Mangala Gauri Vrat: Significance and Rituals in the Month of Shravan

Arranging a marriage in Hinduism is a profound and intricate process. According to Vedic traditions, matching horoscopes is a crucial step before marriage. However, when there are defects in the horoscope, seeking the blessings of Mata Mangala Gauri becomes essential to remove these obstacles.

The month of Shravan, also known as Sawan, is a time of vibrant festivals and rituals in Hinduism. This month is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati. Among the various observances during this period, the Mangala Gauri Vrat, held on Tuesdays of Shravan, holds special significance.

What is Mangala Gauri Vrat?

Mangala Gauri Vrat is a sacred fast dedicated to Mata Mangala Gauri, a form of Mother Parvati. This fast has been revered in Hindu scriptures since ancient times. Mata Mangala Gauri symbolizes the form in which Mother Parvati performed penance to obtain Lord Shiva as her husband.

According to Vedic texts, Mata Sita also prayed to Mangala Gauri for the blessings to marry Lord Rama. Pleased with her devotion, Mata Mangala Gauri granted her wish. To this day, unmarried Hindu girls visit temples to seek Mata Mangala Gauri’s blessings for an ideal marriage. It is believed that Mata Mangala Gauri quickly responds to the prayers of marriageable girls, showering them with her special grace.

Married women also observe Mangala Gauri Vrat for the longevity and prosperity of their husbands. This unwavering belief in the power of Mangala Gauri Vrat is a testament to its importance in Sanatan Dharma.

Mythology of Mangala Gauri Vrat:

According to mythology, there was a nobleman named Dharmapala who lived in a city. Despite his wealth and a beautiful wife, he was sorrowful due to their lack of children. However, by divine grace, they were blessed with a son who was destined to die at the age of 16 from a snake bite.

Before he turned 16, Dharmapala’s son married a girl whose mother had faithfully observed the Mangala Gauri Vrat. This dedication granted her daughter the blessing of unbroken fortune, ensuring she would never become a widow. This blessing extended to Dharmapala’s son, who then enjoyed a long life of 100 years. Thus, Mangala Gauri Vrat is observed by brides for their husbands’ longevity and well-being.

Maa Mangla Gauri Mandir, Gaya

Who Can Observe Mangala Gauri Vrat?

Both brides and unmarried girls can observe the Mangala Gauri Vrat. In 2024, the first Mangala Gauri Vrat will begin on Tuesday, July 23. There will be a total of four Mangala Gauri Vrats this year. On these days, special worship of Mata Parvati is performed, with the fast dedicated to Maa Gauri every Tuesday of Shravan.

Rituals of Mangala Gauri Vrat

To observe the Mangala Gauri Vrat, women should refrain from daily activities and resolve to undertake the fast for the attainment of children, fortune, and happiness. The worship procedure includes:

1. Preparation: After performing aachaman (sipping water for purification) and marjan (sprinkling water for purification), place a red cloth on a bench and sit facing north in front of the idol or picture of Mata Mangala Gauri.
2. Offerings: Prepare 16 laddus, 16 fruits, 16 betel leaves, 16 cloves, and 16 cardamoms, along with materials and sweets associated with marriage. Arrange these offerings in front of the mother, along with eight fragrant items and a jasmine pen for writing the Mangala Gauri Yantra on a food paper.
3. Worship: Perform panchopchar (five-step ritual worship) with devotion and meditation, and chant the Sri Mangala Gauri mantra. This worship should be done with sincerity and faith, seeking the blessings of Mata Mangala Gauri.

The Mangala Gauri Vrat is a powerful observance in the month of Shravan, providing devotees with the opportunity to seek blessings for a harmonious and prosperous life. By observing this vrat, devotees reaffirm their faith in the divine grace of Mata Mangala Gauri.

Recite the following Mantra / Shlok for Maa Mangla Devi