Bheemana Amavasya Vrata 2026 – Kannada Ashada Amavasi Vrata 2026 Date

Bheemana Amavasya, also known as Bhima Amavasi, is an important Hindu ritual performed by women in Karnataka. Bheemana Amavasya Vrata 2026 date is August 12. Bheemana Amavasya is observed on the no moon day (Amavas) in the Kannada month of Ashada (July – August). On the day women pray for the well being of their husbands and brothers. The ritual is also known as Deepastambha Pooja.

Jyoti Bheemeshwara Ammavasi (Bheemana Amavasi Vrata) is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Married and unmarried women and girls on Bhima Amavasai pray for the long life of their husbands, brothers and other male members in the house.

A pair of lamps made using mud known as Kalikamba represents Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati on the day. Special pujas are done on the auspicious day to appease the divine couple.

Thambittu Deepa or Thembittu lamp made from flour is made on the occasion and lit to cool all bad emotions like anger, frustration etc.

Another important feature on Bheemana Amavasi is the making of Kadubu. Dough balls, or Kadubus, have coins hidden in them. Coins are also hidden in idli, kozhakattai, modak and wheat balls. These balls are smashed by brothers or young boys at the end of the Bheemana Puja.

The ritual is based on the story of a young girl who was married to a dead prince. She accepted her faith and the day after marriage she performed the Bheemana Amavasya puja with mud lamps. Impressed by her devotion Shiva and Parvati appeared before her and brought back the prince to life. The mud kadubu prepared by her was broken by Lord Shiva.

No deep fried or shallow fried food is eaten on the day.

Symbolism In The Rituals

Here's the symbolism for each ritual observed during Jyoti Bheemeshwara Ammavasi (Bheemana Amavasi Vrata):

Kalikamba (Mud Lamps)

Symbolism: The pair of mud lamps represents the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, symbolizing the cosmic balance between masculine and feminine energies (Purusha and Prakriti). Made from earth (mud), they represent the connection between the divine and the material world, emphasizing that the sacred can manifest through simple, natural materials.

Thambittu Deepa (Flour Lamp)

Symbolism: This lamp made from flour symbolizes the transformation of basic sustenance (grain) into spiritual light. The act of lighting it represents the illumination of consciousness and the burning away of negative emotions like anger and frustration. The flour base signifies nourishment for both body and soul, while the flame represents the purification of the mind and heart.

Kadubu with Hidden Coins

Symbolism: The dough balls with hidden coins represent the mysteries of life and the hidden treasures of spiritual wisdom that can only be discovered through devotion and seeking. The coins symbolize prosperity, good fortune, and the unexpected blessings that come to those who worship with sincere faith. The round shape of kadubu represents completeness and the cyclical nature of life.

Breaking of Kadubu by Brothers/Young Boys

Symbolism: This ritual symbolizes the breaking of illusion (maya) and the revelation of hidden truths. Young boys/brothers represent innocence and pure energy, and their act of breaking the kadubu signifies the destruction of obstacles and the unveiling of divine blessings. It also commemorates Lord Shiva's action in the original legend, representing divine intervention in human affairs.

Avoidance of Fried Foods

Symbolism: Abstaining from fried foods represents purification and self-restraint. Oil and frying are associated with indulgence and heaviness, so avoiding them symbolizes spiritual lightness, clarity of mind, and the offering of pure, simple food to the divine. This dietary restriction emphasizes devotion over pleasure and spiritual nourishment over material satisfaction.

Each ritual collectively reinforces themes of divine grace, purification, hidden blessings, and the triumph of devotion over adversity.

Married women perform the Bheemana Amavasai ritual for nine years after marriage.

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Story of Bheemana Amavasi Vrata

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