Rohini Vrat is one of the most auspicious festivals of the Jain community. Jain communities across the world celebrate this auspicious day with much pomp and extravagance. Rohini is one of the 27 Nakshatras of Jainism and Hinduism. On this day, followers of Jainism fast in the hope of attaining prosperity, peace and happiness. It is believed that fasting on this occasion can liberate a person from all kinds of sorrow, pain and suffering. The name of Rohini Nakshatra matches the importance of fasting during Rohini Vrat. Here are some things to keep in mind while preparing to celebrate this auspicious day. (Also read: Puthandu 2024: Date, rituals, significance, celebrations and everything you need to know about Tamil New Year,
Rohini Vrat in April: Date and Time
Rohini Vrat will be observed on Friday, 12th April. The auspicious time of Rohini Nakshatra to observe this occasion will start at 1:38 am on April 12 and end at 12:51 am on April 13.
Importance of Rohini fast
One of the important days in Jainism, women fast in the hope of increasing the quality of life and prosperity for their husbands and families. According to Drik Panchang, Rohini Vrat is observed on the day when Rohini Nakshatra prevails after sunrise. It is believed that observing Rohini fast removes all kinds of sorrows and poverty. Parana of Rohini Nakshatra is done during Margashirsha Nakshatra when Rohini occurs. Rohini Vrat is generally observed for three, five or seven consecutive years, with Udyapan performed to conclude the Rohini Vrat.
Rohini fast puja vidhi and rituals
The fast can be kept for three, five or seven consecutive years, although the most recommended period is five years and five months, ending with the Udyapan ceremony. Women observing the fast on the day of Rohini Vrat usually start by waking up early and taking a holy bath. The idol of Lord Vasupujya, one of the twenty-four Tirthankaras, is placed on the altar in the puja room, bathed with holy water and decorated with aromatic substances with elaborate rituals.
After the puja, fast is observed till the rising of Margashirsha Nakshatra. The duration of Rohini Vrat is decided by the women observing it. At its conclusion, the fast is concluded with a proper Udyapan ceremony, which may include giving donations to the needy, visiting the temple of Vasupujya, or doing charitable work.
