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Opinion
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| · Greetings of Khichdi Amavasya (kaechimavus). Written by Upender Ambardar. | | | | Jammu December 30, 2024-
Today is Khichdi Amavasya, an ancient winter festival of Kashmir, which is celebrated on Posh Krishna Paksh Amavasya, with unshakable faith and religious fervour.Besides being an integral part of our socio-cultural-religious life, it also encompasses the antiquated Puranic history of Kashmir.The festival also authenticates and reaffirms the historicity of Yakshas.The Yakshas were an ancient aboriginal tribe of Kashmir, who dwelled on the upper mountainous regions of the Himalayas,extending from the present day Uttrakhand, Himachal to kashmir. Hindu scriptures have elevated yakshas to the status of demigods along with Gandharvas kinnars, kirates and Rakshas. Yakshas were ardent worshipers of Lord Shiva. Yakshapati Lord kubera is also said to be close and intimate devotee of Lord Shiva. Lord kubera is the lord of wealth and resides in the Puranic city of Alkapuri,which is situated on one of the spurs of Mount Meru,which also happens to be the abode of Lord Shiva. He is also the lord of gold,silver and other precious stones.He is also the Presiding deity of the northern hemisphere and of our dwellings.His devotees and subjects are called as Yakshas and are said to possess super natural power's. They are said to have resided in the mighty mountain ranges of Kashmir in antiquity and would descend down to the plains of Kashmir during the winter months. The Naga inhabitants of Kashmir would extend hospitality to them by offering the delectable cuisine of khichdi to them.On othe evening of khichdi Amavasya, rice mixed with turmeric powder and impounded moong daal is cooked. It is kept on a fresh earthen plate and adjacent to it is kept a pestle seated on a grass woven base.Tilak is applied to it and ceremonial pooja is then performed. Afterwards, a part of the khichdi is kept on the courtyard wall of the house.Latteron,khichdi is taken as a Naveed with raw reddish and knolkhol pickle. All the festivals need to be celebrated with faith and fervour as they give resonance to our lives and existence.
With Khichdi Amavasya Greetings and best wishes.
Upender Ambardar | | | | |
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