Renuka Chaturdashi is a Hindu festival celebrated in honor of Goddess Renuka, also known as Yellamma or Renuka Devi. It falls on the Chaturdashi (14th day) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the Hindu calendar month of Margashirsha, which typically corresponds to November or December in the Gregorian calendar. Renuka Chaturdashi 2024 date is December 29.
Goddess Renuka is revered as the embodiment of motherhood,
fertility, and prosperity. The festival holds significance mainly in the states
of Maharashtra and Karnataka in India. Devotees observe various rituals and
offer prayers to seek the blessings of the goddess.
One of the main rituals involves taking a holy bath in
rivers or lakes early in the morning, followed by prayers and offerings to
Goddess Renuka. Devotees also fast on this day and visit temples dedicated to
the goddess. In some regions, there are processions and cultural performances
as part of the festivities.
The festival celebrates the divine mother's love and
emphasizes the importance of maternal bonds and family values in Hindu culture.