Mumbai: Lord Dattatreya is revered as an incarnation of the three principal Hindu deities: Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh (Shiva). Dattatreya Jayanti is celebrated on the full moon day of the Margashirsha month. According to religious beliefs, Lord Dattatreya was born on this auspicious day. He is also considered a divine guru and is fondly referred to as Shri Gurudev Datta.
This year, as per the Vedic calendar, the full moon of the Margashirsha month begins on December 14 at 4:58 PM and ends on December 15 at 2:31 PM. Thus, Dattatreya Jayanti will be celebrated on December 14. On this day, devotees who worship Lord Dattatreya receive the blessings of both the guru and God. Lord Dattatreya is also associated with cows and dogs, so offering prayers to them on this day fulfils devotees’ wishes. Let us explore the significance of Dattatreya Jayanti and the rituals for this auspicious occasion.
Importance of Dattatreya Jayanti
Lord Dattatreya was born to Sage Atri and Mother Anusuya. According to Hindu mythology, Anusuya’s intense penance led to the birth of Dattatreya, who is considered a manifestation of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh.
On Dattatreya Jayanti, devotees who bathe in the Ganga, perform charity, and worship Lord Dattatreya are believed to attain freedom from all sins and divine blessings. Following the path shown by Lord Dattatreya leads to liberation (moksha).
Rituals of Dattatreya Jayanti Puja
Begin the day by taking a holy dip in the Ganga. If visiting the Ganga is not possible, mix Ganga water into your bath.
Offer water (Arghya) to the Sun, an integral part of the rituals.
Perform the Panchopachar Puja for Lord Dattatreya. This involves offering flowers, incense, lamp, naivedya (food), and water.
Observe a fast and resolve to follow the teachings of Lord Dattatreya.
Chant the Dattatreya mantra and read the “Avadhuta Gita” or “Jivanmukti Gita” for spiritual benefits.
On this day, offering prayers to cows and dogs is considered highly auspicious, as they hold special significance for Lord Dattatreya. Devotees often feed them and seek blessings.
Prominent Temples of Lord Dattatreya
Several temples dedicated to Lord Dattatreya are located in Gujarat, Telangana, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. Special rituals and celebrations take place in these temples on Dattatreya Jayanti, attracting devotees from far and wide.
Dattatreya Jayanti is a day of immense spiritual importance, symbolising the unity of divine forces and the guidance of the ultimate guru. By observing the prescribed rituals and following Lord Dattatreya’s teachings, devotees can cleanse their sins and move closer to moksha. Celebrate this auspicious occasion with devotion and receive the blessings of Lord Dattatreya for a fulfilling and enlightened life.
Dattatreya Jayanti 2024 falls on 14th December. This auspicious day marks the birth of Lord Dattatreya, a divine guru embodying the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Discover the rituals, significance, and temples for this sacred festival. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
