Festivals
Date
Dattatreya Jayanti
Relevant Timings
Pradosha Kalam
23 Dec, 1:51 pm – 4:36 pm, 23 Dec
Duration - 02 Hours 45 Mins
About
Dattatreya Jayanti, or Datta Jayanti, commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord Dattatreya, the combined incarnation of the holy trinity: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. It is celebrated on the full moon day of Margashirsha.
Significance:
Lord Dattatreya is considered the 'Adi Guru' and the patron deity of the Avadhuta tradition. He represents the synthesis of the three cosmic functions: creation, preservation, and destruction. His life is a testament to the pursuit of knowledge from all sources in nature.
Rituals & Puja Vidhi:
1. Fasting: Devotees observe a fast from sunrise until the completion of the evening or midnight puja. 2. Datta Puja: Worshipping the idol of Dattatreya, often depicted with three heads representing the trinity, with flowers and lamps. 3. Reading: Reciting sacred texts like the Avadhuta Gita and stories from the Datta Purana. 4. Bhajan & Kirtan: Singing names and hymns dedicated to the Lord to invoke his presence. 5. Charity: Offering food and clothes to the needy, acknowledging the divine in all beings.