Maha Shivratri To Vijay Ekadashi, Festivals In March 2024

March is of extreme significance to the followers of the Hindu faith as many festivals like Maha Shivaratri, Holi etc are celebrated in this month. According to the Hindu calendar, March also starts with the Shashti Tithi of Phalguna month of the Krishna Paksha. As per beliefs, it is also said that the Brahma started the creation of the universe in this month. Sanjay Upadhyay, one of the astrologers from Kashi, talked about the major fasts and festivals to be observed and celebrated in March.

1. Vijay Ekadashi– Vijaya Ekadashi will be observed on March 6. It is considered an auspicious day for seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu.

2. Maha Shivratri– This festival holds great importance for the devotees of Lord Shiva and will be celebrated on March 8. The Lord Shiva devotees go to the temples and offer ghee, milk, etc to Shiva Lingam to attain the blessings of Lord Shiva. Observing fast and doing Rudrabhishek puja on this day has immense significance.

3. Phalguna Amavasya– Phalguna Amavasya will be observed on March 10 and is believed to be important to get the blessings of the forefathers. The ancestors are pleased by donating food, clothes, money, etc to the poor on this day.

4. Amalaki Ekadashi– It falls between Maha Shivaratri and Holi, i.e- February 20. Amla Tree and Lord Vishnu should be worshipped on this day. As per religious beliefs, it is said that by worshipping Lord Vishnu, devotees are also able to attain the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.

5. Holika Dahan– Holika Dahan (March 24) marks the end of the Holashtak period. On this day, Hiranyakashipu’s (King of demons) sister Holika was burnt in the fire. This happened even though Holika was granted a boon that fire could not burn her.

6. Holi– Holi is celebrated on the next day of the Holika Dahan (February 25). Holi is celebrated in the Northern parts of India and is popular across the country. Holi is incomplete without the traditional bhang and gujiya.

7. Sankashti Chaturthi– The devotees of Lord Ganesha keep fast from sunrise to moonrise on Sankashti Chaturthi (March 28). Along with worshipping Lord Ganesha, fasting also holds special importance.