ANANTA CHATURDASHI VRATA OR SRI ANANTHA PADMANABHA VRATHA

Ananta Vratam is dedicated to Lord Ananta Padmanabha Swamy.It is observed on the fourteenth day in Shukla Paksha during Bhadrapada month (Bhadra Shukla Chaturdashi). Anantha means the infinite and endless.

Lord Vishnu appeared on this day as Padmanabha lying on the couch of Anantha Sesha (the thousand-hooded serpent).It is observed for fulfillment of desires.

Observing this puja makes devotees free from all their sorrows and keeps them in readiness to challenge any attack from their enemies.Throughout India, Anantha Chaturdashi vrata is observed with utmost devotion. In South India, Anantha Vratha is observed in a festive atmosphere. Special sweets and other dishes are prepared on the day and a portion of it is offered to Brahmins. Anantha Vratha is observed for 14 consecutive years for marital bliss and prosperity of the family.

History :

In some scriptures such as Mahabharata, Anantha Vrata is mentioned as a great observance to get rid of one’s sorrows in the life. Lord Shri Krishna advised Yudhisthira Maharaj to observe Anantha Vrata for 14 years to regain his kingdom and his whole wealth.

Ritual of Anantha Vrata :

The important ritual during the Vrata is tying of the sacred thread on the hand. First, the performers of the Vrata place the threads along with the Deity of Lord Anantha Padmanabha Swamy to sanctify them. The thread is worshipped by placing kum kum on it. This sacred thread is referred as Anantha Daara. It is made up of 14 strands. Some make it of 14 knots.

Women tie this thread on their left hand and men on their right hand. 

2015 Date : 27th September, Sunday.

2016 Date : 15^th September, Thursday.