-
Pisacha Mochini Chaturdashi: Sacred Rites for Ancestral Peace on Margashirsha Shukla Chaturdashi
Pisacha Mochini Chaturdashi (Pishach Mochan Chaturdashi) is observed on Margashirsha Shukla Chaturdashi to pacify and liberate restless ancestral spirits and to establish Pitru-śānti. Rooted in sources such as the Garuda Purana and the Skanda Purana’s Kashi Khanda, the observance emphasizes tilodaka, tarpana, pinda-dāna, deepa-dāna, mantra recitation, and charitable giving. Families consult the local panchang for…
-
Krichchha–Atikrichha Vrata Explained: Extreme Hindu Fasting for Atonement and Renewal
Krichchha–Atikrichchha Vrata (Kṛcchrātikṛcchra) is among the strictest Hindu fasting vows for prāyaścitta (expiation), detailed in Manu Smṛti, Yājñavalkya Smṛti, and the Garuḍa Purāṇa. Classically structured over twelve days in escalating severity, it moves from tightly rationed intake to complete fasting and is paired with ethical repair, japa, svādhyāya, and seva. The vow’s purpose is to…