Introduction
In Hinduism, the lunar month of Ashada (also known as Ashadha or Aadi) holds great significance. It is considered an auspicious month among the list of Telugu months and is celebrated with reverence and devotion by millions of people across India. Ashada Masam falls in the months of June and July and is believed to be a time of spiritual growth, purification, and divine blessings. It also marks the beginning of the rainy season, which signifies life and new beginnings.
Let us dive deeper into the significance of this Ashada month and learn more about how it impacts our lives.
II. The Significance of Ashada Masam
Auspicious meaning in Telugu refers to Subhakankshalu, a time of great blessings and positive energy. Ashada Masam is considered to be one of the most auspicious months in Telugu calendar due to its connection with various divine and spiritual elements.
This period is believed to be a sacred period for spiritual practices, devotion, and seeking divine blessings from the almighty. It is considered a favourable time for performing several religious rituals, fasting, and engaging in acts of charity and selflessness.
Ashada Masam is also beneficial for undertaking various religious practices and seeking divine intervention. Many people believe that prayers, meditations, and acts of devotion performed during this month hold special significance and are more likely to yield positive outcomes. The spiritual energy is heightened during this time, making it suitable for self-reflection and moving ahead in one’s spiritual journey.
III. Historical and Cultural Background
Ashada Masam has a rich historical and cultural background and its origins can be traced back to ancient times. The Telugu community followed a distinct lunar calendar years ago, and the Aashada month derives its name from the Ashadha Nakshatra, a star that prevails during this period.
Several mythological stories and legends are associated with Ashada Masam. One such popular legend revolves around Lord Vishnu's fifth incarnation as Lord Vamana, also known as Balibandhana. The Lord visited the demon king Bali during this month to break his ego and pride. This story symbolises the triumph of good over evil and further strengthens the spiritual importance of Ashada Masam.
Ashada Masam is also a time when various cultural traditions and customs are followed with great reverence. These traditions have been passed down through generations and have helped create a strong sense of unique cultural identity and unity among the Telugu community. The customs range from fasting and offering prayers to participating in community rituals.
IV. Rituals and Observances during Ashada Masam
During Ashada Masam, people observe a variety of rituals and practices. Some of the major ones are:
1. Guru Purnima: This day is used to express gratitude to our revered gurus (spiritual teachers) and seek their blessings. Disciples offer prayers, perform rituals, and engage in acts of service to honour their gurus and their teachings.
2. Varalakshmi Vratham: This is a significant ritual performed by married women of Andhra Pradesh to seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi for the well-being and prosperity of their new life. Women observe fasting, adorn themselves with traditional attire and jewellery, and perform special prayers.
3. Bonalu Festival: Bonalu is a unique folk festival celebrated during this month calendar in Telugu. The festival is dedicated to Goddess Mahakali and involves the worship of village deities and offering prayers for the well-being of the community. Women carry clay pots filled with offerings and perform traditional dances as a form of devotional expression.
4. Ashada Ekadashi: Ekadashi, the eleventh day of the lunar month, holds great significance in Hindu culture. Ashada Ekadashi is considered particularly auspicious, and devotees observe fasting and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu on this day. It is believed that observing this fast with devotion can purify the mind and bring blessings and spiritual progress.
V. Ashada Masam and Sarees
No Indian festival or time period is complete without extravagant celebrations, ancient traditions, and colourful attires. This auspicious Masam in Telugu culture denotes the region's best practices that showcase brilliant attires woven in traditional materials.
In this period, women of the region drape themselves in beautiful silk sarees in vibrant colours. Depending on the ritual and puja, the attire choices keep changing. For Ekadashi vrat, it is better to wear sattvik clothing to help purify the body and soul. For the varalakshmi vrat, women donne striking hues of red and green to pay respect to the Goddess Lakshmi.
Singhania’s has an exquisite saree collection for Ashada Masam 2023 that you can explore to complete your ethnic trousseau. Curated from the finest quality of silk and cotton threads, our sarees are a mark of excellence that will allow you to contribute to your prayers with complete dedication in this Ashada 2023.
We offer a wide variety of pure silk and cotton sarees woven by generational weavers. Our designs and motifs are a true embodiment of the spirit and culture of India.
VI. Conclusion