Sankashti Chaturthi 2025: Muhurat, Rituals, And Benefits Of Worshipping Lord Ganesha
On this special day, devotees worship Lord Ganesha in the form of Gajanana. The name 'Gajanana' comes from two words: 'Gaja' meaning elephant, and 'Anana' meaning face, so Gajanana means 'the one with an elephant face'.
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Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Pitru Paksha 2025 start date and end date: Know Shradh dates, rituals, significance and more
Shradh 2025 start and end date: Pitru Paksha or Shradh is a 15-day period that will start on September 7 with Purnima Shradh and will conclude on September 21 with Sarva Pitri Amavasya. During these days, Hindus show respect and offer prayers to their ancestors and forefathers. Pitru Paksha is observed with special rituals, and people follow a simple lifestyle. It is believed that performing Shradh rituals during this time helps the souls of ancestors find peace and attain moksha (salvation). The last day of Pitru Paksha is called Sarvapitri Amavasya or Mahalaya Amavasya, which is considered very important during this period. When does Pitru Paksha start and end in 2025? According to the Hindu calendar, Pitru Paksha begins on the full moon (Purnima) day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada and ends on the new moon (Amavasya) day of Krishna Paksha. This year, Shradh will start on Sunday, 7th September 2025 and will end on Sunday, 21st September 2025. Pitru Paksha 2025 tithi dates Why is Pitru Paksha important? Pitru Paksha is a time to show love and respect to your departed family members. Hindus believe that offering food, prayers, and rituals during this time brings peace to the souls of ancestors. It is also said that these actions help the souls to reach moksha (salvation). Pitru Paksha (Shradh) rituals People follow certain rituals and customs during these 15 days. These include: 1. Tarpan This is the act of offering water and black sesame seeds (til) to ancestors. It is believed to quench their thirst in the afterlife. 2. Pinda Daan In this ritual, people offer rice balls made with ghee and sesame seeds to their ancestors. This is done to nourish their souls and help them find peace. 3. Shradh Ceremony Many families perform a proper Shradh puja, where they offer food, clothes, and other items to priests or Brahmins. This is seen as a good deed done in memory of the departed. 4. Charity and Donations Giving food, clothes, or money to the poor or to temples is common during Pitru Paksha. It is believed to bring blessings from the ancestors and help their souls rest peacefully. 5. Visiting Ancestral Places Some people go to their native villages or burial spots to perform the rituals and show respect to their elders who have passed away. 6. Fasting Many people also observe fasts during these 15 days to show devotion and respect for their ancestors. Pitru Paksha history & significance: Here's a brief overview of the history and significance of Pitru Paksha: Mention in Hindu Scriptures The idea of respecting and remembering our ancestors comes from Hindu scriptures like the Vedas and Puranas. These texts say that offering prayers and food to the souls of our departed family members during Shradh helps bring them peace in the afterlife. Teachings in the Bhagavad Gita In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna talks about the importance of offering food to ancestors. He explains that it is not just a tradition but also a form of devotion. Doing these rituals during Pitru Paksha helps one receive blessings and grow spiritually. Story of King Mahabali Another well-known tale is about King Mahabali. He was a kind and just ruler. According to mythology, Lord Vishnu came to him in the form of Vamana during Pitru Paksha and sent him to the underworld. But because of Mahabali's goodness, he was given a special blessing—to visit his people once a year during this time. This visit is celebrated as Onam in Kerala. Story from the Mahabharata The Mahabharata, one of the oldest epics in India, has a story linked to Pitru Paksha. Karna, a well-known character, is said to have donated food and wealth during this time. Because of his kind deeds, he earned great rewards. This story shows why doing good things during Pitru Paksha is important. Importance of Amavasya and Tarpan The last day of Pitru Paksha is Mahalaya Amavasya, which is the most special day of this period. On this day, people perform Tarpan or Shraddha rituals that include offering water, food, and prayers to their ancestors. It is believed that these offerings bring peace to the souls of the departed and bring blessings to the family. Why Pitru Paksha Still Matters Today Pitru Paksha is still followed with great faith by many Hindu families. People come together to remember their ancestors by offering pind daan (rice balls) and doing other rituals. It is believed that these acts help the souls of ancestors rest in peace and also bring good fortune to the living. Pitru Paksha reminds us how important family is and how strong the bond is between past and present generations. It teaches us that honouring our forefathers brings harmony, blessings, and spiritual progress in life. (Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.) For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.
News18
3 hours ago
- News18
Tarot Card Reading Today July 17, 2025
A Scorpio is facing health challenges and should make decisions patiently. Sagittarius is facing changes in the workplace and should seek assistance during stressful transitions. Capricorns will see positive news and career advancement through communication and effort. Aquarius will benefit from calmness and organization, as well as opportunities to prove themselves. Pisces may feel isolated, but are encouraged to find inner peace and resolve marital concerns thoughtfully. Aries Tarot Reading (Ten of Cups) Ganesha says that according to the Tarot card, you can try to improve your relationship with your family. In the past, your family members have distanced themselves from you due to your irresponsible behaviour, which has hurt you a lot. Recently, the promotion and attainment of a higher position at the workplace has excited you a lot. You can choose to celebrate this happiness with your loved ones. However, you are worried about your child coming under the influence of bad company. You can go ahead and try to understand the situation. It is better to keep some matters private- sharing everything is not always in anyone's interest. You are trying to bring politeness into your nature and sweetness into your speech. Try to avoid using harsh words even in anger. Give equal respect to others at your workplace; this will create a feeling of respect for you in the hearts of people. Taurus Tarot Reading (The Sun) Ganesha says that according to the Tarot card, all the situations going on from the past seem to be coming to an end. A task that seemed impossible to complete earlier may now show opportunities for success. Suddenly, you may start getting success in all your endeavors. Childless couples may get good pregnancy news. A new wave of enthusiasm and excitement is entering your life. Good deeds may give you good results. You may get a life partner of your choice. You can work on a new project with friends. You can plan to travel somewhere with your family by taking leave from work. Worries about the marriage of someone in the family seem to be going away now. A sudden marriage proposal may be liked by everyone. Soon, the preparations for an auspicious marriage may begin in the family. Avoid taking any harsh decisions without fully understanding the situation. Gemini Tarot Reading (The Hierophant) Ganesha says that according to the Tarot card, you were a little scared about starting something new, worried about whether it would be successful, due to which may have caused confusion in your mind. However, your efforts are likely to be successful. You have deep faith and devotion towards your deity, and you have always given more importance to hard work than luck. Y advetisement ou believe in doing your work honestly and leaving the result to God. This positive and dedicated mindset of yours has been bringing you consistent success. There may be preparations for a religious event in your house. Continue to try to achieve your goals with patience and discipline. Always respect your teachers and elders. With the advice of an experienced person or guru, you can find a solution to any work-related problem. You may get appreciation from senior officials, which will boost your morale. Cancer Tarot Reading (Seven of Swords) Ganesha says that according to the Tarot card, working with someone can be troublesome for you. The other person is more interested in getting the work done through unethical means than hard work, which may affect your reputation and respect. Due to a family property dispute, someone may have committed a serious betrayal and made some documents without telling anyone. advetisement Do not sign any document without reading it, no matter how close the other person is. Due to someone's jealousy, false rumors may spread against you at your workplace. Try to improve your image. Try to avoid disputes with anyone and do not give unsolicited advice on any matter – otherwise, you may invite unnecessary trouble. Your partner's behavior has changed a lot due to the entry of a third person in a romantic relationship. The other person is not making any effort to understand your feelings. Leo Tarot Reading (Four of Pentacles) Ganesha says that according to the Tarot card, the time is favorable. You can use your savings for good financial investments. This period should be used to work towards future success. It is not about controlling time but about controlling emotions and moving towards reality. No matter how challenging the situation ahead is, you have to face it. It is wise to prioritize the most important challenge among the current challenges. You may have to make some work-related travels, during which you may get profitable opportunities that can bring significant financial benefits in the future. Success in a competition can also be achieved. Moving forward with positive goals can bring you victory. Your inclination towards spirituality may increase. No matter how attractive the wrong path may seem, it is better to stand with the truth. Try to stay away from selfish people. Do not depend only on luck to achieve anything. Try to move forward, taking everyone along. Virgo Tarot Reading (The Tower) Ganesha says that according to the Tarot card, your habit of being ignorant or unaware before starting any work can turn the circumstances against you. Sometimes you deliberately ignore important details, which sometimes leads to losses. Do not give so much importance to your ego and stubbornness that everything else becomes unimportant. Try to keep yourself away from these habits. You have always been successful in your professional life due to your confidence, but this ego can separate you from others. Your inner self is trying to warn you about something through signs again and again – ignoring them can lead to big troubles. A wrong decision can cause a lot of damage both financially and in terms of reputation. Try to make your behavior more flexible and polite. Stay away from people who can create problems for you. You need to give up the habit of always ignoring what others say – sometimes their words can be in your favor. You may get involved in unnecessary disputes due to someone's provocation. Moving ahead without checking the truth may create distance in relationships. Libra Tarot Reading (Six of Wands) Ganesha says that according to the Tarot card, a message or news may reach you quickly. Success in any matter depends on the effort and struggle made for that work. The difficulties you have faced and the patience with which you have waited are going to be rewarded. The time has come for your big ambitions to be fulfilled. There has been some emptiness in close relationships for some time, but now is the time to improve them. You can move towards a new goal. The continuous success you are achieving is drawing the attention of others towards you. This is one of the most favorable times of your life. However, it is important to be cautious and not let pride or ego dominate you in this moment of success. Feeling superior to others can reduce the significance of your achievements. Do not be jealous of your rivals' success, but try to understand how they achieved it. The bitterness in your relationship with your partner seems to be reducing now. Scorpio Tarot Reading (Judgement) Ganesha says that according to the Tarot card, negligence towards health can cause serious problems. You may now have to face the consequences of your past actions. This is a favorable time to start something new or take any important decision. Keep yourself away from jealousy and anger during this period. Instead of getting angry at people, try to understand their point of view. Give others a chance to correct their mistakes. This phase symbolizes personal rebirth – an opportunity to improve upon what you have experienced in the past. Do not let unresolved disputes grow, as they may reach the court. If you do not proceed with humility and patience, you will not be able to defend yourself effectively, and the other party may succeed in pulling you down. Make decisions using your intelligence and proceed to present your side. Don't dwell on past mistakes – instead, tackle current challenges with vigour. In your professional life, ensure that your responsibilities are completed on time. Sagittarius Tarot Reading (Six of Swords) Ganesha says that according to the Tarot card, promotions as well as transfers at the workplace may cause trouble. The current challenges seem so overwhelming that even looking for a new job does not seem easy. You may consider sharing your concerns with your family and spouse. You will try to establish yourself in a new place and department, but the anxiety of upcoming challenges may bother you. Your partner's support and assurance may give you strength. There is a notable slowdown in your work progress – seeking advice from an experienced person may help you figure out the reason. Unfinished tasks may result in financial losses, which may cause mental stress. You may fear that your partner will not be accepted by your family. This thought is making you feel isolated as you are wondering how to start a new life under such circumstances. However, mutual friends have assured you that they will support both of you in any situation. Capricorn Tarot Reading (Eight of Wands) Ganesha says that according to the Tarot card, the growing differences between your parents are causing tension, but this situation can be resolved with constant effort and open communication. There is a possibility of getting some good news. You are likely to get positive exam results. Meeting a renowned person may give you a new perspective on life. The upcoming circumstances look favorable, and you may soon get some good news, which will make you feel happy and refreshed. You will be successful in proving your skills and talent, and creating a new identity for yourself. A new job opportunity may come. You were expecting a promotion for a long time, and you may not only get a promotion but also a hike in salary. You can start a new business. Many opportunities may come in front of you, which may put you in a dilemma. Try to complete your plans before sharing them with others. Aquarius Tarot Reading (The Emperor) Ganesha says that according to the Tarot card, that even small moments of happiness can have a big impact on life, according to Tarot cards. A positive thought can change not just your life but others' too – you have understood this. Calmness in your behaviour and sweetness in your speech add dignity to your personality. Control your temper and avoid harsh words. Your unique work style keeps you passionate about your work. This passion for success is taking you closer to your goals. Your organised and different approach has earned you consistent praise from seniors. A great opportunity to work on an important project may come your way soon. Take advantage of this opportunity to succeed and overcome the negative intentions of your competitors. If you have recently started a new business, it may be progressing slowly, but with the help and guidance of an experienced person, it will soon reach new heights. Time is favorable – your hard work will be the key to proving yourself. Do not ignore anyone's advice; Instead, assess others' suggestions based on the situation. Pisces Tarot Reading (The Hermit) Ganesha says that according to the Tarot card, sharing your knowledge and giving wise advice has made you popular among people. However, due to a recent dispute, you may feel like distancing yourself from others. There may be a difference of opinion with a loved one, where they may try to dominate the situation by hiding their mistake. This may lead to a feeling of frustration and loneliness. You may not feel the need to share your troubles with anyone. However, reconnecting with yourself may help find inner peace. You may feel drawn towards meditation and spirituality. Keep moving forward with patience and restraint.
Indian Express
4 hours ago
- Indian Express
Aquarius Horoscope Today, 17 July 2025: Sensitivity toward others' financial needs can build goodwill today
Aquarius Horoscope Prediction Today, 17 July 2025: Emotions could cloud judgment today, especially in areas where logic is needed most. Ganesha advises clarity and restraint—choose your path based on reason, not peer pressure. Following others blindly may cost you later. Think independently, particularly when it comes to major life decisions like career moves. Trust your own compass—it's more accurate than the crowd's direction. Horoscope Today, 17 July 2025: Taurus, Cancer, Sagittarius, Pisces, Leo and other signs – Check astrological predictions Tonight may become one of your most cherished romantic memories. Ganesha advises embracing change and staying flexible. With your partner's support, emotional concerns will feel easier to navigate, creating space for joy and connection. Sensitivity toward others' financial needs can build goodwill today. Ganesha advises offering help where appropriate—it won't go unnoticed. Your willingness to share, even modestly, creates lasting value. Compassion leads to connection. Still, ensure support is sustainable—help others, but without compromising your own foundation. Graceful giving will yield quiet rewards. You may need to abandon rigid plans today. Ganesha sees external pressure forcing adjustments to your workflow. Though frustrating, this is your chance to demonstrate resilience. Approach changes with a problem-solving mindset, complete tasks within deadlines, and treat the situation as a test of adaptability and professional maturity.
