Tapta Mudra Dharana is a unique Vaishnava practice in South India in which a mudra or seal with symbol of Srihari Vishnu is stamped on the body. Also referred as Tapta Mudra Dharane, it is observed on the Shukla Paksha Ekadasi in the Ashada month. Tapta Mudra Dharana 2024 date is July 17. Tapta means ‘heated’ and mudra means ‘seals.’
Stamping of the hot mudra on the body is seen as a way of stating one’s utmost devotion to Vishnu. The belief is that it burns away sins and protects one from all kind of evils. It is also believed that the ritual helps in fighting diseases.
Tapta Mudra is taken from a Vaishnava Saint. The ritual is followed by all Vaishnava Sect but it varies from region to region and from community to community.
The usual mudra that is printed on the body is that of Shankha, Chakra, Gada, Padma and Narayana Mudra. The mudra is heated in a homa of til (sesame) and ghee.
Healthy men are permitted to have the mark in five places. Women and children should only have one on the arm.
Famous mutts in South India including Udupi Mutt perform the ritual.
The day is also famous as Ashadi Ekadasi and Toli Ekadasi.
The four month rituals and food restrictions associated with Chatur Mas also begins after the Tapta Mudra Dharana.
The day is also famous as Ashadi Ekadasi and Toli Ekadasi.
The four month rituals and food restrictions associated with Chatur Mas also begins after the Tapta Mudra Dharana.