Book Puja
Special Puja
Sanatan SahityaMy AccountThe stories you fast for, Solah Somvar, Karwa Chauth, Satyanarayan, Santoshi Mata, and more.
Find the right guide by deity, category, festival, graha, or life need.
Start here, then this row adapts
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe full story, meaning and vrat vidhi of Kamika Ekadashi, the Sawan month fast believed to dissolve even the gravest sins.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe full story, meaning and vrat vidhi of Yogini Ekadashi, the Ashadha fast that frees devotees from disease and suffering.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe full story, meaning and vrat vidhi of Papmochani Ekadashi, the sin-cleansing fast of Chaitra month.
Vrat Katha & FestivalGanga Saptami celebrates the reappearance of Maa Ganga on earth, remembered as her symbolic second descent that renewed her sacred flow for all humanity.
Vrat Katha & FestivalBuddha Purnima marks the birth, enlightenment and mahaparinirvana of Bhagwan Buddha, revered by Sanatanis as an avatar of Bhagwan Vishnu.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe story of the ascetic Mandhata, mauled by a bear yet saved by Vishnu's grace through this vrat, shows how Varuthini Ekadashi protects and grants merit equal to great tapasya.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe story of the hunter Kroor Chit shows how remembering and worshipping Bhagwan Vishnu on Papankusha Ekadashi can pull even the gravest sinner out of hell.
Vrat Katha & FestivalKing Indrasena's Indira Ekadashi vrat, performed for his departed father, shows how devoted fasting can liberate ancestors from suffering.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe story of truthful King Harishchandra shows how the Aja Ekadashi vrat, observed with faith, frees the soul from the heaviest sins.
Vrat Katha & FestivalDurga Ashtami, the eighth day of Navratri dedicated to Maa Mahagauri, is celebrated with Kanya Pujan, worshipping young girls as living forms of the Devi, along with Sandhi Puja and Ashtami Vrat.
Vrat Katha & FestivalKajari Teej, observed by married and unmarried women during the monsoon month of Bhadrapada, honours Maa Parvati's devotion to Bhagwan Shiva and blesses devotees with a happy, prosperous married life.
Vrat Katha & FestivalAmavasya, the moonless night of each lunar month, is dedicated to remembering and honouring one's ancestors through tarpan, daan and puja for their peace and the family's wellbeing.
72 devotional guides
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe full story, meaning and vrat vidhi of Kamika Ekadashi, the Sawan month fast believed to dissolve even the gravest sins.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe full story, meaning and vrat vidhi of Yogini Ekadashi, the Ashadha fast that frees devotees from disease and suffering.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe full story, meaning and vrat vidhi of Papmochani Ekadashi, the sin-cleansing fast of Chaitra month.
Vrat Katha & FestivalGanga Saptami celebrates the reappearance of Maa Ganga on earth, remembered as her symbolic second descent that renewed her sacred flow for all humanity.
Vrat Katha & FestivalBuddha Purnima marks the birth, enlightenment and mahaparinirvana of Bhagwan Buddha, revered by Sanatanis as an avatar of Bhagwan Vishnu.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe story of the ascetic Mandhata, mauled by a bear yet saved by Vishnu's grace through this vrat, shows how Varuthini Ekadashi protects and grants merit equal to great tapasya.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe story of the hunter Kroor Chit shows how remembering and worshipping Bhagwan Vishnu on Papankusha Ekadashi can pull even the gravest sinner out of hell.
Vrat Katha & FestivalKing Indrasena's Indira Ekadashi vrat, performed for his departed father, shows how devoted fasting can liberate ancestors from suffering.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe story of truthful King Harishchandra shows how the Aja Ekadashi vrat, observed with faith, frees the soul from the heaviest sins.
Vrat Katha & FestivalDurga Ashtami, the eighth day of Navratri dedicated to Maa Mahagauri, is celebrated with Kanya Pujan, worshipping young girls as living forms of the Devi, along with Sandhi Puja and Ashtami Vrat.
Vrat Katha & FestivalKajari Teej, observed by married and unmarried women during the monsoon month of Bhadrapada, honours Maa Parvati's devotion to Bhagwan Shiva and blesses devotees with a happy, prosperous married life.
Vrat Katha & FestivalAmavasya, the moonless night of each lunar month, is dedicated to remembering and honouring one's ancestors through tarpan, daan and puja for their peace and the family's wellbeing.
Vrat Katha & FestivalPurnima, the full moon night of every lunar month, is observed as a day of fasting, charity and worship of Bhagwan Vishnu and Chandra Dev for peace, prosperity and the fulfilment of wishes.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe story of Vishwakarma, the divine architect and creator of the universe's wonders, and the complete puja vidhi observed by artisans and workers.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe story of Shani Dev's birth and the complete vidhi for observing Shani Jayanti vrat to seek his grace and relief from hardship.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe story of how Lord Kartikeya was born to destroy the demon Tarakasura and, after a six-day battle, restored dharma - the origin of the Skanda Sashti fast.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe epic story of King Bhagiratha's relentless penance that brought the celestial river Ganga down to earth through Lord Shiva's matted locks to liberate his ancestors.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe moving story of Shobhan and Chandrabhaga, whose incomplete and complete observance of Rama Ekadashi teaches why this fast just before Diwali must be kept with full resolve.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe story of how Lord Vishnu's Mohini avatar and the sacred fast of Vaishakh Shukla Ekadashi frees even the greatest sinner from the weight of his karma.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe complete katha of Kartik Purnima and Dev Diwali, when the gods descended to Kashi to celebrate Lord Shiva's victory over the demon Tripurasura.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe complete katha of Naraka Chaturdashi, when Lord Krishna slew the demon Narakasura and freed sixteen thousand captive women, celebrated as Choti Diwali.
Vrat Katha & FestivalKamada Ekadashi, observed in the bright half of Chaitra, is famed for the katha of Lalita and Lalit, whose devotion freed a cursed soul from a demon's form and fulfilled every desire.
Vrat Katha & FestivalDevshayani Ekadashi, falling on Ashadh Shukla Ekadashi, marks the beginning of Chaturmas when Lord Vishnu goes into his four-month yoga nidra upon Sheshnag in the Kshirsagar.
Vrat Katha & FestivalMauni Amavasya, the no-moon day of Magh month, is observed with sacred silence, holy bathing, and pitru tarpan to earn the merit of a thousand ordinary vrats.
Vrat Katha & FestivalGuru Purnima, the full moon of Ashadh, honors Maharshi Ved Vyas and every guru who lifts a disciple from ignorance to wisdom.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe complete Nirjala Ekadashi katha of Bhimsen and Sage Vyasa, the strict waterless fasting vidhi, and why this Jyeshtha month Ekadashi is said to equal the merit of all twenty-four Ekadashis.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe complete Masik Shivratri katha of the hunter and the Bel leaves, the four-prahar puja vidhi, and the deep meaning behind this monthly night-long fast for Lord Shiva.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe complete Dhanteras story of King Hima's son, the puja vidhi for Kuber, Goddess Lakshmi and Dhanvantari, and the traditions that mark the start of Diwali festivities.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe complete Sakat Chauth vrat katha, puja vidhi, chandra-arghya rules and the deep meaning behind this Ganesh fast kept by mothers for their children's well-being.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe story of Goddess Saraswati's origin from Brahma's creation and how her worship on Vasant Panchami blesses devotees with wisdom, speech and the arts.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe story of Goddess Parvati's 108 lifetimes of penance to attain Lord Shiva as her husband, celebrated every year by married and unmarried women on Hariyali Teej.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe sacred story of how Lord Vishnu awakens from his four-month yogic sleep on Dev Uthani Ekadashi, marking the start of all auspicious ceremonies.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe complete birth story, vrat katha and puja vidhi of Hanuman Jayanti, celebrating the divine appearance of Bhagwan Hanuman, the ultimate embodiment of devotion and strength.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe complete vrat katha, birth story and puja vidhi of Ram Navami, celebrating the divine appearance of Bhagwan Ram, the seventh avatar of Vishnu.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe complete story, spiritual meaning and puja vidhi of Makar Sankranti, the festival marking Surya Dev's entry into Capricorn and the start of Uttarayan.
Vrat Katha & FestivalThe complete story, meaning and puja vidhi of Raksha Bandhan, the sacred thread festival that binds brothers and sisters in protection and love.
Vrat Katha & FestivalRead the complete katha of Lord Ganesha's divine birth from Mata Parvati, how he received his elephant head, and the full puja vidhi for Ganesh Chaturthi.
Vrat Katha & FestivalDiscover the complete Janmashtami vrat katha describing Lord Krishna's divine birth in Mathura's prison, along with the full puja vidhi observed at midnight.
Vrat Katha & FestivalRead the complete katha of Holika Dahan, the story of Bhakt Prahlad's unwavering devotion to Lord Vishnu, and the traditional puja vidhi followed on this sacred night.
Vrat Katha & FestivalLearn the complete Diwali Lakshmi Puja vidhi, the katha of Mata Lakshmi's return to Ayodhya, and how to welcome prosperity into your home this festival of lights.
Vrat Katha & FestivalMahakaal, the fierce form of Lord Shiva, combined with the mystical energies of Rahu, governs transformation and overcoming hidden obstacles. For those facing delays or difficulties in marriage, this vrat offers a powerful remedy. The vrat invokes Ma
Marriage delays, hidden obstacles, and karmic relationship pressureVrat Katha & FestivalThe Margashirsha Mahalaxmi Vrat is a very auspicious fast observed on Thursdays during the holy month of Margashirsha. It is believed that listening to or reading this story (Katha) brings peace, wealth, and prosperity to the family.
Prosperity, household abundance, and Lakshmi graceVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction: The Solah Somvar Vrat (16 Mondays Fast) is one of the most powerful fasts in Hinduism, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that observing this fast with a pure heart can fulfill any wish, especially regarding marriage and health.
Sixteen Monday vrat, marriage blessings, and wish fulfilmentVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction: The Santoshi Mata Vrat is observed on 16 consecutive Fridays. It is widely performed by women for the well-being of their husbands and family harmony. The most important rule is to avoid eating or touching anything sour (like lemon or t
Friday vrat, contentment, and wish fulfilmentVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction The Satyanarayan Puja is perhaps the most common ritual performed in Hindu households on Full Moon days (Purnima) or special occasions like housewarmings or weddings. It is the worship of Lord Vishnu in his form as the embodiment of Trut
Truth, prosperity, gratitude, and family peaceVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Sankashti Chaturthi is observed on the fourth day after the full moon every month. “Sankashti” means deliverance during troubled times. Devotees fast from sunrise until moonrise. It is believed that Lord Ganesha removes all obstacles (Vi
Obstacle removal, moonrise vrat, and Ganesh blessingsVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction: Ekadashi is considered the “King of all Fasts.” While there are 24 Ekadashis in a year, the Utpanna Ekadashi is significant because it marks the birth (Utpatti) of the Goddess Ekadashi herself. It usually falls in November or December.
Ekadashi origin, fasting discipline, and spiritual protectionVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Karwa Chauth is one of the most famous festivals in North India, observed by married women for the longevity and safety of their husbands. They fast from sunrise until they see the moon at night.
Marital longevity, love, and household blessingsVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Hartalika Teej is observed by women seeking marital bliss and by unmarried girls seeking a good husband. “Hartalika” is a combination of two words: Harat (abduction) and Aalika (friend). It refers to the time when Goddess Parvati’s frien
Marital commitment, devotion, and blessings for an ideal spouseVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Ahoi Ashtami is celebrated 8 days before Diwali. Mothers observe this strict fast for the long life and well-being of their children. The fast is broken only after sighting the stars in the evening.
Child protection and motherly blessingsVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Vat Savitri is observed on the Amavasya (New Moon) or Purnima (Full Moon) of Jyeshtha month. Married women tie a sacred thread around a Banyan (Vat) tree, praying for their husband’s long life. The Banyan tree represents the Trinity (Bra
Marital longevity, devotion, and courage in adversityVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Rishi Panchami is observed on the fifth day after Ganesh Chaturthi. It is not for the usual desires of wealth or marriage, but specifically for the cleansing of sins, particularly those committed unknowingly (often related to menstrual i
Purification, respect for sages, and correction of ritual omissionsVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction The Pradosh Vrat is observed on the 13th day (Trayodashi) of both the waxing and waning moon cycles. “Pradosh” refers to the twilight period (sunset). It is believed that during this time, Lord Shiva performs the cosmic dance (Tandava) o
Pradosh kaal worship, peace, and karmic purificationVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Thursday (Guruvar) is dedicated to Brihaspati (the Guru of the Gods) and Lord Vishnu. Devotees wear yellow clothes and eat yellow food (avoiding salt). This fast is observed for wisdom, education, and wealth.
Guru kripa, wisdom, marriage, family harmony, and prosperity
Vrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Sunday is dedicated to Lord Surya. This fast is observed to cure skin diseases, attain good health, and gain social respect. Devotees eat only one meal before sunset, usually made of wheat and jaggery, without salt.
Health, confidence, reputation, and disciplined routineVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Tuesday is the day of Hanuman Ji. This fast is observed by those seeking strength, courage, and protection from evil. It is also observed by couples wishing for a son. Devotees eat food made of wheat and jaggery (no salt) once a day.
Courage, protection, debt relief, and disciplined effortVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction The Wednesday fast is observed to pacify the planet Mercury (Budh) and seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha. It brings wisdom, business success, and removes obstacles. Devotees wear green clothes and eat food made of Moong Dal (green gram)
Intellect, speech, business clarity, and balanced decisions
Vrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction: Shani Dev is the God of Justice. People fear him, but he only punishes bad karma and rewards patience. This fast is observed to reduce the effects of Sade Sati or Shani Dosha
Shani shanti, karmic patience, and protectionVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Jivitputrika (Jitiya) is a difficult Nirjala (waterless) fast observed by mothers in Bihar, UP, and Nepal for their children’s safety.
Children’s long life, protection, and motherly devotionVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Chhath is a major festival where devotees stand in water and offer Arghya to the setting and rising sun. It is performed for the health and longevity of family members.
Health, vitality, family wellbeing, and gratitude to the SunVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Celebrated the day after Diwali, this festival commemorates the time Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill to protect the villagers of Vrindavan from the rain.
Gratitude, protection, food abundance, and Krishna bhaktiVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction On this day, stoves are not lit. People eat “Basoda” (stale/cold food cooked the previous night). It is observed to protect the family from heat-related diseases like smallpox and chickenpox.
Health, cooling grace, and household protectionVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Gangaur is a colorful festival of Rajasthan. “Gana” is Shiva and “Gaur” is Gauri. It is observed by women for the long life of their husbands.
Marital happiness, suhaag, and household harmonyVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction On Nag Panchami, snakes are worshipped with milk. It falls in the rainy season (Shravan). It is believed to remove the fear of snakebites and Kaal Sarp Dosh.
Protection from fear, ancestral serpent symbolism, and family safetyVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Bhai Dooj celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. It is observed on the second day after Diwali. Sisters apply a Tilak on their brothers’ foreheads and pray for their long life.
Sibling protection, affection, and family blessingsVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Mahashivratri is the “Great Night of Shiva.” Fasting on this day is considered the most powerful way to please Lord Shiva.
Night-long Shiva bhakti, purification, and inner stillnessVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Somvati Amavasya is considered a very powerful day for mitigating Pitra Dosh (ancestral curse) and for the long life of one’s husband. Married women observe a fast and circumambulate the Peepal tree 108 times, tying a sacred thread aroun
Amavasya purification, family wellbeing, and marital blessingsVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Akshaya Tritiya means “The day of never-diminishing returns.” Buying gold or starting new ventures on this day is considered lucky.
Auspicious prosperity, daan, and new beginningsVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Tulsi Vivah marks the end of the monsoon and the beginning of the Hindu wedding season. It is the ceremonial marriage of the Tulsi plant (holy basil) to the Saligram stone (Lord Vishnu).
Sacred marriage symbolism, household harmony, and prosperityVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Observed 10 days after Ganesh Chaturthi, this Vrat is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Devotees tie a sacred thread (Anant Sutra) with 14 knots on their arm.
Stability, protection, and family prosperityVrat Katha & FestivalIntroduction Navratri is a nine-day festival worshipping the nine forms of Goddess Durga. The Vrat Katha is primarily the story of how the Goddess defeated the buffalo demon, Mahishasura.
Nine-day Navratri vrat, protection, and Shakti blessingsVrat Katha & Festivalनवरात्रि व्रत की सम्पूर्ण मार्गदर्शिका — पारम्परिक कथा पढ़ें, पूजा विधि और सामग्री जानें और माँ दुर्गा के नौ दिवसीय उत्सव की भक्ति परम्परा को समझें।
Navratri devotion, protection, and Shakti blessings