BhaktiLoopAnnapurna Jayanti
Annapurna Jayanti celebrates the birth of Goddess Annapurna, the Hindu Goddess of food and nourishment. It signifies the importance of food, abundance, and prosperity, and reminds devotees to show gratitude for the food they receive.
Key Rituals & Practices
Worship of Goddess Annapurna with traditional rituals and offerings.
Performing Annadaan (donation of food) to the poor and needy.
Cleaning and sanctifying kitchens, stoves, and food storage areas as a sign of respect for food.
Offering new grains and foods to the deity.
Some devotees observe a fast.
Chanting Annapurna Mantras and Stutis (hymns).
Associated Deities
Hindu Calendar Details
Hindu Month
Margashirsha (Agrahayana)
Paksha
Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight)
Tithi
Purnima (Full Moon day)
Regional Relevance & Variations
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Historical & Mythological Context
According to the Kashi Khand of the Skanda Purana, once the Earth suffered from a severe famine. Lord Shiva, seeing the suffering, went to Goddess Parvati, who then incarnated as Goddess Annapurna. She appeared in Kashi (Varanasi) with a bowl of food and fed the entire world. Lord Shiva himself came to her, begging for alms, signifying that even the supreme ascetic relies on her for sustenance. This event established Kashi as the spiritual capital where no one should starve.
Alternative Names
Gregorian Date
Late December / Early January (varies annually)