Asoj and Kartik Festivals (Dussehra, Diwali, Karva Chauth)
🕒 During the months of Asoj/Ashwin (September-October) and Kartik (October-November).
What is this about? (History)
The vibrant autumn festivals culminating in Diwali, along with the solemn periods of Shraddha and the fasting of Karva Chauth.
Things to Buy / Requirements
- Jaggery lapsi, seasoned rice (Dussehra)
- Fruits/Watermelons kept in moonlight (Sharad Purnima)
- Silver items (Dhanteras)
- 5 New lamps, Katha-dal-rice (Diwali)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1
Shraddha & Navratri: The first 15 days of Asoj are for worshiping ancestors (Shraddha), followed by 9 days of Mataji's Navratri.
2
Dussehra: Burn Ravana's effigy. Offer jaggery lapsi, rice, and Badi Chanwaledi greens in the east direction.
3
Karva Chauth & Dhanteras: Married women fast on Karva Chauth. On Dhanteras, buy silver and worship Lakshmi/Kuber, but avoid fried (oily) foods.
4
Diwali: Draw Mandana (Lakshmi's footprints). Light 5 new lamps (Diya Than, Pagliyan, Water house, Courtyard, Backyard). Eat Katha-dal-rice in the evening.
5
Dev Uthi Gyaras: The gods wake up from their 4-month slumber, and auspicious marriage times resume.