Balipratipada

On Balipratipada a picture of King Bali and his Queen Vindhyavali is drawn with rangoli on the floor, decorated with five colours and worshipped. On Balipratipada, Bali is worshipped.

Diwali (Deepavali)

The word Diwali has originated from Deepavali, which in turn is formed as deep (lamp) + avali (row). Deepavali is thus a row of lamps. During Diwali, lamps are lit everywhere.

Vasubaras (Govatsa Dwadashi)

A legend has it that after samudramanthan (churning of the ocean) five kamadhenus (wish-fulfilling cows) were created from it. This vrat is performed to worship the Divine cow Nanda, one amongst them.

Dhantrayodashi (Dhanteras)

Dhanatrayodashi is also known as Dhanteras and Dhanvantari Jayanti. Businessmen worship their treasuries and Deity Shri Lakshmi on this day while Ayurvedic vaidyas (doctors) worship Deity Shri Dhanvantari (vaidya of Deities).

Narak chaturdashi

According to Shrimadbhagvat Puran on this day Shri Krushna slayed Narkasur. A powerful demon called Bhoumasur or Narkasur formerly ruled a place named Pragjyotishpur.

Lakshmi-puja

Normally the new moon day is considered inauspicious; however, this particular new moon day is an exception. Though this day is considered auspicious, it is not so for all events.

Bhai dooj and Yama Dwitiya

On Bhai dooj, the Scriptures have emphasized on nurturing the brother-sister relationship. Just as the love of mother towards her child is pure so also is that of a sister for her brother. On this day, Deity Yama visits His sister Yamuna for a meal. Hence, it is also known as Yama Dwitiya.