Vanagauri Shashti, also known as Vana Gowri Vratam, is observed on the sixth day of the waxing phase of moon (Shukla Paksha) in the month of Jyeshtha (May – June) as per traditional Hindu calendar. In 2024, the date of Vanagauri Shashti is June 12. The popular belief is that those who observe the Vana Gowri Vratam will be blessed with children.
The ritual is also observed for the welfare of children by mothers. Vanagauri Shashti is limited to certain Hindu communities especially in South India .
The day is observed as Aranya Sashti in many regions of India