On March 30, 2025, several important festivals will be celebrated across India, marking a significant day in the Hindu calendar. This day is known as Pratipada Shukla Paksha in the month of Chaitra of the Vikram Samvat 2082. It falls on a Sunday, and the sun sign for the day is Gemini. The celebrations include Ugadi, Gudi Padwa, Chaitra Navratri, Jhulelal Jayanti, and Chandra Darshan, which hold cultural and religious significance for many.
According to the Hindu Panchang, the Tithi is Pratipada until 12:49 PM, followed by Dwitiya. The Nakshatra is Revati until 4:35 PM, after which it transitions to Ashwini. The day also features the Yoga of Indra until 5:54 PM, followed by Vaidhriti. The Karana is Bava until 12:49 PM, and then Balava until 10:59 PM.
The sunrise on this day is at 5:52 AM, while sunset occurs at 6:13 PM. The moon will rise at 6:13 AM and set at 7:22 PM. The duration of the day is 12 hours, 21 minutes, and 58 seconds, while the night lasts for 11 hours, 36 minutes, and 59 seconds. The Abhijit Muhurat, considered auspicious for starting new ventures, is from 12:01 PM to 12:50 PM, while the Vijaya Muhurat is from 2:06 PM to 2:56 PM.
As the first day of Chaitra Navratri, devotees will perform Ghatasthapana, the ceremonial installation of the kalash, which symbolizes the Goddess. It is believed that chanting the Navarna Mantra "Om Aim Hreem Kleem Chamundaye Vichche" during these nine days will please the Goddess and bring prosperity. Devotees are also encouraged to remember the first form of Goddess Durga, Maa Shailputri, and offer sixteen adornments as a mark of respect.
In addition to the religious observances, this day signifies the start of the Hindu New Year. Many families will clean their homes and create rangoli at the entrance, symbolizing the welcoming of good fortune. Marks of rice flour, known as padchinh, are also drawn to invite Goddess Lakshmi into their homes.
However, not all times on this day are considered auspicious. The Rahu Kalam, a period believed to be inauspicious for starting new activities, is from 4:41 PM to 6:13 PM. Other inauspicious times include Yamaganda from 12:03 PM to 1:35 PM, and Dur Muhurtam from 4:35 PM to 5:24 PM. The Ganda Moola, which is considered inauspicious, is observed throughout the day.
For those observing the fast, it is customary to consume specific foods and perform rituals that honor the deities. The day is also marked by the observance of Panchak, which lasts from 5:52 AM to 4:35 PM, during which certain activities are avoided.
In summary, March 30, 2025, is a day filled with cultural and religious significance for many in India. With the celebration of major festivals, the observance of auspicious timings, and the welcoming of the Hindu New Year, it is a time for reflection, devotion, and celebration. Families and communities will come together to honor their traditions and seek blessings for the year ahead.
