Vijayarathashanti : A Celebration During Aging Of Adults With Healthy Life

Vijayarathashanti : A Celebration conducted to prevent diseases that commonly occur during the aging process of adults who have lived healthy life. The celebration involves various rituals and ceremonies. Here is a breakdown of the different components:

1. Morning Rituals:

• The 78-year-old couple is given a head bath in the morning, signifying purification and rejuvenation.
• A special bath called “Mangala snanam” (Holy Bath) is performed for the couple, resembling a wedding bath.
• The priest offers aunkurapanam, which involves the sprouting of seeds symbolizing growth and prosperity.
• Ganapati Homam and Mrityum Jaya Homam are performed by the priest. These rituals invoke Lord Ganesha and seek victory over death and longevity.

2. Sri Satyanarayana Pooja:

• As per their tradition, some people also perform the Sri Satyanarayana Pooja. This is a religious ritual dedicated to Lord Vishnu, performed to seek his blessings for prosperity, health, and happiness.

3. Wedding-like Rituals:

• Similar to a wedding ceremony, certain rituals are conducted, including pouring talambras (auspicious liquid) on the couple’s heads.
• Rings are exchanged between the couple, symbolizing their commitment and union.
• Garlands are exchanged, signifying the mutual acceptance of the couple.

4. Procession to the Ceremonial Mandapam:

• In the evening, the couple leaves for the ceremonial mandapam (a decorated space) in a procession.
• They are accompanied by mela’s (musical troupes or bands) that add to the celebratory atmosphere.

5. Padha Pooja and New Clothes:

• At the mandapam, the newly married couple is honored through padha pooja, where their feet are washed and worshipped as a mark of respect.
• The couple is presented with new clothes, symbolizing new beginnings and blessings.

6. Hospitality and Gifts:

• The guests who attend the celebration are treated with hospitality and offered food.
• According to their means, the hosts provide gifts to the guests as a gesture of gratitude and blessings.

7. Pooja and Dasadana:

• On that day, the couple performs pooja (ritual worship) with the guidance of the priest.
• As an act of charity and giving back to society, the couple gives dasadana (donations) to needy or deserving individuals.

Vijayarathashanti & Aims

These rituals and ceremonies aim to bless the couple with good health, longevity, and prosperity, while also seeking the well-being of the community through acts of charity and hospitality.

Also Read : https://telugutraditions.com/wp-admin/post.php?post=1754&action=edit