Hindus Observe Margashirsha Month With Bhagavad Gita Teachings, Puja, And Charity Initiatives

Mumbai: Hindus are observing the auspicious month of Margashirsha. The month, also called agrahayana, is the ninth in the annual Hindu calendar and corresponds to November-December.

Vrajesa Vinod Das, a member of International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), said that Margashirsha is considered auspicious because it was during this month that Lord Krishna imparted the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita—the essence of all scriptures—to Arjuna. The ekadashi day in December 11 is the day when Lord Krishna started his discourse in the battlefield.

"Engaging in any spiritual activity during this time yields manifold benefits. It is specially important for the Gaudiya Sampradaya. In chapter 10 of Bhagwat Gita, Lord Krishna says 'I am Margashirsha'. The whole month is dedicated to the Bhagavad Gita," said Das.

The month is also the time for the Margashirsha puja which is performed on Thursdays. Goddess Mahalakshmi is worshipped during the puja. In Mumbai, the Mahalakshmi temple is a centre for worship. "Women gather at the temple to pray and read the holy book. We make special arrangements for the gatherings. There is police for security and we also have a special team of doctors who provide free medical diagnostic services," said Nitin Kambli, temple manager.

The month is also a period for acts of charity. "Vidya dana, the gift of knowledge, is considered the greatest," said Das. ISKCON encourages devotees to buy the Bhagavad Gita at discounted prices so that the books can be gifted.