Dhanurmasa

Dhanurmasa  is the most auspicious month of the Hindu Calendar.  This happens when the Sun enters the Dhanur Rasi.  As per Lunar Calendar it is Margashirsha Maasa.  Lord Krishna has said in Srimad Bhagavat Gita that he is the Margashirsha Maas, it is our duty and opportunity to serve the Lord by offering our prayers very early in the morning in the Brahma Muhurth.

Huggi / Pongal is offered as Naivedya to Lord Narayana during this month.  The ratio of Raw Rice and Moong Dal, used in the preparation of this Naivedya is very important.  If rice is more than Moong Dal, the Punya is low.  If rice is equal to Moong Dal then the Punya is average and if we use more Moong Dal than rice then the Punya is more.

In this age, where people tend to wake up late, Dhanur Maas gives them an opportunity to make the change.  Waking up very early and offering Pooja brings calmness to the mind and the day goes on very well, thanks to the almighty.

Importance of Worship During Dhanurmasa

Value of Worship: Worshiping Lord Vishnu during Dhanurmasa, his favorite month, even for just one day, is as significant as worshiping Him for a thousand years.

Timing for Maximum Benefits: Performing worship early in the morning, during Arunodaya (before sunrise), yields the highest rewards.

Reciting Lakshmi Dwaadasanaama: Reciting the Lakshmi Dwaadasanaama after Vishnu Puja during Dhanurmasa is highly beneficial and rewarding.

Practices and Timing

Duration of Dhanurmasa: Dhanurmasa starts when the Sun enters the Dhanur Rasi and ends when it moves to the next sign. Worship during this month is especially fruitful.

Best Time for Puja: The ideal time for Dhanurmasa Puja is early in the morning, between 4:30 am and 6:30 am. Performing Puja and offering Naivedya during this time brings special blessings.

Usha-h Kaala: ‘Usha-h Kaala’ refers to the two hours before sunrise. During Dhanurmasa, it is important to wake up at this time for a bath, Sandhyavandana (prayers), and Devara Puja. Offering ‘Huggi Naivedya’ (a type of food) is also recommended.

Offering Huggi Naivedya: Daily offering of ‘Huggi Naivedya’ during Dhanurmasa helps to fulfill one’s prayers.

Quality of Puja

Best Time for Puja: Puja performed early in the morning while stars are still visible is considered the best (‘Uttama’).

Medium Quality Time: If the stars have disappeared, the Puja is of medium quality (‘Madhyama’).

Post-Sunrise Puja: Puja performed after sunrise is not considered appropriate for Dhanurmasa and is treated as a regular Puja.