Kedar Gauri Vrat

The Kedar Gauri Vrat, also known as the Kedareshwar Vrat, is an extremely sacred and significant ritual in the Sanatan tradition dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. This vrat is celebrated alongside the grand festival of Diwali, specifically on the 'Amavasya' of the month of Kartik. In South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu, it is observed with devotion, reverence, and enthusiasm, where Shiva devotees pray to Lord Shiva for the prosperity and happiness of their families.

According to mythological beliefs, Goddess Parvati performed the Kedar Gauri Vrat to become a part of Lord Shiva, resulting in her attaining the form of 'Ardhanarishvara.' Traditionally, this vrat lasts for 21 days, during which devotees worship Lord Shiva, but the main fast is observed on Kartik Amavasya, i.e., on Diwali day.

It is believed that following this vrat fulfils all desires and brings happiness, prosperity, good fortune, and peace into life. Devotees of Lord Shiva who faithfully observe the Kedar Gauri Vrat find their lives filled with joy, peace, and prosperity.

Puja Procedure

The worship of Kedar Gauri Vrat is performed with utmost devotion and adherence to rituals. On the day of the vrat, devotees wake up early, take a bath, and don clean clothes while meditating on the unique names and forms of the deity, making a resolve to observe the vrat. The worship begins with the establishment of a water-filled Kalash, over which a canopy is created. A thread with 21 knots is prepared for the vrat, which is tied around the Kalash.

During the worship, devotees offer sandalwood, rice, flowers, fruits, and 21 types of Naivedya (offerings) to the deities. According to their devotion, the individual observing the vrat should conclude the worship by feeding 21 priests or needy people with food, clothing, and donations. Fasting holds special significance on this day, with most devotees observing a one-day fast, while some display their exclusive devotion to Lord Shiva by observing the vrat for 21 days.

After the puja, devotees can have one meal, and if a complete fast is not feasible, they can consume fruits, milk, and yogurt. In the end, devotees pray to Lord Shiva and Goddess Gauri for prosperity, wealth, and the removal of life's obstacles, ensuring that joy, peace, and abundance reside in their lives.

Importance of Kedar Gauri Vrat

The Kedar Gauri Vrat is a symbol of complete devotion to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, considered highly effective for fulfilling wishes and attaining liberation (moksha). This vrat not only provides spiritual satisfaction and mental peace to devotees but also blesses them with the fulfillment of worldly desires, wealth and prosperity, health, and long life.

Additionally, the tradition of donating to 21 priests fosters a sense of compassion and cooperation within society, making this ritual a symbol of collective joy and social unity. Thus, the Kedar Gauri Vrat presents a unique blend of faith, devotion, and social service, establishing happiness, prosperity, and peace in life.