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| God Maha Vishnu, tamil.boldsky.com |
Above Image: The stone idol of god Maha Visshnu. Purattasi month began on September 17, 1924 and will end on October 17. worship of God Venkateswara (Vishnu), Lord Vishnu is said to visit the earth as Venkateswara in this month to protect the universe at the end of Kali Yuga. Shani (saturn) and goddesses (Ammans) ger priority in this month. Devotees normally shun NV food....................
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| An idol of Sri Vishnu. vgocart.com |
Purattasi Masam: Significance and Celebrations
Overview: Purattasi Masam, (holy month is named after the star(s) on the Full Moon day – Poorattadhi (Purva Phalguni) or Uttrattadhi (Uttra Phalguni) falling between mid-September and mid-October, holds immense significance in Tamil culture, particularly for followers of Lord Vishnu. During this auspicious period, devotees commemorate the earthly appearance of Lord Venkateswara (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu) and express their gratitude for his role in maintaining universal harmony. It is a time marked by dedicated prayers, fasting, and special rituals, especially on Saturdays, which are considered highly auspicious.
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| Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal temple, Perumal malai near Duraiyur .maalaimalar.com |
Mythological Significance: According to legend, Lord Venkateswara descended to Earth during Purattasi to protect the world at the onset of the Kali Yuga. His divine presence is celebrated in the month when the Poorattadhi (Purva Bhadrapada) or Uttirattadhi (Uttara Bhadrapada) stars coincide with the full moon. As per another belief, Purattasi Saturdays commemorate Lord Venkateswara’s return to Vaikuntha after his sojourn on Earth. The devotees believe that Lord Shani (Saturn) temporarily reduces his influence during this month, providing a window for focused worship without the usual obstacles associated with Shani's adverse effects.
The Influence of Lord Shani: In Hindu astrology, Shani is considered a planet that governs discipline, hard work, and karma. His influence is often perceived as challenging, and he is associated with delays and hardships. However, during Purattasi, Shani’s impact is believed to wane, allowing devotees to concentrate on spiritual practices and receive the blessings of Lord Venkateswara without hindrance. This diminished influence makes Purattasi Saturdays ideal for observing fasts and conducting special prayers to seek protection and grace.
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| Mahalaya Amavasya .pillaicenter.com/ |
Rituals and Observances:
Fasting and Prayers: Devotees undertake strict fasting, particularly on Saturdays, and visit temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, such as the renowned Tirupati Temple. Many devotees observe the Nombu ritual (similar to a vow) during Purattasi Saturdays, wherein they abstain from consuming non-vegetarian food and offer specific prayers.
Temple Visits and Special Rituals: Temples are thronged by devotees who offer prayers and conduct special Archana (worship ceremonies). During this period, temples hoist flags bearing the Garuda emblem (the divine eagle mount of Lord Vishnu), symbolizing the Lord’s presence. Devotees chant “Govinda, Govinda, Govinda” repeatedly, expressing their devotion and creating a temple-like atmosphere at home.
Offering of Mavilakku Lamps: A traditional ritual involves lighting lamps made from rice flour and cow’s ghee, known as Mavilakku. These lamps are prepared at home and lit while reciting hymns and names of the deity, signifying the devotee’s wish to bring light and clarity into their lives. Some devotees offer Ellu Deepam (sesame oil lamps) and Ellu Podi (sesame powder) to Lord Shani, seeking his blessings to remove financial and personal difficulties.
The Story of Devotee Bheeman: A popular tale linked to Purattasi is the story of Bheeman, a potter from Tirupati, who was an ardent devotee of Lord Venkateswara. Due to his poverty, Bheeman couldn’t afford fresh flowers or lavish offerings. Instead, he made a clay idol of the Lord and created clay flower garlands as his humble tribute. Despite his meager resources, he offered curd rice with deep devotion. One day, the King of Thondaimaan, a wealthy patron of the temple, was shocked to find clay garlands on the deity. In a dream, Lord Venkateswara revealed that he cherished Bheeman’s devotion more than the King’s gold. Consequently, the King honored Bheeman and instituted the practice of offering curd rice in clay pots during Purattasi.
Symbolic Lighting of Lamps: The custom of lighting lamps made of a mixture of rice flour and ghee is believed to emit carbon that purifies the home environment, driving away negative energies. This practice is accompanied by the chanting of the Lord’s name, which enhances the sanctity of the ritual and fills the home with divine vibrations.
Special Offerings: Offerings made during Purattasi are considered highly meritorious. Devotees often prepare special foods like Puliyodarai (tamarind rice), Curd Rice, and other vegetarian delicacies, which are presented in clay pots, reminiscent of the simplicity of Bheeman’s offerings. Curd rice, in particular, is seen as a symbol of humility and devotion, reflecting the core values of worship during this month.
Conclusion: The month of Purattasi is a time of intense devotion and celebration for Lord Venkateswara’s followers. It serves as an opportunity for devotees to express their gratitude for his protective presence and to seek relief from the hardships typically associated with Lord Shani’s influence. The observances during Purattasi Saturdays, be it through fasting, lighting lamps, or offering humble dishes, symbolize the deep devotion and unwavering faith of the devotees, echoing the spirit of legends like that of Bheeman.
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