Annapurna Vrat is dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the Hindu Goddess of food and nourishment. This vrat is observed during the waning phase of moon in Margashirsh month (November – December) as per traditional North Indian calendar. It begins on the fifth day of the Krishna paksha of Margashirsh month (November 20, 2024) and is observed for 17 days.
Annapurna Vrat includes fasting, not eating non-vegetarian food and offering prayers and performing puja for Goddess Annapoorna. It is not a strict fasting and usually devotees eat a single meal while observing the fast. Those observing the Vrata read the Annapurna Vrat Katha.
Some people observe the fast only the Annapurna Jayanti during the Margashirsha Purnima.
Annapurna Vrat is also observed for several weeks and months by devotees. It is performed for peace and prosperity.
Annapurna puja is also observed in eastern parts of India especially in Bengal in the Chaitra month (March – April).