Damodara Dwadashi is the festival ascribed to Sri Damodara, one of the manifestations of Sri Krishna. It occurs on the Shukla Paksha Dwadashi, the next day of Sravana Putradha Ekadashi of the Shravan month. For the Year 2023, it occurs on Monday, 28th August 2023. The exact duration of the Dwadashi Tithi has to be ascertained from the respective regional calendars.
Damodara – Legend
The term ‘’Damodar” means the belly tied with rope. As per the legend, when Sri Krishna was a baby boy, Yashoda Devi had tied Him up with a rope with a grinding stone. She did so when she was busy with the chores so that He did not wander away when her eyes are not on Him.
However, Sri Krishna had crawled with the rope and dragged the stone along-with Him. He went in between the single stemmed twin trees in the garden dragging the stone. The twin trees were actually two Gandharvas who got the curse to remain as trees there.
When Sri Krishna went between them, they got separated and the curse was alleviated. They became Gandharvas again. In the process, the rope got snapped and a portion remained with the belly of Sri Krishna. Hence, He is called as Damodara.
It also signifies that Bhagwan Sri Krishna had encompassed the entire universe in His stomach.
Damodara Dwadashi – rituals
The exact time of dawn of Dwadashi tithi is ascertained either from family elders / astrologers. It is mentioned in the Holy Almanac (Panchang) as well. Even daily Calendars provide the information.
The idol or picture of Sri Vishnu is decorated with flowers. Incense sticks are burned. Diyas are lit. Pujas are done with tulsi leaves. Slokas or stotras of Sri Maha Vishnu including Sri Vishnu Sahasra Nama are recited with devotion. Srimad Bhagavad Gitaa is also recited.
At the end of the puja, aarti is done. Prasad is distributed to the family members.
The Devotees observe either full or partial fasting on this day. Those devotees who cannot do fasting due to medical or other reasons can take sattvic food. Mostly prasadams and fruits are partaken.
Various bhajans and kirtans are held.
Making daan / donation to the needy on this day is believed to please Sri Maha Vishnu.
Benefits
-Alleviation of all the sins both intentional and unintentional.
– blessed with progeny
-Fulfillment of the wishes
Importance should be given to the sincere prayers to Sri Maha Vishnu.
