1913 Yamuna Chhath | Yamuna Jayanti date for Lancaster, California, United States

1913 Yamuna Chhath

According to the Hindu Panchang Yamuna Chhath is observed on the Shukla Paksha Shashthi Tithi in Chaitra month and falls during Chaitra Navratri. Yamuna Chhath is celebrated with devotion and enthusiasm, especially across the entire Braj region, including Mathura and Vrindavan. It marks the day when Goddess Yamuna descended on Earth. Hence, this day is also known as Yamuna Jayanti or the birth anniversary of Goddess Yamuna. Goddess Yamuna, being the consort of Lord Shri Krishna, is revered by people of Braj which explains Yamuna Chhath being celebrated mainly by people of Mathura and Vrindavan.

This festival holds special significance in the Braj region, particularly in Mathura and Vrindavan, because Lord Shri Krishna performed many divine pastimes related to Goddess Yamuna here. On this occasion, an important traditional ritual known as Chunari Manoratha is performed. In this ritual, many sarees are stitched together to create a very large Chunari. Thereafter, while chanting Mantras and singing devotional hymns, devotees ride on boats and ceremonially drape this Chunari across the river, offering it to Goddess Yamuna from one bank to the other. In addition, special Kirtans, Bhajans, and religious gatherings are held at the Ghats of Yamuna, where the glory of Goddess Yamuna is sung and praised.

According to Puranic belief, on this very day Goddess Yamuna manifested as the daughter of Lord Surya and Goddess Sanjna (सञ्ज्ञा). Goddess Yamuna is considered the sister of Lord Yamaraja, the God of death. Therefore, it is believed that by worshipping Goddess Yamuna, one does not suffer torment from Yama Deva. Goddess Yamuna is described as the river that sanctifies all the Lokas. Devotees believe that touching the water of the Yamuna, bathing in it, and doing Achamana with it removes sins.

Yamuna Chhath Traditional Puja Vidhi

On the day of Yamuna Chhath, one should wake up during Brahma Muhurta in the morning and take a bath. If possible, one should bathe in the Yamuna River; otherwise, take a bath at home and wear clean clothes.

After that, prepare a clean altar at the place of worship and install an image or idol of Goddess Yamuna on it. Fill a Kalasha with clean water, place mango leaves or Ashoka leaves at its mouth, and place a coconut on top of it. Roli, Akshata, flowers, incense, a Diya, Naivedya, and seasonal fruits are offered. During worship, one should recite the Yamuna Stotra or Yamuna Ashtakam.

According to one's devotion, chant the Mantras of Goddess Yamuna and finally perform Aarti to conclude the worship. While observing the Vrat, take Sattvic food or Phalahara once during the day. Some devotees also observe Nirjala Vrat, i.e., fasting without water. In the evening, Dipa Dana should again be made. If possible, perform the worship especially on the banks of the Yamuna River and float Diyas in the Yamuna water.

By observing the Vrat in this manner, the sins of the devotee are destroyed, longevity increases, and family happiness, peace, and spiritual growth are attained.