Ranchi: Anant Chaturdashi, observed on the Chaturdashi Tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada, will be celebrated this year on Friday, September 25. According to Sanatan Hindu tradition, devotees worship Lord Vishnu in his infinite form on this day and pray for happiness, peace, prosperity and family well-being.
Sanjay Sarraf, Provincial Spokesperson of the Shri Krishna Pranami Seva Dham Trust and the Vishva Hindu Parishad Seva Department, said that the word ‘Anant’ means that which has neither a beginning nor an end. Anant Chaturdashi is considered a festival of faith, devotion and resolve. Worship of Lord Vishnu, Sheshnag and Goddess Yamuna is traditionally performed on this occasion.
After the puja, devotees wear the Anant Sutra, a sacred thread traditionally made of cotton and tied with 14 knots. According to religious belief, the 14 knots represent the fourteen worlds. Devotees tie the sacred thread around their arm as a symbol of their faith in God and their resolve to follow the path of righteousness.
The traditional story associated with Anant Chaturdashi revolves around Sage Kaundinya and his wife Sushila. According to popular belief, Sushila worshipped Lord Anant and wore the Anant Sutra. Later, Sage Kaundinya faced difficulties after disrespecting the sacred thread. Realising his mistake, he worshipped Lord Anant with devotion, following which his troubles were resolved. The story conveys a message of faith, self-restraint and devotion to God.
On Anant Chaturdashi, devotees take a bath and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu. Flowers, fruits, incense, lamps and offerings are presented during the puja. Many devotees also observe a fast on this day.
Sanjay Sarraf said that the significance of the festival is not limited to praying for happiness and prosperity. It also inspires people to remain committed to truth, righteousness, self-discipline, duty and good deeds.
Anant Chaturdashi also marks the conclusion of Ganeshotsav at many places, where devotees immerse Lord Ganesha idols. The day is therefore considered significant both for religious devotion and festive traditions.
