Paush 2023: Makar Sankranti to Paush Purnima, check important festivals this month

The month of Paush will start on December 27, 2023, as per the Hindu calendar.

The Hindu calendar, deeply rooted in ancient traditions and culture, marks various festivals, rituals, and months throughout the year. The month of Paush, the tenth month on Hindu calendar, holds special significance. The month is marked by many festivals, including Makar Sankranti and Pausha Purnima.

The month of Paush will start on December 27, 2023, as per the Hindu calendar.

The month, known for its religious significance in many states, is a time for both personal introspection and celebration of regional cultures and traditions. The month also marks harvest festivals in many states.

Let us have a deeper look at the significance of the month and upcoming auspicious festivals.

Paush Month 2023: Date

Paush month typically falls in December-January. This year, the month begins on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, and ends on Thursday, January 25, 2024.

Paush Month 2023: Significance

Paush month holds religious importance as it is associated with worshipping Surya Dev or Sun god. Devotees offer prayers and perform rituals to seek the blessings of Lord Surya, known as the source of all the energy on earth. The act of taking a holy dip in rivers is believed to wash away sins and contribute to spiritual growth.

Apart from the religious observances, Paush month is marked by cultural festivities. Traditional dances, folk music, and community gatherings are common during this month. People come together to celebrate the harvest season, expressing gratitude for the bounties of nature.

Paush Month 2023: Auspicious Occasions

1. Makar Sankranti

The most prominent festival during Paush is Makar Sankranti which will be celebrated on January 15, 2024. It marks the sun's transition into the Capricorn zodiac sign, symbolizing the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. Devotees take holy dips in rivers, especially in the river Ganga. The Ganga Sagar Mela in West Bengal, which generally coincides with Makar Sankranti, attracts a large number of devotees from across the country every year.

2. Masik Durgashtami

Devotees observe fast on Durgashtami every month, which falls on the eighth day of Shukla Paksha. They worship Goddess Durga and fast throughout the day. The Durgashtami falling in the month of Paush is considered more auspicious compared to other months. The next Durgashtami vrat will be observed on January 18, 2024.

3. Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti

This Jayanti marks the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. He was born in Patna, Bihar, on December 22, 1666. However, according to the Hindu calendar, Guru Gobind Singh was born on Saptami Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Paush. As per panchang, Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti will be celebrated on January 17, 2024.

Paush Month 2023: Do's and Don't

In the month of Paush, it is advised to avoid various activities, especially those considered auspicious. Engaging in rituals during this period, including marriage ceremonies and other propitious tasks, is strongly discouraged. Additionally, undertaking auspicious activities like mundan, thread ceremony, puja (dev puja) and housewarming is avoided during the Paush month.

In line with the spirit of giving, Paush Month encourages acts of charity and kindness. Devotees are often seen offering foods and other items to the needy and participating in community service to spread joy and goodwill.