Vaisakha Masa, is the first month in a traditional Odia Callendar. It comes after Chaitra Odia Month. The month is named after Vishakha nakshatra – one among the 27 birth stars in Hindu astrology. As per Skanda Purana, this is an ideal month for all kinds of auspicious and spiritual activities. The month is dedicated to Sri Krushna (Bhagavan Vishnu). Madhusudan form of Krishna is given importance in the month.
The Lordship of Vaisakha Masa is Madhusudan, the formidable destroyer of the wicked and the protector of the righteous. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Madhusudan is an avatar of Lord Vishnu, who came to Earth to defeat the demon Madhu and restore order to the universe. The name Madhusudan means “killer of the demon Madhu,” and is a testament to the god’s immense power and strength.
During the month of Vaisakha, Madhusudan is especially venerated, as this is a time of great spiritual significance. As per Skanda Purana, this is an ideal month for all kinds of auspicious and spiritual activities. The person waking up in the morning before sunrise, taking bath and performing puja of Madhusudan will achieve peace and prosperity. Those who seek his blessings and offer their devotion during this time are said to receive his protection and guidance.
Madhusudan is also associated with the celebration of Akshaya Tritiya, one of the most important festivals of the Hindu calendar. According to legend, on this day Lord Vishnu appeared as Satya Narayan, the embodiment of truth and righteousness, to bless his devotees with good fortune and prosperity. Devotees perform various rituals and make offerings to Lord Vishnu on this day, hoping to gain his favor and receive his blessings.
The most important ritual during the period is the Vaishakh Snana, Mahabisubha Pana Sankranti – Hanuma Jayanti, Akshya Tritiya, Niladri Mahodayastami, Sita Nabami, Chandan Jatra. Certain people who observe Vaisakha Masa vrat only take a single cooked meal on the day. At other times they eat raw food, vegetables and fruits.
Another important event during Vaisakha Masa is the celebration of Niladri Mahodaya Astami, the auspicious day when Lord Jagannath, the avatar of Lord Vishnu, is said to have appeared on Earth. This day is marked by elaborate rituals and offerings, as devotees seek to honor the god and receive his blessings.
But it’s not just about celebrating the gods during Vaisakha Masa. This month is also a time for self-reflection and spiritual growth. As per Skanda Purana, Raja Mahirath had attained peace, prosperity, and moksha by merely taking Baisakha month Snan – early morning bath in a holy river, pond or lake. Many devotees take this time to perform acts of charity and service, seeking to cultivate the virtues of compassion, kindness, and selflessness.
Vaisakha Masa is a time to celebrate the natural world and its many blessings. The month is associated with the harvest season, and many people take this time to thank the gods for the abundance of crops and the beauty of the natural world. From the colorful flowers that bloom in the fields to the gentle breezes that cool the air, Vaisakha Masa is a time to appreciate the many gifts that nature has to offer.
The Akshya ( Akhaya ) Trutiya Day is the beginning of Satya Juga. On this day Lord Bishnu is apperead as as Satya Naranyan. Akhaya Trutiya is among the main festivals of Lord Jaganath. Akhaya Trutiya is extensive Good Day as told by Agney Purana, Bishnu Dhramatora Purana, Bhavisya Purana. Donation on this day of Akhaya Trutiya, one get limitless merits (punya) which will help in achieving sin redemption. It also helps in reducing the number of births. One should donate Water, fan Foods and Grain on this day and the particular month Baishakha. From this auspicious day the carpenters start building the cars (‘Ratha’) of Lord Jagannath, Balabadra and Subhadra. From this day 42 days long Chandan Jatra of Lord Jagannath has started. Chandan Jatra , starting from Akshyaya Trutiya is held in the month of Baishakha at the height of the summer heat when Chandan (sandal paste) and water are vital to maintain people cool. Chandan Jatra in Puri is a journey in Narendra Pond. Mahalakshmi and Bhudevi are escorted by substitutes of Sri Jagannath, Rama Krishna, lakshmi, Saraswati and five Shivas, in special palanquins move to the Narendra Pond for a sacramental evening sail every day for 21 days. The Parsuram Jayanti also celebrate in this month, the birth anniversary of Parashurama, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu in Hinduism.
In conclusion, Vaisakha Masa is a time of great significance for Hindus around the world. It is a time to celebrate the power and majesty of Lord Madhusudan, to reflect on our own spiritual growth, and to appreciate the beauty and bounty of the natural world. Whether through acts of devotion, service, or gratitude, the month of Vaisakha offers countless opportunities to connect with the divine and deepen our understanding of the world around us.
