Namaste all,

I heard about this Vratham (fast/worship) called 'Kedara Gowri Vratham' dedicated to Lord Shiva.

It is typically observed in Tamil month Purattasi commencing on Ashtami Tithi of the bright moon phase and ends in Amavasya of Purattaasi (Diwali day).

Therefore it is typically observed for 21 days. But these days people observe it for much shorter duration, say 9 days, 7 days, 3 days of just 1 day (Diwali day).

You are supposed to fast through the day drinking just water and eat/break the fast at night time, after finishing prayer to Lord Shiva for the entire duration of days you wish to observe the fast.

In the evening, you place a Kalash filled with raw rice (some fill it with water), place a coconut on it, and place a picture of Shiva-Parvathi beside it, and also Turmeric Ganesha has to be placed close by.

Then you first offer archana to Turmeric Ganesha and then to the Kalash, you treat it as Lord Shiva and do archana with flowers on it.

Then you tie a single knot each day for 21 days on a yellow thread that has 21 finer strands on it. On the 21st day, after tying the 21st knot, you tie it on your hand (left for ladies, right for men).

After archana to the Kalash, you offer typically 21 food items. It can be the same item but placed in 21 bowls.

Like this you observe the fast and prayer for 21 days. In the night, you have to lie down on the floor without a mattress or pillow. A single blanket for covering is fine.

This vratha is supposed to fulfill all wishes. It is a very powerful one.

Purattasi is fast approaching and those interested can make use of this message and get ready.

There are many videos as well as books are available on the net regarding this Kedara Gowri Vratham.

Originally Ma Parvathi observed this Vratham for 21 days to gain the left half of Shiva.

Thanks and best regards,

Viraja