On 16 December 2014, Dhanurmasam begins. Dhanurmasam is an auspicious month for Vaishnava sect. Ranganatha Swamy, Venugopalaswamy, Venkateshwara Swamy, Panduranga Swamy, Lord Sri Rama, Goddess Godadevi & Goddess Lakshmi are the popular deities to worship during Dhanurmasam.
Dhanur Sankranti marks the beginning of Dhanurmasam. On this day, Surya Bhagavan transits into Dhanu Rashi (Sagittarius zodiac) from Vrischika Rasi (Scorpio zodiac).
Dhanurmasam coincides with Margali Masam in Tamil calendar. It falls during Margashirsha Month and Paush Month as per other calendars followed in India.
Dhanurmasa Vratam
Recital of Thiruppavai and Katyayani Vratham (Sri Vratham) are the rituals observed generally during Dhanurmasam in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka.
Margali Nonbu or Paavai Nonbu is the main ritual observed in Tamil Nadu during Margali masam.
Dhanurmasam Pooja Rituals in Various Temples
Dhanurmasam at Yadagirigutta Temple
Dhanurmasam at Simhachalam Temple