Ayudha Puja

Ayudha-puja is a Hindu festival of worshiping tools, celebrated as a public holiday in September-October in several regions in southern India (Karnataka, Pondicherry and Tamil Nadu). This festival is part of the Navratri Festival, taking place on the ninth day of the celebration and lasting for roughly ten days. During this time, people sing praises to the weapons and tools that are used in their everyday lives.

History

India is known for its long and colorful history that is celebrated by many festivals taking place throughout the country. During these festivals, people honor and glorify their gods and goddesses, as well as praise their great deeds. Ayudha-puja is no exception, as it commemorates the victory over evil in the final battle of Dashara and Durga Puja. It is important to note that in ancient India, battles usually took place at the end of the monsoon period, as this made it easier for them to wage war. The main goddesses that are worshiped during the festival are Saraswati, Lakshmi, and Parvati.

Interesting facts

• In the traditions of Dashara and Durga Puja, the climax is the victory over evil in the final battle. Therefore, the weapons must be clean and ready for battle.
• In ancient India, battles usually took place at the end of the monsoon period, as this made it easier to wage war.
• The main goddesses that people worship at the festival are Saraswati, Lakshmi and Parvati.

How to take part

During the festival period, everyone washes and cleans their tools and vehicles before performing Puja worship. Shopkeepers tidy up their premises, students and scientists tidy up their books, programmers tidy up their computers, musicians tidy up their musical instruments, and soldiers tidy up their weapons. The ritual is meant to see the divine in simple everyday things. In Karnataka, the holiday is dedicated to the victory over the demon by the goddess Mahishasura Durga. After her assassination, the weapons of the goddess were kept for further worship.

When is Ayudha Puja celebrated in 2023?