Anant Chaturdashi 2024: Complete Guide to Fasting, Rituals, and Tying the Anant Sutra

Anant Chaturdashi is a significant festival in Hinduism, marking the culmination of the 10-day Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. On this day, devotees immerse the idol of Lord Ganesh, symbolizing the end of the Ganesh Utsav. In addition to honoring Ganesh, Anant Chaturdashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is considered a crucial day for his worship.

Connection to Lord Vishnu

• Historical Significance

  According to the Mahabharata, during a period of hardship for the Pandavas, Lord Krishna advised them to observe the Anant Chaturdashi fast. Following Krishna’s guidance, the Pandavas performed the Anant Chaturdashi rituals. The impact of this observance led to the resolution of their troubles and their eventual victory in the Mahabharata war, restoring their kingdom. This association underscores the importance of worshipping Lord Vishnu on this day.

Anant Chaturdashi 2024: Date and Auspicious Timing

• Date and Duration

  According to the Vedic calendar, Anant Chaturdashi will begin on September 16, 2024, Monday, at 3:10 PM and end on September 17, 2024, Tuesday, at 11:44 AM.

• Auspicious Timing for Worship

  The favorable time for performing rituals on Anant Chaturdashi is from 10:43 AM to 11:15 AM on September 17, 2024.

• Ganesh Visarjan Timing

  The ideal time for Ganesh idol immersion on Anant Chaturdashi, as per the Drik Panchang, is from 9:10 AM to 1:47 PM.

Rituals and Practices

• Binding the Anant Sutra

  On Anant Chaturdashi, devotees bind a special thread with 14 knots, known as the Anant Sutra, on their wrist after performing the rituals. It is believed that this thread brings blessings from Lord Vishnu, removing obstacles and ensuring success in all endeavors. The practice is said to bring eternal merit and blessings.

• Procedure for Worship

  Devotees should wake up early on Anant Chaturdashi, clean their homes, and wear clean clothes before beginning the ritual. The worship area or temple should be cleaned and sanctified with Ganga water. A wooden seat is then placed with a red cloth, and a Kalash (sacred pot) is installed on it, featuring an image of Lord Vishnu reclining on Sheshnag (the serpent). Offerings of incense, light, turmeric, and saffron should be made, and the Anant Sutra should be placed before the deity.

  Chant the mantra "Om Anantaya Namah" during the worship. Offer Lord Vishnu turmeric, uncooked rice (akshat), fruits, flowers, and food. Perform the rituals meticulously, read the Anant Chaturdashi Vrat Katha (story), and then tie the Anant Sutra on your right wrist. Observe a full-day fast and break it after evening prayers.

Significance of Anant Chaturdashi

• Spiritual Importance

  Anant Chaturdashi is highly regarded in Hinduism as a day dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Performing rituals on this day is believed to please Lord Vishnu and bring everlasting happiness and prosperity. Women traditionally tie the Anant Sutra, symbolizing eternal well-being and the eradication of suffering.

Remedies and Practices

• Recitation of Vishnu Sahasranama

  Chanting the Vishnu Sahasranama (a thousand names of Vishnu) brings peace and divine favor. It can be recited once or multiple times as per convenience.

• Offering to Tulsi Plant

  The Tulsi plant is cherished by Lord Vishnu. On this day, devotees should offer water and light to the Tulsi plant and present its leaves to Lord Vishnu.

• Charity

  Performing acts of charity, such as donating food, clothes, or money, on this day is believed to yield spiritual rewards.

• Mantra Chanting

  Reciting the mantra "Om Namo Narayanaya" enhances mental peace and attracts Lord Vishnu’s blessings. Additionally, chanting the Gayatri Mantra can improve wisdom and lead to success.