Uttana Dwadashi is an important festival that marks the day when Lord Vishnu wakes up from his four-month sleep. On this day, the churning of the milky ocean is said to begin, symbolizing the cosmic activity of creation. It is also celebrated as the marriage day of Tulasi, an avatar of Goddess Lakshmi, with Lord Krishna or Vishnu in his form as Damodara.
Uttana Dwadashi falls on the twelfth day (Dwadashi) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Karthika month, usually in October or November. The word 'Uttana' means "to get up." It is believed that during Chaturmasya (the four holy months), Lord Vishnu is in a deep sleep, and he wakes up on this day.
Uttana Dwadashi is also known as Tulasi Vivaaha, which marks the divine marriage of the sacred Tulasi plant (holy basil) to Lord Krishna or Vishnu. The Tulasi plant is considered an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi and is revered for its spiritual and medicinal properties. This plant is commonly found in Hindu households, where women water and worship it daily. The Tulasi Vivaaha ritual is an important festival for Madhwa communities and is celebrated with great devotion and grandeur.
In the month of Karthika, it is believed that Lord Vishnu resides in the Amla (Indian gooseberry) plant in the form of Damodara. Therefore, the Amla plant is used in the rituals during this festival.
Celebrating Uttana Dwadashi includes performing special poojas, decorating the Tulasi plant, and conducting marriage rituals with joy and devotion, symbolizing the union of divine forces.
| Category | Poojas |
| month | Kartheeka |
| paksha | Shukla |
| tithi | Dwadashi |
| Nakshatra | |
| yogha |
