on the infinite grace of the divine and the eternal bonds that hold us together. May this day bring blessings, protection, and spiritual growth to all who observe it with devotion.