The Hindu community in North India celebrates Bhadli Navami with immense religious fervor. Bhadli Navami also known by the name of Bhatali Navmi, Ashara Shukla Paksha Navmi, or Kandarp Navmi is generally celebrated during the Ashad month. Bhadli Navami is a significant day in the Hindu calendar, observed on the ninth day (Navami) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Ashadha. It holds special importance, particularly in the state of Gujarat and among Hindu communities.

Fairs and Festivals: Various regions in India celebrate this day with fairs, cultural programs, and community gatherings. It is a time for socialization and festive activities. Charity and Philanthropy: Acts of charity, feeding the poor, and donating clothes and other necessities are common practices during this period.

Bhadli Navami falls on the ninth day (Navami) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Ashadha according to the Hindu calendar. This usually corresponds to June or July in the Gregorian calendar. The day is considered highly auspicious for conducting religious ceremonies, especially marriages. It is believed that Lord Vishnu wakes up from his cosmic sleep on this day, making it a highly favorable time for Hindu rituals and ceremonies.



On Bhadli Navami, many Hindu families organize and participate in weddings, believing that the divine blessings of Lord Vishnu will ensure a prosperous and happy married life. The day is often marked by special pujas (prayers) and rituals dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Astrologically, Bhadli Navami is deemed auspicious as it is one of the few days in the Hindu calendar that is free from any malefic planetary influences, making it ideal for starting new ventures and undertakings.

Festivities Dedicated to Vishnu

The festival is observed in honor of Lord Vishnu. It is generally believed in Hindu Mythology that Lord Vishnu is the most powerful of the lot. Among Hindus, marriages cannot be held when the Lord is sleeping. Lord Vishnu’s blessings are necessary to make married life happier.

Bhadli Navami falls on the last day before Lord Vishnu goes to sleep. Therefore, the devotees desire to spend the day uniquely and take the Lord's blessings. Bhadli Navmi is the last day for any religious activity.

Key Significance:

  1. Auspicious for Marriage: Bhadli Navami is considered an auspicious day for marriages. It is believed that weddings performed on this day bring good fortune and happiness to the couple. In many parts of India, it is one of the last auspicious days for marriages before the start of the Chaturmas, a period of four months during which weddings and other auspicious activities are avoided.

  2. Religious Practices: Devotees observe fasts and engage in prayers on this day. Visiting temples, especially those dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is common, as the day is believed to be blessed by him. Special pujas and rituals are performed to seek blessings for a prosperous life.

  3. Cultural Celebrations: In some regions, Bhadli Navami is celebrated with community events, fairs, and gatherings. These events often include traditional music, dance, and feasts, reflecting the local culture and traditions.

Bhadli Navami Celebrations

Hindus celebrate Bhadli Navmi with great enthusiasm and numerous religious events are planned for the day to make the occasion unique. Special recital sessions for reading Holy Scriptures are held during the day and priests take special care to make offerings to Lord Vishnu. Songs written in honor of Lord Vishnu are also recited by the devotees to seek blessings from Vishnu.

Bhadli Navami is considered one of the most auspicious days for weddings. Many couples choose this day for their nuptials, believing it brings good fortune and divine blessings. Temples and wedding halls are often booked well in advance, and a large number of weddings take place on this day.
The ceremonies are conducted with great pomp and show, following traditional rituals and customs.

Bhadli Fair in Jharkhand

Festivities associated with Bhadli can be seen in its real colors in the state of Jharkhand. In Jharkhand, devotees not only from within the state but also from neighboring regions gather to celebrate the occasion. Jharkhand has held the Bhadli Fair since ancient times and the festivities continue unabated with the changing times too. The Bhadli Fair, also known as the Bhadli Mela, is a prominent cultural and religious event held in the Indian state of Jharkhand.

Festivities associated with Bhadli begin and devotees from all over the region dwell in this small town. An ancient temple belonging to Lord Shiva and Goddess Kali in Itkhori is thronged by devotees seeking blessings. The Bhadli Fair takes place in Itkhori, a small town in the Chatra district of Jharkhand. It is held annually on the ninth day (Navami) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Ashadha, which usually falls in June or July.

Goddess Kali is worshiped as Jagdamba during the Bhadli fair in Itkhori. The devotees not only offer sacrifices but the fair attracts a large number of devotees who come over from far and wide to get the Mudan sansakar of their young children done. The Itkhori region is known for its historical and religious significance, with ancient temples dedicated to various deities, making it a focal point for spiritual activities during the fair.

The Bhaddrakali temple in Itkhori is also known for its unique collection of Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist deities in their idol form and devotees seek the blessings of all in unison to make their journey of life more meaningful and significant.

The celebration of Bhadli Navami varies by region, but it is generally marked by a combination of religious observance and cultural festivities. Here's how it is typically celebrated:

1. Religious Observance:

  • Temple Visits: Devotees visit temples, particularly those dedicated to Lord Vishnu, to offer prayers and seek blessings. Special rituals and pujas are conducted, with many people performing a fast to honor the day.

  • Marriage Ceremonies: Since Bhadli Navami is considered an auspicious day for weddings, many couples tie the knot on this day. The ceremonies are often grand, with families coming together to celebrate the union. It's common for multiple weddings to take place in the same venue, especially in community halls or temples.

  • Fasting: Some devotees observe a fast throughout the day, breaking it only after performing the evening prayers.

2. Cultural Festivities:

  • Fairs and Melas: In some regions, especially in Gujarat, local fairs or melas are organized. These events are vibrant and colorful, featuring traditional music, dance performances, food stalls, and local crafts. The atmosphere is festive, with people from nearby areas coming to participate in the celebrations.

  • Community Gatherings: People gather with family and friends to enjoy meals and participate in communal prayers. It is a time for socializing and strengthening community bonds.

  • Feasts: After the religious observances, families often prepare special meals. Traditional dishes are served, and the feast is shared with loved ones.

3. Special Events in Gujarat:

  • Processions: In some parts of Gujarat, processions are held in which deities are taken out in beautifully decorated palanquins. These processions are accompanied by music, dance, and chanting of hymns.

  • Cultural Performances: Local artists may perform folk dances and songs that are specific to the region's culture, adding to the celebratory spirit.


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