First Mangala Gauri Vrat

This date varies annually. It falls on the first Tuesday of the Hindu calendar month of Shravan (Sawan). To find the exact date, one must consult a specific year's Hindu calendar.

Vrat (fast), Puja, Religious Observance

Not a public holiday (regional/optional observance)

Significance

Observed by married women for the long life, well-being, and prosperity of their husbands, and for a happy and harmonious married life. Unmarried women may also observe it to find a suitable spouse.

Associated Deities

Goddess Gauri (Parvati)

Key Rituals & Practices

Women wake up early, take a purifying bath, and wear clean clothes.
An idol or picture of Goddess Gauri is set up.
The puja involves offering 'Solah Shringar' (16 items of adornment) to the Goddess, including bangles, sindoor, mehndi, kajal, sari, bindi, comb, mirror, etc.
Offerings typically include 16 laddus (sweet balls), fruits, betel nuts, cloves, cardamoms, and various sweets.
A lamp with 16 wicks (often made of wheat flour) is lit.
The Mangala Gauri Vrat Katha (story) is recited or listened to.
Devotees observe a fast, either partial (phalahar) or full (nirjala), which is broken after sunset after performing the evening puja.
Mantras dedicated to Goddess Gauri are chanted.

Hindu Calendar Details

Month:

Shravan (Sawan)

Paksha:

The Vrat occurs on Tuesdays throughout the Shravan month, regardless of specific Paksha (Shukla or Krishna). The 'First' refers to the first Tuesday within this month.

Tithi:

Not specific; observed on Tuesdays regardless of Tithi.

Historical & Mythological Context

Dedicated to Goddess Gauri (Parvati), the consort of Lord Shiva. It is believed that observing this fast brings blessings for marital happiness and longevity, similar to how Devi Parvati attained Lord Shiva through her severe penance and devotion. The vrat is especially significant during the holy month of Shravan, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati.