Anant Chaturdashi is a significant Hindu festival that honors the infinite form of Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe. Celebrated on the 14th day (Chaturdashi) of the Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, this day is also marked as the culmination of the Ganesh Utsav, when the grand Ganesh Visarjan takes place. The festival signifies both the devotion to Lord Vishnu and the farewell to Lord Ganesha after 10 days of celebrations.
Significance of Anant Chaturdashi
The word “Anant” means infinite or eternal, symbolizing the endless power and presence of Lord Vishnu. Devotees observe Anant Chaturdashi Vrat to seek blessings for prosperity, peace, and resolution of life’s difficulties. The festival is particularly important for those seeking freedom from misfortunes and suffering, as Lord Vishnu is believed to relieve devotees from troubles through this observance.
Legend of Anant Chaturdashi
The origin of Anant Chaturdashi is linked to the Mahabharata. When Yudhishthira faced a difficult period during his reign, Lord Krishna advised him to observe the Anant Chaturdashi fast. Yudhishthira followed Krishna’s advice and was eventually relieved of all his troubles, gaining back his kingdom and wealth. The Anant Chaturdashi vow is thus believed to bring prosperity, resolve problems, and help achieve success through the blessings of Anant Vishnu.
Rituals and Puja of Anant Chaturdashi
The rituals of Anant Chaturdashi are conducted with devotion and dedication. Devotees begin the day by taking a bath and preparing for the Anant Puja. Lord Vishnu is worshipped with flowers, incense sticks, and the sacred thread called Anant Sutra. This sacred thread, with 14 knots, is tied to the right hand by men and to the left hand by women. Each knot symbolizes the 14 realms created by Vishnu.
After performing the aarti and offering sweets, fruits, and other items to Lord Vishnu, devotees pray for peace, happiness, and success in their endeavors.
Ganesh Visarjan on Anant Chaturdashi
Anant Chaturdashi also marks the end of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, with the grand procession of Ganesh Visarjan (immersion of Lord Ganesha’s idols). Devotees bid farewell to Lord Ganesha with chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya”, seeking his blessings for prosperity and promising to welcome him again the following year. The visarjan is a moment of emotional parting, yet filled with the joy of devotion.
Modern Celebrations
In modern times, Anant Chaturdashi remains an integral part of Hindu religious practices. While the focus is on both Lord Vishnu and Lord Ganesha, it is also a day of community gatherings, processions, and celebrations. Ganesh Visarjan is celebrated with large public processions, music, and dance, especially in places like Mumbai, where it attracts thousands of devotees.
Anant Chaturdashi holds deep spiritual significance, uniting the devotion to Lord Vishnu and the joyful farewell to Lord Ganesha. The festival embodies the values of infinity, perseverance, and faith, reminding devotees to rely on the infinite strength of the divine to overcome life’s challenges. Whether it’s the serenity of Vishnu’s worship or the lively Ganesh Visarjan, Anant Chaturdashi brings together the beauty of Hindu tradition and devotion.
