Pavitra Dwadashi is an important festival that typically occurs on the 12th day of the bright half of the month of Shravana. This day is considered highly auspicious and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Here is an overview of Pavitra Dwadashi:
Significance
Purification: The word "Pavitra" means pure or sacred, and "Dwadashi" refers to the twelfth day of the lunar fortnight. The festival is observed for the purification of the soul and to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
Vaishnavism: It is particularly significant for followers of Vaishnavism, who worships Vishnu as the Supreme God.
Rituals
Fasting: Devotees observe a fast on the Eakadasi day. The fast is often rigorous and is observed with great devotion.
Pavitra Garland: A special garland made of cotton thread, known as "Pavitra," is offered to Lord Vishnu. This garland is usually prepared by soaking the thread in turmeric and then drying it.
Abhisheka: The idol of Lord Vishnu is given a ceremonial bath (Abhisheka) with Panchamrita (a mixture of milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar) and other sacred substances.
Alankara: The deity is adorned with new clothes, ornaments, and the Pavitra garland. Special care is taken to decorate the idol beautifully.
Pooja and Arti: Elaborate poojas are performed with recitation of Vedic mantras and hymns. The ceremony concludes with an Arti (waving of lighted lamps) and offering of Naivedya (food offerings) to the deity.
Parayana: Devotees often read or recite sacred texts like Vishnu Sahasranama, Bhagavad Gita, and other scriptures dedicated to Lord Vishnu
After the pooja and Parayana, the Pavitra mala is worn while chanting the following mantra:
pavitram vaishnavam tejaH sarva vighNa nivAraNam
puja shhADgunya siddyarthaM mama ange dhArayAmyahaM
पवित्रम् वैश्वम् तेजः सर्व विघ्न निवारणम्
पुजा षाड्गुण्य सिध्यर्थं मम अंगे धारयाम्यहं
This translates to: "I wear the sacred Vaishnava Pavitra for protection from all obstacles and for the accomplishment of the sixfold purposes of worship."
